After Hours Halloween Party @ Green House (Sun. 10/30, 1am-6pm)

The gang at Austin's Best New Store, Green House, didn't want to miss friends' Halloween parties this year, so they decided to host an after hours in-store and backyard party! The fun starts at 1am and lasts pasts the dawn of the undead. You can BYOB, but their popular donation bar (which features yummy homemade cocktails) will be available. DJs will spin, horror movies will project, plus a kissing booth and a photo booth will capture romantic and costumed memories. The bonus for some guests? A $100 award for best costume, and other cool prizes for top contestants.


Green House is a green house in the central North Loop area that features original, unusual, and delightful upcycled and repurposed clothing, accessories, gifts, and artwork produced by Austin artists. Support a green local economy, and have a lot of fun doing it after whatever fun Halloween shindig you attend. 

[Kill The Critic] 35mm Screening of Claire Denis' "Beau Travail" @ Texas Union Theatre - Mon. 10/17, 8pm (Free)

From sister film and theater blog [Kill The Critic].

The Austin Cinematheque takes off where Cinematexas of the 60s, 70s, and short film showcase of the 90s revival left off, acquiring and screening rare 35mm films, free and open to the public.  If my memory of high school English lit class is correct, tonight's screening of Claire Denis' adaptation of Billy Budd (a novella by Herman Melville), will be an intense experience.

In the visually arresting Beau Travail (1999), a former Foreign Legion officer recalls his illustrious career in Africa. The 1999 French film also boasts exceptional performances. To guarantee optimal seating, arrive early for the free 8pm screening at Texas Union Theatre. 

'Love Your Body', Austin Women: Austin NOW's Love Your Body Day Resource Fair @ 5604 Manor Rd - Sun. 10/16, 1-5pm

Love Your Body Day presented by Austin NOW

@ 5604 Manor - Sun. Oct. 16, 1-5pm.

This is a rare blog that isn't specifically about Austin d-i-y art, entertainment, and culture. However, many d-i-y women in Austin struggle with the concept of body image in their daily lives and creative work. Many women face discrimination about their appearance based on "racist, sexist, unhealthy, and unattainable beauty standards sold to us by the mainstream media". Presented by Austin NOW, the local chapter of the National Organization for Women, Love Your Body Day is a timely national and local event for a diverse body of women, happening during End Fat Talk Week (October 16-22). 


On Sunday, October 16th, from 1 to 5pm at 5604 Manor, "Austin NOW invites women, girls, and those who care about them to join us in celebrating Love Your Body Day...aimed at questioning racist, sexist, unhealthy, and unattainable beauty standards sold to us by the mainstream media as well as encouraging women to love and take care of themselves as they are."


Sponsored by the NOW Foundation, the Austin NOW resource fair occurs a few days earlier than the official national event (October 19th), and features health and fitness guides, fat acceptance, and other valuable, empowering information provided by community groups that help women. 


For more Love Your Body Day details and to RSVP, go to Facebook.

Junkyard Casserole: Yard Sale & Art Show Saturday - 10/15 (9am-9pm)

If you are one of many Austinites who don't want to throw anything away, consider selling or donating precious and dust-collecting items to Junkyard Casserole, and have a good time viewing artwork and experiencing live music, while possibly getting inspiration and material for your Halloween arts and crafts projects.


Junkyard Casserole is a monthly yard sale, swap meet, and art show, hosted by members of the band Night Viking and RE-aRT, self-described as a "Detritus Craft and Idea Supply" place, and a "Collection and Work Space offered for making art with experimental (cast-off) materials". In other words, a recycling and repurposing center of creativity in Austin--a great place for your old items to find new, creative life.

Tomorrow's Junkyard Casserole happens 9am-9pm at RE-aRT, and will feature spontaneous and improvised music by various artists throughout the day, TBA at the event. The backyard multimedia studio and art collective is located behind 2608 Rogers Avenue. RSVP @ Facebook. 

New Handmade & Vintage Store: Las Cruxes Grand Opening + Mikaylah Bowman Photo Exhibit (Fri. 10/14 - 7:30pm)

Austin has become well-known for its handmade and vintage shops, which offer great finds and deals on items that avoid landfill overload while being fashionable. "Specializing in handmade, vintage, and one of a kind, re-purposed clothing, music, art, and miscellaneous items", Las Cruxes promises to be the greatest new addition to vintage and upcycling boutiques in central Austin. 


Las Cruxes owner and operator Veronica Ortuño, known as a respected d-i-y fashionista, visual artist, and musician (M'lady's Records, The Carrots, Mutating Meltdown, Finally Punk), unveils original and redesigned clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more during a grand opening event at 7:30pm on Friday, October 14th, featuring the artwork of Mikaylah Bowman, and DJs Benson Ellis, Dustin Coffey, and Jon Saltzman. Drink specials and goodies will be available at a private bar, courtesy of Spiderhouse.



Located at 2908 ½ Fruth Street, adjacent to Spiderhouse, beneath sister vintage and handmade clothing boutique The Fresh UP and the alleyway behind I Luv Video, Las Cruxes also operates as an online store, currently offering discounted items celebrating the new storefront.


RSVP on Facebook--UNVEILING: LAS CRUXES Grand Opening Soirée with Works  by Mikaylah Bowman.

Wednesday Showdown: Red Pony Clock vs. Dark Dark Dark vs. Gangster Rainbow Tonight

Free red 'Pataphysics pony clock with every bowl of spiked punch purchased at Club 1808 tonight! Not really... But the next best thing: Freak folk rockers Red Pony Clock from California ride into Austin today to play a show with Pataphysics and Spiked Punch. Not sure if there's a cover charge ($5 cover tonight), but there's usually free admission if you're 21 and older, and $5 for 18 and older at Club 1808. RSVP @ Facebook.

Described as a chamber folk group, Minneapolis and Brooklyn based indie music stars Dark Dark Dark  will be in Austin tonight, part of the indoor show happening with New Mexico folk music blenders a Hawk and a Hacksaw and earthy to ethereal pop quartet Pillars & Tongues. Advance tickets are $10, which you can buy via Mohawk Austin, and admission at the club's doors is $12. 

Austin's Gangster Rainbow and Friends - Handwritten, Lead Pipe, and Cat Wheelchair - combine lo-fi garage rock and experimental sensibilities for a show you won't want to miss. Not sure what the cover will be, if any amount, but Frontier Bar is a cool revamped music venue on the east side. RSVP on Facebook. 

Community Rummage Sale @ GREEN HOUSE Today!

According to a reliable tweet from a GREEN HOUSE resident organizer:

"Rummage sale today! Bring yo' stuff and let's get rid of it! 11-3 at #GreenHouse. Can't miss us - house is green. #yardsale #austin #fb"

You can't and shouldn't miss buying, swapping and selling items at GREEN HOUSE, the future of Austin shopping - a store featuring unique upcycled clothing, accessories and gifts by local d-i-y designers and artists, a mini art gallery - and a community space.

Last week, they hosted a cool music pre-opening on the last day of SXSW and first day of spring with Anti-Gravity, and will have their grand opening in about a week!

You Are An Airplane outside GREEN HOUSE - Sunday, March 20, 2011

GREEN HOUSE looks exactly like its name and is located on the corner of Martin Ave. and E 53rd St.

SUX BY SUXWEST: The Biggest Noise Fest in Austin

SXSW and Kanye West apparently broke Tumblr. Looks like Twitter is OK though...

Seriously, diy revolution has apparently returned for the occasional d-i-y/underground/indie event post, and this is a very worthy post. To rip off my own words about SUX BY SUXWEST from Radio Casbah:

"...don't let the name fool you. The organizers of the gargantuan noise fest aren't haters - they are simply indulging in nihilistic satire - a trait of an experimental form of music that rebels against the status quo of comfortable, soothing sounds. (Maybe we should get agitated by the sum of the same sounds replayed every year.) Noise fest organizer Johnathan Cash, the young masked man of Breakdancing Ronald Reagan, is serious about bringing the noise, curating a noise showcase featuring longtime artists of noise The Haters, and leather bound harsh noise outfit Black Leather Jesus."

The Haters, masked defenders of noise, will be appearing @ SUX BY SUXWEST.

SUX BY SUXWEST is a free, all ages welcome event at House of Commons Co-op, 2610 Rio Grande. Beer will be served while it lasts. There's a complete lineup on the official event page on Facebook. Doors open at 10:00am, and the experimental cacophony commences at 12:00pm.

See my photos and favorite places

I'm putting together a collection of photos where I've been. Check it out: http://gowalla.com/users/diydanna - Danna — Discover, capture and share places and events with your friends.

My new @myspace.com email address

Hey, I have a new email address: diydanna@myspace.com Drop me a line! -Danna

The Kominas, Sarmust, Propaganda Anonymous, Coma in Algiers, The Cocker Spaniels

diydanna has invited you to: The Kominas, Sarmust, Propaganda Anonymous, Coma in Algiers, The Cocker Spaniels Sun. 08/09 | 9:00PM Red 7 (Red River) 611 E. Seventh +44 (0)870 751 7377 Personal message from diydanna: MEET THE TAQWACORES: THE KOMINAS now on tour - only Texas show tomorrow night in Austin! w/ SARMUST, PROP ANON Red 7 617 E 7th St Local lyricist THE COCKER SPANIELS opens the show at 9 pm, and post-punk hardcore rockers COMA IN ALGIERS close the show after a medley set of Situationist hip hop/punk, sufi indie rock and a finale of punk served Sunni side up. Hope to see you there! Danna See who likes this event and show your support The Kominas on U.S. summer tour w/ Sarmust and Prop Anon! The Kominas' first performances west of Chicago - concerts that have been highly anticipated since the last tour in 2007 was profiled in Rolling Stone, Newsweek and Maximum Rock N Roll. They were recently featured on NPR's All Things Considered. The Kominas, Sarmust and Prop Anon bum rush the stage w/ locals Coma in Algiers headlining and The Cocker Spaniels opening @ Red 7 in Austin, TX on Sun. Aug. 9th. Click for tour dates! Music: The Kominas The Kominas are a taqwacore/punjabi punk band from Boston, Massachusetts Listen at Last.fm Sarmust Rock / Indie / Other Propaganda Anonymous Hip Hop / Post punk / Folk Coma In Algiers one day Killshire & Archbold were listening to the Electric Eels and were full of disgust & joy for their lack of talent; they armed themselves with cymbals, synths and large amps and, in the summer of 2001 in the fine city of Austin, called themselves Coma in Algiers. despite the arrival of the police and the threats to the public, this...read more The Cocker Spaniels The Cocker Spaniels began Christmas 1994, when then 13-year-old Brooklynite Sean Padilla received a Yamaha MT8X and a drum kit for Christmas after years of collecting and teaching himself how to play other instruments (guitar, bass and piano). He immediately began recording the stockpile of songs he'd been writing since age eight, with his two b...read more See who likes this event and show your support

©2007 Do512 LLC. 1805 S 3rd St, Austin, TX 78704

Summer Music Carnival II: Attic Ted, Mayor Daley and Preston Dukes

We had so much fun last year, we're doing it again!

The summer carnival of music returns for one night only – and it's the night Windy City noise rockers MAYOR DALEY blow into town! ATTIC TED (San Marcos, TX) once again headlines the carnival, and local music carny PRESTON DUKES opens the show after a short films premiere projection!

ABOUT THE MUSIC CARNIES:

ATTIC TED is an experimental "zolo" rock troupe based in San Marcos. Since 2003 they've released several LPs and EPs via self-distributed Pecan Crazy Records. Current members include Grady Roper on vocals and organ and Margie Osborne on cello, with guest performers on synthesizers and noise machines.

Attic Ted is self-described as "Insane Asylum Country Gothic Carnival", and according to local music critics: "Some songs sound disconcerting and vaguely catchy at the same time," (Austin Chronicle), and "[Attic Ted] is mad entertainment that deserves to be heard at least once in a lifetime." (Whoopsy! Magazine)

MAYOR DALEY is not just the name of a famous mayor but a band based in his hometown. The noise rock outfit has a wonderfully intense, searing sound complimented by ethereal and experimental vocals from Kelly Carr (guitar) and Dewayne Slightweight (bass), with weighty percussion from Paul Erschen...

Here's what The Hideout (Chicago) wrote: "Mayor Daley is definitely unique. There aren't many lyrics... but there are a lot of vocal sounds. Somehow, the "vocals" come together to work with the music. The music is intense. It moves along at constantly changing paces, creating something that sounds frantic, but carefully thought out... Mayor Daley's sound isn't catchy. It's raw, and that's what makes it memorable.”

This "raw" and "memorable" sound is what makes Mayor Daley one of the best d-i-y/underground bands in the Windy City. The trio embarks on a tour in July, offering Mayor Daley II, a truly d-i-y four song EP for Austin's music freaks and geeks.

PRESTON DUKES the man is co-operator and promoter of Bundyhill Recording and longtime Business Deal associate who has shredded guitar for experimental lounge act Count Dracula's Weed Smuggling Jam Engine since the music apocalypse of the 1990s, and played bass and shared vocal duties for experimental country band Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band. While jamming with bands that have long names, Dukes maintained a short eponymous solo side project that still declares a different (and perhaps more accessible) pop/rock approach.

In November 2008 Preston Dukes debuted a live band featuring Jam Engine mates Tim Bond (bass, vocals) and Scott Blanchard (drums), and occasionally featuring Adam “Sweatpants” Avramescu (of Fishboy) on keyboards and trumpet. Preston Dukes’ first release, Amarillo by Midnight (Business Deal Records) reflects Dukes’ “insightful lyrical range humorous self-deprecation to serious personal contemplation” (INsite Austin, March 2009).

SUMMER MUSIC CARNIVAL 2

ATTIC TED

MAYOR DALEY (CHICAGO, IL)

PRESTON DUKES

@ CAROUSEL LOUNGE

1110 E 52nd ST

AUSTIN, TX 78752

FRIDAY, JULY 10 - 9:00 PM

Event Listing Links:

Austin Chronicle Recommended

Do512

Eventful

Facebook Invitation

Wave Your 4th of July Freak Flag @ Club 1808 - Sat. 7/04

An AC Recommended Fourth of July event, direct from the event coordinator, Spork:

Fourth of July Freak ON!
Saturday, July 4th @ Club 1808
1808 E. 12th Street
8pm-2am

Get your 4th of July party on nasty style at Club 1808! Booty shakin', free food, and featured performers:

HUG (http://www.myspace.com/hug) What can I say about this band that they don't just wear on their love smeared faces? One band you have to experience, not just listen to.

Slow jams + dreamy pop + wild times = Scorpio Rising (http://www.myspace.com/scorpiorising) Light some candles and put on the silk sheets!

FM Campers (http://www.myspace.com/fmcampers) bringin' the weird by mixin' up styles. With two tables full of electronic goodies like pedals, boxes, and, laptops and combining it with acoustic guitar sounds and a hardhitting drummer, FM Campers have been the Austin up-and-coming band to watch this year! Make sure you say hello to their fourth member, the subwoofer Lupus.

Last but not least - going to get to see some grindin' on the dance floor with this guy - DJ Teenage Wolf. (http://www.myspace.com/djteenagewolf) Playing two hour sets!

$5 Cover, from 8-2am

Drink specials all day/night!

"Adult" contests with prizes, wet tshirt contest, cool down kiddie pools filled with ??? and more.

Click do512 event listing.

Lady Legacy brings the 'Heat' to Freedom! A Juneteenth Celebration

Lady Legacy headlines a hot night of hip hop and spoken word with Whiteside the Poet

Friday, June 19, 2009
Cherrywood Coffeehouse
7-10 pm

Friday night was a hot one for music lovers at Cherrywood Coffeehouse, even with a breeze on the outdoor stage. DIY Revolution ends its hiatus since SXSW to bring highlights from one Juneteenth celebration in Austin, Texas from one music and poetry lover's perspective.

Pre-show Poetry Reading: Keep Your Hand On The Mic! Hold On!

It had been 16 years since a public reading, but I was compelled to share my love of African American Emancipation Day, bettter known as Juneteenth. It was a last minute surprise for everyone (including myself), but in the spirit of the holiday I opened the show with a reading of the poem that became lyrics to the Negro National Anthem, James Weldon Johnson's "Lift Every Voice and Sing". The song has become relegated to Black History Month events, but reading the words remind me just how far we have come as African-Americans and how these words led a generation through segregation, through protesting and marching for civil rights.

Next, I gave the audience a choice of poems by Johnson's fellow Harlem Renaissance writer, Langston Hughes. They chose "Freedom's Plow", a stirring lyrical history of America's common struggles and accomplishments, and ultimate freedom:

A long time ago,
An enslaved people heading toward freedom
Made up a song:
Keep Your Hand On The Plow! Hold On!

For last night's show, I exchanged the plow for the mic, but the sentiment is the same - freedom.

I didn't have enough time to read an original poem, but wanting to stay on topic, I ended my set with a brief, well known poem by Maya Angelou - "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings". Reading the book and meeting Angelou as a 16 year old aspiring writer inspired me to express myself freely with words.



Spoken Word: Yes, "We're Going to Mars" With Whiteside the Poet

Known for a lyrical flow of poetry that is all at once personal and universal, Whiteside the Poet delivered an uplifting set with hip hop beat accompaniment. Reading familiar and new poems and displaying a "spoken word artistry with hip hop sensibilities," the crowd was all in when invited to participate in "Sometimes I Wish I Was A Blind Man".



Whiteside ended the night with a poem inspired by a poem and lecture by Nikki Giovanni about the posibilities of space exploration (See "Quilting the Black Eyed Pea (We're Going to Mars)"). The poet took us to outer space - sharing a story of love, the choices we make (and the consequences) - ultimately suggesting the possibilities of leaving the world behind to discover something new.

At times there was laughter and cheer, as well as silent reflection throughout the poet's set. A friend suggested a name change to 'Whitside', to reflect some of the humor intrinsic in his poetry.



Hip Hop: Lady Legacy's 'HEAT' Set the Stage on Fire

After an impromptu freestyle led by Whiteside, everyone was warmed up for a rare Austin appearance by "Austin's Hottest Female Hip Hop Artist" Lady Legacy. The sole Texas winner of the SEA, Southern Entertainment Award, has been busy performing throughout the Southeast, and leading a summer Performance Art Camp, a program supported by
P4P- PositivityforPurpose.

The bodacious MC's signature song, "Heat" was definitely the highlight of the set - regulars and newcomers alike in the audience burned with excitement. (I could have sworn even a few dogs at the pet friendly coffeehouse were mesmerized.) The Lady kept it raw and real, and at one point explained rather than apologized to the mixed crowd: "You have to excuse me. Sometimes I talk dirty."

So to the naysayers who say hip hop isn't alive and thriving in Austin, TX - to risk triteness - you just had to be there last night. Lady Legacy started and finished with lyrical flows like the finest crystal, vintage 2009. Austin's premier female rapper has definitely had a lot to celebrate in addition to the freedom of a people, and we were privileged to toast her success on Juneteenth.

Yeah, you just had to be there.

SXSWeek Music Events That Won't Bust Your Budget

Part 1: Pre-SXSW Music and The Other Festivals, or
How to live like a V.I.P. SXSW badge holder and see the bands you love for free*

You may have received so many Facebook and MySpace invitations, you're not sure which event to RSVP to even with SXSW just days away. SXSW Interactive and Film festivals are happening as of today, and maybe you don't have a badge, or even a pass before the flurry of folks with music badges and wristbands make it nearly impossible to see your favorite new band.

Well, I've got some good news for you: There will be plenty of parties, day and night, to schedule in a few favorites - and a lot of them aren't official showcases. Many bands participating officially in SXSW are aware most of their true fans won't be at these shows, but really want a chance to see and hear them live. They're joining forces with (mostly local) bands that have become disenfranchised from the SXSW dynasty. Some are signing up for alternative festivals coinciding (uncoincidentally) with SXSW Music.

The result?

Awesome pre-SXSW shows and alternative showcases during the fest - and we're benefiting from the music mutiny. (Or is it musical disobedience?)

OK - end of introduction. Here's a list of festivals and mini-festivals preceding and coinciding with SXSW (Saturday, March 13 - Tuesday, March 17 and beyond).


Friday, March 13 (8 pm - 2 am)



Nothing Sucks Anymore, Again Fest @ Club 1808. According to Audra Schroeder (Austin Chronicle): "The name of this gig sums up the current state of music with tongue firmly in cheek... " The quality meets variety lineup also sums up the state of this one night only festival preceding SXSW Music 2009. Only $5.

Friday, March 13 - Sunday, March 15 (9 pm - 2am each night)



Psych Fest II @ Radio Room, 3 days, $15: Co-Sponsor Live Music Capitol has the scoop on all the action starting tonight at the Radio Room. There may even still be a chance to score a free pass or two. Heck, I'm not a big psychedelic rock fan, but there are more than few bands I'd love to hear at this cool drone fest, featuring underground/cult drug flick classics projected by curator and Austin Underground Film Society head Andy Gately. There may even be an after-party. Drone on...


Saturday, March 14 (9 pm-2 am)



The Strange Boys. Photo by diydanna.

Gigotron Best of Texas Party @ Emo's. It's free, and if I dared leave my party early this Saturday, this is probably where I'd be (to see Finally Punk).


Tuesday, March 17 (7 pm-2 am)



South by South DEATH is 1 night only @ Elysium, 7 bands, and only $5. A cool lineup of locals and foreign imports resist the man - I mean, SXSW. At least you know where they stand. Ume headlines.


Tuesday, March 17 (5:30-10 pm)



Tejas Means Friends Party @ Ms. Bea's. They had me at FREE. OK, maybe it's the lineup and the fact that this could be one of the very best Pre-SXSW Music bashes ever. All ages welcome. How friendly... Visit the venue's MySpace profile for details, or check them out with the events app on Facebook.


Saturday, March 14 - Saturday, March 20(?) (7 pm-2 am each night)

?

Yeast by Sweet Beast - $5/super lineup per night. What a cool, sexy and disturbing pun... The self described "outsider" festival (now in its 9th year) is happening before, during but not after SXSW. Facebook seems to be the best way to get details about locations (Salvage Vanguard Theatre and Plush), lineup and times. It's definitely a wildcard pick, with a spectrum of experimental sounds. Presented by Church of the Friendly Ghost.


Enjoy your weekend, whatever you do.


Recommended Sites for Building Your SXSW Music Itinerary on a Budget:

Austin Chronicle - I heard from a reliable source that the AC will feature more free parties this year. One of the perks of a recession?

Decider - Bookmark this site. As the name suggests, you have little fuss about which day party, showcase or after-party to attend. (And Decider some of the best staff and contributing writers in town. ;-)

Do512 - They save you a lot of time, and even include a cool SXSW edition and widget you can schedule your events without all the hassle.

INsite - Austin's other entertainment rag dismisses all the SXSW hoopla in favor of a growing festival that's as big as the Heart of Texas. The magazine has a handy March issue that also serves as a guide for the festival Better known as Texas Rockfest, now celebrating it's 10th year of rocking without a badge, R.S.V.P., wristband or badge. (Not that there's anything wrong with that.)

New Music Tip Sheet - A once a year phenomena that sifts through press releases, bulletins and internet research to provide a handy list of (mostly) free events. It's like Christmas for the Ebenezer Scrooge's of the world.

Showlist Austin - A personal favorite for many reasons. If you want a lot of exposition, don't stop here. If you want a fairly accurate list of free shows that rock, stop here.

MakeMusic TalkMusic: Interactive Party @ Beauty Bar Sat. 3/14

Saturday, March 14, 2009 @ Beauty Bar – MakeMusic TalkMusic presents a truly interactive evening of music, films, robots – and dancing – during SXSW Interactive and Film. Live music, world premiere videos screenings, and Maker Faire-friendly demos culminate in memorable talk of crunk sounds, staggering sights, and things that go bleep.


Music meets the talk of the blogosphere @ MakeMusic TalkMusic

Indie music makers known for dynamic live performances highlight the party: Headliner Peel, a pop band with an experimental, art & craft approach to music, is not afraid make some noise. With an electronica alter ego the size of Texas, MVSCLZ hearkens the last days of disco and Studio 54 while not losing a future-minded boldness. Computer synthesized tunes don’t hold back the anti-Ritalin effects of electro/funk MC Neiliyo, who gets the party started after a short program of entertaining local films.

World Premiere Short Video Programs

For your viewing pleasure: An original short program from exciting Austin filmmaker BLACK MAGIC ROLLERCOASTER, eclectic media & visual art by Totally Wreck Production Institute, and a surprise short selection from M.A.L.I. Women's Film & Performance Arts Festival screen at MakeMusic TalkMusic throughout the night. M.A.L.I. Representatives will be present to talk about the 9^th annual event happening in May.

Live Interactive Robot Demo – Thingamagoop

Because it's not really an interactive party without robots, right? Creative robot tinkerer John-Mike Reed of Bleep Labs provides a cool noise robot display, customizable and available for purchase online. During the music performances, look for a noise bot to join in, maybe during a Peel guitar solo.

After The Show – DJ Mel in Residence

Immediately following MakeMusic TalkMusic interactive program: World-renowned turntablist DJ Mel mixes music just right, and every Saturday night at Beauty Bar. Hit the dance floor after midnight – and resist doing the robot dance.

Beauty Bar

617 E 7^th St

Doors: 9 pm

Interactive party begins @ 10 pm.

DJ Mel spins shortly after midnight.

21+, Free. NO SXSW Interactive/Film badge, wristband, or RSVP required.

Google Map & Directions

Sponsored by DIY Danna Communications – a copywriting service, zine publisher, and more; Make Magazine – “technology on your time”; M.A.L.I. (Media Arts & Literacy Institute); and interactive party participants.

Information: MakeMusicTalkMusic@gmail.com

An Entire Month Without DIY Revolution?

New logo for the blog & zine publisher. Warning: Handing out biz card versions during SXSW.

Consider February a holiday for diy revolution. Little did we know there are a few folks who read this blog. We apologize for virtually ignoring the independent local music and arts scene, and the spam that filtered through last month. Some of us (actually, all of us) were busy with the daily tasks of earning a living wage for work and finding a new day job.

To make it up to you we're posting information and commentary about local events at least once a week, every week, through June.

We've got a few exciting events to promote, so don't erase us from your "bookmarks" just yet.

Get Exposed to the Local Art Scene

Art Seen Alliance Presents Exposure Exhibit Tonight
Friday, 9 January 2009

Do-it-yourself, independent, or non-commercial artists need out support, and it's great when Austinites form an alliance dedicated to promoting individual artists. Art Seen Alliance epitomizes this dedicated spirit.

According to their web site, this organization "is engaged in cultivating artistic and cultural endeavors of all sorts. Our goal is simply to help artists get their art seen, facilitate making art, and bring art to places it is typically not seen."

The alliance engages in exposing Austin to photographers who bring different p.o.v.'s to local art. Meet these artists and view their work at the exhibit opener downtown tonight at one of those atypical places, IF+D (Innovation Flooring and Design). Entertainment from the illustrious DJ Chicken George highlights the reception. What a great way to expose yourself to Austin's art scene.

If you are a local artist seeking assistance in creating and displaying your work, contact Art Seen's director Warren McKinney through their web site form.

Exposure Opening Reception
6-10 PM Fri. 10 Jan.
IF+D
208 Colorado
Austin, TX 78701
Map and Directions

Thanks to Carl Webb and yelp.com for sharing about this event.

Three Free Weekenders @ Club DeVille: Thur. 8 - Sat. 10 Jan.

Loxsly, Haunting Oboe Music, and Peel - Thur., 8/01



La Snacks, The Weird Weeds, Cry Blood Apache, DJ Miss Manners - Fri., 9/01



Shapes Have Fangs, Cavedweller, and the Legendary Rockin' Rock City Rockingtons - Sat., 10/01

The Austin New Year tradition of Free Week began at Emo's; now other live music venues on Red River follow the tradition, under the inspiration and guidance of Emo's booking alumnus Graham Williams who now works with Transmission Entertainment. Beauty Bar, Club De Ville, Emo's, Mohawk, and Red 7 all take part in Free Week, lasting Thursday, January 2nd - Saturday, January 10th.

Transmission Entertainment presents a crunk and eclectic mix of indie music on two nights at Club De Ville worth mentioning. With all the hoopla about The Lemurs, What Made Milwaukee Famous, and Riverboat Gamblers, it's great seeing the lesser known - but equally talented - locals getting their props.

Thursday night, aural teasers Loxsly kick off a busy month with the mercurial Haunting Oboe Music, and live show rarity Peel opens, still pushing the underrated self-released EP August Exhaust Pipes.

On Friday, La Snacks play smart indie standards from the debut LP and Newfangled EP. The Weird Weeds experimentally sound off with songs from 2008's I Miss This, and Cry Blood Apache surprise local music lovers by not crashing the party. KOOP's Hip Hop Hooray host DJ Miss Manners spins between sets.

Saturday, the final night of Free Week, brings a retro garage rock vibe with 21st century verve. Master tape & reel recorders Shapes Have Fangs bring a new bag, with the acid-tinged folk rock of Cavedweller, and heavy-named The Legendary Rockin' Rock City Rockingtons. Some of us can only guess this band rocks.

Club De Ville
900 Red River
Austin, TX
Map and Directions

Have fun during the rest of Free Week, no matter what you do.

Cherrywood Art Fair @ Maplewood Elementary (Sat. & Sun, Dec.13-14)

Art Corsage/Pin by Austin based designer and artist One Creative Girl

CAF: Helping students connect with art - and you buy unique holiday gifts

If you missed the well organized and musical Wheatsville Arts Festival, no worries - there are at least two arts & crafts festivals where you can find original gifts this holiday season, both happening this weekend. The twelve days of Christmas starts with the 2nd Annual Keep Austin Bizarre Bazaar at the Palmer Event Center tomorrow (featured vendor interview next week), and the charitable Cherrywood Art Fair, commencing Saturday morning. Musical acts make it a festive holiday party, with artist and musician Ethan Azarian (Orange Mothers) performing at 5 pm on Saturday.



Go to cherrywoodartfair.org for more info, including participating artists and musicians.

Have fun this weekend, whatever you do.

The Unofficial E.A.S.T. Afterparty: 3rd Annual Backyard Art @ The G-Spot

Backyard Art @ The G-Spot is an annual art party sponsored by the oldest craft brewery in Texas, Saint Arnold Brewing Company. It's free to the public, and a great way to spend a Saturday and buy cool and weird local art in East Austin.

I sat on this news for a few weeks, and now the event is only two days away. (Better late than never?)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 22, 2008

Third Annual "Backyard Art @ the G-Spot"
The Unofficial E.A.S.T Afterparty

One Night Only: Saturday, November 22, 2008
500 W. O'Dell, 5 p.m. to Midnight
Free Admission - Open to the Public

AUSTIN, TEXAS – Each fall, Austin artist and musician Colleen Gugan opens her backyard and art studio to the public for an evening to host "Backyard Art @ the G-Spot", an intimate and magical celebration of local art and music, rooted firmly in the "Keep Austin Weird" ethos. Starting at 5:00 p.m., at the close of the first day of the East Austin Studio Tour, "Backyard Art @ the G-Spot" serves as the unofficial 2008 E.A.S.T after-party—an art crawl with all of the art and none of the crawl, just west of I-35.

Ms. Gugan started "Backyard Art @ the G-Spot" three years ago out of a strong desire to give a voice to established and promising artists in a nurturing and inspiring environment. Those who have attended this show in previous years have learned to expect the unexpected with many artistic mediums on display – ceramics, collage, drawings, paintings, paper maché, photography, printmaking, silkscreening and sculpture, as well as experimental works comprised of discarded, found and broken items that defy description.

The show includes the following artists (subject to change):

The Amazing Hancock Brothers - Penny Van Horn – Edmo - John Weik - Colleen Gugan
Steve Landry - Bob Bechtol - Shelly Dread – Simon McCann - Vicki Fussell - Caroline Homer
Jason Huerta - Joe Caldwell – Henry Reynolds – Chantal Erie – Laura Tabor-Huerta

Long-time Austin performance artist Janine de Luna-Azul will perform her latest work, "What? This Old Thing?"—the musings, reflections and hopes of an obsessive-compulsive "80's hipster artist" moving into middle age and fighting it all the way. Also scheduled to perform are local bands Attic Ted, DD Dagger, and Candi and the Cavities; Dennis Campa of KOOP 91.7 FM's "Adventures in Sound" will DJ between sets. Beer will be provided, courtesy of the oldest craft brewery in Texas, Saint Arnold Brewing Company.

For more information, contact Caroline Homer at carolinehomer@gmail.com or 512-300-9693.

Fuzzy Portal Unlimited (organizers of "Backyard Art @ the G-Spot") is an all-volunteer, artist-run collective headed by Austin artist and musician Colleen Gugan, devoted to providing Austin artists, musicians and performers with an opportunity to speak and be heard, see and be seen, inspire and be inspired, no holds barred.

4aaasp! Today @ Salvage Vanguard Theater

Another analog synth & primary color friendly festival founded and sponsored by Chad A: (Mutating Meltdown, Low Red Center, Zom Zoms and Oblong Boys) is happening from 3-6 pm today at the Salvage Vanguard Theater. You and your friends are encouraged to b.y.o. analog synths, stands, headphones, and power strips. Live musical performances by Low Red Center, Operation Playmate, and Douglas Ferguson happen after 6 o'clock.


Music From Outer Space Soundlab and modular - 3aaasp. Photo by Zonkout (a.k.a. Chad A:)

4aaasp (4th Annual Austin Analog Synthesizer Party)
3-10 pm
Sunday, 16 November 2008
Salvage Vanguard Theater
2803 Manor Rd, 78722

It's the perfect Sunday event I wish I could attend this year, but my time will be spent working on a paying project. Perhaps Chad A: and company will post a video and a few cool photos in lieu of a review?

~ diy danna

In honor 4aaasp!, diy revolution is posting a 24-hour free mp3 download of a local synth-pop tune "Bright Colors", by the band formerly known as Things That Go Pop. It's available on their eponymous debut LP which received radio play on KVRX, KOOP, and 101X's The Next Big Thing way back in 2005.