I have been to the CTS previously for another performance (http://livemusicinaustin.blogspot.com/2011/10/kyle-fair-and-music-festival-happened.html) and was wildly surprised to see the difference from back then to now! The stage is huge and located just outside of the racetrack. Bleacher style seating to onside, a large building housing the bar, 2 beach style volleyball sand courts, and a very large general admission style seating area in front of the stage. It was really well laid out, plenty of bathrooms and a very friendly staff at the gate and on the grounds.
Thieving Birds (http://thievingbirdsmusic.com) put on an absolutely a phenomenal performance. What a great band! This country/roots rock band is stunning, with lead vocals that cut right through the audience and a lead guitar and rhythm section that definitely sealed the deal. It was a crime to see Thieving Birds for free! These guys are from Ft Worth, and lucky are the people there that hopefully have an opportunity to see Thieving Birds often. I have learned to stay away from what or who I think any band sounds like, but what I will say is that I was riveted by their performance, vocals, lyrics, and that bluesy, country/roots rock sound. Congratulations to you if you make it to a performance of theirs. Do it on purpose, DO NOT stumble upon them as I did, and enjoy the sounds!
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Brandon Rhyder (http://www.brandonrhyder.com) headlined the night and you knew this is who the crowd came to see. From seemingly nowhere, the crowd just pushed forward to the stage, making it impressive for a free show down in Kyle, Texas. Although I wasn't familiar with Brandon Rhyder's music, it sure didn't matter based on the good time the crowd was having. With Brandon's gravely smooth voice slinging out the country tunes, it was a great evening from some good, Brandon Rhyder country music,
Laters
