Showing posts with label Aimless Gun. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Aimless Gun. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Friday, July 20, 2012
The best fourth of july on the 3rd, EVER!
I just found this from a couple of years ago. Thought it would be fun to re post as it was in my 'drafts' bin. The FYI for this is the new incarnation of the band with a more country flair and sound is called the Cody Bryan Band anyway...enjoy!
Alright Guys So This Is Angel Skye. I'm The Daughter Of The Original Blogger Here, Will! So I Haven't Really Ever Done This Before So It's All New To Me. My Dad And Doc (Cody From Aimless Gun's Father) Had Some Weird Epiphany That I Will Write The Blog For Aimless Gun's Show At The 3rd Of July Beach Bash. So Please Guys, Don't Be Too Harsh. Or I Think I Would Have To Put Some People Through Windows. Ahaa, Just Kidding! (; So I'm Gonna Try To Make This As "Colorful" As Possible. Wish Me Luck. . .
I only have one word to say about the performance, AMAZING! This was my first time seeing Aimless Gun perform. Sure I had listened to a few tracks here and there whenever my dad would show 'em to me but, I had never actually seen them perform. Missed opportunities I guess you could say. I'm now truly a HUGE fan!
The perfect Lake music. What do I mean by that? I mean simply, the music they have is so, relaxing, calming, not to hard, not to sot, but perfect. It's the kind of music that makes you want to get on a boat, ride out to the lake and just chill with friends and family. I could honestly say that these guys were really meant for the big stage. They seemed to have fun on a big stage with more "leg room" then what they normally would have in the small bars downtown. The sound seemed to attract more people, and while the show carried on the crowd began to make their way to the beach to see what band was creating such a great sound.
When you look back on the crowd and you see people moving and swaying along with the songs, a beer in their hand, on a hot, sunny, Texas July 3rd afternoon, it couldn't have seemed to fit the music any better. I think EVERYONE their was dedicated to the music. Just to stand in the humidity proves that the band was way more than worth listening to. Aimless Gun seemed to have a good time playing the music for everyone there. I had a great time at the show and I personally loved the "Summer Time" vibe that seemed to be emanating from the band.
Vallejo couldn't have picked a better opening band. The show was great all around and I think anyone in the audience could tell you that. I actually look forward to going to plenty of other shows, and I can tell that each time I go, it's just gonna get better and better. (: Everyone look out, cause this band is gonna be doing great things, real soon! So, whenever you can, check out one of their shows! I promise, you wont regret it! (;
Alright Guys So This Is Angel Skye. I'm The Daughter Of The Original Blogger Here, Will! So I Haven't Really Ever Done This Before So It's All New To Me. My Dad And Doc (Cody From Aimless Gun's Father) Had Some Weird Epiphany That I Will Write The Blog For Aimless Gun's Show At The 3rd Of July Beach Bash. So Please Guys, Don't Be Too Harsh. Or I Think I Would Have To Put Some People Through Windows. Ahaa, Just Kidding! (; So I'm Gonna Try To Make This As "Colorful" As Possible. Wish Me Luck. . .
I only have one word to say about the performance, AMAZING! This was my first time seeing Aimless Gun perform. Sure I had listened to a few tracks here and there whenever my dad would show 'em to me but, I had never actually seen them perform. Missed opportunities I guess you could say. I'm now truly a HUGE fan!
The perfect Lake music. What do I mean by that? I mean simply, the music they have is so, relaxing, calming, not to hard, not to sot, but perfect. It's the kind of music that makes you want to get on a boat, ride out to the lake and just chill with friends and family. I could honestly say that these guys were really meant for the big stage. They seemed to have fun on a big stage with more "leg room" then what they normally would have in the small bars downtown. The sound seemed to attract more people, and while the show carried on the crowd began to make their way to the beach to see what band was creating such a great sound.
When you look back on the crowd and you see people moving and swaying along with the songs, a beer in their hand, on a hot, sunny, Texas July 3rd afternoon, it couldn't have seemed to fit the music any better. I think EVERYONE their was dedicated to the music. Just to stand in the humidity proves that the band was way more than worth listening to. Aimless Gun seemed to have a good time playing the music for everyone there. I had a great time at the show and I personally loved the "Summer Time" vibe that seemed to be emanating from the band.
Vallejo couldn't have picked a better opening band. The show was great all around and I think anyone in the audience could tell you that. I actually look forward to going to plenty of other shows, and I can tell that each time I go, it's just gonna get better and better. (: Everyone look out, cause this band is gonna be doing great things, real soon! So, whenever you can, check out one of their shows! I promise, you wont regret it! (;
Love&&Rockets,
AngelSkye(;
AngelSkye(;
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Kickin it SXSW style
South By South West, better known to the musical world, pop culture, and the blogoshpere as SXSW. I was there, I did it, and I survived [sigh].
I jumped into the fray a day early on Tuesday this year at Blue Moon on 6th St in the heart of it all. This was the 13th annual Heart of Tx Rockfest. No wristbands, no 'Sponsored' showcases, just great music and a variety of music at that.
Seeing 3 bands this evening at Blue Moon before moving it on over to Red Eyed Fly to catch another 2 performances. Without knowing the correct name of the band I will still talk about them, as I was impressed. I will do some more digging and amend this once I find out. Up on stage in a flash and taking over the show were these two guys with guitars. Having a little bit of a country sound with a rockin edge and vocals that had me thinking Johnny Cash was in the house. I liked this! Sad not to know who they were, but I will find out...Oh Yes...I WILL Find out!
Laters
The official start to the music part of this huge event (interactive, movie, and music) is generally considered The Austin Music Awards. The Austin Music Awards fall on Wednesday in the middle of the conference week. Now don't be fooled or misunderstand these words, the music is happening ALL WEEK! From the weekend before to the Sunday following the awards, it is non stop, more than we are used to here.
I jumped into the fray a day early on Tuesday this year at Blue Moon on 6th St in the heart of it all. This was the 13th annual Heart of Tx Rockfest. No wristbands, no 'Sponsored' showcases, just great music and a variety of music at that.
Blue Moon ( http://www.facebook.com/pages/Blue-Moon-Rock-N-Blues/123013554411190#!/pages/Blue-Moon-Rock-N-Blues/123013554411190?sk=info ) version first.
Seeing 3 bands this evening at Blue Moon before moving it on over to Red Eyed Fly to catch another 2 performances. Without knowing the correct name of the band I will still talk about them, as I was impressed. I will do some more digging and amend this once I find out. Up on stage in a flash and taking over the show were these two guys with guitars. Having a little bit of a country sound with a rockin edge and vocals that had me thinking Johnny Cash was in the house. I liked this! Sad not to know who they were, but I will find out...Oh Yes...I WILL Find out!
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) took the stage back and then showed their professionalism by really having fun and tearing it up on a shortened set. This sound is difficult to pinpoint (Cross Canadian Ragweed, Zac Brown Band or somewhere around there). They are definitively that Austin sound! With some surprising spectators in the house (a member of Vallejo and a member of Blue October - NICE), these boys keep good company. Sounding like they are ready to hit the road in support of someone big and looking like they are ready for the headlining stage, I believe it will happen soon for them.
L.A. Velvet ( http://www.lavelvetband.com/ ) was up next. Looking like they stepped in from the 80's and definitely sounding like the 80's rock with girly vocals, IT WAS AWESOME!. Smoke machine and cheering, sing along style of audience interaction, c'mon if you loved the Hair Metal days and sound, you will love them. It was a little shocking and almost laughable at first, but they were actually good. I was hooked and enjoyed the platinum blond ( Laura V ) singing in painted on spandex (as if everyone else wasn't staring), but decided it was time to leave when she busted out the harmonica. Sorry, I can't play the harmonica, but I can say it was off and slightly outta place. Everything else rocked and I am glad that I got to experience this band.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Heaven and the Meaning of Dreams
The Parish ( http://www.theparishaustin.com/ ) is nice to check out a show. Although the weird angled 'seating' on one side of the venue is...well...weird. Sure if you go to a show then go and enjoy the band, the performance, the show. Stand and deliver. For some of us old decrepit folks with bad backs and bad knees, sometimes you gotta sit. ANYWAY for just the purpose of seeing a show it is a place to be!
CD release parties are so fun. Not because they are a 'party' (which would actually be a novel idea) but because the artist celebrating the release of their most recent creation is usually in such a festive mood, the show is something above and beyond a normal performance.
With 3 bands on the list it was nice.
As far as the new disc, BINGO! It is great. No sophomore jinx here. The content is there, the sound is distinctly Harkrider and the Night Owls. A performance worth absorbing and a disc worth owning. Look for Ryan in one of his many incarnations as he has side projects seemingly all over the place. No matter how he is there, whether as Ryan Harkrider or with another band, it will be good music and a good time to go see.
Laters
CD release parties are so fun. Not because they are a 'party' (which would actually be a novel idea) but because the artist celebrating the release of their most recent creation is usually in such a festive mood, the show is something above and beyond a normal performance.
With 3 bands on the list it was nice.
Ryan Mars Band ( http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ryan-Mars-Band/124996492050?ref=ts&sk=wall ) was up first. This is the second time I have seen this band since I wrote about their debut live performance some time ago. With an actual stage, sound system, and sound man behind a board...A HUGE WORLD OF DIFFERENCE. They even added a fiddle in the band...(isn't there a song by Alabama that says 'it ain't country music unless you got a fiddle in the band'?). Apparently time, rehearsals, and a few other shows have done them well. The band is clean and tight and they are really having a good time up on the stage. Some polishing on the lead vocals will really have them knocking it home. The front man, Ryan Mars, is doing a great job of interacting with the audience and calling out folks to get out on the floor and dance. If he really wants to make an impression, he should jump off the stage and do it himself. Grab a hottie out of the crowd and two step with her!
With some folks scootin around the floor during his set, you can tell the enjoyment factor is there. No Grammies yet and Nashville will have to wait, but you can see them now. If you like that new country sound you will be happy to kick your heels up with these guys. I would venture to guess that if they are still kickin it in a year the experience and time will have them headline some gigs and packing a few of our local, known the world over, establishments. Country will always be King deep in the heart of Texas.
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com ) had there turn on stage this evening as well. I have harped and plugged about these guys for quite a while. If you are new to the blog, read past posts, if not GREAT, go to a show and tell them you read about them here...and make them buy you a beer (just kidding). I think these guys have everything in line and are ready to blow up. The music is perfect...the rock mix with a tiny tiny bit of country, the live sound is awesome, and their look is [sigh] good...dammit!
As for the music, with the blend and style of rock that they can easily meld over to a country twang, they have their bases covered. The live sound is just phenomenal based on the fact that they performed recently on a live radio broadcast and the sound was so seamless, you couldn't tell if it was live or if it was Memorex. And finally about the look, a friend of mine was introduced to theses guys at their CD release party in the recent past. The only thing she could say as she met them one buy one was "OMG! They keep getting prettier and prettier each time I meet a new one!" I would just like to see a couple of things that, IMHO, would possibly push them up even further or closer to that edge. Get a female lead to share vocals on a couple of songs. Loosen up on stage. I have seen them on a small stage where they are closer together and easier to interact...not! and seen them on a bigger stage and they are all over the place and having a great time. Gentlemen...do that shit all the time... if it's to cramped get off the damn stage and make all the world your stage. Use wireless if ya gotta.
AHHHH Ryan Harkrider ( http://www.ryanharkrider.com ), what a fun fucking guy to go see. He really does do it all. For me this is a great front man to go see. The music and songs blend together, like it or not, he controls the music very tightly. He is all over the stage, having conversations with the audience, jumping off the stage, having special guests. RIGHT, this may not work for everyone and every type of music, but on my side of the fence it is so fun and cool and really does make you smile to see that interaction.
As far as the new disc, BINGO! It is great. No sophomore jinx here. The content is there, the sound is distinctly Harkrider and the Night Owls. A performance worth absorbing and a disc worth owning. Look for Ryan in one of his many incarnations as he has side projects seemingly all over the place. No matter how he is there, whether as Ryan Harkrider or with another band, it will be good music and a good time to go see.Laters
Saturday, September 3, 2011
and the boys are growing up...
My first trip, and maybe my last, to beautiful Texas Music Theatre in San Marcos, Texas. The venue is gorgeous! Lots of room, cool ass balconies. Very, VERY much looks like a smaller version of the new Austin Music Hall.
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) was onstage this evening. Their first trip and hopefully not their last to the music theatre. I noticed it over a year ago and here I stand believing again that this is true...this band was built and designed for a bigger stage.No, they don't run back and forth like Angus (that would be a sight to see though - try it Zach, jk), but they are interacting with each other onstage more now than I have seen in the past and it's very cool. They don't have some high powered lasers or bad ass pyros, it's just good country/rock. It is just good to see and experience this band in a larger venue with room on the stage...they just fit!
The performance was top notch. If you haven't been to an Aimless Gun performance, you wouldn't know that it was new material or a new set list, but it is! I must say that they are definitely honing their skills creating a set list that both pleases the audience and they have fun doing . It shows in the performance and with the comfort they are showing on stage.
I have said it before...and will probably repeat this a few more times until they break nationally (it's coming)...if you haven't seen them yet go! You might be behind the curve as far as being a friend of the band, but fans a great, and they do this for the love of the music. Go out and see them.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
They did it!
The CD release party for Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) happened at The Parish ( http://www.theparishaustin.com/ ). A great place to have a show. Lots of room, great bar staff, and awesome location, tucked away in an upstairs location overlooking 6th.
Three bands for thrice the fun and entertainment. Bombing Stassney, Michael Dillard, and of course Aimless Gun.
Bombing Stassney ( http://www.myspace.com/BombingStassney) was blowing it up when I walked in (HA!) and it was a completely different sound than the two bands to follow. Bolder and heavier but with vocals to counter balance their heavy sound, it was wonderful. I was so very sad that Angelina was not there with me this particular evening to enjoy, as this sound is very much what she is digging into right about now. I did get to pick up a copy of the EP/Demo but was very surprised...as the music on the CD is one sound, live these guys are very, VERY different. I do mean that in a good way also as I will say that I am glad I heard them live first before listening to the disc. So, on any evening that you want to feel your blood pumping but enjoy actually hearing and understanding the lead singer, Bombing Stassney is a must!
Michael Dillard ( http://michaeldillardmusic.com/ ) mounted the stage next and really did a beautiful job with the presentation of his new material on the upcoming full length CD. With the presentation of new material was also a slightly new line up, the addition of onstage keyboards. I didn't think he was missing anything before, but now it's WOW! Can't wait for the release. BTW I was on YouTube last night and watched his bootleg video of 'Crazy' (https://youtu.be/RAVOLZKfw3s), you've really got to look at this and then make a point to see Dillard live and in person!
And now for the masters of the evening...Aimless Gun! Looking polished and ready to go and sounding better than that. They definitely revved it up and took to the open road this evening. They were definitely not 'Burning Low' (available on itunes and on their website), but smoking hot! You would have to go back quiet a ways, and maybe even to my lost blogs before Blogspot, to see how I've been chronicling these guys. BUT it is funny and yet great to see how comfortable they are and have become onstage. They are not hamming it up, but they are having a great time. They are not controlling the audience, but they are definitely running the show. The proof was in their mid show mash up of some great and fun 90's songs...(even had AJ Vallejo nodding his head and singing along). They have definitely stumbled into that screaming girl area of Austin music as witnessed by all in attendance. They even got called out at the end of the show to do there own stunning version of 'Hey Ya!', and rightly so, as they now own this song in they way that it is performed! Can't wait until they really break out and end up with a song on some soundtrack and a #1 video. Yup! Austin will still be here waiting... and call you there new prodigal sons.
Laters
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Ida who, Ida wha, oh..Idaho!
So Venue 222 ( formerly Aces Lounge ) is the new wolf in sheep's clothing. Like most of Austins dis-establishments on 6th, it is quite un-assuming on the outside, but then you step in the door and BAM!!! that is a helluva fuckin stage. I mean this thing is H U G E. With the potential 3 levels of bad that this club can produce, it will be very good. With the upstairs balcony that looks right over the stage (nice V.I.P. lounge if I must say), this will prove to be a very fun, very hot spot to catch some good music.
Mirage ( http://www.myspace.com/miragebigsoul ) was onstage when I walked in. Although his look reminded me of one particular cube of ice, the sound was definitely not. Smooth and forceful at the same time, letting the rhythm push you just hard enough to make you move your feet and feel it in your head. This guy will provide many entertaining and dance floor crowded nights for those clubs in Austin that will let him throw it down. If you like Hip-Hop/Rap and enjoy moving to the sounds look for him and do it.
MC Overlord ( http://overlordmusic.com/ ) was on the stage next and although I have used my words to pimp him out as much as I possibly can, it was the words of two visiting guys from Idaho that captured the night of an Overlord performance, "Dude, This guy is fucking bad ass!" "I have never heard anything like this." "There is NOBODY in Idaho that is like this, he is amazing!"
Yup, so as I am standing there, I hear these exclamations and introduce myself and talk for a few minutes. I take the opportunity to welcome them to Austin, and point out/introduce the myriad of other Austin musicians that are in the house checking out the show. "The support we show each other has no comparison anywhere else in the world" a smiling Cody Rathmell, from Aimless Gun, announced to the two strangers from potato land. Introductions were made to Overlord and two more people from outside of our pearly gates in Austin were introduced to what it is like to live in the Live Music Capital of the World.
Neckbone ( http://urbanianentertainment.com/ ) was a new experience for me. Like hitting Mary Jane for the first time. Holding it deep in your bosom you feel the burn and then smile. YES this was NECKBONE. With so many vocals onstage you lost track, the different voices in your head and you are not even insane. The powerful drums, a scathing lead guitar and the bass player/keyboardist who, like a champ and a frighteningly bad ass musician, tuned his instrument by ear! That's right , theses guys came to move this house like it was every ones business. They are the soundtrack to a life filled with politics, good times, and a diverse background and history that wont go away.
And by the way the album is sooo kick ass!
Laters
Sunday, September 19, 2010
An evening at the Inn (pt 2)
With a short break to set up, we now have Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) onstage. Billy had the raw pleasure of seeing and hearing Aimless Gun perform an acoustic set some days back. Now it was his turn to hear them in their full glory, plugged in and all. I really like the energy that Aimless gun is starting to show onstage. Musically these guys are there. Lyrically you can start dedicating songs to girlfriends and creating ringtones. They really just have some good sounds that are so easy to just sing along with (very important for bringing in the audience, and making that gold record). The catalog of what Aimless does onstage is so very impressive and I have seen it and experienced it first hand, when are you going to? With the up tempo tunes and the sing-alongs, there isn't much that the audience just simply doesn't dig here and it is somehow breathtaking.At this point in the evening there was a little dinner break. After a while Billy came back from the lake and to this day he wont stop talking about "swimming with The FreeFlow, diving off the dock with Aimless Gun, and kayaking with Michael Dillard!" Like I have said, Austin musicians are more than songwriters and performers, they are people and they are inspirations for this city!
Michael Dillard ( http://michaeldillardmusic.com/ ) now had his turn to hop up onstage and melt away like everyone else. As the evening hours were creeping on and the sun was setting, Michael was still enjoying the heat. With the crowd actually growing larger, it was yet another set that had the crowd just being able to chill, enjoy some cold refreshments, and drift away with the music. Being joined onstage by William Harris of Fremen, MC Overlord and friend (Billy Tompkins), it was a perfect way to close to this set. I don't think there was really anything else that could have made the setting sun on the lake any more enjoyable than this set (besides some beautiful company I guess - mijita). 
...and then there was one. Not just one, THE one. MC Overlord ( http://www.overlordmusic.com/ ) with all of his imposing stature and presence, completely launched the night into a whole new level. Under the stars and all fired up, this was truly a great way to be a part of that Overlord music. For a day that started out with gunshots (sure ask anyone that was there!) it definitely ended with an explosion. Michael Dillard joined the performance in the end and MC Overlord even had Billy back onstage again. I will tell you when this next album drops the future may not be able to contain him, so go be a part of it now!
Laters
Blue Boy Inn
It was a very nice day at the lake. The Blue Boy Inn is a very cute, quaint cabin in Spicewood. Lovely accommodations, beautiful access to the lake, and a gorgeous yard and deck to enjoy a cool fall weekend in Texas (unfortunately, it is only in the mid to upper 80's during the fall with about 90% humidity on the lake). In the yard and by the dock it was very nice, but watching the bands on stage with no air circulating around them, they were melting. Nice thing was that the music was just as hot, so it was all good!
The list of bands was so hot and bad ass, I couldn't believe it. This next time this happens, I hope for more press and promotion, and for more folks and bands. It was great. To know what Austin musicians can do this is very inspiring. Wouldn't give credit to any other city in the world to have a musical community with such a powerful, smart, and moving presence than Austin.
The FreeFlow, Ryan Harkrider (acoustic), Derrick Davis (acoustic), Aimless Gun, *dinner break*, Michael Dillard, The Fremen, and MC Overlord.
Now what makes ALL of these performances very special was that my son, Billy, was with me to enjoy. I have only caught one performance of The FreeFlow previously, so this is good. The acoustic performance by Ryan Harkrider is something that I have never seen before. Derrick Davis is some new sounds that I will relay to you. Aimless Gun, as you know, is a favorite, much like Michael Dillard. The Fremen have new life, as they have finally (with the production of Mr Ter'ell Shahid), put the tracks down for a much anticipated CD. MC Overlord, well this is the man who helped inspire me to start putting the music in print, so he will ALWAYS be my primo.
The social aspect of this day was very importan,t as you get these guys together to make a day out of it, the next thing you know, it's a full on 2 day benefit for whatever you could imagine. The FreeFlow ( http://www.reverbnation.com/thefreeflow#?kick=830335 ) started about 2:30. I really, REALLY love these guys. I think this is just good beer drinking (or maybe even a drink with an umbrella in it would be more appropriate) kind of music. You get to just kick back and listen. Without question they do the BEST Marley mix I have ever heard. To listen and look around at the audience, see and hear everybody singing along, it is nice to know these kids have the audience hooked. In my own humble opinion, I would love to hear that Marley tribute be just a little bit longer. NO! don't change up the songs, but ahhh it is so good to hear the way they lay it down and even better to feel it in the crowd. There is more to come from them and you should keep up via their Reverbnation page. GO! check them out, order something fun to drink and sing along, don't worry, everybody else will be too!
Ryan Harkrider ( http://www.ryanharkrider.com/ ) strolled up onstage with just him and his guitar. Very excited to hear and see this new twist for Ryan. It was great. Ryan has absolutely learned the way to capture the crowd. The music and sound is catchy, fun, and poetic, but to be able to make the audience laugh and laugh at yourself all while bringing an amazing stable of tunes to the table, WOW! Ryan really does have a great rapport with the audience and it makes it so fun to be at one of his performances. As I am sitting there listening, my friend comments on how Ryan, Derrick, and Michael (and even Cody from Aimless Gun) have the potential to be the new, modern day Outlaws. Musically if you don't know what I am talking about that would be Willie, Waylon, Hank Jr, and D.A.C. Look them up! The ability to get up onstage, any of these three or four guys, on any night, in any line up order, as an acoustic set and completely stun the house. That is a good ticket! My smart ass remark to follow was simply this "You know what makes these acoustic performances so fun and special? It's when one of the other artists just jumps up onstage, and fills in a little guitar or vocals...just for the hell of it!" C'mon , if all these guys are good friends, it's never hard feelings or an ego when someone else jumps up onstage with you, it's just good fuckin fun for everyone!
Well lo and behold, with a whisper from Will Harris, Derrick Davis was all of a sudden onstage with Ryan. The chemistry was kick-ass. EVERYONE loved it, it was just really fun. Derrick dropped in for a couple of songs (check out the video from the second song here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzIqAX7TKow ). Ryan finished off the set be leaving the stage and streaking for the lake. OH! did I say streaking, YES! Off with the shirt, down the steps to the dock, off with the shorts, then it was in the air to the water and I do believe that the moon was out that afternoon!!!!
As Derrick Davis ( http://www.reverbnation.com/derrickdavis ) mounted the stage next his comment before beginning his set was "How do I top that?" "Just do you set naked onstage!" LOL! not today thank god! Just another stellar performance, god music and good fun. I loved sitting in my lounge chair, drinking a margarita, and chilling to Derricks jams. NOW what got me up outta my seat and got my blood pumping and had me singing along (rather loudly and probably quite obnoxiously) was his final tune and very nice rendition of "I Wanna Be Like You" from the children's favorite and Disney classic "Jungle Book"! What a GREAT way to end the set. Nope! no nudity or running for the lake, but special in its own way.
This has to be a two-parter. So be prepared!
Laters
The list of bands was so hot and bad ass, I couldn't believe it. This next time this happens, I hope for more press and promotion, and for more folks and bands. It was great. To know what Austin musicians can do this is very inspiring. Wouldn't give credit to any other city in the world to have a musical community with such a powerful, smart, and moving presence than Austin.
The FreeFlow, Ryan Harkrider (acoustic), Derrick Davis (acoustic), Aimless Gun, *dinner break*, Michael Dillard, The Fremen, and MC Overlord.
Now what makes ALL of these performances very special was that my son, Billy, was with me to enjoy. I have only caught one performance of The FreeFlow previously, so this is good. The acoustic performance by Ryan Harkrider is something that I have never seen before. Derrick Davis is some new sounds that I will relay to you. Aimless Gun, as you know, is a favorite, much like Michael Dillard. The Fremen have new life, as they have finally (with the production of Mr Ter'ell Shahid), put the tracks down for a much anticipated CD. MC Overlord, well this is the man who helped inspire me to start putting the music in print, so he will ALWAYS be my primo.
The social aspect of this day was very importan,t as you get these guys together to make a day out of it, the next thing you know, it's a full on 2 day benefit for whatever you could imagine. The FreeFlow ( http://www.reverbnation.com/thefreeflow#?kick=830335 ) started about 2:30. I really, REALLY love these guys. I think this is just good beer drinking (or maybe even a drink with an umbrella in it would be more appropriate) kind of music. You get to just kick back and listen. Without question they do the BEST Marley mix I have ever heard. To listen and look around at the audience, see and hear everybody singing along, it is nice to know these kids have the audience hooked. In my own humble opinion, I would love to hear that Marley tribute be just a little bit longer. NO! don't change up the songs, but ahhh it is so good to hear the way they lay it down and even better to feel it in the crowd. There is more to come from them and you should keep up via their Reverbnation page. GO! check them out, order something fun to drink and sing along, don't worry, everybody else will be too!
Ryan Harkrider ( http://www.ryanharkrider.com/ ) strolled up onstage with just him and his guitar. Very excited to hear and see this new twist for Ryan. It was great. Ryan has absolutely learned the way to capture the crowd. The music and sound is catchy, fun, and poetic, but to be able to make the audience laugh and laugh at yourself all while bringing an amazing stable of tunes to the table, WOW! Ryan really does have a great rapport with the audience and it makes it so fun to be at one of his performances. As I am sitting there listening, my friend comments on how Ryan, Derrick, and Michael (and even Cody from Aimless Gun) have the potential to be the new, modern day Outlaws. Musically if you don't know what I am talking about that would be Willie, Waylon, Hank Jr, and D.A.C. Look them up! The ability to get up onstage, any of these three or four guys, on any night, in any line up order, as an acoustic set and completely stun the house. That is a good ticket! My smart ass remark to follow was simply this "You know what makes these acoustic performances so fun and special? It's when one of the other artists just jumps up onstage, and fills in a little guitar or vocals...just for the hell of it!" C'mon , if all these guys are good friends, it's never hard feelings or an ego when someone else jumps up onstage with you, it's just good fuckin fun for everyone!
Well lo and behold, with a whisper from Will Harris, Derrick Davis was all of a sudden onstage with Ryan. The chemistry was kick-ass. EVERYONE loved it, it was just really fun. Derrick dropped in for a couple of songs (check out the video from the second song here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzIqAX7TKow ). Ryan finished off the set be leaving the stage and streaking for the lake. OH! did I say streaking, YES! Off with the shirt, down the steps to the dock, off with the shorts, then it was in the air to the water and I do believe that the moon was out that afternoon!!!!
As Derrick Davis ( http://www.reverbnation.com/derrickdavis ) mounted the stage next his comment before beginning his set was "How do I top that?" "Just do you set naked onstage!" LOL! not today thank god! Just another stellar performance, god music and good fun. I loved sitting in my lounge chair, drinking a margarita, and chilling to Derricks jams. NOW what got me up outta my seat and got my blood pumping and had me singing along (rather loudly and probably quite obnoxiously) was his final tune and very nice rendition of "I Wanna Be Like You" from the children's favorite and Disney classic "Jungle Book"! What a GREAT way to end the set. Nope! no nudity or running for the lake, but special in its own way.
This has to be a two-parter. So be prepared!
Laters
Sunday, August 29, 2010
I am sure it is NOT Lonely in his land!
An adventurous return to The Saxon Pub ( http://www.thesaxonpub.com/ ) on a weekday evening is so much fun. Yes, I have said this several times recently and screw you if you are to much of a pu swa to make it happen for yourself because ya have to work tomorrow. We live here in one of the greatest cities in the world (believe me, after College Station) OMG we have it good when it comes to live music. Go out and support it. Do something new, do something old and tired, but most of all DON'T take it for granted because those other places out there suck!
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) are definitely taking advantage of the opportunities that come before them. I applaud them for making the best of everything they are getting! This evening at The Saxon Pub opening for Bob Schneider and Lonelyland is another one of those times. There are people you should meet and befriend. In the music industry in Austin these young men are meeting those people and Bob is one of them. Another good time onstage with a great sized crowd. Now all we need to do is start working that merch and passing that tip jar.
Bob Schneider and Lonelyland ( http://bobschneider.ning.com/ ). I have seen Bob perform previously in a few of his other incarnations and it is ALWAYS fun and entertaining.
Back to the Bob though. This was such and awesome performance. With Mr Schneiders mix of music and fun you will always feel like it was money well spent and time worthwhile. He is exciting and energetic. Funny yet deep. He will always drag the audience around and show them a tour of his mind. No doubt this is why the few times I have seen him as other personalities I have never forgotten about it and neither will you. It seems to be a somewhat regular gig so take advantage and have a really good time. Sit down in front, order a beer and be a part of this all.
Laters
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php ) are definitely taking advantage of the opportunities that come before them. I applaud them for making the best of everything they are getting! This evening at The Saxon Pub opening for Bob Schneider and Lonelyland is another one of those times. There are people you should meet and befriend. In the music industry in Austin these young men are meeting those people and Bob is one of them. Another good time onstage with a great sized crowd. Now all we need to do is start working that merch and passing that tip jar.
Now I know Bob does not need my BS little opinion and blog because he is as there as you can get in Austin music. But HAHA, the joke is that I don't write this for anybody but me. Although I am glad you are here and reading this and hope that something I say has you deciding to go out one night and catch something fun in Austin. catching something fun does not mean crabs.
Back to the Bob though. This was such and awesome performance. With Mr Schneiders mix of music and fun you will always feel like it was money well spent and time worthwhile. He is exciting and energetic. Funny yet deep. He will always drag the audience around and show them a tour of his mind. No doubt this is why the few times I have seen him as other personalities I have never forgotten about it and neither will you. It seems to be a somewhat regular gig so take advantage and have a really good time. Sit down in front, order a beer and be a part of this all.
Laters
Saturday, August 28, 2010
"I just need to pee and eat a Twix and I'll be OK!"
I received an invite to join Aimless Gun in College Station...(GASP!) home of the Texas A&M Aggies. A fun little jaunt in the bands custom cruiser and we were there. It was scheduled to be a hella long set as they were hitting the stage at approx 10:30 pm and playing til their fingers bleed.
The venue is Zapatos Cantina ( http://www.myspace.com/zapatoscantina ). OK, I will NEVER bitch about the size of One2One or any other of our local Austin clubs and bars cause this place was crazy, CRAZY small. But, the outside was where the action was gonna be at. College Station is very much the antithesis of Austin for all of the obvious reasons and a few others. Most notable (as stated by Casey - the Aimless Drummer [oh now that's funny in itself]) "In Austin you start out with a hundred people and by the end of the night or the end of you set there's 12 people left. Here, you start out with 12 people and by the end of the night there's over 200!" Well said Casey and NO SHIT! what an effing great surprise. It took no time at all to have more people in the courtyard enjoying the sounds than you could shake a collie at.
With a well thought out set list of originals, and covers interspersed, Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )really went at it in a grand fashion. They kicked off the evening with some uptempo tunes that had the folks there in the house singing along IMMEDIATELY. As the crowd built up more people would join in, the girls dancing, people cheering, very nice to see a large crowd really enjoying this bands performance.
And speaking of performance, whether or not there were adult beverages involved, this is the loosest and most fun I have seen from these guys on stage EVER! Lead guitarist Zach was chiming in with remarks and digging at the audience between songs in the most fun way possible. The ever silent Miles Barker on Bass even spoke up and being playful as well. Front man Cody Rathmell was an absolute blast to watch. Talking it up to some of the folks out in the dirt, inviting all the girls down front to sing along. I was surprised and found myself actually laughing out loud when I saw Cody invite some of the crowd to sing along to the chorus of a song or two. With a well place, and I might comical slap of the hand, Cody would spin the boom arm on the mic stand around to face the audience down in front and away they would go.
This crowd absolutely would not stop! Singing along to the originals and going crazy over the covers. It was just an awe inspiring thing to see so many people having that much fun and appreciating the sounds of some live Austin music. They even managed to get a couple of live videos, 'Good Summer' (which was uploaded straight to YouTube while they were still onstage) and their unique rendition of 'HeyYa' (to be uploaded later - look for it!) recorded with some fantastic and fun audience participation.
Here is the link for 'Good Summer' - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8zwuIVO4AI
and the link for their original cover of 'Hey Ya' - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ndaascAYYY
Laters
The venue is Zapatos Cantina ( http://www.myspace.com/zapatoscantina ). OK, I will NEVER bitch about the size of One2One or any other of our local Austin clubs and bars cause this place was crazy, CRAZY small. But, the outside was where the action was gonna be at. College Station is very much the antithesis of Austin for all of the obvious reasons and a few others. Most notable (as stated by Casey - the Aimless Drummer [oh now that's funny in itself]) "In Austin you start out with a hundred people and by the end of the night or the end of you set there's 12 people left. Here, you start out with 12 people and by the end of the night there's over 200!" Well said Casey and NO SHIT! what an effing great surprise. It took no time at all to have more people in the courtyard enjoying the sounds than you could shake a collie at.
With a well thought out set list of originals, and covers interspersed, Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )really went at it in a grand fashion. They kicked off the evening with some uptempo tunes that had the folks there in the house singing along IMMEDIATELY. As the crowd built up more people would join in, the girls dancing, people cheering, very nice to see a large crowd really enjoying this bands performance.
And speaking of performance, whether or not there were adult beverages involved, this is the loosest and most fun I have seen from these guys on stage EVER! Lead guitarist Zach was chiming in with remarks and digging at the audience between songs in the most fun way possible. The ever silent Miles Barker on Bass even spoke up and being playful as well. Front man Cody Rathmell was an absolute blast to watch. Talking it up to some of the folks out in the dirt, inviting all the girls down front to sing along. I was surprised and found myself actually laughing out loud when I saw Cody invite some of the crowd to sing along to the chorus of a song or two. With a well place, and I might comical slap of the hand, Cody would spin the boom arm on the mic stand around to face the audience down in front and away they would go.
This crowd absolutely would not stop! Singing along to the originals and going crazy over the covers. It was just an awe inspiring thing to see so many people having that much fun and appreciating the sounds of some live Austin music. They even managed to get a couple of live videos, 'Good Summer' (which was uploaded straight to YouTube while they were still onstage) and their unique rendition of 'HeyYa' (to be uploaded later - look for it!) recorded with some fantastic and fun audience participation.
Here is the link for 'Good Summer' - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8zwuIVO4AI
and the link for their original cover of 'Hey Ya' - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ndaascAYYY
Laters
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Drunken Master... (or the return of Blackie Chan)
The Birthday party to end all parties (until next year). So thanks to the Dirty Dog, EPMB, Michael Dillard, Aimless gun, and Dave Rosen. To all of the countless others that showed up, made appearance, dropped by, stayed until the end, and everything in between, THANK YOU very much. I can assure it was a night that Donnell/MC Overlord will never remember!
What a great crowd at The Dirty Dog ( http://dirtydogbar.com/ ), everyone was in that festive, celebratory kind of mood, and it was a good looking crowd. EPMB ( http://www.epmbmusic.com/ ) hit the stage first and I must say it was very nice to see them perform an early set instead of 12 o'clock at night! I don't know how to really describe the fun and energy as well as the smart lyrics and well written sound these guys drop, but just go see them dammitt. I do know if you hit their site, you can pick and choose just about any night of the week and at some great locations to listen to these guys kick it. Now I was surprised at the end of their performance to see the man of the hour jump up on stage and completely shake it up and tear it down. MC Overlord is more than a man, more than a legend, he is a myth, HA! But really, I was very impressed by the seamless progression and sound between Overlord and EPMB (only to be educated later in the evening that this was the norm back in the day).
And now for the new piece of the evening, the world premier of Michael Dillard's ( http://michaeldillardmusic.com/ ) music video "Take It or Leave It". It can be seen on his website as well as here ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8lB1sOT09g&feature=player_embedded ). It is a really moving piece and feels oddly true, not for Mike, but just in general. Enjoy. As for the performance, I am happy to say Micheal is having no problemo in feeling comfortable on the stage and interacting with the audience more and more, THIS WILL BE key and instrumental in having the audience not just enjoy the show, but be a part of the performance and live the music. MC Overlord mad his appearance on stage again, and totally destroyed it for the last song of Michael's set. Overlord was even able to convince Mike Dill to finish out the set, and It was damn fun and damn fine.
Now this is where the title of the blog comes from. It was Donnell's birthday and the adult beverages were flowing very nicely. MC Overlord is NOT a small man, yet rambled up the steps to the stage at the Dirty Dog without even hesitating, grabbed the mic like he owned it (which he did), and had NO PROBLEM letting loose with the rhymes. As one of the members of Aimless Gun so aptly pointed out "How the hell can he do it like that, I don't even think I could stand!" Well my friends, all of the greatest fighters in the world are the greatest because they train and they train and they train. The ability to stand and fight, no matter what, is ultimately a matter of instinct, and MC Overlord has proven time and time again that he has the instinct to rhyme, no matter what! He is definitely a Master of Ceremonies!
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )was finally onstage, much to the chagrin of one band members vocal fan club member, HA! "Play some damn music!!!" So they did! And as I have said about where I would like to see Dillard take his performance next, these young men are doing it. Talking to the audience and 'selling' the performance. I will tell you this...everyone has there own specialty, that special song they do, a remix, or something that will be the next big thing. For me it is their cover of "Hey Ya!" by Outkast. When you do go out and see them, don't be afraid to walk right up to the stage and ask for it. I am sure they will do it and you have my assurances that you will love it. Can't wait for the end of summer, the video drop, the single release for the radio, and the first full length album, I am telling you it will have been a "Good Summer"!
Laters
What a great crowd at The Dirty Dog ( http://dirtydogbar.com/ ), everyone was in that festive, celebratory kind of mood, and it was a good looking crowd. EPMB ( http://www.epmbmusic.com/ ) hit the stage first and I must say it was very nice to see them perform an early set instead of 12 o'clock at night! I don't know how to really describe the fun and energy as well as the smart lyrics and well written sound these guys drop, but just go see them dammitt. I do know if you hit their site, you can pick and choose just about any night of the week and at some great locations to listen to these guys kick it. Now I was surprised at the end of their performance to see the man of the hour jump up on stage and completely shake it up and tear it down. MC Overlord is more than a man, more than a legend, he is a myth, HA! But really, I was very impressed by the seamless progression and sound between Overlord and EPMB (only to be educated later in the evening that this was the norm back in the day).
And now for the new piece of the evening, the world premier of Michael Dillard's ( http://michaeldillardmusic.com/ ) music video "Take It or Leave It". It can be seen on his website as well as here ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8lB1sOT09g&feature=player_embedded ). It is a really moving piece and feels oddly true, not for Mike, but just in general. Enjoy. As for the performance, I am happy to say Micheal is having no problemo in feeling comfortable on the stage and interacting with the audience more and more, THIS WILL BE key and instrumental in having the audience not just enjoy the show, but be a part of the performance and live the music. MC Overlord mad his appearance on stage again, and totally destroyed it for the last song of Michael's set. Overlord was even able to convince Mike Dill to finish out the set, and It was damn fun and damn fine.
Now this is where the title of the blog comes from. It was Donnell's birthday and the adult beverages were flowing very nicely. MC Overlord is NOT a small man, yet rambled up the steps to the stage at the Dirty Dog without even hesitating, grabbed the mic like he owned it (which he did), and had NO PROBLEM letting loose with the rhymes. As one of the members of Aimless Gun so aptly pointed out "How the hell can he do it like that, I don't even think I could stand!" Well my friends, all of the greatest fighters in the world are the greatest because they train and they train and they train. The ability to stand and fight, no matter what, is ultimately a matter of instinct, and MC Overlord has proven time and time again that he has the instinct to rhyme, no matter what! He is definitely a Master of Ceremonies!
Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )was finally onstage, much to the chagrin of one band members vocal fan club member, HA! "Play some damn music!!!" So they did! And as I have said about where I would like to see Dillard take his performance next, these young men are doing it. Talking to the audience and 'selling' the performance. I will tell you this...everyone has there own specialty, that special song they do, a remix, or something that will be the next big thing. For me it is their cover of "Hey Ya!" by Outkast. When you do go out and see them, don't be afraid to walk right up to the stage and ask for it. I am sure they will do it and you have my assurances that you will love it. Can't wait for the end of summer, the video drop, the single release for the radio, and the first full length album, I am telling you it will have been a "Good Summer"!
Laters
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Happy Happy Hubs
Oh what a good burger and the shakes are real and spun right there while you wait! at The Hub ( http://www.thehubaustin.com/default.aspx ). Funny thing is you happen to stop by and lo and behold there's a band playing in the corner!
OK! Enough of the BS'ing you, got a short notice heads up that Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )was gonna be chillin here and playing an acoustic set tonight (Saturday night 07/17). So just a quick thanks to the guys in the band, I much appreciate the heads up.
I got to pick up my son Billy and hang out with him for the weekend. While wondering what we were gonna do for tonight, I got the note from the guys about the acoustic gig. Whoo Hoo! Bill has never met the guys and hasn't seen them live, so what an opportunity.
It was a nice acoustic set, Bill and I caught the last 30-45 minutes, and on the way home Bill wouldn't stop talking about meeting them and the music. I even threw on Sublime - Santaria (which they playfully covered) on the way home and Bill thought it was Aimless (yup they did it that well). So thanks guys, something me and my son will remember forever. To everyone that hung out after the gig and spent time talking with us and chatting it up, you made Bill feel very special, and THAT is amazing. So very awesome of you, your girlfriends and family thanks!
Laters
OK! Enough of the BS'ing you, got a short notice heads up that Aimless Gun ( http://www.aimlessgun.com/main.php )was gonna be chillin here and playing an acoustic set tonight (Saturday night 07/17). So just a quick thanks to the guys in the band, I much appreciate the heads up.
I got to pick up my son Billy and hang out with him for the weekend. While wondering what we were gonna do for tonight, I got the note from the guys about the acoustic gig. Whoo Hoo! Bill has never met the guys and hasn't seen them live, so what an opportunity.
It was a nice acoustic set, Bill and I caught the last 30-45 minutes, and on the way home Bill wouldn't stop talking about meeting them and the music. I even threw on Sublime - Santaria (which they playfully covered) on the way home and Bill thought it was Aimless (yup they did it that well). So thanks guys, something me and my son will remember forever. To everyone that hung out after the gig and spent time talking with us and chatting it up, you made Bill feel very special, and THAT is amazing. So very awesome of you, your girlfriends and family thanks!
Laters
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Doc is IN and Dillard is OUTta sight
Beso Cantina ( http://www.besocantina.com/ ), 07/15, Michael Dillard Cd release party...and yes it was a party! The stars came out tonite for one of the newest, hottest kids to make his mark on the Austin music scene and reach for the world. Reppin all sorts of talent and music genres was Smackola from the Dirty Wormz, Ryan Harkrider, MC Overlord, guys from EPMB, some of the Aimless Gun boys, Will Harris from the Fremen, G Clef, Bobby Bookout, and damn if you were there and I didn't give you props...it's your own damn fault for not letting me know you were in the house HA!
Doc Deuce ( http://www.myspace.com/docdeuce ), well shit this guy is a Brain Ninja. He has crazy, deep, intelligent rhymes like you wouldn't believe or conceive. You can't see Hip Hop/Rap like this anywhere else...the only similarity that I will draw is that Twista used a violin for some of his music. The sound and the uniqueness is pure ATX love! The crowd (and I will say that I was Hella impressed with the size of the crowd this early on a Thurs nite) was totally moving and being moved by the music out of the gate. I mean REALLY, a violin in a LIVE hip hop performance. NO turntables here just pure, unadulterated, rhythmic ecstasy. Everyone was smiling and you will be too! Now we really know who Runs This Town, you gotta see this and be part of it. Doc Deuce went from a quiet start to a roaring finish, so please go out and catch what the Doc is giving...you will be enlightened and have fun!
and now for the man of the hour Michael Dillard ( http://michaeldillardmusic
Laters
Doc Deuce ( http://www.myspace.com/docdeuce ), well shit this guy is a Brain Ninja. He has crazy, deep, intelligent rhymes like you wouldn't believe or conceive. You can't see Hip Hop/Rap like this anywhere else...the only similarity that I will draw is that Twista used a violin for some of his music. The sound and the uniqueness is pure ATX love! The crowd (and I will say that I was Hella impressed with the size of the crowd this early on a Thurs nite) was totally moving and being moved by the music out of the gate. I mean REALLY, a violin in a LIVE hip hop performance. NO turntables here just pure, unadulterated, rhythmic ecstasy. Everyone was smiling and you will be too! Now we really know who Runs This Town, you gotta see this and be part of it. Doc Deuce went from a quiet start to a roaring finish, so please go out and catch what the Doc is giving...you will be enlightened and have fun!
and now for the man of the hour Michael Dillard ( http://michaeldillardmusic
Laters
Friday, July 9, 2010
the other half of the 3rd
So, as reading this, you realize and know that Angel Skye (my beautiful and talented daughter) wrote up the Aimless Gun performance from Carlos n Charlies 3rd of July Beach Bash. If you didn't read it or didn't know, your a douche bag and should now stop reading this, scroll back to the earlier post, and check it out. Because Angel Skye was so diligently watching ALL of the performances she will be assisting me with this entire blog, so enjoy and see if ya can tell where her input is vs mine.
Aimless Gun, The Will Evans Project, Eyes Burn Electric, Mothers Anthem, Hebegebee's, and Vallejo. REALLY, and you weren't there. C'mon y'all it was the 3rd of July, not the 4th. None the less it was a hot, humid day on the beach, the sun was out and the crowd was beautiful. People on the upper outside deck, the lower outside deck, and a few brave souls out early on the beach. As the evening drew on, the crowd did get bigger on the beach right up to the Hebegebee's, then the fireworks, and then (OF COURSE) Vallejo exploded onto the stage. The selection of music was so different and eclectic that everyone HAD TO have a good time. An amazing day turned into great evening.
Aimless Gun was up first (see http://livemusicinaustin.blogspot.com/2010/07/greatest-4th-of-july-on-3rd-ever.html ) and then Will Evans Project ( http://www.willevansproject.com/home.html ), here again we have some unassuming guys take the stage and really light it up. Will Evans Project has more of an Alt rock feel than Aimless, but very fun. They really came onto the stage and proved how eager they were to play for the crowd by firing it up right away. What made them so impressive was that they didn't seem like they were playing for the crowd but for the love of playing the music. More great tuneage for hanging at the lake (or on a boat as Angel Skye so eloquently put it earlier). Here we really got to see a little more of the early evening crowd that enjoyed Aimless swaying and rockin to the beat of WEP. Good thing that the beer was a flowin this evening because DAMN! it was getting hotter with the music and the sun. Check out the Will Evans Project page for club/appearances in Austin and the surrounding area. Here is a link to the video shot from the show ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPMu3JO0uRo ).
Eyes Burn Electric really stepped it up another notch with their performance. Not really hard rock but was something with more of an edge to it. This is where the audience really started participating singing along and dancing to the music. A few covers thrown in with their upbeat groovable originals, but the performance was the hook that proved these guys are audience worthy (undoubtedly). The power of these guys were enough to have the rain gods let it all out after their rendition of 'Billie Jean'. And like some signal from the unknown, it poured (damn the rain felt good too) but right on Que it stopped with the end of their performance...these guys are Voodoo good.
Mothers Anthem - in Angels humble opinion, they brought in the biggest crowd of the evening (outside of Vallejo). The energy and intensity of the lead singer was contagious and showed that they were about the show and performance for the audience. To leave the stage and have everybody remember their name really seemed like their goal. "And i think they did a great job because they had tons of people lined up at the merch booth getting autographs and taking pictures." The lead singers voice was powerful and smooth, almost an "edgy R&B sound" and it's proven in the song "God Save the Queen". These guys really rounded out the evening for the first three bands to this. I think that whenever they perform here in town you HAVE TO check out a show AT LEAST one show, then maybe more if you really get the fever for Mothers Anthem.
Now for the real Latin rhythm and performance, the Hebegebees just stole it from the other kids and didn't give back the lollipop. The dual vocals were so perfectly matched it can't even be described, an R&B Latin mash up that you can't wait to hear. The crowd now filled the beach and swayed to such a smooth groove, here is where ya danced with the ladies!
OK! This is written after the fact. I saw the C & C fireworks and then saw the fireworks @ Auditorium Shores. UHHMMM, C & C was way WAY better...and I am just talking about the fireworks, nothing to do with performances just the fireworks presentation...WOW!
and now for the meat of the evening, a first for both Angel Skye AND me! Vallejo!!! From hearing these boys practice in South Austin, listening to the albums, watching the video performances, and hearing friends talk shit about how great they are live....HERE WE WERE! Got to spend some time hanging out with Omar during the day, great story teller and a genuine and friendly guy (you know the truth is he's with Vallejo and is a Vallejo so he could be a dick, but uh-uh!). Angels description was almost in tears. The music is so amazing, the performance is so energizing, the audience participation is there. They ARE showman! and not just front man A.J., but all of them, hamming it up, laying it out, and baring their souls to all of us. The variety and selection of music is breathtaking and stunning. Shit you know, stuff you didn't know you knew, and new things to make you believe in music and live performances again! Angel described that being down in front (and she was literally DOWN IN FRONT) was so powerful an that she really had to fight back the urge to jump onstage. WHOA girl, daddy ain't got bail money for a 14 year old stage crasher, LOL. To sum it up for the Vallejo performance, it was something for the generations...in fact THREE generations to be exact as I found my father in the audience enjoying the show, my daughter at the stage, and I was just grateful to be there.
Thanks Omar and A.J. for a lifetime of memories!
photos by: Angelina Tompkins and her daddy
special thanks to Angel Skye for her invaluable input in the writing of this piece. Love you baby girl.
Laters
Aimless Gun, The Will Evans Project, Eyes Burn Electric, Mothers Anthem, Hebegebee's, and Vallejo. REALLY, and you weren't there. C'mon y'all it was the 3rd of July, not the 4th. None the less it was a hot, humid day on the beach, the sun was out and the crowd was beautiful. People on the upper outside deck, the lower outside deck, and a few brave souls out early on the beach. As the evening drew on, the crowd did get bigger on the beach right up to the Hebegebee's, then the fireworks, and then (OF COURSE) Vallejo exploded onto the stage. The selection of music was so different and eclectic that everyone HAD TO have a good time. An amazing day turned into great evening.
Aimless Gun was up first (see http://livemusicinaustin.blogspot.com/2010/07/greatest-4th-of-july-on-3rd-ever.html ) and then Will Evans Project ( http://www.willevansproject.com/home.html ), here again we have some unassuming guys take the stage and really light it up. Will Evans Project has more of an Alt rock feel than Aimless, but very fun. They really came onto the stage and proved how eager they were to play for the crowd by firing it up right away. What made them so impressive was that they didn't seem like they were playing for the crowd but for the love of playing the music. More great tuneage for hanging at the lake (or on a boat as Angel Skye so eloquently put it earlier). Here we really got to see a little more of the early evening crowd that enjoyed Aimless swaying and rockin to the beat of WEP. Good thing that the beer was a flowin this evening because DAMN! it was getting hotter with the music and the sun. Check out the Will Evans Project page for club/appearances in Austin and the surrounding area. Here is a link to the video shot from the show ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPMu3JO0uRo ).
Now for the real Latin rhythm and performance, the Hebegebees just stole it from the other kids and didn't give back the lollipop. The dual vocals were so perfectly matched it can't even be described, an R&B Latin mash up that you can't wait to hear. The crowd now filled the beach and swayed to such a smooth groove, here is where ya danced with the ladies!
OK! This is written after the fact. I saw the C & C fireworks and then saw the fireworks @ Auditorium Shores. UHHMMM, C & C was way WAY better...and I am just talking about the fireworks, nothing to do with performances just the fireworks presentation...WOW!
and now for the meat of the evening, a first for both Angel Skye AND me! Vallejo!!! From hearing these boys practice in South Austin, listening to the albums, watching the video performances, and hearing friends talk shit about how great they are live....HERE WE WERE! Got to spend some time hanging out with Omar during the day, great story teller and a genuine and friendly guy (you know the truth is he's with Vallejo and is a Vallejo so he could be a dick, but uh-uh!). Angels description was almost in tears. The music is so amazing, the performance is so energizing, the audience participation is there. They ARE showman! and not just front man A.J., but all of them, hamming it up, laying it out, and baring their souls to all of us. The variety and selection of music is breathtaking and stunning. Shit you know, stuff you didn't know you knew, and new things to make you believe in music and live performances again! Angel described that being down in front (and she was literally DOWN IN FRONT) was so powerful an that she really had to fight back the urge to jump onstage. WHOA girl, daddy ain't got bail money for a 14 year old stage crasher, LOL. To sum it up for the Vallejo performance, it was something for the generations...in fact THREE generations to be exact as I found my father in the audience enjoying the show, my daughter at the stage, and I was just grateful to be there.
Thanks Omar and A.J. for a lifetime of memories!
photos by: Angelina Tompkins and her daddy
special thanks to Angel Skye for her invaluable input in the writing of this piece. Love you baby girl.
Laters
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