To those about to melt in the unseasonable heat of ACL Fest, I salute your bravery. I’ll be joining your ranks for Weekend Two. But for those missing a wristband, there’s still a ton of great music to enjoy in our backyard. This weekend, we recommend two exceptional soul/funk bands and a heavy metal act celebrating its latest record release. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and listen local!
Friday, Oct. 4
Skymomma single release show w/Lunar Electric, Sydney Wright, Thelonious Love, Alyson Alonzo
@ Cheer Up Charlies (900 Red River) – 9 p.m. – Tickets
Combing soul, funk, and an entire menagerie of world influences, Skymomma is one of those pleasant surprises that simply brightens your day. Anchored by the one-two vocal punch of Brian Scartocci and Brooke Brockman, this seven-piece delivers head-nodding rhythms and spirit-lifting jams.
Spot on two-part harmonies atop Latin-inspired percussion hit a sweet spot in my ear, making this an easy recommendation for the weekend. Add to the mix Cheer Up Charlie’s fun and lively outdoor stage, and you have a Friday evening to remember.
Saturday, Oct. 5
Golden Dawn Arkestra w/Nilufer Yanya
@ Stubb’s (801 Red River) – 9:30 p.m. – Tickets
My first experience with Golden Dawn Arkestra was on a tiny stage on the roof of Maggie Mae’s during SXSW 2016. Watching nearly 15 musicians cram onto a small space and play blistering soul/funk was a defining ATX music experience.
In the span of three years, the group released a nationally-acclaimed record, played Austin’s biggest stages, and even did an NPR Tiny Desk concert. While ACL Fest wristbanders crane their neck for a glimpse of The Cure or Childish Gambino, you can be soaking in the pure musical joy of these positivity driven magicians. Sounds like a stunning alternative to the crazy crowds and major stages.
Eagle Claw w/Monte Luna, Amaru
@ Barracuda (611 E 7th) – 9 p.m. – Facebook event
If Sun Ra funk isn’t your jam, then allow me to turn your ears towards Eagle Claw. Technically inspiring prog-metal rife with hammering chords and screaming leads, the band peppers its sound with electronic swells, keys, and random percussion.
Seriously, I swear I heard a vibraslap on “Arisa,” off the brand new record “VALLIS.” The album itself effortlessly thunders and swells between subtle soundscapes and furious crunch. An exceptional antithesis to the ACL madness.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where are you going for live, local music in Austin this weekend?
We always have unique content on the Austinot and we love to give things away. You know, like event tickets, gift certificates, and other cool stuff. We only send out our โBest of the Austinotโ newsletter two times/month. Itโs where we give you a recap of our best articles and give stuff away. Interested? Subscribe to Best of the Austinot here!
