Austin Nightlife

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Let's Get Unplugged At The Grove

Fine dining plus free music equals a perfect event, in Austin Nightlife's eyes. That's exactly what the Shady Grove and KGSR are offering up this spring and summer with Unplugged at the Grove 2014. The annual schedule of live music, which marks its 21st year in 2014, features a who's-who of regional performers doing their thing over the course of 24 consecutive weeks. The summer nights will be hot, the food and drink will be delicious and the music will be eclectic and true to the character of Austin, Texas.

KGSR describes Unplugged at the Grove, which began on April 10 with a performance by irreverent rockers What Made Milwaukee Famous thus:

"This year marks the 21st Anniversary of KGSR's Unplugged at the Grove! Help us celebrate 21 years of free, live music as we kick-off the season on April 10th with Austin stalwart What Made Milwaukee Famous! Join KGSR every Thursday for 24 consecutive weeks at Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road for one of Austin's longest running free concert series. There’s still no cover charge, $3.50 ZiegenBock Drafts, and the best music, food, and fun you’ll experience under the clear, warm skies of Austin, Texas!

The live music begins at 8pm. And we always reserve VIP parking for the first ten Subarus, courtesy of Austin Subaru. Additional parking is available at the Bicycle Sports Shop right down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd.

Please do not park in the residential area south of Barton Springs Rd. or at the neighboring businesses. Additional free parking is available at Bicycle Sports Shop, at the southeast corner of Barton Springs & Lamar. Help us be good neighbors!

Please carpool and if you drink, drink responsibly and bring a designated driver"

Other performers who have graced the Grove stage so far this year include El Paso's infectious roots rockers Dirty River Boys (April 17), the prolific, densely composed likes of Quiet Company (4/24), Carolyn Wonderland (5/1) and her slinky way with the blues, Mississippi indie boy Charlie Mars (5/8), Fort Worth's moody rockers The Unlikely Candidates (5/15) and longtime ATX songwriting superstar Bob Schneider on May 22.

From there until the final show on September 18, several of the performers are still 'TBD." However, the names actually released for Unplugged at the Grove so far are a murderer's row: Dale Watson on 8/28, Ben Kweller on July 17, Shinyribs (perhaps the most hands-down fun live experience from an Austin artist right now) on July 24, James McMurtry on June 19, Shakey Graves on June 5. And more.

Events like Unplugged at the Grove are what make Austin so unique in the landscape of America. As we continue to grow and the cityscape accommodates the swelling number of people inside the limits, many longtime citizens grouse about Austin losing its personality. The two hometown entities promising and promoting fine dining (unless you're a huge snob) and free music are a sharp rebuke to that cynicism, at least in the view of Austin Nightlife.

Obviously, we will be attending a few of these Unplugged at the Grove concerts ourselves as the summer moves along. We'll bring our images and impressions from those events, but feel free to share your favorite moments, too. Because Austin Nightlife knows you'll be at Unplugged at the Grove at least one time.

http://austintxnightlife.com/lets-get-unplugged-shady-grove/

[austinnightlife]

The Final Week of May 2014 Brings Many Austin, Texas Events

Austin film, Austin music, Austin art...just general Austin, Texas events are filling up the final week of May 2014. Austin Nightlifewould comment on this year speeding by, but we're too busy catching up on the news. What area of the city are you going to be in? We can almost guarantee there's tons of fun just around the corner. What awaits us?

For starters, the beloved Paramount Summer Classic Film Series at the Paramount Theater (713 Congress Avenue) was announced on Friday, May 23rd. The summer film schedule - numbering at over 100 titles - is a treat for old and young alike. There really isn't a theater experience like the Paramount anywhere else in Austin - no, not even the Alamo Drafthouse.

The official announcement read thus:

"A beloved Austin tradition returns for its 39th year! The Paramount and Stateside Theatres once again welcome more than 110 classic films into their historic venues, featuring treasured favorites, restored prints, and new discoveries all summer long. The thrill and excitement of the movies as they are meant to be seen – on the big screen! All films screening at the Paramount are presented in 35mm, and all films at the Stateside are presented in digital HD. ...

Online Advance Admission  -  $12 (Includes a $1 preservation fee)

Regular Admission  -  $12 (Available at Paramount Box Office on day of show and includes a $1 preservation fee)

Film Fan Admission  -  $7 (Available at Paramount Box Office on day of show) - Become a Film Fan

Flix-Tix Booklet  -  $50  (10 admissions - good in any combination; expires September 7, 2014) - Buy Online

...

5.31.14 to 6.1.14 - Sound of Music Singalongs: Three chances to sing along with Maria and the Von Trapp Family.

6.29.14 - Enjoy an optional round of martinis and manicures before a showing of Breakfast at Tiffany's.

7.20.14 - TCM's enlightening host and film historian: An Evening with Robert Osborne."

Austin Nightlife will dive down deeper into the Summer Classic Film Series in another blog post, but just some of the movies showing this year: The Grapes Of Wrath (John Ford, 1940), Singin' In The Rain (Stanley Donen, Gene Kelly, 1952), Late Spring (Yasujiro Ozu, 1949), Do The Right Thing (Spike Lee, 1989).

In news of the music variety, Austin troubadour Ginger Leigh is hanging out on an international scale but still trying to keep things local. Her current initiative with fellow Texas songwriter Patrice Pike shows the duo connecting with their fans from Italy. Check out the invite:

"Patrice Pike & Ginger Leigh return to Italy to take their music to a couple of awesome festivals! To help support the touring costs and to intimately engage with fans, we are offering live Skype sessions with you! Click "See More" below for info. To place your bid, click here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Virtually-Travel-via-live-Video-Sessions-w-Patrice-Pike-Ginger-Leigh-in-Italy-/111360004863?item=111360004863

There are 5 packages available.

The packages includes:

1 Live Skype Call + 5 Exclusively dedicated videos

The 5 highest bidders will win the Virtual Travel Sessions! The live Skype call will be scheduled in advance so that you can invite friends to join you, if you so wish. There is a 7 hour time difference, so around lunchtime in Italy (evening in the US), Patrice and Ginger will call you via Skype and even sing a song or two for you! Plus, Ginger and Patrice will send you 5 exclusive dedicated video clips from interesting places and backstage in Italy!

Thank you for the support and for joining us!

To place your bid, click here:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Virtually-Travel-via-live-Video-Sessions-w-Patrice-Pike-Ginger-Leigh-in-Italy-/111360004863?item=111360004863"

Smooth sailing, ladies.

Finally (for this blog post, at least), history buffs should head over to the Harry Ransom Center next week to see The World At War: 1914-1918:

"This exhibition marks the centenary of the start of World War I, a war that lasted four long years and killed ten million servicemen. The geo-political causes, the war's global expansion, and the outcomes of the war are well documented. The collective personal and national trauma inflicted on all who experienced the war, however, remains relevant for a contemporary world still embroiled in conflict.

Drawing on the Ransom Center's extensive collections, this exhibition illuminates the experience of the war from the point of view of its participants and observers, preserved through letters, drafts, and diaries; memoirs and novels; and photographs and propaganda posters. Visitors will have the opportunity to better understand the history of the war through the archives of those who witnessed it first-hand."

This particular exhibition runs until August 3, 2014.

That's just a taste of the iceberg (mixing metaphors, we know) in terms of Austin, Texas events. The fun plans are piling up for Austin Nightlifeevery night at this point. What are you going to do in the last week of May 2014?

http://austintxnightlife.com/final-week-may-2014-brings-many-austin-texas-events/

[austinnightlife]

Celebrate Memorial Day 2014 in Austin Texas!

Woohooo!!!! Memorial Day is here AT LAST! A whole 14 full workweeks happened between holidays and we're all EXHAUSTED! Thank goodness for the three-day weekend! SO, what’s everyone up to?!? If you’re still longing for some Memorial Day activities in Austin, we’ve got a great list of possible outings! All of us at Austin Nightlife wish you a happy, safe, and relaxing 3-day weekend!

Ok, first and foremost, Memorial Day is a day of remembrance. As nice as it is to take the day off from work and relax, you should take the time to remember what our freedom costs, and thank a vet or an active soilder for their sacrifice and commitment. If you’d like to attend a parade, San Antonio is having one on Monday, May 26th, at 9:30 am, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery (1520 Harry Wurzbach Road). For more locations visit Vet Friends

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eu7mY5EAgKc

Red Fest May 23-25th Circuit of Americas

The first annual Red Fest is coming to the Circuit Of Americas. The official site describes it this way:

REDFEST IS A 3 DAY PARTY WITH A SOUTHERN ATTITUDE, FULL OF MUSIC, COMEDY AND OUTDOOR FUN. IT IS A FESTIVAL LIKE NONE BEFORE, WITH LOADS OF HANDS-ON OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, SPORTS, AN OLD STYLE SALOON, DANCE HALL, MASSIVE SPORTS BAR, AND SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES IN MUSIC AND COMEDY ACROSS 3 STAGES. IF YOU WORK HARD, PLAY HARDER, AND LOVE THE OUTDOORS THEN REDFEST IS FOR YOU.

Some of the big names include: Tim McGraw, Lynrd Skynyrd, Florida Georgia Line, Jeff Foxworthy, Duck Dynasty, Kelly Pickler, Larry the Cable Guy and many many more! For more information about the event and camping accommodations visit their site: http://redfest.com/camping  

Holiday Inn Austin Midtown

Apparently the Holiday Inn Austin Midtown (6000 Middle Fiskville Road) is going to have a fun weekend! The following two events will make this a Memorial Day many people won’t be able to remember.

Jagged Edge Live In Concert

Friday, May 23rd @9pm

Black Mike And Rodney Williams Bringin It To You! We Are Taking It Back A Little And Helping You Kick Off Your Memorial Day Weekend With A Bang! Jagged Edge Live In Concert At The Holiday Inn Midtown! We Will Have Food Available 3 Full Cash Bars Pre Sale Early Bird Tickets Are $35! This Is A Party So Get Ready To Have A Goodtime For More Info On VIP Please Contact Blackmike At 512-552-6633 or Rodney 512-694-9024 Thank You All For Yall Support! Lookin Forward To Another Sold Out Show!!

Click HERE to purchase tickets!

Memorial Day Weekend Pool Party

Sunday, May 25th @2-6pm & @8:30pm-2am

It's time again for some FUN in the SUN. We'll be relaxing pool side from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can bring your own alcohol or non-alcoholic drinks to the pool as long as they are NOT in glass containers.

Into the evening time, we'll be having a room party from 8:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. We are bringing back the complimentary Jungle Juice for this event. We'll also provide snacks for the evening. This will be held in Suite 920. You are welcome to bring your favorite alcohol beverage to the room party.

We hope you can make the pool party from 2:00 - 6:00 but if you can't for some reason, come to the room party.....it's gonna be a good time!!!!

All this fun rolled into a one day event for the low, low cost of $15. You can pay in advance online for $15.00 or for cash only at the POOL . If you are unable to make both events, the events are $10.00 for the pool party and $15.00 for the room party.

We do have a special room rate for the weekend of $89.00. Call the following people to book your room; Shelly 512-206-3060 M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. or Marisa 512-206-3012 and book under "BBW".

Click HERE to purchase tickets! 

Memorial Day Weekend Salsa Cookoff

Monday, May 26th @2pm

If you’re looking for a milder, or hotter, Memorial Day, the Salsa Cookoff is calling your name! Here’s why:

Live Music! Great Salsa! Raffles and Silent Auctions with dozens of great prizes! And, as always, great beer! Free Admission. $10 to sample (includes one raffle ticket). Enter your recipe for a chance to win a $200 Visa Gift Card! Now accepting entries. Ask a manager for details. $25 entry fee per team. Maximum of 3 people per team. Entry is limited to the first 12 teams. Benefitting Blue Dog Rescue. www.bluedogrescue.com

Crawfish Boil at the Black Sheep Lodge

Saturday, May 24th @11am

We’ve been through out entertainment, pool siding, food and now we’ve got more food! The Black Sheep Lodge is doing a crawfish boil, enough said!

We hope everyone has a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend, and we at Austin Nightlife would like to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude for the men and women who serve and have served to give us the freedoms and comforts of life that we can appreciate in America. Happy Memorial Day!

http://austintxnightlife.com/celebrate-memorial-day-2014-austin-texas

[austinnightlife]

Fun Fun Fun Fest 2014 Lineup!

Fun Fun Fun Fest just released the 2014 lineup and it’s going to be epic! The festival is scheduled for Novemebr 7-9 at the Auditorium Shores. Austin Nightlife would like to share some of the acts we're most excited to see below. Comment and tell us who you’re looking forward to, as well!

Black Stage

Judas Priest, King Diamond, Death From Above 1979, Rocket From The Crypt, Death Grips, Gorilla Biscuits, Blood Brothers, Amon Amarth, Black Lips, Hot Water Music, Iceage, Sick of It All (blood sweat/scratch the surface anniversary set), Deafheaven, Jello Biafra and the Guantanamo School of Medicine, METZ, Pissed Jeans, Glassjaw, Pallbearer, The Bots, Iron Reagan, Pianos Become Teeth, Fat White Family, Radkey, Twin Peaks, Crooked Bangs, Communion, Breakout

It’s no surprise that we’re super excited about the headliners, but serious guys, Judas Priest is AMAZING live. I got to see them at the Masters of Metal festival in 2008 and it’s stuck with me ever since. I couldn’t find a good video from that concerts, so I’ve included one from Graspop Metal Meeting. Enjoy! 

  Orange Stage

Death Cab for Cutie, Neutral Milk Hotel, Alt-J, The New Pornographers, Dinosaur Jr., First Aid Kit, Guided By Voices, City and Colour, Yo La Tengo, Failure, Dum Dum Girls, Foxygen, Courtney Barnett, Sun Kil Moon, Yann Tiersen, Majical Cloudz, San Fermin, Angel Olsen, Tinariwen, J Mascis, Mineral, King Tuff, Knapsack, Chelsea Wolfe, Reputante, Spider Bags, Julianna Barwick, Wildcat! Wildcat!, Scott H Biram, The World is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, Nostalghia, This Will Destroy You, Dana Falconberry, The Sour Notes, Good Fields

We are of course excited to see Death Cab for Cutie, but Neutral Milk Hotel is what really gets our hearts all of a flutter! They are another outstanding live band. We got to see them earlier this year and the experience was transformative! 

  “The fervor of the performances was striking. Slower songs on record – like “Gardenhead/Leave Me Alone” from On Avery Island (1996) – were handled so aggressively they nearly became punk. All of the highlights from Aeroplane appeared – the sweeping, romantic title track, the foreboding and seismic “Oh, Comely,” all three parts of “King of Carrot Flowers” complete with audience singing along. The band closed with an appropriately galloping “Ghost,” elegiac “Two-Headed Boy Part 2″ and “Engine,” a less well-known EP track described by the band as a “lullaby.”” - Read More At Austin Nightlife Concert Review: Neutral Milk Hotel at ACL Live at the Moody Theater 2/17/14

  Blue Stage

Nas (Illmatic 20th anniversary), Wiz Khalifa, Girl Talk, 2 Chainz, Atmosphere, Flying Lotus, Sky Ferreira, The Presets, Gary Numan, Cashmere Cat, Ginuwine, Z-Trip, Run The Jewels (El-P/Killer Mike), Lunice, Yelle, Ryan Hemsworth, The Internet, SOHN, SZA, Thundercat, Mas Ysa, Say Lou Lou, Gardens and Villa, Roosevelt, ASTR, Jacuzzi, Cities Aviv, Zorch, “Blue, The Misfit.”, The Digital Wild

Clearly the main draw for the 2014 FFF Blue Stage is Nas. While he has remained an important rapper, his 1994 debut Illmatic remains his crowning achievement. This set will be full of cuts from the landmark release, which should sit well with the Fun Fun Fun Fest crowd. But it's not just the Nas show. Girl Talk is one of today's most exciting electronic acts, and the live show is legendary. Wiz Khalifa is a similarly big name, and while his critical standing has taken a hit in recent years his popularity and concert appearances are as hot as ever. 2 Chainz, Flying Lotus, Gary Numan, Ginuwine, Sky Ferreira, Run The Jewels and (especially) Atmosphere will present a quick run-through of some of the major names in rap and electronica for novices. The Blue Stage, as with the other stages, shows the increasing influence of FFF in 2014.

The lineup for the comedy and sports stages at Fun Fun Fun Fest will be announced soon! You can be sure Austin Nightlife will keep you posted!

http://austintxnightlife.com/fun-fun-fun-fest-2014-lineup/

[austinnightlife]

What's That On The Austin, Texas Events Horizon?

Let there be no confusion here. Austin Nightlife is not referring to the unpleasant Paul W.S. Anderson sci-fi/horror film Event Horizon (1997), but the "horizon" of upcoming/currently-occurring activities that are filling the Austin, Texas event viewfinder. There's a flavor for every taste in the city (we'll be getting into dining in Austin, too).

On Friday, May 16, the Hole in the Wall (2538 Guadalupe) held a real kick-off-the-weekend-with-gusto event. There were three acts, all of which hit that special area of Austin music between country and rock. Many a campus reveler were entertained. Here's the Hole's event notation:

"Step into summertime with an ice cold Lone Star at our favorite Austin haunt. Sweet Gary Newcomb is leaving Austin for a summer sabbatical in Portland. Help us send him off in good Austin cheer. Musical Stylings by 10pm Gary Newcomb Trio 11pm Justin Fallen and the Angels 12am The Lonesome Heroes $5 door / 21+"

On Saturday, Austin's comedy scene gathered around one of its own for Spider House Ballroom's "Kat Roast: A Beneficial Beatdown of Kat Ramzinski." The tribute to Ramzinski, who was accosted by criminals recently but triumphantly performed despite her injuries, is a packed affair. From the event:

"On April 20th our friend, esteemed colleague, and local comedian, Kat Ramzinski, was brutally attacked by 3 males and one female assailants with gruesome intent. Like the strong, fearless woman we know her to be, Kat fought back and survived the attack with very serious injuries.

On Saturday, May 17, Spider House Ballroom celebrates this very special lady with an All-Star Austin comic line-up, in the traditional Roast style.

There will be a $10 suggested donation for all to attend. 100% of the proceeds go to a Swiss bank account we have set up for Kat.

Please come early for the pre-show cocktail hour with DJ DoA spinning tight jams and dope beats.

The show starts promptly at 8pm! OFFICIAL ROAST LINE UP: Maggie Maye, Roast Master

Katie Pengra Amber Bixby Mike MacRae Ramin Nazer Brian Gaar Cody Hustak Lisa Friedrich Michael Priest Kath Barbadoro Adam Hrabik Ralphie Hardesty

Immediately following the show we encourage all to stay and pay tribute to Kat through song! DIAMOND KARAOKE will be providing the songs in which you wish to butcher into the night.

Spider House Ballroom 18 and up $10 Suggested Donation"

vAfter all that activity someone is bound to be hungry. Which is why this CultureMap Austin article is right up the alley for anyone looking for a nosh. The "Gateway to East Austin," anyone?:

"Residents of downtown and East Austin might want to invest in a new pair of sweatpants, because they will soon have a new food trailer park to keep them well-fed.

Dubbed the GoodLife Food Park, the latest addition to Austin’s food truck scene is currently setting up shop near the corner of Interstate 35 and East Cesar Chavez, providing what founder Garry Wise refers to as the 'Gateway to East Austin.' ...

The website states that there’s ample space for up to 17 food trucks, but Wise says it’s unlikely they’ll have that many in the end. He's currently working with consultants to determine the optimum number of tenants.

 What GoodLife intends to look like.[/caption] What else can local foodies expect at the GoodLife? As a self-proclaimed 'upscale' food park, one of the top priorities will be cleanliness. Unlike many other parks that are landscaped with dirt or gravel, GoodLife is landscaping with wood chips. 'One of the things I’ve found with some other food parks in dirt lots is that they feel dirty and there’s dust in the air,' says Wise. Ample on-site parking and live music events are also planned for the park.

And most importantly, the food options will cater to all tastes — from simple to high-end. 'One thing that we’re focused on is we want to offer several, very healthy options as well.'"

So that's a new space ATX Nightlife needs to check out sooner than later.

Later next week, Wednesday the 21st to be exact, the Austin Film Meet will hold their Wordsmiths May Script Swap. Many a creative writer will be attending this soiree. Is there a Juno somewhere out there? You'll have to go to see:

"Wordsmiths is back! Need feedback on a script? Bring several printed copies of your script to this event to get feedback from readers. Readers are asked to read at least 10 pages of each script, and complete a short survey to help generate constructive feedback that writers can use to improve their scripts. Scripts in all stages are welcome. Readers without scripts are also welcome as we always need readers and a lot can be learned from reading. Hope you can join us!

Full details on website: http://www.austinfilmmeet.com/afmevents/wednesday-may-21-2014-wordsmiths-script-swap/

Wednesday, May 21st

7:00 - 9:00 pm

@ Austin Java Barton Springs 1608 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704

Discount - 50% of Appetizers all day"

What Austin, Texas events, or what dining in Austin, are you looking forward to? Drop a comment to Austin Nightlife below.

http://austintxnightlife.com/whats-austin-event-horizon/

[austinnightlife]

Austin Music Review: MARYANN, "Wylie"

At the beginning of their career, MARYANN was a swing country band called MaryAnn & the Revival Band.  Now that name is shortened (and capitalized) and, upon the release of the band's first full-length album Wylie, the entity now known as MARYANN has transcended the genre label. Austin Nightlife is excited about the Austin music contained within Wylie and the creative development it signals.

MARYANN has already been impressively prolific, but this is the most accomplished musical statement yet released by the quintet. They've cast all stylistic hindrances aside and the group is embracing its many virtues enthusiastically. This record's use of harmony vocals, its rugged-but-professional production sheen and the quality of its performances all reach new heights for MARYANN.

Wylie begins with the electric piano-fronted stomp of "Shifting Ground." Evan Kaspar, MARYANN's soft-spoken jack-of-all-trades, turns in another successful lead vocal performance. The song is as catchy and well-constructed as anything the band has put out. Obviously, it was the lead video off of the album. The composition's outro, an accelerating mass of instrumentation and refrains, foresees the record's poise and confidence.

The next song, "Caught Again," is the first song on the LP for guitarist/keyboardist Matt Hudson (Kaspar and Hudson are heavily featured in the lead spots on the album, actually). It's a slower, softer number that comes close to a forced somberness that occasionally trips up MARYANN. However, the performances have a pep that carries the track home, despite some on-the-nose lyrics ("listen to that country sound").

 MARYANN (from left): Evan Kaspar, Ray Garza, Ray Flynt, Greg Spencer, Matt Hudson

Greg Spencer, MARYANN's most irreverent voice, gets his spotlight moment for "The Deeper Home." The change in personality is obvious as soon as Spencer's leap-frogging vocal attack jumps out of the speakers. There are some lovely, memorable croons carrying this tune. Spencer's mid-song scream, a jagged guitar solo and dynamic construction brings the proceedings closer to indie rock than the band has been on previous recordings.

"Catalina" is one of the prettiest entries in the MARYANN songbook, and its placement here is a treat for the many fans who have enjoyed the song in concert for the past year. Kaspar is leading again; the oompah arrangement in the song's chorus and closing takes a good thing and makes it great. The harmonies, supplied by Ray Garza, are lovely on the cut. This song, along with the soon-to-be-mentioned "Flickering Glass," has the goods to also be a single.

It's becoming clear at this point that Wylie is stacked with excellent tracks. Now onto Hudson's next turn, "Flickering Glass." Another longtime live standby now getting the record treatment, the arrangement is a bit different than the way MARYANN takes the song in person. That allows appreciation for the subtle layering of Hudson's voice top of his bandmates, though. This is the better of Hudson's two tracks on the disc. "Fall Company Drag," the penultimate track, is also sung by Kaspar. It has a sneaking Weezer influence in its melodic progression. It's the record's haziest and most mysterious cut.

Wylie ends with "Coming Home To Newt," the sole lead vocal performance by MARYANN drummer Ray Flynt. With its flinty, descending keyboard riff and snappy drum part, the song bears a striking resemblance to the work of Spoon. This is also the best vocal performance Flynt has ever given, and the subject matter suggests a very personal point of view behind the composition. Check out the cool, Japanese folklore-informed music video for the track.

Watch more Animation videos on Frequency

As "Coming Home To Newt" closes the record with a swash of distorted voices and studio trickery, it's clear that MARYANN has taken a major step forward. They're one of the top Americana bands in the Austin music scene right now, and Wylie is as good a time to get involved as any.

Final Grade: ***** (out of five)

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-music-review-maryann-wylie/

[austinnightlife]

The Kerrville Folk Festival's Turn On The Austin Calendar of Events

Now comes time for Austin Nightlife to travel a bit outside the Austin city limits again. There is another great cultural happening taking place on the Austin events calendar that should stir passion in the hearts of Austin city citizens. The Kerrville Folk Festival will begin on May 22 and run until June 8, bringing a host of regional musical stars and a whole host of other attractions. It's worth the drive.

Let's begin with a succinct examination of what exactly the Kerrville Folk Festival is. The following description/write-up comes directly from the Kerrville Folk Festival's website:

"The Kerrville Music Festivals are family oriented events which are held each year on the Quiet Valley Ranch, just 9 miles south of the resort town of Kerrville in the heart of the beautiful Texas Hill Country. Our two annual festivals are the Kerrville Folk Festival and the Kerrville Fall Music Festival.

Founded by Rod Kennedy, the Kerrville Folk Festival has run annually since 1972. It is the longest continuously running music festival of its kind in North America. For 18 straight days and nights each May and June, over 30,000 guests come from all over the world to experience the magic of what we simply call 'Kerrville'. The Festival is known internationally as a Mecca for singer songwriters of varying musical style. It’s a place where those just developing their skills have the opportunity to play their music along- side master craftsmen."

Among the acts performing at this year's festival include Ian Moore, Terri Hendrix, Eliza Gilkyson and the legendary Judy Collins. Ace guitar company Guild Guitars has also donated a 2013 KFF Raffle Guitar for the festivities. One lucky festival goer will walk away with a beautiful acoustic six-string.

For those not familiar with the aforementioned festival acts, a quick catch-up is necessary. The beloved Collins, who just turned 75 (and still going strong!), is touring off the release of Live In Ireland, a recent concert recording taking place across the ocean. Ian Moore has been a prolific Austin artist for several years; while he hasn't released a new record in a bit of time, his Kerrville appearance will be part of his current acoustic tour.

Gilkyson's most recent release, The Nocturne Diaries, still stands as one of her boldest and most impressive works. She is currently on tour (as usual), so the Folk Festival should catch her in good live performance spirits. And Terri Hendrix will be using her performance to warm up for the first ever OYOU Women's Retreat.

Make sure to note that these four artists are not the only names on the play bill for Kerrville's calendar of events this year, only some of the highlights Austin Nightlife pulled out.

There are still numerous ticket packages left for Kerrville Folk Festival, so if you are only now thinking about schedule the trip you can still jump right in. In addition to the music, atmosphere and food, numerous arts and crafts installations will dot the Quiet Valley Ranch landscape.

If you want to sell some of your wares as part of the arts and crafts show, look here.

So bring the wife/husband and kids to the Kerrville Folk Festival on Thursday, May 22 (or any of the Festival's 18 days) for a entry on the 2014 calendar of events not easily forgotten. Austin Nightlife can't wait to hear about the party in Kerrville from participants.

  http://austintxnightlife.com/kerrville-folk-festivals-turn-austin-calendar-events/

[austinnightlife]

Now In Austin Film: South Shore District Friday Night Films

Austin film is one of the major, growing scenes of cinema appreciation in the country. Austin Nightlife knows that this city's many cineastes will be excited about the new news coming out of the South Shore District. The soon-to-begin South Shore District Friday Night Films will bring some beloved movie titles to the Lady Bird Lake apartment district's many citizens and visitors. The program, a partnership between the South Shore District and the Alamo Drafthouse, was announced on April 30th. The theme for the amassed film schedule is "Summer Classics," and there are several fun nights on the docket ahead.

Next Friday, May 16th, will be the first night of the program. Showing will be Amy Heckerling's ribald 1982 teen sex comedy Fast Times at Ridgemont High. This is one of the most beloved of raunchy comedies, so it's easy to foresee a big crowd appearing at 1333 Shore District Drive (that's the South Shore leasing center, actually) to catch it. Just pointing out all the big names at the beginning of their career is fun for Fast Times. Not just Sean Penn and Jennifer Jason Leigh, but Oscar-winners Forest Whitaker and Nicolas Cage show up in brief roles. And Eric Stoltz, Anthony Edwards, Nancy Wilson (of Heart) and, of course, Phoebe Cates.

The Friday Night Films will be only a three-week engagement, but with that starter film we can be assured that these "Summer Classics" won't be totally family-friendly.

May 23rd, the second week, will bring Bill Murray in his early movie star days in Meatballs (Ivan Reitman, 1979). The cult classic, which follows screwball summer camp counselor Tripper (Murray, of course) and his campers through a series of foolish hijinks and an climatic "Olympiad." This title actually gets overlooked now that Murray has amassed a stellar career of classic titles. But Meatballs is as shaggy and irreverent as its title (those two words could also refer to Tripper's hairstyle in the movie). And with the sudden death of co-screenwriter Harold Ramis, the May 23rd screening will be a fine time to remember one of his silliest projects.

The final movie, playing on May 30th, is Dirty Dancing (Emile Ardolino, 1987). It's about Johnny Castle (the late Patrick Swayze) winning the heart of Baby Houseman (Jennifer Grey) in their....what are we talking about? You know the story of this movie - it's iconic. It's still a bit hard for this writer to watch Swayze's films (including the wonderful Point Break) because I get sad about his death, but this film still works for its many fans. There's more to it than "nobody puts Baby in a corner."

Below, read the official press release for South Shore District Friday Night Films:

"South Shore District, in partnership with Alamo Drafthouse, is excited to announce the debut of Friday Night Films in the Park. The movie series will begin at South Shore District, East Austin’s newest luxury apartment and mixed-use complex on the lake, on Friday, May 16 with Fast Times at Ridgemont High. The three-movie series will come to a close on Friday, May 30 with a screening of Dirty Dancing.

'We are excited to bring Friday Night Films in the Park to South Shore District,' said Jeff Gray, president of Grayco Partners. 'It’s a wonderful way to bring families and friends together for a great evening featuring the classic movies of summer. We’re excited to share South Shore District and the Alamo Drafthouse’s interactive experience with East Austin.'

The first series of films, titled the 'Summer Classics' series, includes the above-mentioned Fast Times at Ridgemont High on May 16, Meatballs on May 23, and Dirty Dancing on May 30. Each Friday night film will begin at sunset, around 8:00pm.

There will be food trailers available for guests to make food and drink purchases.

South Shore District is located on the south bank of Lady Bird Lake in the heart of East Austin. The property offers direct access to and from the new boardwalk hike and bike trail along Lady Bird Lake. Uniquely artful and active, South Shore District brings together all the gems of East Austin. South Shore District is located at 1333 Shore District Drive. For more information or to lease, please visit www.southshoredistrict.com."

Which of the Friday Night Films are you going to attend? Austin Nightlifecan't wait for the reels to start rolling.

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-film-new-champion-south-shore-district-friday-night-films/

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Play Music, Have Fun: Pachanga Latino Music Festival

Last week, Austin Nightlife ran through some of the reactions to the 2014 ACL Festival. Now we need to start talking about the Pachanga Latino Music Festival, which takes place on Saturday, May 10th. Another week, another great Austin, Texas event where many talented people will play music for appreciative city citizens and visitors. Pachanga comes to Fiesta Gardens (2100 Jesse E. Segovia Street) in between the 9th (a Friday) and Sunday, May 11th (Mother's Day). While the music is the major focus for many, we should not forget that Pachanga is also a great showcase for Latin-themed cultural arts and cuisine. It's the full package for those interested in Latino artistic culture. Here, let Pachanga speak for itself:

"Pachanga is a Latin-themed music, cultural arts and food festival dedicated to showcasing the vibrant blend of Latino-created music and art and the impact it has on American culture today. The festival will be held on Saturday, May 10 at Fiesta Gardens in Austin, TX. The Pachanga lineup includes rock, alternative, tejano, mariachi, cumbia, salsa, electronic, funk, hip-hop and indie rock with one singular theme, the sound is brown. For more information visit www.pachangafest.com, and for up-to-the-minute news follow us on Facebook at Pachanga Latino Music Festival and on Twitter  @pachangafest."

You better believe Austin Nightlife follows the Pachanga twitter account. The Pachanga Fest is presented by the Austin Relief Alliance. While you can see the complete lineup here, there are several highlight acts worth previewing. Baja California's overpoweringly effective accordionist Julieta Venegas is at the top of the bill. El Gran Silencio, Monterrey, Mexico's edgy rockers, are another highlight. The broad-minded, irreverent folks in La Santa Cecilia are a must-see show. Here's the Pachanga website describing their special appeal:

"In 2013, the band released their major label debut Trenta Dias (30 Days), which features the dance floor shaking “Monedita,” the humanistic approach to immigration track “El Hielo (ICE),” and a captivating collaboration with fan Elvis Costello on “Losing Game.” The band has already hit the road to promote the new collection. The band was tapped by multi-Latin GRAMMY award winning duo Jesse & Joy to open for them on their North American Tour. The band has also taped an on-air appearance on the critically acclaimed TV show “The Bridge” (FX Network). The band has enjoyed great critical acclaim in the Wall Street Journal, NPR (Named to numerous Best of 2013 lists), and Ad Age Magazine naming the band a must for any Ad Agencies looking to launch a Hispanic Campaign. The band also celebrate 2014 with a GRAMMY nomination (Best Latin Rock, Urban, or Alternative Album) for Treinta Dias."

Austin Nightlife would also recommend Austin hard rockers Del Castillo to anyone attending the show. The list of food vendors attending the Pachanga is very long, but some of the names include One Taco, Mellizoz and El Taquito Sabor Mexico. Also, let's highlight the family fun of Ninos, the kids festival taking place inside the larger Pachanga event. Pachanga is all-ages, and children under 12 can get in free with a paid adult.

Want to eat some great food, see some awesome art and listen to an international roster of stars play music? Then buy tickets for the Pachanga Latino Music Festival here, and let Austin Nightlife know how your Pachanga visit went.

http://austintxnightlife.com/play-music-fun-pachanga-latino-music-festival/

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What Are People Saying About This Year`s ACL Festival Music Lineup?

Has it already been a few weeks since the 2014 ACL Festival Music lineup was revealed? Wow, time flies. Austin Nightlife has our tickets (we're sure many of you do too) and are working on our list of who we definitely have to see. Of course, that list won't be complete until the full schedule is released later this year. However, there has been no shortage of reaction and opinion to this year's ACL show bill. Let's see what the other commentators are saying...

The big hip-hop names at the top of the bill - Eminem and OutKast - have drawn a large portion of the spilled ink. It makes sense; They're two of the biggest names who have ever been at the Festival. HipHopDX is bringing the hype (written by Andres Tardio):

"Eminem and OutKast are co-headlining this year's Austin City Limits Music Festival, a two weekend fest set to take place October 3-5 and October 10-12. Childish Gambino and Iggy Azalea are also among the scheduled performers at the event. OutKast recently wrapped up its two-weekend festival run with Coachella. The duo headlined Friday night both weekends and faced mixed reviews. Eminem recently teased an April 22 announcement with a photograph in which he was dressed in western gear. The teaser mentioned Texas and some believed the announcement would be a co-headlining gig at the Austin City Limits Music Festival."

Also getting attention is the festival's programming plan - two weekends, like last year, but with the single-day tickets available after last year's blackout. Here's CultureMap Austin writer Katie Friel on the moderate controversy around the issue:

"The 2013 ACL Festival did not come without controversy, and we're betting this year won't be much different. This summer, the mayor of Rollingwood, the small town that neighbors Zilker Park, came out in protest of the expanded festival, citing increased traffic and expenses. Even a quick glance through the comments on ACL's official site point to the polarized reactions many Austinites are having. Add in the fact that C3 Presents, the company that puts on the festival, is in hot water with dog owners over the potential elimination of the leash-free area of Auditorium Shores, and they're having a bit of public relations issue right now."

Other signposts of a new ACL experience include the presence of several major female acts, as well as Austin hometown heroes Spoon returning to the fest with some new material. The Austin Chronicle's Gary Miller was on top of this one:

"Also high up on C3’s press release today, and rightfully so, are women: Lorde, the Kiwi teen whose “Royals” spent the past eight months as the most omnipresent song on the planet. She’s coming for week two only, but Lana Del Rey shares the same altitudes on the marquee and plays both weekends. Female-fronted populists Cults, Phantogram, KUTX-anointed “SXSW winners” Lucius, and Lake Street Dive, just in town for Old Settler’s Music Festival, join SXSWers St. Vincent, and Chilean rapper Ana Tijoux. And the chorus: Iggy Azalea, Nikki Lane, Jenny Lewis, and Tune-Yards, who drops third LP Nikki Nack on May 6. ...... Spoon, also due a new album before the festival, crowns the ATX acts, but Spanish Gold, Grupo Fantasma founder Adrian Quesada’s new joint with former Hacienda guitarist Dante Schwebel and My Morning Jacket Drummer Patrick Hallahan, will be worth a looksee. Elizabeth McQueen, who left ACL mainstays Asleep at the Wheel over the winter, returns for both weeks, while her old boss trots side project Ray Benson & MilkDrive out in the Wheel’s place for week two."

So, yes, there are going to be contrarians who "aren't impressed by the ACL Festival Music Lineup." But those people just want to be negative for the sake of it, because enthusiasm isn't cool anymore (or something). This Austin City Limits festival promises a lot of great moments and many vital music performances. Let Austin Nightlife know who you're most looking forward to.

http://austintxnightlife.com/acl-festival-music-lineup-the-reactions/

[austinnightlife]

Austin Nightlife Wakes Early For The Old Pecan Street Festival

Yes, we're Austin Nightlife, but we do expand our view of city activities and Austin events beyond the sun going down. The Old Pecan Street Festival is one of Austin's longest-running cultural events, and the 2014 edition of the multi-block art/craft/other excitement will be one of the best lineups ever.

The "2014 Spring Pecan Street Festival" (the event's official name) starts at 11 a.m. this Saturday, May 3. It continues until 8 p.m. on Sunday (May the 4th). Admission is free for both days. Who better to introduce Pecan Street than the event's own website? Here's how it describes itself:

"The Pecan Street Festival, one of Central Texas’ oldest and most popular events, is a free two-day arts festival held each spring and fall in downtown Austin’s charming Sixth Street Historic District, a National Register of Historic Places site. On the first weekend of May and the last weekend of September, the street fills with hundreds of local and national artisans offering handcrafted creations in all sorts of two- and three-dimensional media. More than 60 of Austin’s finest musical acts bring three stages to life, and family-friendly activities from street magicians to a petting zoo delight both adults and children. Thirty food vendors provide both healthy and indulgent choices, often supported by and benefiting charitable partners."

Last year the Pecan Street Festival netted an impressive monetary amount of nearly $20,000 in donations to the Austin Fire Department, Meals on Wheels, the East Austin Conservancy, Capital Area Food Bank of Texas and Hospice Austin. The participants for this year include Leadership Austin, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, the Austin Animal Center, Austin Boxer Rescue, the Capital Area Food Bank again and Round Rock Sertoma.

That's not all. Three different stages - located at Trinity, Neches and Red River - will sport over 60 Austin musical artists over the course of the two days. Some of the names on the bill: Vallejo, Gina Chavez, Young Tongue, Mobley and more. There will be thirty different food vendors quenching the thirst and feeding the bellies of Pecan Street revelers. And there is a petting zoo, face-painting, rides, street magicians, and fun workshops all for the kids in attendance to enjoy.

You're not a true Austinite if you don't know the significance of the Old Pecan Street Festival's location. The Pecan Street "about" page on their website lays it out:

"The Pecan Street Festival takes place in the Sixth Street Historic District between Brazos Street and Interstate 35 in the heart of Austin’s business and live entertainment district — the very stretch that earned the city’s designation as the Live Music Capital of the World. Lined with many of Austin’s oldest and most storied structures, some of which date from the 1800s, Sixth Street is populated with entertainment venues, art galleries, cafes, restaurants and retailers. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places."

Of course, what the Pecan Street Fest is most famous for are the arts and craft vendors who line Brazos. Readers can get a complete list of these talented folks here, but the promised attendees - like Bridget McCart's Easely Amused, Rita Kirkman's Caricatures, Megan Casas' Casas Ink and so many more - should make anticipation for this Austin event high. Austin Nightlifewants to hear your Old Pecan Street Festival stories; share them in the comments below.

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-nightlife-wakes-early-old-pecan-street-festival/

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Concert Review: The National at ACL Live 4/23

Sometimes Austin Nightlife wonders if this city isn't a bit spoiled. To have a group like The National - who are clearly in the short list for "best working American band right now" - play for three consecutive nights at ACL Live at the Moody Theater is a privilege that isn't lavished on every market. Yet, near the closing of the band's April 23rd performance, the last of the three-night stint, we realized that we were nearly the only people in our particular row. It wasn't like the show was sparsely attended, though, but it was odd that basically a dozen folks decided to get up and leave before the encore had even begun.

Not that the guys in The National noticed; they've been a band for nearly 20 years now and have surely played venues much smaller (and much less populated). Similarly, if they were fatigued after three straight nights of performances it wasn't obvious beyond the added grit in singer Matt Berninger's voice. They were connected  and committed.

The entire evening was a standout, though. Even before The National hit the stage at 9:16 p.m. their opening act, Warpaint, made an indelible impression. The Los Angeles quartet has been increasing awareness for the past few years. Their current hit, "Love Is To Die," is probably familiar to most of the people who were in the audience on the 23rd. However, before I saw them on Wednesday I was only aware of the band as an all-female quartet who were known to make some really rowdy sounds. One day, a band of women that rocks this hard won't be such a rarity that writers have to touch upon the fact. Every night that Warpaint brings their vital, raucous bump, strum and grind to audiences hastens that day's arrival. They're really close to a major national breakthrough.

The headliners had a high bar to clear after the opening act, but The National has long been held as one of the best live acts around. Wednesday was a special night, as both Warpaint singer Emily Kokal and Berninger informed the crowd, because it was the birthday of The National's twin guitar players, Aaron and Bryce Dessner. The set list began with the churning "Start A War," off the band's acclaimed 2007 release Boxer. It's a good introduction to the band - this is not a screaming rocker, but a precise and cathartic think-piece. The National's music is often melancholy, with abstract lyrics that imply the confusion and anxiety that dominate the minds of today's citizens. The rest of the set was filled by songs from the band's 2013 masterstroke, 

Trouble Will Find Me. That was fine with us, Austin Nightlife really liked that record. "This Is The Last Time," "Graceless," "I Should Live In Salt," "Don't Swallow The Cap," "Pink Rabbits" and "Sea Of Love" were more stripped down (and often faster) live than they were on record. The National has reached a level where, like Radiohead, their enormously effective sound moves with a monolithic grace that doesn't make clear what member is creating what sound. The Dessner twins clearly are a major part of that, but loathe is the listener who overlooks the contributions of the other set of brothers in the band: steadfast bassist Scott Devendorf and drummer Bryan Devendorf, who is one of the absolute best in the game right now. A two-person horn section also added a lot to songs like "England," off of 2010's great High Violet. But Berninger is the frontman, and his stage presence is unforgettable. Whether pacing the stage like a paranoid Richard Nixon, pulling out his screaming voice for "Abel," off the 2005 landmark Alligator, or slamming his microphone against his head and palm, Berninger is hard to take your eyes away from. During the near-climatic rendition of "Mr. November," the singer expanded upon his usual guardrail-walking and pressed deep into the Moody Theater's floor crowd. This led to both an extremely intimate encounter with the singer and a comedic image of stagehands wrangling the mic chord as it was stretched across the room.

The band ended the night with "Vanderlyle Crybaby Geeks," the final song on High Violet. The Dessners pulled out acoustic guitars, the Devendorfs added hand percussion and foot stomps and Berninger turned the mic toward the audience to create a communal, sing-along vibe. It's a great juxtaposition - these five guys make dense, emotionally heavy music, but they're clearly fun-loving, friendly chaps. Berninger jokingly promised to be at 6th Street's Buffalo Billiards "every evening for the next six years." I think they really like Austin. That's why they were making up for last year's cancelled performance at the ACL festival with this smorgasbord of shows. Austin Nightlife thinks it's safe to say the city loves The National just as much back (despite those few, inexplicable early departures).

http://austintxnightlife.com/concert-review-national-acl-live-423/

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Compete To Win XGames Tickets!

Although it’s only April, June is coming up on us fast! Last August, the Austin Nightlife office went nuts when it was announced that the XGames would be coming to Austin. The “Alternative” part of Fun Fun Fun Fest is my favorite, so you can image how excited I was to hear that an entire event dedicated to extreme sports would be coming to Central Texas!

GET YE TICKETS HERE!

So, lets start in the logical place, with the event that’s closed out for Austin. (I know my logic is skewed. Just bare with me, it’s not that random.)

"Y’all ready for this? We’re hosting the first-ever #XGamesHunt, a ridiculous scavenger hunt that’s going down on April 27 in Austin, San Antonio, and Houston! Competitions in each city will have teams scouring for answers to 100 clues, all leading you to a wrap party in each city where prizes are awarded to the top 3 teams in each city. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP

To keep things from getting too nuts, we’re limiting the hunt to 50 teams of two-four people in each city, so get some friends together ASAP! Be sure to read over the rules first. The X Games Hunt, is a scavenger hunt for all sorts of prizes.

FIRST PLACE gets reserved tickets to X Games, X Games Austin hats, and X Games Austin skate decks.

SECOND PLACE gets Experience tickets to X Games Austin and X Games Austin hats.

THIRD PLACE gets Experience tickets to X Games Austin and X Games rally towel.

AND, although the scavenger hunt is closed is Austin, you can still play in Houston and San Antonio!

Ok! So, SIGN UP LIKE NOW!

MUSIC @ THE XGAMES

Once you’ve achieved victory and secured some tickets to the games there’s a ton to look forward to: here’s what's going on with the music scene:

"During X Games weekend, X Music is going down at Austin360 Amphitheater, a world-class, open-air venue located atCircuit of The Americas. The amphitheater has room for up to 14,000 fans, offers reserved seating for 6,700, and features a ginormous lawn perfect for rocking out with your whole crew. Experience first-hand why Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World!” Concerts will all take place rain or shine.”

The lineup is as follows: Kanye West, Pretty Lights, Flaming Lips, Mac Miller, Slightly Stoopic, Gary Clark Jr., Bad Religion, Dillon Francis, Mayer Hawthorne, FMLYBND, Wavves, Mystery Skulls, Cash Cash, CandyLand, Jayceeoh, Five Knives, Featherface, The Black and White Years, Black Pistol Fire, Mirror Travel, My Jerusalem. To read more about the bands you can click here: xgamesaustin.com/x-music/

We don’t know about you, but we’re pretty psyched about June! Follow Austin Nightlife on Facebook and Twitter for the latest on the XGames and other events going on around town! Also, comment below and tell us which athletes you’re rooting for/excited to watch, and any unofficial XGame parties that might be going on!

http://austintxnightlife.com/compete-win-xgames-tickets/

[austinnightlife]

Austin Psych Fest Is Coming to Blow Your Mind

Austin Psych Fest, the underground/psychedelic/counter-culture music festival curated by Austin's The Black Angels, is right around the corner. As we plug the Fest into our Austin events calendar, Austin Nightlife remembers the first time we visited Psych Fest. Back then it was still taking place at the Seaholm Power Plant, the defunct and wide-spaced halls of which provided a perfectly cavernous and eccentric sounding pane for the range of fuzzy, echoing, druggy and hazey acts. The Fest has grown exponentially in the years since, and when it opens its doors on May 2nd of this year visitors are in for the best Psych show yet.

The 2014 Psych Fest (which runs from the 2nd to May 4) will rock out this year at the Carson Creek Ranch, a (according to the Psych Fest website) "scenic 58 acre ranch nestled on the banks of the Colorado River just five minutes from downtown Austin, TX and Bergstrom International airport." The open-air confines of Carson Creek Ranch are a fantastic choice for the reverb-heavy lineup. Imagine those droning notes and ecstatic solos flying into the country air.

The Psych Fest lineup for 2014 has, as usual, a lot of big names from the jam, experimental and psychedelic rock sub-genres. The Black Angels are appearing, as per usual, and other headliners include the Brian Jonestown Massacre, the Dandy Warhols, Loop, The Zombies, Octopus Project (wooh another hometown band!), The War On Drugs and Animal Collective frontman Panda Bear. Brian Jonestown and Dandy Warhols have been connected for years thanks to the classic rock documentary Dig! (Timoner, 2004), so it's pretty cool for insider fans to have them both under the same roof...er, sky. While we're sure there will be a few audience members who are there just to see if erratic Brian Jonestown frontman Anton Newcombe will discombobulate all over the stage, but the real fans know that they're actually a fantastic band with a huge catalog to pull from for their Saturday, May 3rd performance.

Austin Nightlife will be more personally invested in The War On Drugs and Panda Bear. War On Drugs have been indie rock darlings for about three or four years now, but their 2014 release Lost In The Dream finds them reaching a new level of songwriting and performance accomplishment. It might very well be one of the 2014's best releases, meaning that the War On Drugs are perched and ready to explode to an even bigger audience. Their Psych Fest performance (on Sunday the 4th) will have the feel of a coronation. As for Panda Bear, it is our opinion that Animal Collective is one of the most important and innovative music groups performing and recording right now. His solo work - in particular the 2011 album Tomboy - is almost equally rewarding. Panda has a new record, Panda Bear Meets the Grim Reaper, coming out on an as-yet-undetermined date. Also worth noting: Panda Bear's Animal Collective bandmate, Avey Tare, is also on the Psych Fest lineup with his solo project Avey Tare's Slasher Flicks. While an Animal Collective surprise show at Psych Fest is unlikely, both of those guys will be in town at the same time. Maybe, just maybe, Geologist and Deakin are around too. Only one way to find out: update your Austin events calendar and go to Psych Fest.

Three different locations at Carson Creek - the Reverberation Stage, the Elevation Amphitheatre and Levitation Tent - will support the many acts. Austin Nightlife will be bringing all the new Psych Fest news as it comes in. Let us know if you'll be there.

P.S. The Austin Reggae Fest happened last weekend and the Fusebox Festival is going on until the end of the month.

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-psych-fest-coming-blow-mind/

[austinnightlife]

Austin Nightlife Plans for Austin Fashion Week

Austin Fashion Week is coming up on April 24 and running until May 3rd. We’ve compiled a short list of events that the team at Austin Nightlife is looking forward to attending. Also, did you know you can organize your entire Austin Fashion Week Schedule on Do512? It's pretty nifty. Now, what should we go see?

THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS FASHION SHOW “SPECTRUM”

We’re pretty adamant about supporting anything local. (Obviously, we’re from Austin.) So seeing what future Austin raised designers are up to is high on our todo list. Also, the event sounds really great:

"Students will present over 120 original designs featuring a intriguing mix of textures and techniques. The designers have turned their talents to producing cutting-edge performance designs specifically intended to be worn by sportsmen, athletes and artists. Designs also make use of technology: digital prints, performance fabrics and programmable lights."

M. E. SHIRLEY AT AFW RUNWAYS

May 1st, M.E. Shirley, a small batch women’s wear brand from Austin will be showing off their designs at Austin Fashion week for the first time. We really like Lindsey Creel’s philosophy on fashion and enjoyed the Kickstarter video, that talks about her line. Do you wear any of her pieces? Comment below and tell us what you think of her collection!

"M.E Shirley comes from the idea that we can all accomplish anything we dream when we feel fulfilled. And great clothing is part of that. It changes you. We hope that you see the care and thought that we put into each piece we create. Every tag is hand stamped and hand sewn. Every hangtag is typed on an old Royal typewriter. And all pieces are made in Austin, Tx. At M.E. Shirley, we make clothing for women that is easy to wear. We like to think it's deceptively comfortable. Enjoy."

CURLEE BIKINI

Another designer that we’re really excited about is Curlee Bikini they have a really great, pro women and pro environment, approach to their designs. Also, we love the colors and textures they work into their designs.

"As a brand, we aim to inspire woman of all ages to love and embrace their natural form. We've created many special design elements to ensure supportive, flattering swimwear for all types of feminine figures, without the use of underwire or padding. Specializing in Custom Swimwear, we offer a wide variety of luxury designs and fabrics to create a unique, one-of-a-kind product. Additionally, each CurleeBikini Swimsuit is insured under a two-year warranty."

Her kickstarter video is a little on the long side, but you get to see the swimwear in motion, and really get a sense of the functionality of the swimsuits and get to know the designer, so it's worth watching.

  These events are just the tip of the iceberg. Comment below and tell Austin Nightlife which events and designers your excited to see this year. Are you presenting? Post on the Austin Nightlife Facebook and tell us what you're most excited to show off during Fashion week! We'll see you there!

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-nightlife-plans-austin-fashion-week/

[austinnightlife]

Austin Nightlife Can`t Wait for Late Show with Stephen Colbert

This is what Austin Nightlife calls "fast turnaround." Stephen Colbert, host and star of Comedy Central's legendary The Colbert Report (silent "t"'s on both the last name and "report"), will replace departing late night TV icon David Letterman on Late Show when Letterman's contract is finished in 2015. We've already talked about our feelings for Dave, so let's look into the future and think about the impact Colbert's move is bound to have. Nightlife in Austin might include some more folks staying home and watching CBS.

The most obvious, and painful, change is that Colbert will no longer be able to captain The Colbert Report. As one of the most important comedy/commentary programs of the past decade, the loss of the Report will be a huge blow to millions of viewers' nightly television schedule. While we luckily still have Report's corollary and sibling, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, it's unquestionable that a reliably excellent hour of television has now been halved. There is no clear picture yet on what program Comedy Central might use to fill The Colbert Report's slot.

Austin Nightlife is hopefully optimistic that contract issues won't prevent reruns of Colbert Report from hitting airwaves.

Another major change will be Colbert's necessitated departure from his well-known character, "Stephen Colbert." See, unlike Stewart or Letterman, Colbert's persona on the Report is a satiric, fictional creation in the guise of conservative blowhards like Bill O'Reilly or Sean Hannity. While this "Stephen Colbert" has been a comedic force of seismic proportions, he could only work in the cockeyed universe of the Comedy Central program. As Colbert takes over Late Show, we will get to see the "real" Stephen for the first time in years. While Austin Nightlife will miss the Report persona, it's clear that Colbert has an entertainer's mind that can stretch far beyond that station. We're actually a bit excited to see "under the veil," as much as Late Show will let us.

A final and interesting reaction to the Colbert-on-Late Show development has been the ferocious negative reaction it has garnered from the right-leaning forces in the U.S. media. No, we're not talking about #CancelColbert. O'Reilly (who clearly doesn't have a sense of humor about himself), Rush Limbaugh and far-right conservative columnist Ben Shapiro, in particular, have had hostile words for the news. Shapiro shamelessly labeled Colbert a "vile" provocateur in "political blackface." Limbaugh said that CBS' hiring was no less than a declaration of "war on the heartland of America." This is a choice bit of rhetoric:

"No longer is comedy going to be a covert assault on traditional American values, conservatism. Now it's just wide out in the open. What this hire means is a redefinition of what is funny, and a redefinition of what is comedy. They're blowing up the 11:30 format... they hired a partisan, so-called comedian, to run a comedy show."

O'Reilly, for his part, said "Colbert can be dismissed as clueless, but the guy does do damage because he gives cover to powerful people who are selling Americans a big lie that this country is bad.” (Thanks Mediaite) However, beyond these few sour grapes there have been far more notes of congratulations to Colbert. He's a daring, edgy and groundbreaking comedic voice, and the fact that he's getting a bigger audience is an exciting turn indeed. It's also worth nothing that David Letterman himself was a big part of the Colber selection. While we're not sure what direction Colbert will push it - he could end up doing a post-modern send-up of the late night concept altogether - Austin Nightlife is glad Late Show will remain a relevant and entertaining nightly television program. Stephen Colbert as host confirms that.

Now, who will his bandleader be? There are some great choices to be found in the nightlife of Austin (hint, hint). 

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-nightlife-welcomes-late-show-stephen-colbert/

[austinnightlife]

This Austin Nightlife blog post was inspired by Billboard’s “Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Shakira: Whose New Music Video Is Best?” post, where they encouraged readers to cast their votes for which singer released the best video in the last week of March. I watched the videos and considered my vote carefully.

Shakira - Empire

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QapfTGTXbxc

I’d like to say right off the bat that I liked Shakira’s video least. I’m actually pretty sure you’re not supposed to “like” it per se. The video is esthetically pleasing, but there is a very abrasive dissonance between the lyrics and the imagery. I can’t ignore the lyrics of unconditional obsessive lust for an inattentive lover. I mean I’m pretty sure I understood it right. (He left her at the altar - the groom comes in first right?) Others have said that her character is a runaway bride, but she looks disappointed to me. Maybe that’s the whole point. It’s an illustration of how women obsess over the wrong guys and over glorify unhealthy and abusive relationships. Sorry if I’m getting a little real with it, but that’s what I see. I haven’t been able to find any similar interpretation, but that's only with a cursory glance. Let me know what you think and if you agree or disagree in the comments below.

Justin Timberlakes - Not A Bad Thing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vjty080jy60

I really enjoyed this video, although, obviously it threw me off a little at first, because of its unorthodox format. But I appreciate the relationship between the song and the video. Most times, videos are an artist's interpretation of their song. But fans often have their own interpretations, experiences, and associations with those songs. When you fall in love with a song it often becomes associated with a period of time in your life and carries a significance beyond what the artist may have initially intended, and I feel like the video captures the unique relationship between a song and its listener, especially a love song. Also, the song leaves you wanting more, which is a brilliant marketing move. I’m dying to know if they ever find the couple.

Lady Gaga - G.U.Y.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNu_-deVemE

Finally, there’s Lady Gaga whom I love! And her video is of course evocative, entertaining, energetic, and empowering. What’s not to like? Ok! I’m sure there’s plenty not to like, that was not an invitation to start trolling this article. But seriously it’s pretty standard for Lady Gaga, and I got more of what I like and expect from her out of it. I like the gender ambiguity that goes on and the general sense of strength and consumerism = bad. But beyond that I don’t even know where to begin to interpret what’s going on and what the video is aiming to accomplish. Feel free to comment below and tell me what you think the video and song symbolizes.

I really enjoyed JT’s video because of how relatable and humanizing it was, and Lady Gaga’s for how Lady Gaga-esque it was! Let Austin Nightlife know what you thought in the comments below, but please don’t hate on us here, this is supposed to be fun!

http://austintxnightlife.com/austin-nightlifes-response-billboards-lady-gaga-justin-timberlake-shakira-whose-new-music-video-best-post/