May
12

In Rotation | Local Edition

For the past few weeks, I’ve been listening to a lot of local music. A lot. And, not because I feel like I should or something of that nature – I’ve been listening to a lot of local music because it’s good. I’m so impressed with a number of the DFW area acts that are up and coming and those that have been around for a bit that I don’t have the time (or energy) to write in detail about all of them right now. But, I, more or less, wanted to give those who may not know a heads up on what you should be listening to this week, next week, next month, the months following, as well as going to check out live. Some of these may not be any surprise if you’ve kept up with this blogapalooza or my Twitface (Twitter), others though are somewhat new to me too.

Whiskey Folk Ramblers
The Hazardous Dukes
Goodnight Ned
Oil Boom
The Birds of Night
The Venetian Sailors
The O’s
Quaker City Night Hawks

So, yeah, basically this is a big Follow Friday in blog form. You can find where to listen to the aforementioned bands sounds, show and general info at the links above. Also, protip, one of the many great things about checking out local music, you’ll continuously find more great local music so keep your eyes open. Now, go be supportive and treat your ears to some homegrown tunes!

Apr
25

Review | The Birds of Night – We’re A Family Now

I listened to this album three times today. I also listened to it three times yesterday. Back to back. I hit play on the first track, “Fangs,” listened through to “They’ll Either Love You, Or They Won’t” and then hit play on “Fangs” again. I really dig this thing, ok?

And, for the record, there’s no significance to the number three there – three consecutive listens in the last two days have just worked out.

Anyway, these Denton boys nailed it with We’re A Family Now. Recorded, mixed and mastered at Midlake Studios, Redwood Studios and The Echo Lab, The Birds of Night nostalgic and sunny rock n’ roll sound meets the listeners ears perfectly with this new release. We’re A Family Now is catchy, vintage and downright cool.

This record is a fun listen but you can really hear the talent behind The Birds of Night in every tune. It’s obvious that I’m not the only one hearing this either as the band has become a bit of a regular on 102.1′s The Adventure Club on Sunday nights.

I dig all of the tracks, and even though I’m not typically the person who chooses the slow jam as one of my favorites but dammit if “Gold” isn’t, dare I say, really quite beautiful. Other favorites include “I Don’t Know What You Want” and the soulful and blues-y track, “Chew.”

So, want to hear what all I’m talking about? Check out the player below. Want to see what all I’m talking about? See The Birds of Night at The Prophet Bar in Dallas this Saturday with Oil Boom, The Beans and The Continuums. Can’t make it (even though you should make it because I’ll be there)? See them at Brew Riot in Oak Cliff on Sunday, May 19, with The O’s and Hunter Jones.

Tracklist

1. Fangs
2. Chew
3. Stranger
4. I Belong to You
5. I Don’t Know What You Want
6. Climb Up Inside of My Love
7. Gold
8. They’ll Either Love You, Or They Won’t

Apr
09

Deep Ellum Love

Disclaimer: This isn’t all about music. It’s more or less about Deep Ellum, my most favorite Dallas neighborhood, a neighborhood filled with culture, music, art, food and damn good times.

Last weekend was my last as a Deep Ellum resident. For now. I have to say “for now” because I really hope, and have to believe, that one day, I’ll return. My lease is up, the rent is too damn high and as of Saturday, I’ll be moving to the Design District. Don’t get me wrong, the area is cool,  but it’s not Deep Ellum living. I know I sound as though I’ll never visit and it’s goodbye forever or something (it most certainly is not, I’ll likely be here multiple times a week), but instead of walking to Anvil Pub each Tuesday for half-price food, I’ll be driving. There will be no more walks home from Adair’s Saloon that I don’t remember. Don’t worry, in that case, I won’t drive – I’ll either use some self-control or call a cab. I will no longer be able to walk over to a show at Dada or The Prophet Bar. I won’t be able to giggle as I walk past Trees and see all the kids dressed in black, looking miserable, as they wait in line for whatever band they’ve elected to see.  I’m not hatin’, I was that kid at one time – kind of. Hell, I’m going to have to drive everywhere now. Sucks. Also, I won’t be able to order Zini’s Pizza delivery, whether intoxicated or sober.

God, I’m really going to miss this place.

Anyway, I made sure to do my last weekend here correctly by attending the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, eating some Deep Ellum food and enjoying some Deep Ellum tunes. photo(10)

Friday

Friday, immediately after work, I and my trusted adventure-er, Christina, headed down to explore, the weather being slightly perfect. After grabbing some coupons for beer, we wandered through the various art vendors and admired the unique works, most of it folk art, pieces inspired by Dia de los Muertos and many portraits of beloved celebrities and musicians. After getting my bearings, figuring out where the stages were, where the beer was and what kind of food was about, Christina and I sat down outside Maracas Cocina Mexicana, formally Monica’s Aca y Alla for those of you keeping track. For the record, the menu was quite similar, delish and the margaritas were strong and cheap.

Her friend Kaylee joined in time for us to wander more. That’s what I love about festivals like this: there are never any destinations in mind, it’s all about playing things by ear and enjoying the ride and whatever pops up along the way. After grabbing coupon beer, at an intersection along Main, in front of Pepe’s Ranch, we found a familiar puppeteer performing. The fellow we’d seen with The Venetian Sailors the week before at Deep Ellum Big Folkin’ Fest, Will Schutze I believe is his name, was there, making his marionettes (is that the proper term?) dance to classics like “Johnny B. Goode.” It was fun seeing adults and kids alike gathering around him, all with charmed smiles on their faces.

From there, as vendors and artists started shutting their tents, we headed to one of our favorite Deep Ellum haunts, Anvil Pub. We normally visit on Tuesdays during the late-afternoon hours for food and brew. We’re typically gone by 9ish so dropping in at night is out of the ordinary but still quite wonderful. Granted, when I woke up the next morning, head pounding, trying to recount how many drinks I’d had the night before, I completely forget we even stopped in to Anvil. Anyway, Anvil made sense to us because the beer selection was plentiful and cheaper. Two Buried Hatchet’s later and we were on our way to Adair’s Saloon to meet my Twitter friend, Zack. I enjoy meeting Twitter friends, so what?

Oh, Adair’s. I have such a soft spot for this place. I only take the right people into it, knowing they’ll love it just as much as I do but I remember continuously telling Christina and Kaylee of it’s dive bar nature with a few extra large sides of hootenanny and honky tonk. We walked in to find live country music, folks dancing and a crowd. I was pleasantly surprised to see that Christina and Kaylee so far seemed as comfortable as could be. Our Shiner was poured into plastic pints, our whiskey in tiny plastic shot cups. By this time, I had already lost my phone in the bathroom once and continued to discuss my two-stepping and waltz abilities (which, in all actuality, are nothing to brag about) as we watched others boot scoot. At some point, we discovered a young Japanese man twirl numerous young ladies as though he was a born and bred Texan. Which, he could have been, I don’t think we ever asked those questions. A point came where his friend began talking to us and questioned what we were drinking and seemed to brag about his whiskey and Coke. For some reason, in my beer-rattled mind, I became offended. You don’t pretend you’re better than me because you’re drinking whiskey and a sugary soda, sir. Either way, this lead to shots, one of which was bought for him, one of which he never showed up to take. I handed it off to my now in-real-life friend, Zack, before eventually heading home. Do I remember which route we took home? No, no I do not. I’m like a damn gremlin, don’t feed me whiskey after midnight.

Once home, I put Deer Tick’s “Born on Flag Day” on and Christina commented that “drunk Megan is my favorite.” I disagreed as she and Kaylee left and I talked about how I couldn’t wait to order Zini’s Pizza. Which, of course, I did, only to find that they brought me free Zini’s Sticks and a brownie. I guess they know that when customers order a cheese and jalapeno pizza online at 1 something A.M., it means they need all the carbs they can get. This was proven to them when I answered the door in softpants, a tank and signed jibberish on the check. Thank you, sweet Zini’s, you’re my favorite.

Saturday

My last Deep Ellum Saturday started with Excedrine Migraine, a turkey sandwich from 7-11, a blue Gatorade and a lot of water. Soon enough, I was as good as new and ready to get to Arts Fest for Parallel Play, one of the many artists I fell in love with at BFF2. The folkers were playing one of the larger stages at the corner of Main and Good Latimer. The festival had a large crowd on Saturday, not surprisingly though as the weather was fantastic and felt almost like late Spring. The band had a large crowd themselves, composed of young, older, some fans and some soon to be. Their set was a good mix of new songs, as well as tunes off their “The Floor is Lava” album, which has been in rotation for me since BFF2. I watched a man with long, white hair and white mustache dance while wearing the most fabulous sequined green shirt. For a while, I wasn’t so sure about this guy and could only image what drugs he’d taken beforehand. After watching him for a bit though, I felt like he wasn’t on drugs, he was just having a damn good time watching Parallel Play. Same goes for the 40-something, visor-wearing lady directly in front of the stage. There was even a small group of little ones behind me dancing in a circle to the tunes. It was rather adorable. I saw quite a few people walk away with their albums and that was heart warming to me. Considering I already had it, I walked away with a t-shirt. Their set was great, needless to say.

Later, Christina and I met up with my old, beloved group of friends from Waco, Whitney, Melissa, Kristi and Clint, two of which I hadn’t seen in years, to grab some dinner and then go see Grizzly Bear at The Palladium. We walked to Deep Ellum’s Twisted Root but with a line out the door, decided Cane Rosso was a better decision. Despite my drunk pizza the night before, I was still down for some fancy pizza. I mean, who’s not always down for pizza, regardless of what kind? Our food was tasty, the beer was great – Revolver Blood & Honey – of course it was great. We even got a desert pizza reminiscent of CiCi’s but, much, much better. Good stuff, Cane Rosso. I’ll be real though, if I want pizza in Deep Ellum, it’s Zini’s or Serious for me. I can’t help it.

Next, it was off to the Palladium. Honestly though, I’m not going to try and review Grizzly Bear. You all know I love Grizzly Bear and every time I have seen them has been epic and perfect and this night was no different.

I ended the evening back in Deep Ellum at, where else, but Anvil Pub. Our group met another group who actually lived at my apartments. Of course, leave it to me to meet my neighbors days before I planned on moving. When the others headed off to a party, I called it a night as I mentioned that I couldn’t risk another “last night”. I took in the people walking down the sidewalks next to me, the tiny, familiar motorcycles that typically sit in front of Elm Street Tattoo, July Alley and Serious Pizza, the buildings, the graffiti, all of it. While crossing through the Cafe Brazil parking lot, a little man on a unicycle cruised down the street while on his phone, it appeared. I mean, did I need a more perfect send off from the area?

I know Deep Ellum has its many an empty old bar or storefront, covered in neon green signs from a realtor trying to attract new tenants, I know it sometimes seems that businesses come and go. If you guys would get your butts down here, there wouldn’t be any “go” to that statement. I know there are a few bums about (do a good deed and give ‘em a buck or a cigarette and I guarantee you, you will have just met your new best friend) and a negative news story or two about crime in areas nearby, but really, where in a big city will you not find that? Look past those things and check out the artwork, the galleries, check out the local businesses, enjoy the food, enjoy the drinks, come listen to some damn good music, local or otherwise. Come hang out with some of the most genuine people in Big D. You’ve been so good to me Deep Ellum, I’ll be back soon.

 

Mar
31

Review | Deep Ellum Big Folkin’ Fest 2

I really don’t know how I didn’t end up at this shindig last year. Just upon arriving to the doors of Prophet Bar and seeing the growing crowd of boots, beards, cowboy hats and tattoos, I knew I was walking into my literal personal heaven before even hearing a note played. I knew the tunes would all be my brand of whiskey-soaked, no nonsense, perfect combination of country and rock n’ roll music.

So, right up front, bands I saw: Pinebox Serenade, The Many Hands, Pearl Street Riot, We’reWolves, The Venetian Sailors, Parallel Play, Quaker City Night Hawks, The O’s, RTB2 and Holy Moly. I wanted to write them down so I didn’t forget while writing. I’m sure there are still some I’m leaving out but you know, when you put four stages in a small-ish place with a lot of folkin’ music, there’s no possible way you can drink and keep up with it all.

Ok, so, I arrived to the hootenanny and didn’t waste a second to get to the bar. The Shiner started flowing fast and furiously, and continued through the night but I somehow am not even remotely hungover today. My fest-going friend, Christina, tagged along and we met up with some other folkin’ friends outside to catch, also friends, Pinebox Serenade. Following them, we wandered a bit, getting our bearings, checking out the vendors, grabbing a bite to eat and of course, enjoying some brew – all the while enjoying The Many Hands. The Many Hands, a Dallas-based five piece, were a rhythmic and percussive dose of something that aired more to the side of indie but it was quite enjoyable.

Immediately after The Many Hands finished, Fort Worth’s We’reWolves got started on the Folkin’ Stage a few feet away. This festival was impressive to me for many reasons but one in particular was how quickly, and how on time, the sets got started. It was fantastic. One band stopped, another started. Perfect. Other fests, take some lessons. Anyway, although We’reWolves were only armed with electrics, it didn’t matter. I think these guys fit perfectly into the spirit of BFF in the sense of simply having a good time and playing good music. They were loud, they were fun and that was their point.

image(5)

Pearl Street Riot

When Pearl Street Riot got started outside, that’s when I really started stomping my feet, and so did the crowd that had gathered at the Outdoor Stage. The boys from Paris, Texas had an upbeat, plugged-in sound that was sped up by fast drum beats and quickly sung lyrics. It was certainly dance worthy and even though there wasn’t a banjo in sight, it was clear that Pearl Street Riot was drawing from many influences, including bluegrass, country and rock. Pearl Street Riot were one of my favorites of the night and were nice guys to boot. Following their set, we all downed a whiskey shot and chit-chatted while others kept walking up to the members, telling them how much they enjoyed them.

image(6)

The Venetian Sailors

I mentioned the crowd dancing during Pearl Street Riot, well, so was a puppeteer and a very dapper-looking skeleton puppet – who turned out to be part of The Venetian Sailors. The Venetian Sailors played indoors on the Folkin’ Stage. We made our way through the crowd that was gathered for them and watched as the puppet show continued. Of course, I couldn’t help but be focused on that aspect of the band but their music was great as well. An interesting set up, complete with a xylophone, these guys weren’t just the show I originally thought they were – when it got down to it, I found myself tapping my toes as I enjoyed their theatrical spin on folk.

Next up were Parallel Play and at this point, patrons of Prophet Bar had enough alcohol in them that everyone had their dancing shoes on. Good timing too because Parallel Play was worthy of a dance or two or five. Their music was simply fun, upbeat and happy and that translated from their smiling faces to the crowd inside Prophet Bar. I watched their bassist and re-realized my dream to play upright bass and be a complete badass. I doubt that dream will ever come to fruition but hey, you never know.

We took a little rest and enjoyed another beer before we continued folkin’ on with The O’s. Dallas local favorites, The O’s are truly a great band. There’s only two of them but their sound is much bigger than that. They’re genuine, they’re country music, they’re fantastic live and recorded. Although their tunes are worthy of a little boot scootin’, I took seeing them last night as an opportunity to relax a little and listen. Good stuff, boys.

The O's

The O’s

The Quaker City Night Hawks are the act I’d been looking forward to all night. In the Twitterverse, I’d heard nothing but good things about QCNH and I tend to trust my knowledgeable music advocates and lovers on the social networks. It was right to trust them. These guys are a fantastic combination of legitimate country, folk, and sexy blues. But, then again, there ain’t much blues music out there that ain’t sexy, if we’re being honest with ourselves. Some songs were slower and soulful while others were upbeat and had my, by then, really tired, feet stomping and dancing. I hate to be repetitive by discussing all the dancing but y’all, it was a folk festival, what do you expect?

Quaker City Night Hawks

Quaker City Night Hawks

Following Quaker City Night Hawks, I wandered to their merch stand to get a shirt or something of that nature. Sometimes, when I hear good music, my first reaction is to just give them my money. I knew I would download the album later so I acquired a pretty little v-neck that was intended to read “I <3 QCNH” but instead of a heart, there was the state of Texas. There wasn’t much to my decision once I saw that.

We caught the short set by RTB2 and as usual, Ryan Thomas Becker and Grady Don Sandlin nailed. I’m never disappointed and am always awed by the talents of these two.

Although my feet were aching to say the very least (fashion over function, even at a folk festival), we stayed for the Main Stage headliners, Holy Moly. Thank beer we did. I don’t know where these boys have been hiding my entire life but I had somehow missed any mention of them, even though they call Fort Worth home. Joe Rose, their tattooed lead vocalist and guitar player with the most perfect mustache I believe I’ve ever seen, kicked off their set in a fury of combined punk rock and folk glory. Their continued high energy took the pain from my feet and the tired from my bones. I bought their newest album immediately upon waking up this morning.

Holy Moly

Holy Moly

So basically, I fell in love with so much music during the second installment of the Deep Ellum Big Folkin’ Fest. I’m already looking forward to the next one, seeing any one of these bands again in the near future and for goodness sake, if you haven’t, listen to some of these folks. No pun intended.

Mar
11

Review | 35 Denton 2013 Days Three & Four

I woke up yesterday morning in Saturday’s makeup, my head pounding and the stale taste of beer still on my tongue. You know the taste I’m talking about; when you didn’t brush your teeth the night before after drinking. Yeah, that’s gross but you folks are all liars if you mean to tell me that you, on the very rare occasion, don’t brush your teeth…

Anyway, that’s how I woke up. I looked down at my right arm to see my 35 Denton wristband along with three others from the various bars the night before. The extremely drunk friend we’d rescued from certain abandonment at the final stop of Saturday night laid face down on the couch and I started recounting the events one by one. Then again, my face hurt (when I have an alcohol-related headache, my entire face hurts) so bad that all I could really think of was Excedrine, a shower and a Bloody Mary. Yes, the above waking description could honestly be any random morning but I’ll be honest, I don’t drink that much any more. But, it’s festival season, it was 35 Denton. I don’t need to justify myself to you or to Foursquare who, upon my check-in at another bar on Sunday said something like, “6 Weeks at Bars! Stay Classy.” Assholes.

SATURDAY

So, what happened at day three of 35D? A lot. I started by wandering to Jupiter House Coffee to grab a bagel, coffee and to write – it was a total college flashback. I got to work, stopped work, ran an errand for Amandus and then went back to JuHo to get back to work once again. My festival-going cohort, Christina, arrived and we got to the grounds just in time to grab an expensive but tasty brew and check out Astronautalis. He’s pretty great, in case you guys weren’t already aware. Astronautalis, otherwise known as, Andy Bothwell, had a way with the large crowd that had gathered to see him at main stage two. It was three in the afternoon but many of the faces there looked as though they had just woken, but once Astronautalis got started, he was the shot of caffeine they needed. Prior to starting most every song, he told a brief story of each rap and then eventually called on the audience to shout topics for a freestyle. I don’t remember them all but I know, Cuties Tangerines, crunchy peanut butter and rooster claw were among his on-the-spot inspiration. Of course, he killed it and made the entire city of Denton swoon upon talk of loving the city and even giving a shout out to the tiny outlier, Pilot Point.

Following, Christina and I wandered to Oak Street Drafthouse for a local Quakertown Stout. We chatted among friends before wandering back to main stage two and realizing the beer had gone straight to my head. The sky darkened a bit and Twitter started to blow up with negative weather reports during Dallas’ favorite hip hop duo, ADd+. As much as I wanted to watch, my genuine fear of thunderstorms took over and we sought shelter in Sweetwater for a panel discussion among some awesome Dentonites including Shiny Around the Edges’ Michael Seman, Josh Berthume and moderator,  City Councilman, Kevin Roden. They spoke to a packed house regarding Denton’s creative class of people. From what I heard, it was truly inspiring and reminded me what I loved most about the city. It’s great to see so many people believing in the small town and its people to do big things. 35 Denton, and Amandus Studios, is clearly a sign of that exact thing coming to fruition.

Following the bout of paneling, we took shelter in Fuzzy’s, scarfed down some queso, took more shelter in a few Shiner’s at Dan’s Silverleaf before braving the rain to get a glimpse of Solange at The Hive. Obviously, due to the rain and lightning, the remaining outdoor shows had to be moved somewhere and The Hive was just big enough. Sadly though, I believe a few bands got bumped from their original time slots. Hopefully in years to come, this won’t be an issue.

Solange took her time before coming on stage and The Hive was literally buzzing because of the massive crowd that had come to also witness her awesome. Apologies for the pun. Anyway, she finally appeared and her hair, wardrobe, all of it was just as fabulous as I imagined, especially considering she did a Selena cover. I don’t know why she did a Selena cover or why the hell I loved it so much but, I did. I was however completely over the crowd pretty quickly and was ready to move on once security kicked out all the media and I reunited with Amandus boys.

We then headed to Rubber Gloves to check out the Burger Records showcase – Pangea to be specific. I had a feeling I would enjoy this as most Burger Records artists are just pure and fun, down and dirty, rock music. Pangea was no exception. Not to my surprise, the packed house at Rubber Gloves went nuts and started moshing when the plaid/flannel-clad band got started. I stood against the wall near the stage and watched the kids and the band and bobbed my head along with them.

Next up? Dan’s to finish out the night’s music with Akron/Family.

I didn’t recall Akron/Family sounding as they did but I loved what I heard and saw. There’s something genuinely a little dark about their music but with such a hopeful twist. The mix of electronics with heavy hitting guitar riffs and beautiful vocals drew quite the crowd and tugged at my already on edge emotions. But, that’s another story.

As if there was any more time left in the night and energy left in anyone, we eventually shut down the bar at Paschall’s.

SUNDAY

After a veggie quesadilla and Bloody Mary with friends during a late brunch, I braved the now cold, but beautiful, weather to catch Space Camp Death Squad in the back parking lot of the Denton Record-Chronicle. Although the crowd was much more sparse, Space Camp still performed as though they had a completely packed house. See my review of day two. It was like that and some honestly. A day three 35D artist was in attendance for the show as well. (It was Astronautalis.)

After Space Camp, I didn’t see much more music, sadly. I did however pick up a new, and really awesome, t-shirt from Denton’s own masters of screen printing, Pan Ector, enjoyed some food truck pizza from Doughboys and found a little vendor that sold the most wonderful hot chocolate for the coldest day of the fest.

Before I called it a festival due to my real world resuming on Monday, I had my face melted and heart warmed by the incredibly talented kids of School of Rock. Seriously, I teared up a little. I hope, with all my being, that the kids keep playing music because if they do, we’ll be seeing them on festival lineups across the country, and likely the world, for years to come. Don’t believe me? Watch…

Thanks, Denton. I’m proud of you, I’m proud of 35 Denton, I’m proud of Amandus Studios. Let’s do this again next year, shall we?

Mar
09

Review | 35 Denton 2013 Day Two

Where do I start with this? I mean, really? 35 Denton is kicking ass and taking names.

Well, maybe that was a little cheesy but, whatever. It’s true.

My day two at the best ever fest ever started out late as I had to work the day job and then at a music event of a much different type afterward in Big D. Better late than never though. No, I didn’t get to see any of the main stage acts and I still haven’t even checked out the festival grounds thus far but that will soon change. I started out at The Hive where I met up with my Amandus Studios counterparts. This was my first foray into the warehouse turned venue and I was genuinely impressed with it’s size. The bar area was much bigger than expected but sadly, it’s not really the place if you’re just looking to grab a few drinks – the bar closes early. The sound, the stage and the lights were impressive in their own right, considering this place isn’t a year round venue – yet. We downed a few tiny, 8 oz cans of Miller Lite that were supplied backstage and listened to a bit of the locals, Peopleodian.

From The Hive, we went to Hailey’s to check out our friends in Space Camp Death Squad. As I tweeted once they got started, if you missed this show, you’re doing the festival wrong. I’ve seen Space Camp before and was impressed from the get go but these guys upped their performance last night, which, I was unaware was possible. Anyone who knows me knows that I am as white as they come but Space Camp’s brand of nerdcore hip hop will bring out the dancer in even me. Their songs and lyrical content are silly, one tune in particular titled “Big Peach” (yes, like the soda, Big Peach) but it’s executed in such a way that you feel more like you’re listening to the most intense and intelligent form of rap. The band is comprised of a three front guys, I guess you could call them, a DJ and a drummer. Front man Ryan Darbonne took out and read from an old Goosebumps book at one point but his reading was anything but soft. I was on stage but kept out of view to the side but other ladies danced, literally, like no one was watching in front of the stage. One in particular even made her way up, I’m fairly certain uninvited, many times and added to the hype. I’ve told these guys before that I would happily pay damn good money for their record and last night only added to that sentiment. Space Camp Death Squad puts on a show but has the music and the talent to make seeing them more than just live performance.

Next up was Wayne “The Train” Hancock at Dan’s Silverleaf. This is what I love about 35 Denton – you can go from shaking your ass to hip hop to stomping your feet and swillin’ whiskey with country meets rock n’ roll meets just pure awesome. I fell in love with Wayne “The Train’ after seeing his Redwood Studio Session for 35. I’ll sadly admit that I had never heard of this powerhouse of a man prior to but his true country music roots are right up my alley and I immediately became a fan. I watched him and his guitarist and bassist play from absolute front and center and I couldn’t take the smile off my face the entire time. Wayne, clothed in a bowling shirt, exposing forearm tattoos, told his stories accompanied by upbeat bass lines, quickly strummed acoustic guitar chords and hollow-bodied, rockabilly style guitar solos. Wayne’s voice is charmingly scratchy from what I can assume were years of hard living but that’s one of the elements that help’s make his music great and authentic. The crowd as Dan’s was thick and clearly enjoying the show. I saw many couples take to dancing as though they were at a dive of a honky tonk and others stomping their boots (I have no idea if they were boots, I’m just guessing) while enjoying a drink or four. Some yelled requests at Wayne and to some he responded. His three piece band played up to the end of their set, calling it one of the shortest they’ve played considering the festival timing. Had he been the headliner, I know that I, and I’m fairly certain that Dan’s and the crowd, would have been perfectly happy to let him keep jamming into the depths of the early morning.

Finally, I made it to The Hive again to see Man Man. When I saw Man Man appear on the 35 Denton lineup this year, I think I squealed like a little girl. I’ve been a huge fan of Man Man Band Band for a while and I have never seen them. I’ve heard the stories about how insane their shows are so needless to say, I had high hopes. My high hopes were exceeded. “Exceeded” doesn’t even do it justice. I hung backstage and watched the crowd, which even though there were no tunes, were already like one individual organism, pushing and moving its way to the front in anticipation. Photographers and video guys lined the stage side of the barrier and waited to capture their shots and did their best to shrug off the mass of screaming fans behind them. Man Man’s sound check only built the excitement – they didn’t actually get started until 30 minutes past their scheduled show time. Their set up was unlike others with drums spread about, a hubcap attached to one with a cowbell attached to that with flowers attached to it.

Speaking of the drums – I’m not entirely sure what happened but somehow, when the band arrived in little D, they were missing their drum kit. But, luckily, when you’re at a music festival, you’re likely in an area filled with musicians. Amandus Studios to the rescue, offering the band Secret Cakes’ drummer’s kit which was at their rehearsal space next door. This was offered with his permission of course. I mean, how could he have said no to that scenario. Well, he was okay with the scenario upon the condition that Man Man sign his snare. A small favor they were more than happy to comply with. Good dudes in Man Man, I tell ya.

Immediately, upon the first note of Man Man’s bizarre but fantastic style of fun, the crowd at The Hive went nuts. Extra security was quickly called in to help hold the barriers in place so the media, and their gear, didn’t get killed. Man Man played all my favorites including “Piranha’s Club” to which I had my own backstage dance party with two of my favorite ladies (see: my Twitter feed and/or Vine). Crowdsurfers continually floated their way to the front along with other belongings of the crowd, including a really disgusting looking bottle of cheap booze. Finally, toward the end, the crowd broke through the barrier and made their way to the stage. I feared for my photog friends but they were all smiles. The insanity was just that but it was strangely a perfect moment to end a fantastic second day of 35 Denton 2013.

Day three, go!

 

Mar
08

Review | 35 Denton 2013 – Day One

So, bravo 35 Denton. Day one was pretty fantastic. There’s really no other way to put it so I figured that writing something that blunt would be appropriate. I really didn’t know what to expect, as I’ve said it before, I admittedly don’t know who on earth many of the artists playing the festival this year are – but, Thursday, I learned that will be just fine. Allow me to explain further…

This year’s 35D, or the Best Ever Fest Ever as it’s being tagged in 2013, has packed some big names on some big stages, but it has also packed the local venues with quite the insane bills. Last night, as I walked from venue to venue, I saw other groups of people doing the exact same thing. Last year, I didn’t notice this; at all. Maybe it was because I had my face buried in a notepad or laptop, taking notes, writing blogs for the fest and preparing to interview artists but just the same, it seems that this year’s lineup has people wandering Denton on foot and that makes me happy. This year, it seems that the fest is more accessible, that the days of driving to Rubber Gloves only to circle the lot for a parking spot before trekking back to the square via car are over. People are doing the festival as it was meant to be done – it’s walkable and that’s been the point all along.

Last year, many of the the festival complaints circled around the small bars and venues reaching capacity and leaving fans standing in long lines for hours waiting to get in. Of course, that can’t be fixed as, come on guys, it is a music festival. If you were at SXSW or wherever else, the same things are going to happen when a bigger name is headlining a smaller club. This year though, the folks at 35 have eased the pain by allowing the mobile version of 35denton.com show nightly and changing percentages of venue capacity. Want to go to Hailey’s to catch whoever but aren’t sure what the crowd is like? No prob, bust out the smart phone, pull up the website and you’ll know if it’s worth walking over or if you’ll end up just spending your evening in line. Obviously, the latter would be avoided because why wait in line when you could just wander somewhere else, with another cool bill, that isn’t at capacity. Basically, it lets you plan ahead, and that’s cool. This year’s festival, so far anyway, is more organized and I think that’ll pay off in the end.

Last night, I started out at J&J’s Pizza on the square to catch my buddies in Secret Cakes essentially kick off the festival. Two of the guys, poor things (I have no idea how they do it), play in Secret Cakes and immediately switched from band mode to official festival videographer/core staff mode once their set was finished. There have recently been some lineup changes in the band and they were left without a singer. Luckily, a pal from Austin drove up and filled the spot flawlessly. Their usual drummer was absent for the evening as he was out of town on work, but in Secret Cakes strange but cool fashion, they filled the spot with an iPad, drum tracks and a young, bikini-clad, lady friend complete with a unicorn mask to hit play on the upcoming song. Their heavy hitting brand of tunes attracted a pretty good crowd for the tiny basement and started out my 35 Denton experience well.

From there, I followed my Amandus Studios friends as they made their way to Rubber Gloves to check out and shoot Denton’s The Atomic Tanlines. Never seen The Atomic Tanlines? You probably should. I could be wrong here but I believe I noticed X’s on all of their hands but these youngun’s look like seasoned performing veterans. Their singer, well, she’s kind of a badass. Atomic Tanlines punk rock sounds got the large crowd at Gloves moving and moshing.

I was simply along for the ride with the Amandus crew and the second they felt they had the footage they needed at Gloves, it was off to Hailey’s to catch Pallbearer. While walking, I heard other unfamiliar but awesome tunes coming from the new 35 Denton hotspot, The Hive and began to look even more forward to checking it out.

After an hour or so at Hailey’s, once again, the guys got their shots, we heard some good tunes and moved on. They carried on to The Labb but this is where I called it a night. By this time, it was already 1 a.m. and I knew that my alarm set for 7 a.m. would start buzzing way too soon.

Now, back to my original statement that I’m starting to think that the vastly-unknown-to-me lineup is a good thing. I think it’s a good thing because I think everyone who attends this year, will walk away from at least one show with a new favorite band. If not a new favorite band, some new tunes that you will likely keep in rotation for a while. I know that’s often the point of many festivals but it seems like 35 Denton 2013 has really set out to do that, as well as showcase some great talent to ears and eyes that probably wouldn’t have caught it otherwise.

I’ll be arriving to Friday’s festivities late as I have other work obligations but I plan to immediately head to Hailey’s to catch Austin’s insanely talented and fun hip hop crew, Space Camp Death Squad, before sprinting to Man Man at The Hive. Man Man is one of the artists I’m most looking forward to this weekend. I’m sure I’ll catch a lot of great tunes in between and dammit, I’m looking forward to it.

Rest up and continue to fest so hard, y’all.

Feb
20

In Rotation | Alt-J – An Awesome Wave

What the hell is Alt-J? I have no idea. In terms of genre, that is. I recently described them as electronic but that’s not really the case at all and I’m not actually sure why I said such a thing. Yes, there are some elements there of interesting electronic music but after some thought, Alt-J is a little experimental, a little indie rock, a little hip hop (yes), probably a little psychedelic too? That question mark was intentional.

What I can say for sure about this album, An Awesome Wave, and the British quartet is that I can’t stop listening to it. I’m listening to the album as I write this. I’m a beyond intrigued by it and the band’s use of bass, synth, keys, guitar, beats and atmosphere. The voices layered over the tunes are quite interesting as well; a varied range, sometime almost spoken word and relatively haunting at times. An Awesome Wave is, overall, an album I would describe as “chill”  but I don’t necessarily believe that it’s one of those more relaxed albums that you need to be in a certain mood for. Now, no, if you’re having a dance party I wouldn’t suggest throwing on some Alt-J but I think the album can connect to a multitude of musical tastes and states of mind. In my opinion, its sounds are quite beautiful.

In most instances you’ll see the Greek letter Delta associated with Alt-J. From the little bit of research I’ve done, it seems the letter itself is the band’s actual name however Alt-J is the keyboard shortcut used on Apple OS X to insert the letter. I can’t confirm this for myself as I don’t have an Apple computer neither at home or at work but, I’ll take Wikipedia’s word for it as I find it pretty neat.

So, what goes good with Alt-J? The XX, maybe some Yeasayer, Radiohead-ish. Either way, take a listen to Alt-J and decide for yourself. Maybe watch the video for “Tessellate” below. You know, while you’re here. You can catch them at SXSW this year or hopefully you’ve already bought tickets for their show at Granada Theater on Saturday, March 16 – it’s sold out.

Tracklist

1. Intro
2. (Interlude 1)
3. Tessellate
4. Breezeblocks
5. (Interlude 2)
6. Something Good
7. Dissolve Me
8. Matilda
9. Ms
10. Fitzpleasure
11. (Interlude 3)
12. Bloodflood
13. Taro

Feb
05

Tis the Season

It’s that time of year again! Festival and show season. A time of year when our wallets are drained by purchasing tickets to the countless concerts that continue to be announced, by the beer and food prices at festivals, by the new t-shirts we absolutely need to commemorate the occasion. Oh, but it’s so worth it, isn’t it?

Today seemed like the day to announce your festival lineup and in that spirit, I thought I’d share my thoughts and opinions on what will be the best of 2013 (so far).

-Listed by Date-

35 Denton - I’ll admit, when the first several announcements of this year’s lineup were released, I was less than pumped. Yet again, I felt like it was the festival I wasn’t cool enough for because I didn’t have a clue who the majority of the artists were, other than many of the local acts and a few others. Today however, bravo 35D. Man Man, Camera Obscura, The Cannabinoids with Sarah Jaffe and Solange Knowles for goodness sake. BEYONCE’S SOULFUL LITTLE SISTER WHO HANGS OUT WITH GRIZZLY BEAR AND COVERS BANDS LIKE DIRTY PROJECTORS AND MAKES HER OWN REALLY RAD TUNES. Yes, that did require all caps. As it stands at this point, I’ll be at SXSW during this year’s festival but considering the artists I just mentioned and the group of friends I have that are very invested in 35, if you can make up to Little d March 7-10, do it.

SXSW – Do I even need to describe South By? No. Because it’s always awesome. Dave Grohl, otherwise referred to by me as God, is the keynote speaker for the music portion of the festival. The Black Lips are there. The list of great artists in attendance is endless. There are more adventures to be had than you can poke a stick at. Even if you don’t have a badge, go wristbandless and have one hell of a good time. Hitch a ride to ATX, folks.

Read a recap of my 2010 SXSW experience here.

Grizzly Bear – Grizzly Bear is one of my favorite bands to see live. They’re one of my favorite bands in general. When they take the stage at the Palladium on April 6, I expect yet another incredible show. Grizzly Bear have never let me down with any of their albums and I’m more than excited to hear songs from their newest release, Shields, in person. Live Grizzly Bear is like listening to their albums but, to put it simply, quite epic. They’re live sound is powerful and Ed Droste and Daniel Rossen’s vocals are stunning. I honestly can’t say enough good things. If you’re not a fan of recorded Grizzly Bear, I always suggest seeing them live as I can almost guarantee that your mind will be changed.

Take a look at a more in-depth explanation of my love for Grizzly Bear.

Untapped Festival - Last year’s Untapped Fest was a fantastic success. There was great music, food trucks and beer. Lots of beer. This year, although the festival will be taking place in Fort Worth instead of Dallas, when I received today’s press release and lineup, I saw the words “Deer Tick” and literally squealed with excitement. I can’t imagine a more perfect act to be at a music festival centered around beer. Have I ever mentioned they are also one of my favorite bands to see live? I believe I have. Deer Tick, Justin Townes Earl, Tennis, Sarah Jaffe, craft beers, good food – another fantastic success is all I can imagine from the 4/20 festival. Definitely buy yourself a beer ticket with your concert ticket so that you can wander amongst vendors and sample tasty beers you never knew existed.

KXT’s Summer Cut is going to be a great time as well. I’m not jumping up and down about it yet but with The Avett Brothers, Grace Potter, Matt & Kim and others, I’m sure that closer to June 1, I’ll be more excited about what’s billed as The Happy Funtime Fest.

So, folks, throw that 2013 budget out the window, spend your money loosely and get out and see some music this year. Trust me, the memories are priceless and will last longer than, well, whatever else you were planning to buy with the cash. Maybe. Probably. Don’t ask so many questions.

Jan
23

Review | What Made Milwaukee Famous – You Can’t Fall Off the Floor

What made Milwaukee famous? I really have no idea but there’s a cool little band out of Austin by the same name. They’re more of a statement though, not a question. Their new album, You Can’t Fall Off the Floor certainly leaves no questions asked. The band’s third LP, released on Tuesday, is a pure, feel good listen.

The album isn’t pure and simple though. It’s easy to put it, and the band, in a blanket indie genre but there’s more to them than that. It’s clear that the band has influences that are, for lack of better words, all over the place, but that’s what makes What Made Milwaukee Famous a great band. I’m talking influences ranging from Radiohead to The Beatles to Wilco, according to the band’s Facebook page. After listening to WMMF for a while, those influences become apparent, but don’t discount them as just another band that sounds like other bands. That’s not the case.

You Can’t Fall Off the Floor starts as an upbeat, pop-rock and alternative gem, drops in a sad country ballad, complete with steel guitar, with “Sorry (Again)”, continues with a more indie and mellow sound and then ends with a slow, steady and genuinely pretty outro entitled “Leftovers”.

Vocalist and guitarist Michael Kingcaid, bassist John Farmer and guitarist/vocalist Jason Davis are not only notable as musicians, but also have an exciting track record. Following the release of their first two albums, Trying to Never Catch Up and What Doesn’t Kill Us, the band landed themselves spots on festivals like Bonnaroo, SXSW, Austin City Limits and Lollapalooza just to name a few.

With this release, What Made Milwaukee Famous doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.  The band worked with quite the names while recording You Can’t Fall Off the Floor at Austin’s Good Danny’s studios; including Matthew Vasquez of Delta Spirit, Evan Jacobs of Polyphonic Spree and Cully Symington of Okkervil River. The hands of Matt Vasquez were some of the first that I heard, and being someone that enjoys a dose or two of Delta Spirit, I was pleased to learn of his influence.

I’m impressed by What Made Milwaukee Famous – their musicianship, their sound and their ability to turn an a vast array of musical influences into something unique to itself. Be sure and catch the band at Club Dada on Friday, February 1. And while you’re here, check out their video below from You Can’t Fall Off the Floor  “Gone and Done it Now”.

Tracklist

1. Silence Is the Loudest Answer
2. Gone and Done It Now
3. Down
4. Rosewood
5. Sorry (Again)
6. Grand Entrance, Awkward Exit
7. Demons & Monkeys (And You & Me. And Me & Me)
8. Swift Justice for Christmas
9. Prescription for Purpose
10. Just Run
11. Leftovers

 

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