diy revolution • do-it-yourself art and entertainment • austin, tx

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

2011-10-28T16:32:00.000-05:00

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)

2011-10-17T11:56:00.000-05:00

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

2011-10-16T00:22:00.000-05:00

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)

2011-10-14T18:20:00.000-05:00

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)

2011-10-13T22:52:00.000-05:00

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

2011-10-12T00:34:00.000-05:00

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!

2011-03-27T10:54:00.007-05:00

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

2011-03-20T10:31:00.012-05:00

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

2010-10-03T13:12:00.000-05:00

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

2009-09-29T10:36:00.000-05:00

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

2009-08-08T18:40:00.001-05:00

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

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

2009-07-03T18:31:00.001-05:00

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

2009-07-01T00:30:00.002-05:00

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

2009-06-20T19:29:00.028-05:00

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

2009-03-13T00:01:00.011-05:00

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

2009-03-04T16:41:00.012-06:00

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?

2009-03-04T16:20:00.005-06:00

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

2009-01-09T11:58:00.007-06:00

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.

2009-01-08T16:55:00.005-06:00

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)

2008-12-11T12:47:00.010-06:00

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

2008-11-20T19:03:00.014-06:00

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

2008-11-16T13:45:00.012-06:00

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.

Experience A "Third Life" by Ben Aqua @ CRL (Thursday-Saturday, November 6-8)

2008-11-05T19:33:00.009-06:00

Austin artist Ben Aqua is a well-known visual and performance artist, photographer, DJ, and musician with a distincive talent for juxtaposing the familiar with the alien. Aqua recently completed a new work, "Third Life", is based on geometrical figures and Michaelangelo's famous hand of God, which ponders the future of the human race according to his blog, aquabotic.com. It's part of an 8 artist exhibit FUTURE PROLOGUES: The Compression of Post-Pop Narratives into Non-Space and Pre-Time. The artists are part of a collective called Totally Wreck Institute, formed five years ago to promote art on the "fringe"-off the beaten local art path.

Aqua's Future Prologues installment is available for public view through Saturday, November 8th at the Creative Research Lab, part of the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Texas at Austin, and a diamond in the rough local art space.

CALL FOR "THIRD LIFE" VOLUNTEERS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6TH

Ben Aqua calling for volunteers to participate in a special "cosmic" photographic portion of the exhibit Thursday night. To find out how you can become a part of "Third Life", e-mail ben@benaqua.org by 8 pm tomorrow.

EXHIBIT LOCATION & HOURS:

Creative Research Lab - UT Austin
2832 E Martin Luther King Jr.
Austin, TX 78702
Tue.-Sat. 12-5 pm

Support local art - make a date with a museum or gallery in Austin.

~ Danna

The Weekend Starts Today With 'Newfangled' Music and Recycled Fashion

2008-10-10T15:03:00.001-05:00

Hallelujah, praise geezus - La Snacks' "Newfangled" EP is released!

Yes, another d-i-y friendly and fun weekend in Austin starts today with two events: A "go green" fashion show and after-party for Treasure City Thrift Store, and a hot new release party for your favorite smart indie rockers (and mine) La Snacks at the Mohawk-with a free copy of the EP upon entry. Read on, dear readers, read on...

Treasure City Thrift Store Fashion Show 7 pm

If I can escape from suburbia soon enough, I'll be here to see the latest fashion from the fashionable thrift store Treasure City. If you live in Austin, you may have noticed a fashion trend-from musicians to hipsters to techies. More recycled, or "vintage" clothes and accessories. I'm no fashionista, but even I joined the recycled fashion movement when hosting a fab party for Lipstick Pages with Blue Velvet at the Beauty Bar this spring. The trend explodes this fall with a hot fashion show courtesy of Mike Litt and Treasure City.

There's a dance warm-up with The Bomb Squad, and DJ Bullet rocks the store runway with recycled fashion at 8 o'clock, with a live music filled after-party at 10 pm. Victory Grill presents indie rockers The Always Ready, Sunset, and hip hop upstarts Blacklisted Individuals, and Damp Heat. It's just a $5 donation at the door to party with the bands till last call.

Treasure City Thrift
1720 E. 12th St.

Victory Grill
1104 E 11th St
Austin, TX 78702

Where I'm making tracks to after the fashion show:

La Snacks "Newfangled" EP Launch Tonight @ Mohawk 10 pm

You can't beat the deal-a free copy of La Snacks' Newfangled EP with admission to one of the hottest local music showcases in town. La Snacks has a bang-up new drummer Jimmy Evans, one-half of Ambient/Crunk/Ghettotech experimentalists Transmography. Evans and his musical half Michael Frazier (on keyboards, vocals, and everything + the kitchen sink) are releasing new music tonight too - a cassette (of course!)- and limited edition collection of tunes recorded since Polydactyl. Check out "Car Commercial" and you will hear why the Austin Chronicle called their sound "as bizarre as it is beautiful..." Indie pop hip chicks Follow That Bird! and Stay Gold DJ John Gross set the stage for an engaging mix of musical art and craft.

Have a fun this weekend, whatever you do.

HAAM Benefit Day: How You Can Help Local Musicians Get Health Care

2008-10-07T12:24:00.005-05:00

"HAAM is an amazing gift to the Austin music community!" - Kimberly Freeman, a.k.a. One-Eyed Doll

The live music capital buzzes throughout the week, every day of the year, but this Tuesday is special. It's HAAM-the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians-benefit day. By local music lovers giving just a little, we can help our musiciams a lot. I've been out of the loop for the past week, recovering from illness (not ACL dust and allergen related) and our other blogger is missing in action, focused on his band and other projects. But I'll plug for new bloggers here (and on Craig's List) later. This is all about HAAM.

Many fine partners or sponsors, local businesses that have benefitted from local music, are contributing at least 5% of proceeds (in the form of sales) to HAAM today. Some of these donors are welcoming musicians to perform in-store, so it's a special treat for customers. The schedule and map of activities for the day was a bit overwhelming for us at such short notice, but we encourage youour readers (all 10 of you if we're lucky) to visit the HAAM web site @ www.austinmusicianshealth.org and click on the updated schedule and interactive map.

I'm not certain HAAM partner ME Television is hosting a telethon this year, possibly due to programming and financial difficulties. ME raised $10,000 in 2007, but this year it seems they're too busy posting VH1 news, like Eminem being crowned "Best Rapper Alive" by Vibe magazine, to help local rappers. Joking aside, I don't (and can't) watch much ME to know. With a lack of a telethon to promote, and on such short notice, I'm not sure which events to recommend. Despite the lack of preparation I managed to come up with a few highlights of HAAM Benefit Day for those looking to help Austin musicians get the health care they need, so they can keep giving us the music we want:

Amy's Ice Cream

Not sure if there will be any live performances, but who really cares when there's ice cream? Today is a good excuse to get premium ice cream with all your favorite mix-ins, and your heart and mind will feel as good as your tastebuds with some of the proceeds going to HAAM. Check the web site amysicecreams.com for nearest locations and hours. (Don't forget to tip your scooper.)

Waterloo Records

Famous for in-store performances, the stage will be set for two afternoon performances at Waterloo, the largest independently owned music store in Austin-and Texas. Customers enjoy listening to live music while they select music from the extensive stock of music - international icons and local wonders that aren't separated by genre or geography. Well, maybe a little geography... musical shell game artists Asylum St. Spankers and the honky-tonk Derailers are two mega-popular Austin bands that may amuse and rock you. Get there before 4:30 this afternoon to browse and buy.

Antone's

At post time, I somehow misplaced my detailed notes about the benefit at Antone's. But trust me, there is something going on at the legendary rock, rhythm and blues club tonight at 8:00. Go to their web site www.antones.net for details.

Room 710

It's a night of full throttle rock 'n' roll. Dixie Witch, Tia Carrera, Adrian & the Sickness headline with cover proceeds going to HAAM. I'm a fan of one of the hottest rockers in town, Adrian, so this show comes with a gracious recommendation to experience her band live for a very good cause. Room 710 is a 18+ and non-smoking venue in the heart of the Red River entertainment district. They serve beer and mix two of my my favorite drinks very well-ask for the Cape Cod and Dreamsicle. Not sure of the cost and when the fun begins, but a typical show at Room 710 starts at 10:00 or 10:30, with doors open at 9:00. Go to Room710.net, myspace.com/room_710, or give them a call this evening at 512-476-0997.

Unfortunately I don't have a clue what's going on in the local underground, experimental or avant-garde music scenes to benefit HAAM. But if I excavate the internet enough before tonight, I'll post an update.

Have a happy HAAM day!

A Free Alternative to ACL: Freewater Festival at Clementine's Saturday September 27th

2008-09-26T19:45:00.005-05:00

Plutonium Farmers bring the freshest surf rock to Clementine Coffee Bar.

The Freewater Festival - Free Music, Free Water - is a good alternative to Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL Fest) , especially if you subscribe to the Poor Girl's Guide to Austin, like me. Eight bands, artists, and surprise fun on two stages, plus good coffee and food by Clementine is happening this Saturday at the darling coffee bar central/east Austin. You can probably avoid traffic from the game and festival if you skip the downtown streets and stay off IH-35.

Freewater is inspired by the once free-spirit music festival that was an offspring of the popular KLRU (PBS) series. According to a few critics, ACL Fest is quickly becoming a festival of corporate proportion, exclusively webcast by AT&T, censors of Pearl Jam, a band who dared critized Bush during a live performance last summer. There have been increased restrictions at the festival, and getting a good deal, like free water in the sometimes overbearing heat at the 3-day music fest is becoming as elusive as winning a golden ticket in a Wonka bar.

ACL Fest is still considered a great time for many music lovers, so don't mistake my complaints for a lack of enthusiasm about many of the performances on the stages and at after-shows. I'm not attending the fest this year at Zilker Park, but I'm watching a some bands thanks to the live AT&T webcast, which I've read won't be censored like the Pearl Jam debacle. It's just nice to know at least one venue in Austin still embraces the do-it-yourself ethic of musical talent, without a corporation to back its progress. That's part of what cultural diversity is all about - having options in the arts and entertainment, including music.

Add the Freewater Festival to your busy Do512 calendar this weekend.

And what diverse sets! Bands and solo artists include: Plutonium Farmers, L.A. Dies, Canopy, Ella Minnow (Denton), Elisa Ferrari, Household Names, Clint Niosi (Fort Worth) and FM Campers. Everything from newborn electro thrash to the rebirth of surf rock - and it's free.

I'm sure there are other unofficial ACL Fest after-shows going on, so support local and visiting musicians by checking out listings in your favorite weekend entertainment guide, or make Freewater your place to be this Saturday.

Freewater Festival
5pm-12am
Clementine Coffee Bar
2200 Manor
Austin, TX 78722
(Click here for map and directions.)

Have a fun and safe weekend, no matter what you do.

Music Outside The Box: A Weekend w/ The Box Set at Emo's - And More

2008-09-10T23:54:00.015-05:00

:

The Box Set blows into Austin, TX - Saturday 13 September @ Emo's Lounge.

Despite Hurricane Ike barreling toward Texas, there's a lot of music happening here in the live music capital. It can all be overwhelming sometimes, finding just a few d-i-y and truly indie label bands to blog about, but with a little inspiration - like nature brewing up a storm - the choices become a little bit easier. Thanks to one storm, The Box Set (Beaumont, TX) may have an unexpected entourage from Southeast Texas Saturday night at Emo's. But I'm getting a bit ahead of myself. I'd like to make a few weekend recommendations, starting with Friday night.

What's going on Friday, September 12th at Beerland:

Tsu Shi Ma Mi Re join forces with Powerpuff Girls, both celebrating 10 years with a CD!

If you missed the hard rock candy of Lick Lick (Australian Cattle God Records) at Make Austin Weirder Fest last Saturday, don't sweat it - you can hear them headline a night of tsunami force rock with Tsu Shi Ma Mi Re, and The Captains (both on tour from Tokyo, Japan), plus the delightfully noisy pop of Peel (Peek-A-Boo Records) opening the show.

711 1/2 Red River St.
Austin, TX 78701
21+/$? (Call 512-479-7625 )
Doors: 9 pm

On Saturday, September 13th you can catch a double feature - two venues for the price of one:

The Lovely Sparrows (Abandoned Love Records) perform live at End of an Ear records at 6 pm. I first heard the rolling acoustic cast of musicians at Emo's two years ago, and was as impressed by their enchanting simplicity as much as their numbers. Shows at the best little record shop in Austin are always free, but browse and buy - and feel free to ask the courteous, knowledgeable staff if they can order something for you. Based on personal experience, they can and will.

According to a MySpace update, The Lovely Sparrows show at End of an Ear has been cancelled and rescheduled:

"The in-store for tomorrow at End of an Ear has been rescheduled due to the hurricane, and band members not being able to get into Austin due to the storm! It will now take place next Saturday, September 20th at 6pm."

The band's official CD release is still happening at Emo's next Tuesday, September 16th at 9 pm.

Tickets are still available through ticketweb.com.

September 13th Beaumont based The Box Set makes a live performance debut out-of-town. I'm not sure how they sound (no demos on the MySpace page yet), but the duo's resume makes them the perfect powerpop 'n' rock match you won't want to miss this weekend. Jamey Matte played drums for smart indie rock La Snacks, and once all-female punk band Small Town Massacre, and Poppy Robbie was formerly part of The Koopas and Southeast Texas wunderkinds Joe Jitsu. If you want hyperbole where a hyped impression of their sound might be here it is: The Box Set may be the musical Woody Allen and Diane Keaton, or Mike Nichols and Elaine May. They are special guests of pop/rock duo Wreckless Eric & Amy Rigby (Stiff Records), two powerful solo artists from the U.K. and U.S., respectively. They're pairing for a tour in both countries to support their self-titled album, released last week.

Sunday, September 14th: Not Your Average Church-going Sunday

Sunday evening at 7:30, Austin music mainstay Church of the Friendly Ghost sponsors an evening of entertainment with Nick Hennies (The Weird Weeds) performing a solo percussion set at the Salvage Vanguard Theater. His show marks the first of five performances in the "Open Spaces" series sponsored by the group. The cover for this rare performance is $5. Since there will be additional musicians playing, I'll be sure to post an update. If you're interested in volunteering for Church of the Friendly Ghost, go to www.churchofthefriendlyghost.org. The organization helps keep Austin music alive and original, so they're taking part in a benefit, Party on the Vanguard, to help keep a rare arts & entertainment space open. The party happens Saturday, September 20th, so diy revolution will have an update next week.

Have a great weekend, whatever you do.

~ diy danna

Believe The Hype: Audible Hype Offers Valuable DIY Hip Hop Resources in Hard Times

2008-09-05T14:22:00.001-05:00

?uestlove of The Roots: Professor of DIY Hip Hop Marketing & Promotion @ Audible Hype U.

I won't bore you by bragging about Audible Hype. It's one of the very few do-it-yourself music blogs I take the time to read, and it's simply a good resource for d-i-y musicians trying to make a living doing something they love - without falling back on the day job. You have to admire a blog that states it's all about "DIY Marketing and Promotion for broke rappers, DJs, and musicians".

In August, Audible Hype blogger Justin Boland (a.k.a. Humpasaur Jones), introduced a series of interviews with illustrious and independent Hip Hop heads that offer their research and experiences as a tool for musicians who don't have a clue about marketing themselves, or don't think they have the time to read and research it for themselves. (Not that this is necessary.) Boland is part of anarchic hip hop label/collective World-Around Records, and uses their experience as a model for the blog. And they are connected in the music community, offering insightful interviews with musicians turned diy marketing experts.

Read Audible Hype's latest: Getting Ready for a Long Cold Winter, which discusses the cold, hard realities of being an underground, diy rapper in failing economy. And check out the DIY Hip Hop Business Master Class, if you want to graduate with more than diploma paper. This post features instruction by one of the members of my favorite bands in the wide world of hip hop, The Roots.

May I also suggest reading our pick for diy music and weekend fun this Saturday in downtown Austin? (See below.)

Have a fun - and safe - weekend, no matter what you do.

Your Immodest DIY Muse,

~ diy danna

Wave Your Freak Flag This Saturday at Make Austin Weirder Fest!

2008-09-03T16:15:00.002-05:00

Ain't no party like a weirdo party 'cause a weirdo party always rocks...

Hanging out in the lobby of the Alamo Ritz after Music Monday was a serendipitous moment. I spoke with and hugged one of the outrageous HUG dancers who thanked me for the three-disc retro review of HUG in Whoopsy! What a great memory he has, because that was a few years ago, when the Make Austin Weirder Fest was just a tiny, freaky toddler. Oh, and how it is growing into a big freak music fest, one worthy of a mention in national press. (See SPIN Magazine, July '06.) And this summer, according to the Austin Chronicle: "Hug leads the [freak] parade, with Lick Lick, Attic Ted, the Jazzus Lizard, and more in tow."

HUG photo by Caroline Homer

You can get weirder all day long this Saturday, 6 September at Lovejoy's starting at 3 pm. HUG hits the stage around 11 pm, but you probably want to get there early to get your freak on with lounge quartet The Jazzus Lizard, ambient experimental rocker Steve Marsh, also known as Radar Cave, diy revolution artists of the month (July) Attic Ted, a punk/country band that could be Napoleon Dynamite's worst enemy - Zero Skills, Inc., freaky death metal outfit Death Hell Battle Tank, the psychedelic riffing of Crapulence, and Lick Lick, the rock 'n' roll band that has been kicking ass since a tour of Japan, performing at 10 o'clock. Oh - I almost forgot to mention: It's FREE!

MAKE AUSTIN WEIRDER FEST
3pm-Midnight
Saturday, 6 September 2008
LOVEJOY'S
604 Neches St.
Austin, TX 78701

Come on over to Lovejoy's this Saturday and get your freak on!

~ double d

Vote for the Best of Austin

2008-08-25T17:45:00.003-05:00

Have you voted in the Austin Chronicle Best of 2008 poll yet?

The Austin Chronicle is back with their annual poll, where readers can bestow honor among their favorite people, places, and things in Austin. I've already cast my vote, but I wanted to make a few recommendations in the Arts & Entertainment category:

Scenester/Mover and Shaker: Jerm Pollet - From music to comedy to hawking Italian ices, this guy makes Austin more entertaining for the rest of us.

Art Gallery: Okay Mountain - A small space with big talent, welcoming local and international artists - and they're music friendly too!

Museum: Blanton - No explanation needed.

Place to See Local Art: United States Art Authority - Instead of drawing plasma, this space draws a crowd for eclectic art.

Performance Space: Salvage Vanguard Theater

Comedy/Improv Troupe: I was torn between Master Pancake and Coldtowne Theater, so I flipped a coin, and Master Pancake won!

Comedian: Shannon McCormick - A master of improv comedy and co-founder /co-producer of Out of Bounds Improv Festival, which now includes stand-up and sketch comedy.

Movie Theatre: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema - Ritz - The new downtown location is not just a great escape from central Texas heat, but an escape from the boring cinema giants in shopping malls and off the highways, especially when you don't just want to see a summer blockbuster. Good service and food, too!

Emergent Local Filmmaker: Thomas Humphreys - Known for directing and editing video shorts of cinematic quality, eye-popping trailers, and catchy music videos, he's a versatile talent awarded numerous times for his work, competing among international filmmakers. Humphreys is best known as one of the talents in Black Magic Rollercoaster (see Filmmaking Frenzy).

Film Series: I won't mention my final vote, but it came down to Weird Wednesday with Lars Nilsen and Terror Thursday w/ Zack Carlson. Both series (and hosts) make watching movies more engaging with knowledgeable and funny introductions, and special programs and appearances within the series (celebrated directors, writers, and actors). Both series are awesome - and free - so that made it a tough pick.

Karaoke: Rock 'n' Roll Karaoke @ Beerland. I haven't been yet - but I hear it's a lot of fun on a Monday night!

I won't post all my Media picks, but I'd like to suggest Owen Egerton for best author/poet, Sean Claes for best journalist, Austin's INsite for best non-Chronicle publication, and myself for best blogger.

Vote for your favorites here:

http://www.austinchronicle.com/feedback/bestof/08/

You can also cast a vote for a special category, like Best Open Art Space: Austin's Enchanted Forest.

~diy danna

Out of Town: Connect The Dots Music Festival in Beaumont, Texas

2008-08-22T15:45:00.002-05:00

The live music capital meets home of Spindeltop. Get details about the inaugural fest here.

I was raised in Beaumont, so I can make fun of it. Most of my friends know my cute nickname for the home of the first big oil gush known as Spindletop. There are a few exceptions to the rule that nothing exciting happens in Boremont unless it's the fair or a refinery accident. But this weekend I have to figuratively eat the nickname of the town that lies 90 miles east of Houston. all thanks to Connect the Dots Festival.

One of the few cool music haunts in my hometown, The Vortex, is opening its doors for an exciting mix of Austin based acts, some which still have roots in Boremont - I mean Beaumont. (Some habits are hard to break.) he bar that boasts the best sound guy in the world, also known to me as fellow La Snacks fan Chad, welcomes 11 bands in 2 nights. Known for showcasing Southeast Texas indie rockers like the former Joe Jitsu, and touring Austin bands like Flametrick Subs, The Vortex coordinated the best new Texas music fest with some smart young man who has ties to Austin and Beaumont music scenes. It was easy to connect the dots, crossing styles and geography to deliver two nights of music I highly recommend.

You may click on the links to hear the bands, or visit the official Connect The Dots site for fest details:

Tonight, 22 August

La Snacks (1 am)
Pataphysics (12 am)
Sharks From Space (11 pm)
Meryll (10 pm)
Uptown (9 pm)
DJ Totally Trash (8 pm - Doors Open)

Saturday, 23 August

Ringo Deathstarr (1 am)
Transmography (12 am)
Molly Maguires (11 pm)
Daniel Francis Doyle (10 pm)
We Were Wolves (9 pm)
DJ Totally Trash (8 pm)

The price ($10) more than makes up for the price of gas if you're traveling from Austin. If you pack quickly and head out soon, you'll probably get to hear the first band. Advance tickets are still available through Frontgate, but you can pay at the door. If you can't make the music fest, check out the bands above anyway. Some offer mp3 downloads of music you can enjoy wherever you are.

~ diy danna

Save Austin's Enchanted Forest @ Ruta Maya Tomorrow

2008-08-13T17:54:00.006-05:00

Click on the sign for updates and to sign the petition. Help save this invaluable art, craft, and music space in Austin!

Wednesdays are the days I usually don't blog. On MySpace I started a personal trend when I'd repost someone else's blog or just a link to a blog or article that may or may not have any social relevance or importance. It became "Lazy Blogger Wednesday". Today I honor that lazy tradition in this rare Wednesday post, ripped from MySpace:

----------------- Bulletin Message -----------------
From: AUSTIN ENCHANTED FOREST
Date: Aug 13, 2008 1:57 PM

Hosted By: The Enchanted Forest Austin
When: Thursday Aug 14, 2008
at 8:00 PM
Where: Ruta Maya
3601 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States
Description:
The Enchanted Forest Austin

Click Here To View Event
~SAVE THE ENCHANTED FOREST~
www. myspace. com/austinenchantedforest
Benefit Show & Dance Party
Thursday, August 14th, 8pm-1am
RUTA MAYA
3601 South Congress Ave.
www. myspace. com/rutamaya

$15 Suggested Donation
We'll take more and we'll take less! Just be there to show your support, sign the petition and give what you can!
Please Repost & Help spread The Word!!

Hosted By
Ararat Mid-East Fusion
www. myspace. com/araratrestaurant
Come hungry!
Arawraps & Pastries available from 8pm-12am

Mistress Of Ceremonies
Jamie Teer

~ 8:00 ~
Doors Open With An Enchanting Artist's Bazaar Filled With
Intuitive Readings, Prayer Hoops, Henna & Glitter Body Art,
Airbrush Body Painting, Handmade Jewelry & Patches, Austin Made Soaps, & More......

~ 8:15 ~
Geppetto Dreams Puppet Company
www. myspace. com/geppettodreamscompany

~ 8:35 ~
Live Music With
The Righteous Tidings

~ 9:15 ~
Songs & Prayers By
Jamie Teer

~ 9:30 ~
Announcements & Enchanted Forest Updates By Owner
Albert Deloach

~ 9:45 ~
The Typsy Gypsys
Belly Dance Performances Featuring
Sahhira & Sonya
www. myspace. com/typsygypsys

~ 10:00 ~
Soul Glow Show Featuring
Sage & Zarah of Sangre del Sol
www. myspace. com/sangredelsolfire

~ 10:30 ~
Hula Hoopin' Dance Party

This Event Is Sponsored By
Ruta Maya
Sangre del Sol
Starlet Sweets
The Austin Daze
Airbrush By Amy
Synergy Entertainment
Ararat Mid-East Fusion
Hot Mama's Espresso Bar
Twist It Sister Productions

We look forward to seeing you Austin!

---End---

Lazy bloggers everywhere should be proud of me...

~ lazy danna

The Opera House Grand Closing (Last Shows Announced)

2008-08-05T17:02:00.005-05:00

I got the news from a MySpace flier: The Opera House is closing. Just one more unique art space closing, most likely due to the strict (and some would say arbitrary) enforcement of city codes, although this has not been confirmed by the venue.

The Opera House is an acronym which stands for:

"The O.(open)P.(power)E.(experimental)R.(research)A.(arts) House"

Located behind the best little record shop in South Austin, End of an Ear, the creative space was home to many experimental, avant-garde local and touring music acts. It served as a store, gallery, and community education/workshop center for many he

Tonight: Liz Gomez (a.k.a. Dromez) sent invitations to hear the glamorous punk Wealthy Whore Entertainment (San Francisco, CA), making a summer tour stop in Austin. Also playing: visual guitarist Douglas Fergeson, experimental sound crafter V.C. Childkraft, and Young Clam (members of Rubble). Beer at 7, Music at 8.

Flier by Deena Hyatt (NanoBangBang)

Sunday Evening - 10/08/08: Last night @ the O.P.E.R.A. The "Grand Closing Party" starts at 5 pm with movies (Lori 16mm), water fun, and music by the seemingly naive minimalist musical act Night Viking, ichnisanchi (which I'm curious to hear), experimental vocal pop artist NanoBangBang, and the "old timey goodness" of Teddy & Marge. "BYOFood to grill!"

Let's hope there will be a reincarnation of the O.P.E.R.A. at a different location. Austin needs more beautiful art space and beautiful people who support artists and their work!

Contact Info:
The O.P.E.R.A. House
(512) 440-1401
liz.theoperahouse@gmail.com
theoperahousestore.com
myspace.com/theoperhousestore

~ diy danna

Pataphysics Local Addition to Ariel Pink Show @ The Mohawk - Saturday, 9 August 2008

2008-08-04T00:01:00.009-05:00

"Ain't no party like a pop defects party..." - Anonymous Emcee*

Although the date is incorrect (it should be 8/9 Sat., not Fri. on the e-flier), the timing of this show is perfect! Besides Ariel Pink & Company (Los Angeles, CA) at The Mohawk being the perfect post to start our week (officially), it marks the day after the birthday of one of our favorite Austin entertainers - the frontman for the spasmatic dance inducing experimental pop band - Pataphysics.

You could call it a birthday gift to himself because Patrick Healy, a.k.a. Pataphysics, is a fan of Ariel Pink. A huge fan, according to our interview (INsite, January 2008). Healy's musical partnership with Pataphysics' lead guitarist Matt La Comette (Aunt's Analog, ex-Oblong Boys), was partly inspired by Ariel Pink's avant-garde pop solo shows. Both musicians are fans and thought Healy could start off with solo, acousmatic tape shows, then build the sound. And what a sound...The band includes Erich Ragsdale (ex-Oblong Boys) playing synthesizer, Dirk Michener (Cavedweller, Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band) adding the bass lines, and Jason "Chef" Pittman (The Telephone Company, The Carrots) on drums, all adding depth of colors to the already decorative canvas of Pataphysics' sound.

Pataphysics @ Emo's 22/10/07. Photo © 2007 Danna Williams

You know it's going to be be a good time if you're rambling about the opening band.

Pataphysics' recent shows have more than made up for the truncated slap in the face performance last time at The Mohawk (8 December 2007), possibly in response to uncalled heckling after a technical defect with the stunning Yip-Yip (Winter Park, FL), which led to a cancellation of their performance. Pataphysics performance highlights in summer '08 include kicking off the Tangled Snark Summer Parties, and performing on KVRX's Local Live.

But their live performance at Mohawk this Friday is the Pataphysics event of the summer.

The official Ariel Pink Summer tour 2008 poster, and a work of art.

Headliners Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti is the solo artist's amazing band, on tour this summer, because that's the best way to earn money when greedy corporate labels control the marketing of commercial (payola) airwaves. (Feel free to correct me if I'm completely wrong.) he gets my respect for being a truly d-i-y artist/musician who records and produces his own music in limited release. Since I've already taken so much time with the show opener, I'll let the reader decide what Ariel Pink sounds like by mentioning the free mp3 downloads** currently available for your listening pleasure. For me, they're just teasers until the consummate live performance, but it could appease you for a few days.

I don't know much about Brooklyn, NY trio Chairlift, but from a doesn't offer a free sample of their recordings, but if you're the artsy type, you may get a kick out of their MySpace profile graphics. from what I've heard, their odd, haunting indie musings fit in perfectly with touring mate Ariel Pink. Pitchfork includes a review plus two previews (streaming and mp3) in a review of the album Does You Inspire You, now available for digital download. A hard copy will be available in late October.

Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
w/ Chairlift
Pataphysics
Live @ The Mohawk - Austin, TX
Saturday, August 9th
RIYL: Animal Collective, Beck, Captain Beefheart, R. Stevie Moore, Frank Zappa, and music that makes you go "hmmm...".

For more info, including admission amount, ticket availability, and age limit, go to mohawkaustin.com. After-party with A Faulty Chromosome inside.

Thanks to Archbold for hipping me to this show last month!

End of transmission.

~ diy danna

*No, we just made that up...

** But this is true. We're certain you'll have to be logged into MySpace for the mp3 downloads to work.

How We Do 512: Saturday, 30 August - The Return of Baby Robots!

2008-08-03T22:28:00.009-05:00

We interrupt our summer vacation for a special announcement:

One of the bands I interviewed for the August issue of Austin's only paperzine, INsite (out sometime this week), is performing live after a brief hiatus. I'm also thrilled about the other bands playing later this month in Austin, TX:

Freaky fan flier by me, photographer unknown.

A night of rock and country you may never forget... It's the first Baby Robots performance since live line-up changes post Ten Year High (Bunkhaus Records 2007), "enough to bring a tear of pride to the third eyes of at least two historic Austinites of the psychedelic persuasion: Roky Erikson and Gibby Haynes..."* The campfire freakout of Cavedweller (The Best Version of Gloria Ever There Was, Business Deal) and alternative torch and twang of Silver Pines complete the trip.

Check out the band featured in this month's INsite @ Do512, and mark your calendars with a vote of "I Like It"!

diy danna

*Pop Culture Press Review by Don Simpson

Blog About A Blog: Kill The Critic

2008-08-01T16:53:00.005-05:00

The official KTC logo, until QT gets wise...

We're pausing from a week long vacation to announce the return of our sister blog, Kill The Critic, which is all about local, national, and international movie releases - with a bit of news about theatrical and comedy events.

Usually, one woman rants about theatrical and video releases, film, theatre, and comedy fests for your entertainment. But we're recruiting more local film, theatre, and comedy nuts to blog about what they love - as long as it is timely and informative. Kill The Critic might look good on a resume when applying for that entertainment magazine gig, so if you're interested in this volunteer position send us a message. And we're always on the lookout for new and exciting events happening in Austin for KTC. Send inquiries about blogging and submissions of your events to KillTheCritic@gmail.com.

Fan art by diy danna.

This Week @ KTC: "DIY" Danna Williams proves she's a diehard Wonder Woman fan. (Includes sneak peak at the new animated Wonder Woman movie coming in 2009!)

Next Week: Fantastic Fest 2008 Preview: KTC Picks and Pans.

Have a great weekend, whatever you do.

Free Form Film Presents "Tetsuo: The Iron Man Film Score" Live @ Red 7 Thursday Night

2008-07-30T16:37:00.002-05:00

Thanks to Ben Aqua for sending the following announcement about "Tetsuo" yesterday.

This Thursday:

Free Form Films Presents:
Tetsuo: The Iron Man live film score performance

Ben Aqua and his group of tiny machines will perform a live synth-filled, mechanically-manipulated score to the 1989 Japanese film "Tetsuo: The Iron Man" as part of the Free Form Films live film score series.

Thursday, July 31, 10pm
@ Red 7 (patio)
611 E. 7th, Austin, TX

$5 21+/$8 21-

Performers include:

Chad A (ex-Zom Zoms, Low Red Center)
Ben Aqua (ASSACRE, MVSCLZ, Totally Wreck)
Johnny Cisneros (aka VC Chldkrft, Totally Wreck)
Matt LaComette (Low Red Center, Aunt's Analog)
Erich Ragsdale (Low Red Center, TJ Laserphone)
David Salinas (Totally Wreck)
Sam Vandeliner (aka Gary B, Night Viking)
Eli Welbourne (Belaire, Totally Wreck)

View event on Facebook

From the list of performers, it looks to be a delightful night of experimental film scoring.

Tangled Snark Productions: D-I-Y Musician and Promoter Singer Mayberry Rocks Our Summer

2008-07-25T14:38:00.010-05:00

#3 of the Tangled Snark Parties

Since diydanna is on holiday, away from her beloved Mac, we're keeping this weekend post relatively brief compared to her usual rambling.

You have to admire a truly do-it-yourself artist for thinking outside the box and not being afraid to try something new - something bigger and somehow better. The always affordable, and usually all ages show promoter Tangled Snark Productions, also known as musician, booking agent and promoter Singer Mayberry (Red Leaves) is challenging herself and local music fans are being rewarded this summer.

Tangled Snark has evolved from booking incredible (and sometimes overlooked) local music talent in smaller alternative (indie) music venues like Emo's Hole in the Wall, and The Parlor, to larger venues - like The Monarch Event Center - ideal for a summer concert series. The Monarch isn't too far north of the downtown madness, just off I-35, and perhaps the ideal location for the Tangled Snark Summer Parties.

Tangled Snark Summer Party #3 Headliner: Ume

Past party favorites have included Pataphysics, The Cari and Jason Band (Belaire), and The Ape-Shits, and tomorrow night marks the third party of the season, with the musical force known as Ume headlining. The band is taking time out from recording (check out their demos) to share the stage with other local talent: Ringo Deathstarr (silly name, seriously cool sound), and Haunting Oboe Music (orchestrated, experimental rock). Opening the party: Hey Zeus, Follow That Bird! (A name that gives me serious Sesame Street nostalgia), Red X Red M, and Prayer for Animals. You can search these bands on MySpace and add to their grassroots fan base. That's 7 bands for $7 and it's an early show, 7 pm, which makes it a great time for the very young and young at heart who love local music. How lucky we are, Austin!

The summer isn't over, and more Tangled Snark parties are on the way, so visit the official site for updates: myspace.com/tangledsnarkproductions.

~ diy danna

KOOP Radio's Raffle Party - Sunday, 27 July + Keeping Up With P.A.C.E.

2008-07-24T16:14:00.014-05:00

I'm supposed to be on vacation until August, but I'm taking a little time off from my vacation to make two important public service announcements (from MySpace) - because they involve local and independent art, music, and radio. These are a few of my favorite things...

KOOP 91.7 FM is throwing a Scooter Raffle Party, and we're all invited! It's a live art and music event at the United States Art Authority with my favorite indie media expo Staple!, and a few of my favorite smart indie rockers, including The Bellfuries, Foot Foot, La Snacks, and Peel, who performed a phenomenal set at diy revolution's second bi-monthly music series (Friday, May 16 at Beauty Bar).

For more info, including how to buy tickets for the grand prize and other special gifts, go to:

myspace. com/koop917

Help raise money to rebuild our community radio station, and maybe drive off with a Vintage 150cc scooter from Scooter Revolution, or some other cool prize.

Actual image from P.A.C.E. web page has the public seeing red.

I received news about another C.O.A. (City of Austin) organization that may be threatening the livelihood of local entertainment - P.A.C.E. The following is my response included with a repost of a bulletin by a pirate radio station DJ:

P.A.C.E. (People Against City Entertainment?)

City of Austin is being taken over by a bunch of bureaucrats who don't know (or don't care) that the City of Austin wouldn't have as much revenue if it weren't for live music events. P.A.C.E is about a waste of local taxpayers' money and biting the hand that feeds you...

http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/pace/

The MySpace post continues with the original bulletin re: P.A.C.E. (which actually stands for Public Assembly Code Enforcement). The poster argues that the C.O.A.'s P.A.C.E. team is "ruining our venues, our festivals, and our livelihood". Since I make it a habit to question everything, including authority and opinions of MySpace bulletin posters, I didn't just take the DJ's word for it - I looked it up for myself.

P.A.C.E. claims to be a public group, but I don't see the names of the members listed, just city departments, and no meetings listed to discuss the P.A.C.E. agenda. There are a lot of rules and regulations that we the public can download as .pdf documents, but no true discourse or public conversation. Sure, we can send them an e-mail - but will it be taken seriously by this enforcement committee?

Is this truly a public cause, or another way to police parties - and over-regulate the local music industry which is already struggling, no thanks to city zoning for high priced residencies in well-established entertainment districts? (See Red River and Warehouse.)

I'm wondering how many local musicians and promoters will be lined up to discuss what P.A.C.E. means to people who book and participate in parties and festivals with Austin city limits at the next C.O.A. council meeting?

And those are my P.S.A.s about local art and entertainment.

Addendum: I've received more information about how P.A.C.E. effects local artistic expression - in particular one venue called the Enchanted Forest. It's one of the cool small spaces in the city where you can enjoy the freedom of artistic expression on a 3+ acre parcel of land located in South Austin (78704). Visual art, puppetry, live acoustic music, are just some of what makes this a special place in the city's entertainment landscape. (See http://www.news8austin.com/content/top_stories/default.asp?ArID=215070.) The news article doesn't specifically name P.A.C.E., but this arbitrary committee is definitely behind what's happening to one of our art spaces.

I've just sent an add request to them in solidarity with their current bureaucratic nightmare, and hope others reading this blog will do the same, as well as send a testimony or positive message about Austin's Enchanted Forest via their official web site, the C.O.A. web site email link (above), and in person at the city council meeting - happening in a matter of minutes.

The Best of Country, Jazz, and Pop: The Gary Newcomb Trio

2008-07-23T14:15:00.001-05:00

The Gary Newcomb Trio: Slide Guitar Master Newcomb

Jerm Pollett (The Catfish Hunters) mentioned The Gary Newcomb Trio being one of his favorite bands during a set at The Carousel Lounge last summer, and I made a mental note to check them out live sometime. (I tend to believe the hype when it comes from a fan who happens to be one of my favorites.) That sometime to check them out is now, when the trio is playing at Club De Ville this summer. I missed the July 9th show (among a few others since last year, including an Austin Alt Country showcase), but if I'm not too busy with the local movie scene, I'll finally hear them live tonight.

When you listen to an indie pop band which includes Merle Haggard, Duke Ellington, and Björk in a list of influences, you can expect it to be a little less easy to describe why you like them. The still unsigned and independent Gary Newcomb Trio is not an easy band to describe, but a joy to listen to because they combine elements of three seemingly different genres to create a sound - a mood really - that make it worth listening to when you're not in the mood for hard rock. Yet the band rocks.

The country is in Gary Newcomb's slide guitar ("Daisy Don't"). The trio shifts easily between genres, which make it the perfect cocktail party band for mixed company, and the perfect bar band - without the imitating, trifling covers. The jazz is more difficult to describe, but it's in the compositions and the soft lounge rock delivery of Newcomb's vocals ("Firefly"). The pop element consists of deceptively familiar melodies courtesy of Newcomb on vocals, with a deceptively laidback rhythm section - Brandon Gonzales on bass, and Billy Doughty on drums. The tracks I've heard lulled ("So Sensitive") and rocked me ("For The Birds (Bluebird)" when I least expected it.

I was more familiar with Newcomb playing bass with Pollett's The Total Foxes, but it isn't a secret that he's one of the most talented slide guitarists in Austin as a member of Li'l Cap'n Travis. I love slide guitar in country music as much as I love the mandolin and the banjo, and wish more bands from Nashville would realize these traditional or classic country instruments sound much better than the current slick pop guitar aesthetics. The Gary Newcomb Trio uses the slide guitar in a way that makes it bubbly pop to my ears - with a lingering feeling of wanting to hear more. I can't write that about most of the pop I hear on commercial radio.

Since I'm hearing about this show a little late, I didn't have time to ask the artist's permission to allow a free mp3 preview/download, so I'll provide a link to their MySpace page instead. (Which seems appropriate since this blog started as a MySpace group.) Myspace.com/thegarynewcombtrio contains the four tracks I mentioned, now available for download. I'm not sure when they'll be unavailable or removed, so I recommend acting fast and checking them out today.

And I recommend hearing the band live tonight:

The Gary Newcomb Trio
9 pm, Wednesday, 23 July 2008
Club De Ville
900 Red River
Austin, TX 78701 21+/Cover ($?)

Just another promising night of local entertainment, and one more reason to take a detour from the humdrum cover bands at 6th street bars/tourist traps.

Coma in Algiers @ Beerland - Friday, July 25th

2008-07-22T15:48:00.006-05:00

Flier by Stacy Algiers

Coma in Algiers, Harlem, The Wiggins, The Secret Bangs
Beerland
711 1/2 Red River
Austin, TX 78701

If you missed Coma in Algiers' second to last show in residency at the Scoot Inn last Friday, don't worry, some of the schlock rock sounds reviewed in This Is Your Justice will vibrate from the Beerland sound system this Friday.

The Secret Bangs (Plano, TX), The Wiggins (Houston, TX) invade Beerland with Nashville natives Harlem that same night. If you haven't heard of Harlem, you should check them out with Coma in Algiers Friday night. Harlem is plotting to take over Austin with infectious garage rock 'n' thrash.

This is a last minute show for Archbold and CIA, and a don't miss surprise for us.

Managing Editor Sean Claes Becomes Publisher of Austin's INsite Magazine

2008-07-22T13:28:00.003-05:00

Austin's INsite: "local focus, national mindset"

One of our bloggers, "DIY" Danna Williams has been a proud music contributor to "Austin's only entertainment paperzine" for three years, so we're pleased to announce the following:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Managing Editor Buys Austin's INsite Magazine

AUSTIN, TX – Sean Claes, who has been Managing Editor of Austin’s INsite Magazine (http://www.insiteaustin.com) recently completed negotiations to purchase the publication. His corporation, BoysenClaes Productions, Inc. bought INsite in May.

INsite is Austin’s only entertainment paperzine. It’s not quite a magazine, not quite a newspaper… but all Ausitn. The focus of the publication is the world of entertainment as it pertains to our city. From interviews with movie stars to local and national bands to tech trends to fashion to the capitol’s best restaurants, INiste is a local magazine with a local focus and a national mindset.

“It was a year-long process. The previous owners still have a lot of passion about the magazine, as it’s something they created ten years ago,” Sean Claes said. “They wanted to make sure the right person was taking over, and I wanted to make sure this was as much a business decision as it was a decision of the heart.”

One of the first decisions made was to name food contributor Marsha Mann as Food Editor. “Her passion about cuisine is amazing. We’re lucky to have her affiliated with INsite,” Claes said. “Her attention to detail when it comes to food and the restaurant guide is impeccable.”

Contributing photographer Jay West was also named as Photo Editor. “Jay has been a contributing photographer for the last two years and he’s done a great job of making sure the right photos are in the right issue of INsite,” Claes said.

Both contributors share the vision Claes has for INsite. “Everything you will find in INsite is positive. I simply don’t believe in negative publicity. It steals space from something you can write good things about. Why tell people not to go somewhere or to avoid a band when you can give them the alternative?”

Focusing on the future, INsite will see many changes in the August issue, which hits stands August 1. “I am working with Austin’s Fireside Creative to revamp the magazine and you will see a completely new logo, layout, and look in August,” Claes said. “I hope Austin likes the new paperzine as much as I do.”

INsite will host a relaunch party on August 15, 2008 at Emo’s Lounge with music by She Craves, The Banner Year, 6 Pack Deep and Litany for the Departed.

Sean Claes can be reached at sean@insiteaustin.com or by calling 512-462-9260.

Please note new mailing address:
INsite
16221 Crystal Hills Drive
Austin, TX 78737

Next Week @ The Parlor : The Cocker Spaniels + Hooch Dupree and the Trapdoor Band

2008-07-22T11:58:00.014-05:00

Hooch Dupree and The Trapdoor Band. Sean Padilla (The Cocker Spaniels) far right.

One of our bloggers threw a birthday party for herself in March at The Parlor on North Loop, and one of the bands performing that night, The Cocker Spaniels, was part of the festivities. After that, it was logical to host regular musical events there - bi-monthly events until we figure out how to get all the bands we love together in the live music capital of the world on a monthly basis. So it's fitting to announce that The Cocker Spaniels (one man, one mission, Sean Padilla) is playing again at The Parlor, with Hooch Dupree and The Trapdoor Band (myspace.com/thetrapdoorband). It happens a week from today at 9 pm.

Here's exactly what's going down @ The Parlor according to Sean P!:

"On Tuesday the 29th, I'm doing double duty @ the Parlor.

At 9 p.m., I'll play a solo set of Cocker Spaniels songs. After that, I'm playing drums for my friend Hooch Dupree and his Trapdoor Band.

This show is technically free, but I'm encouraging and accepting donations to help me cover my expenses for the apartment I'm moving into next month.

Anyone who puts $5 or more in the tip jar will get a homemade CDR containing rough mixes of songs that will be on the next Cocker Spaniels album!

GET CRUNK! BRING YOUR FRIENDS!"

So stop by and have a hot slice of pizza, a pint of cold brew, leave a tip or two - and enjoy the music.

We're not sponsoring the night of plugged-in meets homespun folk rock, but diy danna is already dreaming up an e-flier.

See you there!

You can also hear The Cocker Spaniels live @ Beerland (myspace.com/beerland)Wednesday, July 30th w/ Sad Like Crazy and Bright White. Padilla will be performing a few songs from the forthcoming album, and most likely popular songs from his debut Withstand The Whatnot. Alex "Hooch" Dupree and company's next show is August 1st at Progress w/ folk rock grazers Brazos.

Nomo's Musical Hat-trick: KUT 90.5, Waterloo, and Emo's Today

2008-07-22T10:00:00.009-05:00

Nomo photo by Doug Coombe

At first I wanted to blog about all the buzz about Nomo's show at Emo's Lounge tonight, but I'm skipping that to mention two lesser known events that involve the funky/experimental/indie nine-member group from Ann Arbor, MI. I decided less hype and more show info.

Why?

Because you have three chances to hear Nomo in Austin, and on the same day. It's not just a rarity in sports (hockey) but a rarity in music tour. These talented musical artists perform live at 2 pm (cst) on listener supported KUT 90.5 FM, on one of the few shows I'm tuned into during the day - Music with Jay Trachtenberg. Mr. Trachtenberg's raspy delivery of some of the hottest indie music acts in the country is what makes me less depressed about being trapped in a soulless day job. That's just a few hours from now, so click on the station ID in this blog and get ready...

Click on cover to listen: Nomo's Ghost Rock (2008, Ubiquity Records)

If you miss Nomo on the radio but happen to get off the soulless day job early enough, you can see them in person, promoting their latest release Ghost Rock (Ubiquity). It's a turn from their last afro-beat inspired recording, but not any less engaging. See them live at Waterloo Records
(myspace.com/waterloorecords) on 6th & Lamar - 5 pm.

And if you miss two golden listening opportunities, don't worry. There's golden opportunity #3 for you to hear Nomo live at Emo's Lounge (myspace.com/emosaustin). The fun starts at 10 pm with local wonders Loxsly. $8 tickets are still available, so you may order them here.

Don't miss one (or all three) of these opportunities to hear Nomo, because for a while (or at least until the next promotional tour) there will be no mo...

[Insert groan here.]

Space Rock Coalition Presents: Monument to No One - Saturday, July 19 at Trophy's

2008-07-18T18:25:00.006-05:00

Props to Daniel Skarbek (Monument To No One) for bringing this to our attention:

Space Rock Coalition Presents:

The Sugar Fire - myspace.com/thesugarfire
Exeter - myspace.com/exetermusic
Monument to No One - myspace.com/monumenttonoone
Far Beyond Pluto - myspace.com/farbeyondpluto

Saturday July 19th, 2008
Trophy's
2008 S. Congress
Austin, TX 78704
10pm

"The SRC has been established to link space rock bands and fans; to act as a
centralized hub where interaction between them may freely occur. We are
here to promote space rock and to help bring the associated music to
the forefront of public knowledge. It is the goal of the SRC to help
bands network and manage shows, information concerning shows, and their
music. Keep checking our site for announcements concerning some of the
best space rock the world has ever heard as well as information on an
official website and t-shirts. The SRC encourages all visitors to
browse through our friend's pages. You may just stumble upon some music
that could fill your space rock void." - Dan Skarbek

Listen to Skarbek's space rock band @

www.myspace.com/monumenttonoone
(RIYL: Cave In + Smashing Pumpkins + Failure)

I haven't heard the other bands yet, but if they're anything like Austin space rockers Jetsuns, I can definitely recommend this show. The cover is only $5. I'm not sure of the ages admitted for tomorrow night's SRC event, but you may visit www.myspace.com/spacerockcoalition or myspace.com/trophystx for more info, or call Trophy's at (512) 447-0969.

Have fun, safe weekend!

Now Playing: Summer Acts! Austin TheatreFest

2008-07-18T15:21:00.007-05:00

Six companies, thirty-six performances, two weeks of great theatre!

I received the news late last weekend from City Theatre, and thought I'd make a weekend announcement for local theatre lovers:

Summer Acts! Austin July 10 - 20

Contact the theatre company for tickets and reservations. Festival passes are available at the box office.

Scene from Desdemona: A Play About A Handkerchief

THE FESTIVAL ACTS

Desdemona, A Play About a Handkerchief Rory Gene Productions

Bridget Farias directs Pulitzer winning playwright Paula Vogel's darkly comic spin on Shakespeare's Othello. Starring Jessica Allen, Molly McKee, and Rory Roberts.

210-415-6666/tickets@rorygene.com/www.rorygene.com

SA12@8, SU13@12, MO14@7, WE16@9, SA19@6, SU20@8

I'm Not Ghandi Alex Garza

In this all new solo performance, Garza plays a comic array of characters who attempt to
comment on their views of a sometimes, twisted, cruel, and tragic world.

512-619-5329/starlextheatre@yahoo.com

FR11@9, SA12@4,SU13@2, TH17@7, SA19@4, SU20@6

Crazy Like a Person: A Musical Austin New Music Workshop

A musical comedy that asks "What is crazy?" Katie thinks she is. That is until she meets a
psychologist, psychiatrist, and life coach whose lives make Katie's seem normal.

512-567-8202/crazylikeaperson@yahoo.com/www.austinnewmusicworkshop.com

FR11@7, SA12@12, TU15@9, WE16@7, SA19@8, SU20@12

POP! Rapscallions of the Periphery

The dark and wildly funny comedy (with song) about the ridiculous and
unfortunate dealings with time lines, creativity, friendships, and the baby Jesus.

352-871-8224/theperiphery@hotmail.com

TH10@9, SA12@2, SU13@4, MO14@9, FR18@7, SA19@10

St. Nicholas Phillip Ayliffe

A jaded Dublin theatre critic becomes infatuated with a young actress and follows her
to London whereupon he meets up with a vampires and goes to work for them.
One of Conor McPherson's best plays. Strong adult language.

512-508-3562/pheelforu@yahoo.com

TH10@7, SA12@6, SU13@8, TH17@9, SA19@12, SU20@4

In the Shadow of the Glen/Riders to the Sea The Fair Dog Players

Ireland, turn of the 19^th century - common people scratch out an existence, by the sea
and in the glens. The Fair Dog Players present a pair of brief, rich tragicomedies by J.M. Synge

stevenpricetexas@sbcglobal.net

SA12@10, SU13@6, TU15@7, FR18@9, SA19@2, SU20@2

For more information, including venue locations contact:

The City Theatre

3823 Airport Blvd., Ste. D | Austin, TX 78222 | 512-524-2870

info@citytheatreaustin.org / www.citytheatreaustin.org

Support theatre in Austin, TX - make a date this weekend with Summer Acts!

~DIY Danna

3 killer shows you don't want to miss

2008-07-17T17:11:00.003-05:00

this is the first show in two years for Cartright, who went on hiatus just as they were becoming wildly popular. i'm glad they are back. then the illustriously boisterous Coma in Algiers wreck the scene for the second of their monthly residency nights at the Scoot Inn. and closing shop is Cry Blood Apache, Austin's favorite electrodamage purveyors. (the poster art is by Esteban Cruz; the words added by Stacy Algiers)

Steve Arceri is one of Austin’s criminally overlooked musicians, his powerfolk a standout in a town crowded with run of the mill singer-songwriters, complete with intelligent lyrics, difficult-yet-well-executed fretwork and more passion than a French revolution. i don’t know anything as yet about the other acts except for Counterfeit Clones, a duo that will be an Austin standout before long – just check them out to hear what i am on about (includes Jacquie of Communal Death Duck. (poster by Jacquie)

with the help of Navdo and EZ Action, i set up a show for these bands on Shdwply Records as they tour across the country. i think these bands are fantastic and you should definitely check them out. Teeth Mountain is an intelligent, hypnotic psychedelic band with four drummers/percussionists; in fact, everyone is a multi-instrumentalist. the Super Vacations are a top-notch band in the already crowded psych-garage scene while their sometimes member, Gary War, is the kind of one-man weirdness that makes the fringes of pop music so great (like Ariel Pink, R. Stevie Moore, the Wiggins, et al).
(i made the poster)

Hottest Hip Hop Show in Town: The Gathering - Thursday, 7/17

2008-07-16T22:20:00.002-05:00

Click on the image above to see what's happening at this week's gathering.

You always remember your first. My first interview in Austin , TX took place in July 2005 with hip hop emcee Zeale32. Known as a champion battle rapper, and now mostly known as Zeale [zeal-ee], the emcee has sharpened his talent to the fine point of being one of the most prolific and promising rappers in Austin, if not the best hip hop artist in the ATX. Tonight you get to see him sharpened and polished at one of the hottest music showcases, the one and only weekly hip hop showcase in town: The Gathering.

The Gathering, produced and promoted by musicNmind, is currently happening every week this summer at Karma Lounge. It's an 18-year-old+, no cover show, and donations to support the artists (who aren't receiving pay from the showcase organizers or venue) are encouraged.

Brilliant and Mad: Zeale

Now about Thursday night's talented line-up:

Zeale is a truly d-i-y artist, independently booking shows and finding creative ways to collaborate with emcees. deejays and hip hop lovers around the world to produce quality recordings with clever samples (fresh and borrowed), and tight beats underscoring his flowing verbal attacks. And did I forget to mention he has mad talent? I'm already looking forward to his next release - HATERZ and ROBOTZ. (I wonder what's been on his mind...)

There are other rising emcees and deejays who will be sharing the spotlight with Zeale tomorrow night: Cooley Fly mixes old school appeal with new school intelligence and dope beats reminiscent of Wu Tang (Kiss My Converse - 2008, Rebel Cry); McPullish (McPullish & Judge) goes solo and drops knowledge with his own mix of reggae/dub; the defiantly autobiographical Mic Skills , Hero and Rad (Houston, TX), bring smart rhymes and a controlled chaos sound to Austin; and musicNmind co-founder Notion entertains with turntable prestidigitation.

And you never know who else may grab a mic at the weekly hip hop fest. Some famous names in hip hop who have gathered with Austin hip hop heads include Akil (Jurassic 5), Dres (Black Sheep), The Coup, Abstract Rude, and Jedi Mind Tricks. How hot is that?

I highly recommend downloading and listening to free mp3s by the featured artists at The Gathering's official site before hearing them live at Karma.

www.myspace.com/thegatheringtexas

You're welcome.

Nanobangbang Comes Out with A Bang and Goes Pop Art

2008-07-16T21:30:00.004-05:00

Nanobangbang's Deena Hyatt w/ friends The Liddell sisters (reading).

A Recap of The Parlor Show (Friday, July 11th) - Part Three

The conceptual vocal pop & elemental noise band fronted by Deena Hyatt debuted at The Parlor, just like she wanted, and we couldn't be more thrilled. The audience was entertained with the debut live performance of Nanobangbang, closing the show with a minimalist set inspired by - and covering - old pop standards. Hyatt has the pipes for it, and when she sang "To Know Him Is To Love Him", she wowed the younger and older generations in the supportive crowd. Not bad for a busy Friday night in the live music capital, huh?

Nanobangbang includes a rolling cast of talented locals: Chad A: (Low Red Center), Sam Gary (Night Viking), Winston Reed, and Eric Tierkunde. The visual as well as aural aspects of the show, from the Liddell sisters reading to the 45 record scratching by band mate Gary, added a conceptual and performance art aspect usually void in live music shows. Another band mate, Kevin Adickes, was notably absent due to a last-minute recording session with Moth!Fight!. I look forward to hearing him sing "Flutter & Bounce" with Hyatt live at their next show.

I've been in communication with Nanobangbang and decided to keep this post short in order to mention Hyatt's blog, which describes in vivid detail their first live performance - from the artist's perspective. I highly recommend reading it. I enjoyed it so much I added it to our favorite blogs list.

Nanobangbang debut recap

I wish I had a camera with a wider lens to capture a clip of the delightful vocal and visual performance. Or maybe someone will think to shoot a video. Maybe next time? Definitely.

~ diy danna

Twice As Nice: Daniel Francis Doyle @ Beerland and Emo's

2008-07-15T21:33:00.013-05:00

Daniel Francis Doyle - Emo's, 30/10/07. Photo by Danna "I Love Sweaty Men" Williams.

The one-man-band wonder Daniel Francis Doyle is playing two shows in a span of two weeks, and both are hot picks. His primal emotive sound - vocals aided with drums and live-programmed guitar loops - and heavy breathing between aerobic songs are what make this one - no two - don't miss performances of the summer.

DFD performs live Friday, 18 July @ Beerland with Destroy Tokyo (instrumental rock from California), and local upstarts Expensive Shit; DJ Assacre (metal svengali Assacre spinning tunes between sets). You can make a second date with Doyle Friday, 25 July @ Emo's (inside) with the prescription for music boredom, HEALTH (Los Angeles, CA), the elusive Nouns Group, and the dynamic soundscape duo Transmography.

Doyle will most likely perform songs spanning his entire solo sojourn, including a personal favorite, his second release - the limited vinyl and CD "Who Are Your Customers?" (which may still be available in a few local stores). It features rock jewels he'll most likely mix with newer songs , featured in the split 7" EP with Koji Kondo, "History of Consideration "(also available on CD) and a split 45 with former Bad Livers member Ralph White. According to DFD's MySpace blog, "Sings Blues in E...." (his debut recording) can be made to order.

Doyle does things the snail mail and email way (sorry, no mp3 downloads), but it works so well. Go to his MySpace page for order and booking info.

And make a mental note to check out one of the Daniel Francis Doyle shows before he invades California next month.

A Sincerely Rabid Music Fan,

★ diy danna

Addendum 17/07/08: I've decided to post another mp3 link: "She Breathes" (Who Are Your Customers?) - Daniel Francis Doyle. This is another limited time offer, so listen now!

Doing The Attic Ted Shuffle

2008-07-15T18:12:00.007-05:00

Attic Ted - Grady Roper w/guest electro noise maker Chad A: (Low Red Center)

A Recap of The Parlor Show (Friday, July 11th) - Part Two

I must admit to writing this review under the influence of painkillers, which makes my memory a bit fuzzy... But I'll try to be as coherent as possible.

Top contenders for diy artist/band of the month, San Marcos, TX experimental rockers Attic Ted had a good idea for a show in July. And like a lot of smart music lovers in Austin, TX, diy revolution was glad to help them bring that idea to the stage. We had it all set-up for the band with the good idea to headline last week, but due to unforseen technical/personnel difficulties [insert mock gasp of surprise here] NanoBangBang ended up being the icing on the cake. Regardless of the line-up shuffle, everyone had a good time at The Parlor. It was Attic Ted's first show in Austin since leaving on a summer tour (not counting a couple of wild house parties), and what an entertaining homecoming it was.

It was a pared-down version of the band last Friday at The Parlor: Grady Roper (vocals, organ, sampler) and Margie Osborne (cello) played tunes from a forthcoming release, including two songs featured on a new 7" - "No Regrets" and "My Turn Now". As predicted, there were a few people dancing despite the heat from the pizza oven. The warped organ grinding, warbled vocals meshed and clashed with the edge of sanity cello. Lance McMahan (electronic noisemaker/sampler) and Coby Cardosa (drums) were noticeably absent from the fray, but guest musician Chad A: filled in the beautiful chaos with controlled feedback. A few fans and Parlor patrons listening for the first time may have been confused by the extra feedback courtesy of ceiling acoustics, but I considered it an extra band member adding something special to the sonic milieu. (I've always wanted to use that word, "milieu".)

Attic Ted was one of the very first bands I reviewed formally, for local press. In 2005 Whoopsy editor Beky Hayes handed me Hemoglobin (Pecan Crazy Records), and I've been playing catchup with their scores of Austin fans ever since. I can't remember what I wrote, but I'm sure "music carnival freaks can dance to" might be a nice paraphrase. It's good music for the rest of us "normal folks" too.

Like most of the bands I enjoy listening to live, they've got a few tracks on MySpace available for download. That's free music for your personal enjoyment. "My Name Is Ed" (unreleased), "Tedland Suite", and "Climbing Up" (both from The Attic Ted Land Suite - 2006, Pecan Crazy).
Oh - and the new 45/7" is on sale @ myspace.com/atticted and pecancrazy.com too. Since I'm all about sharing internet info, here's the official Attic Ted site: www.atticted.com.

If you're lucky, you can also buy a copy of their releases dating from 2002 at your favorite local record shop, like End of an Ear or Sound on Sound. Or if you're really cheap, request them on KVRX.

~ diy danna

Tomorrow: NanoBangBang Comes Out with A Bang and Goes Pop!

Waxing Vaudeville with Luna Tart

2008-07-14T11:57:00.001-05:00

A Recap of The Parlor Show (Friday, July 11th) - Part One

I arrived a little late with my date, but just in time to catch most of cabaret-style crooner Luna Tart's opening performance for another diy revolution bi-monthly music party. Friday night's theme was Cabaret Meets Carnival, and the first act of the night lived up to the former with a
performance that would make a vaudeville veteran smile.

Luna Tart sang mostly saucy, mid-tempo to fast numbers like the modernly inconvenient "What's The Point". But the audience tried to keep the tears from falling into their beers when she sang another rhetorical tune, the slower tempo "Why Cry". And we all sang along to the wickedly delightful "We Like Bush", after Luna Tart's quick popularity poll. (Not to be confused with the popularity of George W.)

Created by Laura Freeman for the musical Luna Tart Died (of A Broken Heart), Luna Tart has a life of her own, going beyond channeling tin pan alley songbirds. Her live performance was a vibrant work of musical art, with strong vocals only aided by ukelele, and marching french horn.

I'm not sure when and where Luna Tart is playing next, but in the meantime, we can check out her debut release at local records stores (like End of an Ear) and online (CDBaby), and put "Life's A Party" on repeat until it becomes less ironic.

~ diy danna

Tomorrow: Doing The Attic Ted Shuffle

Summer Music Carnival: Attic Ted, NanoBangBang, and Luna Tart @ The Parlor - Tonight!

2008-07-11T18:48:00.001-05:00

I've already reminded a few folks on MySpace since Wednesday's blog, "Cabaret Meets Carnival", but what can a little more shameless plugging do?

~ diy danna

Say It Three Times, Fast: Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band Opens for Silver Jews @ Emo's September 19, 2008

2008-07-10T22:00:00.003-05:00

It's official, according to a recent MySpace bulletin: My favorite New York style experimental country band named after a Pacific Northwest poet is playing at Emo's again, this time opening for one of the few Nashville, Tennessee acts this blogger truly respects and enjoys hearing - Silver Jews. (See Tanglewood Numbers.) Geographically, Silver Jews are based in East Nashville, so I'm assuming that's east of all the slick country pop fodder played on Clear Channel radio stations. Anyway, the homespun country/folk/rock charmers are touring to support their latest release, Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea (Drag City)

Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band co-founders/co-songwriters Dirk Michener and Travis Catsull are still cranking up the stoner country satire way past 10, with a rotating ensemble of talented musicians - Reed Posey (Light by Fire, New York), Tim Bond (a.k.a. T.W. Bond), Ishmael Archbold (Coma in Algiers), Erik Bradford, and sometimes Preston Dukes (Jam Engine). I predict the Silver Jews crowd will either be amused and perplexed, or entertained and vexed. Perhaps simultaneously. Or Windmill Band may be ignored, like most opening local bands. (Shame, shame, Austin!)

But Windmill Band has more than a few fans and some of them happen to be music critics. last month their well received second full-length release, The Golden Calves (Business Deal) received 3 glowing stars from The Austin Chronicle. I haven't heard it yet, but I'm so familiar with the songs I can sing along. I already know it's a cool follow-up to the delicious vinyl 7" Wyoming, and you can pick up both at the merch table at the next show - Saturday, August 2nd at Scoot Inn w/ Shapes Have Fangs, Followed by Static, and May 2008 diy artists of the month Monkeytown. Or save your gas money and wait till Friday, September 19th.

Get your advanced tickets here.

~ diy danna

Listen to and download "Run, Johnny, Run" (Wyoming 7") - Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band. It's free and legal.

~~Bonus: diy contraband mp3 "Muskrat Love" (Becky) - Windmill Band~~. (To be removed 13/07/08.)

"Cabaret Meets Carnival" @ The Parlor - Friday, July 11th

2008-07-09T14:45:00.000-05:00

Vote for our event @ Do 512!

It's all about cross-marketing and flexibility. Soon we'll have a do512.com calendar posted of weekly picks, and you'll get to check out some of the events our MySpace group/blog sponsors and promotes. In the meantime, click on our link and express how much you like our latest event: Cabaret Meets Carnival with Attic Ted, NanoBangBang, and Luna Tart - another all ages, all local musical night at The Parlor (North Loop). And it's free. (Musician and bartender tips are always appreciated.)

The unofficial press release, sent in the form of a mass email:

Dear Friends & Music Lovers:

DIY Revolution (that music blog and MySpace group that supports and promotes independent, do-it-yourself artists), presents another musical event you don't want to miss. The crazy carnival sounds of Attic Ted, the spacey pop/noise maker vocals of Nano Bang Bang, and the cheeky cabaret of Luna Tart highlight a surreal night of local music. It's another all ages, free show at The Parlor on North Loop in Austin, TX. The fun starts at 9:00 pm. Hope to see you there - and tell your friends!

"DIY" Danna

There are a lot of good shows around town, and this is one of them. I complain a lot about people missing good local music, or attending trendy, hipster shows instead of music that you won't forget after hearing it (for better or worse), but I've missed a few shows too. So there will be less preaching and more practicing from this blogger. I want this to be more than a scenester or mp3 blog. (Not that there's anything wrong with that.) But diy revolution is about changing the corporate, commercial drone and payola that's even effecting our independently owned local radio stations. It's just sad when you hear a white guy complain about the lack of a Tejano station. Damn. ¡Viva la revolución!

Send all comments, including complaints and death threats to adiyrevolt@gmail.com

~ diy danna

Addendum: Some crazy blogger completely redesigned this blog, but forgot to promote the blog's next show earlier this week. But don't worry - a local press employee told her off today for not including the date of the show in an email sent on Monday. Oh - and she also forgot to mention a successful night with Peel and MonkeyTown in May at The Beauty Bar (pictures coming soon). It has not been a good past two months, but this is what doesn't happen when your blogger is also the boss working on her own web site and feminist zine. Stuff doesn't happen. Forgive me? I remembered to include the date this time...

"Vote DIY, Dammit!"

2008-07-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

Sorry, Archbold (Coma in Algiers). We couldn't resist the attractive advertising space.

Besides promoting Rock the Vote, we're promoting an "Artist of the Month" vote. Coming Soon: A poll with 3 to 5 talented, independent music artists/bands. You'll also get links to listen before you cast your vote, on the blog and on the MySpace group space. You must vote to increase the chance of your favorite being featured on the blog, the MySpace page, and maybe with a mp3 stream. Don't sleep through the summer - get out there and support your favorite musicians - and don't forget to vote for diy revolution artist of the month!

Fin.

Inaugural mp3 Blog: Austin - Take Five!

2008-02-10T20:51:00.000-06:00

Get your free mp3 from the latest Foot Foot release!

Expectations... (A Prelude)

What was supposed to be two or three personal MySpace blogs about free downloads by d-i-y and indie label artists who have profiles on the popular social web site has become a new labor of music love by technical default. Due to technical difficulties this weekend, it will now be a regular blog about music we like right here. Before I go into expectations, I'd like to explain that the following mp3 web log has been divided into two equal parts, featuring music by Austin, TX artists that is available for free via MySpace - worldwide - and without a membership. Eat your heart out, iTunes, Rhapsody, and Zune...

Now about expectations...

What you should expect are honest, brief (but insightful) artist reviews, previews, as well as news and advice for independent musicians. What you shouldn't expect is a lot of hipster hype. This isn't a hottest band fanzine, although you won't read a lot of negative criticism that takes a punch at popular musicians - unless it is laced with wit and gentle sarcasm. Art is subjective, and just because I or other diy revolution bloggers don't listen to (or like) most of what's on commercial radio doesn't mean we're going to give it a lashing. Expect criticism without castigation or name calling.

About the mp3 blogs: I don't have artist permission to post mp3s here (for now), but I can provide links to their MySpace profiles, where you can download mp3s gratis. Enjoy!

~ DIY Danna
diy revolution Group Moderator @ MySpace

Austin - Take Five!

7 Inch Stitch

I've heard of the band, but have never had the pleasure (I'm certain) of hearing them live. Like most talented d-i-y bands in Austin with a day job, 7 Inch Stitch isn't so talented when it comes to self-promotion. On the anniversary of 9/11 the band aggravated a six-year war wound the trio released The Phosphorus Tarot of Matchbooks, and from the four free tracks I've heard so far, it's something worth buying and listening to on repeat. Just listen with open ears and an open mind.

Current Featured Tracks (as of 10/02/08):

"Empty Trumpet"
"Energy Draining Church Bazaar"
"I Eat Fog"
"The Pernoctalian"

listen, download, and listen again to (4) 7 Inch Stitch mp3s

Amplified Heat (Arc Light Records)

The young brothers Ortiz are absolutely amazing, with a blend of blues and hard rock that I can't help but not my head to whenever I hear it on my iTunes player in between blogs and writing assignments. Say what you will about the proliferation (some may say pollution) of Stevie Ray Vaughan wannabes and Texas Blues, but Amplified Heat is the real deal - a rockin' blues band with youthful zeal and appeal. But like the best of Austin's bands, nothing beats Amplified Heat's live energy. I'm only fortunate to possess the self-titled EP, but I plan to purchase a copy of their full length, local label release How Do You Like The Sound of That soon (I can't review every local CD); in the meantime I'm content with a free download of "Man on the Road". We can also listen to an unreleased tune called "Get Yer Hands off My Baby". Get 'em both while they're hot.

listen and download (2) Amplified Heat mp3s

BASIC

Getting down to basics with rock that isn't afraid to roll is what this band is all about from a fan's p.o.v. Jason Pearson's voice rings like a bell tolling an homage the Texas rock great Buddy Holly, with the carefully laced doo-wop intonations - and occasional emotive yelps whenever the hell he feels like it. Nemir Naayem on bass has a classic rock stance and plucks wicked notes that live up to the evil bass player myth, and the Animal-esque meets "Theatre of the Absurd" quirks of percussionist Glenn Barovich (Baby Robots) brings the groove down to earth, and back to basics with live performances of BASIC's re-released debut LP Favorite Movie. I won't hide my disappointment about the title track not appearing on their MySpace player, but BASIC cleverly uploaded the first four tracks (as a teaser) of the album that was always on repeat at home (and in the car) in the summer of 2006 (and 2007).

Available Tracks:

01 "Tyco"
02 "It Isn't Wrong"
03 "Carolina"
04 "Come Home Soon"

listen and download (4) BASIC mp3s

Foot Foot (Bunkhaus Records)

Foot Foot is one of the longest and best kept secrets in Austin, TX, but hopefully not for another decade. After years of missing the psychedelic indie rockers live, I finally got a chance to hear them at Hole in the Wall. Well, most of their set. (Long story...) And I was impressed enough to remember them in my search for a short list of music artists who are making their art more accessible to the masses. Lucky masses... One of these accessible tracks is the scorching "The Quarters of Ole San Juan", which can also be heard on the recently released Everything Cool Has Been Canceled. Now I'm wondering when that other band called Foot Foot (L.A., CA) will cancel their account - or just get a new name. No offense (their music isn't bad), but they haven't had the name or been on MySpace as long as the original. Anyway... Check out Foot Foot (Austin, TX) and thank me later.

download (2) Foot Foot mp3s

Hit Space (Bunkhaus Records)

I'll keep this short and sweet: What happens when two members of the popular and critically decorated 1990s "noise pop" band Sixteen Deluxe* decide to make music together? Beautifully understated and mellow, but not hollow, indie pop. Carrie Clark and Jeff Copas join forces with Don Clark and Joel Ossar to record an EP released on Bunkhaus Records, label of fellow seasoned rockers Foot Foot and Baby Robots. I slept on (Verb) when it was released, but by some stroke of luck I'm making up for it now.

The Tracks:

"Dogs Dream" (demo)
"Winkiest Winks" (demo)
"Marbles Better Plus 2" (demo)

download and listen to these (3) Hit Space demos before the next release

*Hidden Bonus: Search "Sixteen Deluxe" on the MySpace Music page and find out what you may have missed in the gay old '90s.

Austin - Take Five! To be continued...

Label Links:

Arclight Records

Bunkhaus Records

DIY REVOLUTION EVOLVES!

2008-01-24T15:46:00.000-06:00

Transmography - myspace.com/transmography

The official blog for the MySpace group has returned, and a network of do-it-yourself music blogs is on the way in 2008!

DIY REVOLUTION COMMUNICATIONS IS A NON-PROFIT PUBLICIST/PRESS AGENT/CONSULTANT FOR INDEPENDENT MUSIC ARTISTS, AND AN ONLINE ART, LITERATURE & ENTERTAINMENT PUBLISHER. FOR A LIST OF SERVICES OFFERED AND ONLINE PUBLICATIONS, PLEASE CONTACT THE MODERATOR @ ADIYREVOLT@GMAIL.COM.

Kill The Critic Returns!

2006-09-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

Prodigal sister Kill The Critic returns with a preview/review of Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band. Check it out!

Cry Blood Apache Become The Searchers

2006-08-25T17:39:00.000-05:00

Wanted: New Bass Player - and Master Tapes*?

I spotted Kaspar Glass and Hans Hinrich of Cry Blood Apache before a Zom Zom's performance at Emo's last Wednesday, I even spoke with them briefly, and all seemed well with my favorite new band of 2005.

But then I read a blog this week, announcing the departure of Endal Louis Passou, the hot wig-wearing bass player.
The news left me in shock, and disappointed that yet another band was struggling with creative differences and the direction of the music. And I looked at the roster of CBA shows yet to come, and became disheartened.

Read the official news at Cry Blood Apache's MySpace Blog.

Yes, the band is going in a new direction, with less new age elements (i.e., flute) in the mix. I could hear the change before the last show I attended - two months ago at an east side warehouse converted into an art space. Kaspar Glass' eerie flute was one of the things that captured my attention when I heard them live and listened to CBA's first full-length album, Performing Diversion Acrobatics. It was noticeably missing during this art space performance.

Performing Diversion Acrobatics
Cry Blood Apache
2006 Ghetto Pagoda, Awthum, Blackk Wainbow

Available through the band's official web site, or at your favorite local record shop.

But the flute isn't the most interesting thing about listening to CBA; I enjoyed the meditative noise of the title track, and the "schizo" dance rhythms throughout the album.

Oh, yeah - and I loved the bass lines.

There was an almost funky element to the bass guitar, and Passou was the only bassist I thought of when it came to filling out the annual AC Readers Poll for Best Bass Player. It saddens me that he's no longer with CBA, but if they could no longer agree on how the band should sound, then it's best to move on.

I wish them all the best, and can't wait to hear what the new bassist (or bass synth player) sounds like. They are currently looking for a replacement one who fits into their "IBM" sound - "Intelligent Body Music".

Read my interview with Cry Blood Apache (Feb. 2006 Whoopsy!) - go to listen.to/crybloodapache and click on the "Interview" link. It's longer than this blog, but there are some good quotes from the band.

*Addendum: While typing this blog I was fact checking at the band's MySpace blog and it saddens me to have just read that Endal Passou has allegedly stolen the master tapes before his former band's upcoming live album release.

~diy-danna

Cry Blood Apache Links:
myspace.com/crybloodapache
listen.to/crybloodapache (the official web site)

The Before Pic:

Foto: Mark Mulligan for DT Week

Addendum: The new bass player looks a lot like Passou, oui?

Cavedweller and Ryan Anderson at The Parlor

2006-08-24T23:42:00.000-05:00

Cavedweller circa 2004 at Trophy's. Ever wish you had a time machine?

Friday 9:00 pm
August 25, 2006

The Parlor
100-B E. North Loop
Austin, TX

After deciding to write a preview for Cavedweller's next show in Austin, I thought, "What can I write about one of my favorite local performers, Cavedweller? That he has spoiled me for other guests after his performance on KOOP's "ATX Live"?"

It was a solo performance, because the tiny studio couldn't fit his live band. We started off playing one of my favorites from Cavedweller's latest album, The Best Version of Gloria Ever There Was, "Can't Cook Down". Although I had witnessed an electric CD release party with his band the weekend before, I didn't know what to expect when he picked up his acoustic guitar that afternoon in that cramped space, then removed his keys to avoid the additional percussion.

It felt like a private concert.

Cavedweller. No, he's not in a gang.

There's something about his voice that is soft but strong, sexy even... He's got a way with a phrase that reminds me of Jeff Buckley. Forget that comparison. And scratch the obvious similarities to Syd Barrett and Devendra Banhart - Cavedweller simply has an almost indescribable, understated yet surprisingly powerful voice that delivers imaginative songs. (And you should hear him whistle!)

Cavedweller's love of rock 'n' roll is evident in his latest release, The Best Version... with indirect tributes to the history and myth of a Bob Dylan song (It's All Over Now David Blue") and cleverly worded references to bands like Steppenwolfe ("Steppingwolfe").

Read more about how wonderful the album in the August issue of INsite.
But it's better to buy the album at stores like End of an Ear and surprise yourself. Then experience Cavedweller live tomorrow, or next Thursday - August 31st at Room 710. (See Music Recommended in this week's Austin Chronicle.)

Ryan Anderson

I'm also excited to hear Ryan Anderson live for the first time. I'll admit to never having heard about him until an off-the-air conversation with Cavedweller. He seemed so excited about his show with Anderson, telling me I should come. I could tell he really meant it; and when I heard Anderson courtesy of MySpace.com, I was impressed. After doing a little digging, I learned that Trains Take Away Old Friends, released last month, is full of thoughtful tracks that may just be irresistable enough for me to ask for a copy to review.

In the meantime, I'll have to settle for a live performance of songs from the new album.

Poor me.

Go early to get a good seat - and order pizza and beer for dinner!

~ diy-danna

I almost forgot to mention that Cavedweller will perform with a slightly different line-up since 2004: Matty Nichols on bass guitar and Preston Dukes on drums.

For The Record

Cavedweller
The Best Version of "Gloria" Ever There Was
Business Deal
Released July 2006

Soon available at most local, independent record stores; on sale now @ Business Deal.

Cavedweller Links:
cavedwellermusic.com
myspace.com/cavedweller
Business Deal

Ryan Anderson
Trains Take Away Old Friends
Bi-Fi Records
Released July 2006

Available online through the Bi-Fi store, and probably at your local record store.

More Links:
ryanandersonmusic.com
myspace.com/ryananderson
Ryan Anderson's Artist Page

Get Him Eat Him - Double The Pleasure This Saturday

2006-08-18T14:49:00.000-05:00

Elevator music at Emo's?

This is a live music preview: Get Him Eat Him (Providence, RI) invades Austin, TX Saturday August 19, 2006 - first on your community radio station, KOOP 91.7 FM's "ATX Live" (co-hosted by yours truly), and then at Emo's with the Evangelicals of Norman, Oklahoma. Two hip Austin bands, The Lemurs, and Black Before Red, open the show.

Click on images for a full view.

The virtual posters I fashioned the other day were inspired by the bands' myspace sites, and I'm quite proud of my handiwork, considering the technical limitations of freeware and my own lack of graphic design skills.

The show at Emo's in Austin promises to be electric. Indie rock, new wave, soul, with electronic elements that won't overshadow the raw, organic power of guitar, bass, drums, and vocals.

Breaking Live Music News: I just heard on 101X that Emo's is expanding! There will be a branch of the club outside Las Vegas, Nevada. Half the booking will still be done from Austin. My fingers are crossed for my favorite local musicians who tour out west. It should be a treat for indie rock & hip hop fans over there.

Oh - get a sneak preview of the bands playing Emo's this Saturday:
Get Him Eat Him is from Providence, Rhode Island, which is also the home of Brown University, The Farrelly Brothers, and sandwiches...

The Evangelicals aren't preachers but they want to save our souls with rock 'n' roll.

The Lemurs are from right here in the 512. I've never heard them live, but have an inkling I'm gonna enjoy their performance...

Black Before Red is another awesome, locally based band.

~ diy-danna

What I'm Listening to now: New music from The Mars Volta on 101X baby! Further proof that sometimes local radio doesn't suck.

About The La Snacks CD Giveaway That Never Happened, etc.

2006-08-15T22:47:00.000-05:00

La Snacks' last New Orleans fling.

I owe that one listener an apology for not playing the La Snacks song and giving away a copy of Brown Orange Black Gray. It's a long, complicated story. But good news: I'll be giving away that same CD next month during the membership drive.

Moving on to other news: My next blog will show off my creative graphic design skills using freeware. (Why do I suddenly feel like Napoleon Dynamite showing off his latest drawing of a Liger?) The latest e-fliers I designed feature a band I'm interviewing on "ATX Live" this Saturday. It will be more like a listening party than an interview since I already talked with the band in January, which is alright with me. I won't mention who they are right now, but I'll give a hint: I'm "Not Not Nervous" about talking with them and plugging their show at Emo's. Google the phrase in quotation marks, and the club, and maybe you'll come up with the correct band name.

Whoa - while I'm thinking about the show this Saturday, I should mention that the DIY/ATX Events Calendar is up and running smoothly. If you're a musician or live music lover reading this, please submit your gig or show you're attending through next month. All you have to do is go to the calendar page, and click on the date to enter and post. It's that easy, and your show may get a plug on Saturdays at KOOP 91.7 FM from 4:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon (central standard time).
Feel free to pass info about the calendar to your musician or live music lover friends.

Let's keep each other informed and build a better music community here in Austin, TX.

~ diy-danna

La Snacks CD Giveaway Today on KOOP 91.7 FM

2006-08-12T12:55:00.000-05:00

Defacing your photo means I really love you.

Listen to Austin's community radio KOOP 91.7 FM after 4:00 pm (cst) today for a track from the La Snacks CD Brown Orange Black Gray. After I start playing "Roman Yell", be the first caller at 512-472-KOOP (5667) or toll free 888-917-5667, and the album is yours!
I had an extra copy laying around and will gladly mail it out of state if you like what you hear today.
(There's a cool fan story behind the still shrink wrapped extra copy that I may share with the winner...)

"Roman Yell" is featured in a new video, now available for your viewing pleasure @ myspace.com/lasnacks.
Check it out!

diy-danna

La Snacks photo (l-r):
Joe - Guitar
Jamey - Drums
Trey - Bass
Robert - Vocals

Save The Awesome Cool Dudes Tomorrow Night

2006-08-11T17:54:00.000-05:00

Originally posted as a MySpace.com bulletin by diy-danna:

This isn't what happened...

A Beerland Benefit for Awesome Cool Dudes
Saturday, August 12, 2006

Music fans are temporarily deprived of one awesome band from Austin, TX. While on a U.S. summer tour Awesome Cool Dudes were victims of a robbery. On Tuesday July 25th their van was stolen outside a club in Charlotte, NC. The dudes were not physically harmed and got their van back, but valuable music equipment is gone. They were forced to cancel the remaining dates and return to Austin.

Fellow musicians are getting together to perform and raise money for Awesome Cool Dudes at Beerland. The line-up of performers will include: Ralph White, Best Fwends, Daniel Francis Doyle, Atarimatt, Oh, Beast!, and Friday After Dark.

Awesome Cool Dudes Stolen Gear Benefit
10:00 pm
Beerland (www.beerlandtexas.com)
711 Red River
Austin, TX
Saturday, August 12th

More show details TBA online and on KOOP 91.7 FM ("ATX Live" Saturday 4-5:00 pm cst), or go to www.savetheawesomecooldudes.com to help out now.

These musicians are really awesome. Check them out this
Saturday!

Awesome Cool Dudes are:
2 Nates
1 Cory
1 Jay
+
1 Brandon
The official web site: www.awesomecooldudes.com

~ diy-danna

What's New with DIY-Music, DIY Revolution and Me, DIY-Danna

2006-08-11T14:57:00.000-05:00

Don't worry - real local music news, previews, and reviews are coming soon!

Find out why I posted these three pics in forthcoming blogs.

This is Danna Williams. a.k.a. diy-danna, and I want to apologize for not keeping this blog up to date. Due to personal and professional issues, I neglected this site, and it needs to be revived. A lot of great things have happened since January to me as a writer and music lover. My interview with Imogen Heap made the cover of Hyperactive Music Magazine's March/April issue, just in time for SxSW. Check it out at my new web site: Imogen Heap Speaks for Herself.
And I got to meet and talk with three talented young men from Sunderland, U.K., Field Music. They officially became my favorite new pop group from across the Atlantic during SxSW. I'm still interviewing musicians (everyone from Assacre to Zykos), writing articles and cd reviews, and of course hearing good music right here in Austin, TX.

DIY Revolution is still at MySpace.com, but will be limited to posting MySpace group member events only. The concept of the magazine, diy revolution, has made way for the birth of something new and different - the directory. Of course, the name is subject to change. There are a few people I need to consult with regarding operation and design. The online zine will be available in blog form no later than October through my official web site - diydanna.org - under the Quintessence Music link. Still under construction, Quintessence will be a directory itself, cataloguing mostly local artists and events.

I'm on the radio now, learning what it takes to be a host and dj on KOOP 91.7 FM's "ATX Live" (Saturdays 4-5 pm cst). To avoid becoming overwhelmed with writing, announcing, and attending local events, I devised a way to keep it all in check and provide a valuable service to local artists, musicians, and entertainers - an events calendar and message board!

This is the abbreviated music version of a bulletin and blog posted at MySpace this week:
Local Musicians, Promoters, Managers, Record Labels, Collectives, Organizations, and All DIY/Indie Music Lovers:

HELP!

Yeah - I'm calling for your help!

I'm a music journalist and radio dj-in-training based in Austin, TX overwhelmed by local music at MySpace.com. Visiting each and every local solo artist, band, label and collective (whew!) @ MySpace to get info for print, online and radio updates is very time-consuming...

Many of you know soloists or bands I don't, so I've started a calendar and message board for you to post shows, courtesy of diydanna.org.

Feel free to submit your upcoming music and music-related events or messages through the new site, or directly to

DIY/ATX EVENTS CALENDAR

or here if you want me to post it -

MUSIC MESSAGE BOARD/FORUM.

It's easy to use. Just click and submit!

You can also join diydanna's myspace group and post your events right here!
diy revolution

(By the way, the services I now provide through my web site and MySpace is free, with no spam or solicitation involved.)

The rules of the calendar and forum will be posted shortly (i.e. no spam, obscenity, etc.) but if you have any questions in the meantime please e-mail me - diydanna@yahoo.com.

Please re-post to spread the word to your friends!

Thanks for your support!

♥ & Music,

diy-danna
a.k.a.
Danna Williams
Local Music Lover & Writer

I'll be hitting on the art, film and theatre communities soon.

Some TV too!

Maybe I'm biting off more than I can chew at the moment, but I'm already seeing positive results with the DIY/ATX Calendar!

~ diy-danna

SxSW Music Fest List Update by Angrybot.net

2006-01-13T17:19:00.000-06:00

Whoa - check this out: A user friendly list of soloists and bands appearing at SxSW @ angrybot.net. The list at www.sxsw.com is a bit of a jumble compared to this neat html friendly list. Please note that this list is subject to change. I'm just happy I will see Zom Zoms @ SxSW after missing them last year. (OK, it's official - as of 5:25 PM I crossed the line from music blogger to bonafide groupie.)
There are more than a few bands I'm eager to see this year. Let's cross our fingers and hope all the V.I.P.'s don't freeze us commoners out of shows. On a positive note, there will be more unofficial showcases this year with bands you would expect to see and hear at SxSW. makes me wonder about a selection committee that chooses Peaches over my favorite band from Houston, TX - Bring Back The Guns. Someone sent me a link to her web site, and I was like, "Wow - Peaches is the German Lil' Kim - only she's really terrible!" I tried to listen to her duet with Iggy Pop, but couldn't get through the first minute without wondering if Iggy had lost his F@#!ing mind. And that seemed like the best song on the her web site. SxSW really has lowered its standards. And don;t let me get started on The Tuna Helpers. I really tried to like them when I first heard them at Room 710. I really tried. But I guess I'm not a real woman. Everyone I talk to loves them. But I just don't. I'd rather listen to Adrian & The Sickness or Ignitor. Now those chicks rock!

How to Celebrate Friday The 13th

2006-01-13T11:31:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday The 13th! Aww - I didn't forget this special day. *faking tears of joy*

If you are feeling oppressed by this dry, sunny, gorgeous unholiday weather like me and are stuck indoors (due to the allergy known as cedar fever), I recommend renting a movie like "Freaky Friday" (both versions) and "Friday The 13th" - the first one. And listen to a cool radio show online from 8:30 to 9:30 PM (cst), hosted by a MySpace friend of mine, Marinho. He plays a great mix of indie rock, experimental and popular music in English and Spanish. Here's Marinho's blog: SONIDOS EN EL AIRE, and the show link: http://www.edomexico.gob.mx/portalgem/tvmex/

If you aren't a severe allergy sufferer and love good local music, check out Ivison tonight - they open for Dexter Freebish at Momo's in Austin, TX. If you live outside the live music capital and are able to enjoy the weather wherever you are, support your favorite local musician. And if you don't have one, adopt one - or an entire band!

That is all.
~ diy-danna
P.S. No, one more thing - read my "sister blog" Kill The Critic for weekend music previews.

Asamov - The Trailer Mix Tape (Part One)

2006-01-07T02:04:00.000-06:00

My plans to do "battle" type reviews for Kill The Critic have been postponed. But in the meantime I will do a quick review of the cd that came before the now critical and popular acclaim.
Paraphrasing some of my own words from diy revolution the group @ MySpace.com (and future zine):
ASAMOV [Pronounced Az - em - mahv] is A powerhouse hip hop group from Jacksonville, FL with a new album out, And Now, featuring J-Live and Little Brother's 9th Wonder. But before the official debut, these dynamic MCs/DJs released a limited run of cds intended as an effort to appease impatient fans. It worked and won over new listeners like myself.
I first heard Asamov at MySpace, and was lucky enough to get a copy of The Trailer Mix Tape, a full-length teaser and pleaser. I'm now hooked on the dope beats and rhymes produced by these four MCs... Honestly, I haven't been this excited about a hip hop album since I first heard ATCQ's masterpiece Low End Theory.
At the moment I'm stressing over other music-related material, so I will continue this blog, possibly sometime tomorrow, with a complete review of Asamov's prelude to a hip hop masterpiece.
~ diy-danna

Psych! I'm ba-aa-aack!!!

2005-12-16T11:30:00.000-06:00

Last night a totally d-i-y band inspired me to stop sitting on my rotund moneymaker and start blogging about music. Not for profit or to establish a writing career, but for fun! *you gasp in disbelief* So "stay tuned" for the 411 from this blog and the "sister station" www.killthecritic.blogspot.com

COMING VERY SOON:
Uncleared Samples - Online music only reviews of Paperwork Media Artists
The Mix Tape Battles - Cry Blood Apache vs. Asamov (Kill The Critic)
Listen to these artists first and make up your own mind.
Laters!

My Last CD Review @ DIY-Music!

2005-08-28T01:38:00.000-05:00

The decision was made about a month ago - to split up CD and live show reviews, or rather, have a different p.o.v. in preparation for defining the look of my future zine (and eventual magazine). I thought it would be best to end blog reviews of CDs altogether since I'm doing reviews for other print and online magazines (for legal and personal reasons). So I'm pulling the plug on the CD blog reviews.

But on second thought, that's too extreme. There are a lot of CDs I wouldn't be reviewing in magazines or other web sites that would probably get ignored. So instead of killing the CD reviews I'm officially splitting one blog into two. DIY-Music will be dedicated to "objective" live shows and behind the scene reports of indie/underground/d-i-y music. And one "CD of the Month" review. Kill The Critic will be dedicated to honest and entertaining CD reviews, from brand new releases to classic reissues. Occasionally I'll put my two cents in about live shows. So Things That Go Pop is my last review on this blogger. (Check them out below! :-) I'd like to thank them and the other artists (you know who you are) for supporting this site. I've had a few loyal readers who encouraged me to make the move to print media and I thank them also. No thanks to the spammers who "cleverly" waste space in my comments sections. Ha-ha.

It has been fun, and I'll continue to blog about live shows and house parties I dare to attend from Austin, TX. This is supposedly the live music capital of the world, after all.

I will have at least 4 new music reviews posted at Kill The Critic this month. Check that out!

~ diy-danna

Things That Go Pop - LP

2005-08-21T16:11:00.000-05:00

(out of 5)

I sum up this first full-length CD from Things That Go Pop in a phrase: An infectious confection of danceable guitar and electronic pop. And what's so bad about that if it sounds this good? It's a revolutionary concept that has seemed to escape popular commercial radio - good music with thoughtful lyrics. There's probably something wrong with you if you listen to Things That Go Pop and aren't moving some part of your anatomy - if you're able. I'm not ashamed to admit, I danced in my "office" for a good 20 minutes - nearly half the length of this album. But it's just not the synthesizer & drum-driven beats that will get to you. Listen to the musicianship and harmony of guitar, keyboard, and the solid songwriting, and you've got one great indie pop/rock record to rotate in your stereo. There are 4 members in this band, and three share lead vocal duties. You would think this would confound the listener, but it only makes the CD worth listening to even more.

My last CD review was a bit long, so I won't bore you with a track by track detail. That's about as exciting as detailled billing for your cell phone. Here are highlights instead: A strong team (or is it teen) spirit song, "Teenage Plastic" introduces us to the dance party vibe that is sustained through most of the album. It also makes you aware that they do make a fuss about the lyrics. Yes, it's sweet electronic dance pop, but there's a little medicine in it. The follow-up "Bright Colors" is a definite trip, with loopy synth and catchy beat. I was on my feet dancing to the beat then. My personal favorites were "Backbeat Testament" and "Lorraine", for completely offbeat reasons. It reminded me of the old new wave music from the 1980s, with smarter electronica. The kids would probably call this Smart Pop or something like that. I'm dating myself, but the latter track reminded me of The Romantics hit "Talking In Your Sleep". Just a bit. The vocals were earnest and slightly awkward, to good effect."Backbeat" is about the sinful(?) seduction of a dancebeat. Some of the songs are not danceable, which makes a good mix. A good example? "She's Too Sexy". It's lo-fi, low key indie pop with honest lyrics and earnest delivery. It's almost sexy. There weren't really any duds, but one track, "Reason 2 H8 U" was somewhat redundant with the drum & synth combo. However, the guitar and vocals were excellent. The last track completely surprised me, in a good way. It may not be the case for some listeners, but the title alone had my attention - "Love Song for The Revolutionary". It was like coming down from a dance high. A serious song that indicated the end of the party. And like every party, every good CD must come to an end.

~ diy-danna

DJ Request Picks: "Bright Colors", "Backbeat Testament", "Lorraine", "She's Too Sexy", "Rock & Roll Leisure Class", "So Nouveau".

A revised printed version of this review will be available in INsite Magazine's Back-2-School issue, on stands September 2, 2005. Used by permission ©2005 diy-danna publishing, inc.

Things That Go Pop are:
Jared Kolarik - Hyper Vocals, Guitar, Roland SH101
Josh Batschelet - Heavy Vocals, Bass, Roland MC-09
Andy Klier - Moody Vocals, Reason2 - Computer/Keys, Guitar
Jeremy Ridge- Keeper of Rhythm (Drums)

Listen to the band @ MySpace: myspace.com/thingsthatgopop.
Official web site: www.thingsthatgopop.com

CD Available at Waterloo Records August 30, 2005.

The Total Foxes at the Carousel Lounge & Ars Ipsa Gallery

2005-08-08T01:38:00.000-05:00

The Total Foxes

with

O'Doyle Rules
Dover Drive

August 2, 2005
The Carousel Lounge
1110 E. 52nd Street

(Out of 5, because it would've been better with a friend.)

also with

Arab League

and a special appearance by

Texas Roller Girls

August 6, 2005
Ars Ipsa Gallery
503 San Jacinto
Austin, TX

(Out of 5, because it was a darn good show.)

I made sure I got to The Carousel Lounge early to interview frontman/huitarist Jerm Pollet. There is a little bit of idol worship involved in this blog that must be explained. When I was a co-ed Gal's Panic was all the local rage. Punk Ska was hot in the mid 90s, and although they captured this sound, their songwriting was original. Even the atypical cover songs in "I Think We Need Helicopters" won me over. The Carpenters. Twice. Fast forward 10 years and a lot has changed. Jerm Pollet the artist and the man has matured in some ways, yet retained his youtful spark. This fine balance comes across in his live performances. Jerm insists on a party-like atmosphere wherever he performs, and his bandmates Stacy Hoobler (drums) and Gary Newcombe (bass) seem to thrive in it. Tonight The Total Foxes is short one fox. Gary is out sick. But the show must go on! And they still rock the party! Frontman and guitarist Jerm has made the Carousel his signature event, with a witty, laidback charm that encourages audience participation. He's the host of the entire musical carnival, plus he fills in for Mr. Richard Dawson with a round of Family Feud at the end of the night. Following The Total Foxes was the hard rock/punk sounds of Dover Drive. I noted a lot of t-shirts, and a nice tour following. There were a few fans turned away and pissed off by the no one under 21 allowed policy, but the host. It's not exactly my style of music to party to, but I loved the energy and dynamics between these band members who were on the final stop of their national tour. I was more impressed with O'Doyle Rules, although they claimed it was a weak set. The lead vocalist Scott (a former member of another Jerm Pollet band, Missile Command) was wearing a Beatles shirt, and for more notalgia, they played a remarkable cover of the Violent Femmes mega-hit song "Blister in the Sun" (b.k.a. "Big Hands"). This less than stellar performance still proved why they received a Houston Press Award for Best Indie Pop/Punk upon their return home. Congratulations...

A friend of mine got word first about The Total Foxes performing again, this to benefit a local art gallery, Ars Ipsa. He wanted to see the band Tuesday night with me, but his radio show had recently moved to a drive time slot, and he wasn't sure he'd have the energy to stay up so late. I assumed Jerm was performing solo - a performance art type event from what I read - but was pleasantly surprised to see all three foxes ready to rock. For an art gallery with no seating arrangements, there was a nice turnout, and the missing member from the last Carousel ride, Gary, impressed me with his melodic bass lines. A band was practicing above, but the quirky & catchy punk pop of The Total Foxes drowned them out. THey made room for a hip hop group called Arab League. My friend was not impressed, and declared it was racist for them to dress like Arabs, fake beards included. He compared it to blackface. I found it to be shocking at first, and could see from his p.o.v. But I tried to keep an open mind and listen to the music, the lyrics. My good friend is not a hip hop fan, so he was more interested in talking with one of the roller derby queens of the awesome Texas Roller Girls league (and who could find fault with that?). But I was impressed with the message and heart behind the lyrics - even the politically incorrect ones. For an ultra-liberal who watched Bill Maher's "Politically Incorrect" religiously, my companion surprised me by not paying much attention to the words. Yes, some of the music and beats were a bit routine. And "HipHopistan"? (Come on...) but overall, I liked Arab League's willingness to be critical of our country's Middle Eastern policy and war of terror. Please note the exchange of pronouns. War = violence. Violence is terror, no matter who's on the receiving end.

But enough about politics. I liked the second show and thought it was for a good cause - promoting art in Austin.

~ diy-danna

Listen to these bands @ MySpace (or e-mail a complaint to):
The Total Foxes - myspace.com/thetotalfoxes
O'Doyle Rules - myspace.com/odr
Dover Drive - myspace.com/doverdrive
Arab League - not found

UPDATE: The Total Foxes are on a tour of Austin! ;-) They have a new bass player too, Boy Cory. Hear him at The Carousel Tuesday, August 16, or visit thetotalfoxes.com or their myspace page for other "tour" dates. Check out the new CD, "Retirement Community" available at fine record stores like Waterloo, Cheapos and End of an Ear.

Live At The Parish - Dance Disaster Movement

2005-08-07T13:20:00.000-05:00

Dance Disaster Movement

with

Kill Me Tomorrow

Glass Candy

The Parish - August 5, 2005

214 6th Street (Upstairs)

Austin, TX

Unfortunately I only spoke with one of the musicians performing tonight, briefly, but I did record my first concert on MD thanks to RadioMike's generosity and technical assistance. In fact I'm recording it from purse to PC for MySpace right now! I had never heard of Dance Disaster Movement (DDM), Kill Me Tomorrow or Glass Candy before, but there was something appealing about Austin Chronicle listing under Recommended Music for the week of August 4 -10. Read it aloud and it sounds suspiciously like a fan. For a professional music critic, this is considered dangerous. Reverence for the talent is acceptable. Gushing is not. This is just my impression. It was the first thing I read, and I jumped on it after some other plans for the evening fell through. It was the best thing that could've ever happened to me musically. Socially it was suicide - no date to enjoy it with (booh-hoo). But it wasn't a pity party once I caught the suprise opening act - a trash synth punk band. (They wore garbage bags and electrical tape to make it crystal clear what they sound like.) It wasn't great music, but it was more entertaining than the "toothless pop punk" playing on the radio these days. I still don;t know the name of the band. Or the name of that 70s psychadelic rock meets synth band that I actually enjoyed. They even dressed the part. The burping synthesizer dude with the drooping mustache and dread-like black hair (was he for real?) was actually so annoying he was cool. Yes, he had the colorful open-neck Polly & Esther shirt with chains. Groovy. But I digress with the fashion report....
The synthesizer player was his grooviest when interacting with the audience. At one point he jumped off stage, danced around this pretty girl and jumped in the nearest waste receptacle (a bright euphemism for trash can). I was hooked on Glass Candy. But they weren't Glass Candy, although one of the members played with them later that night. Confused? Me too. Let me explain...
Since I was clueless about who was playing and how they sounded assumed the first band dressed in black garbage bags was Kill Me Tomorrow. In fact I misled a conservatively dressed woman who was also flying solo when I announced that she missed the first band. I think she gave me the evil eye when the actual first act on the bill took the stage, or maybe when I whipped out the MD-R as I noticed the next band setting up was obviously not DDM. I intended to record the headlining performers, but my impulsive nature took over. Good thing, too. Glass Candy - the real Glass Candy - was good. The vocalist reminded me of Blondie. Just a little bit. With programmed synthesizer in the background she got the crowd hype. A few members from the first two bands were dancing at the front of the stage. I don't care what those diehard retirement home metal rockers think - synthesizers rock. This band proved it by linking tasty synth pop with heavy guitar and drum rock. Can't we all just get along that well? I can't list particular tracks. (Just listen to my first monotone, bootleg live recording @ www.myspace.com/diyrevolution August 21). Gwen Stefani could take lessons from this chick. explained that two bands joined in because they didn't want to play competing gigs - or something like that. (Damn earplugs.) After listening to the jagged sweetness of Glass Candy I think the rest of the former No Doubt should sue Gwen's ass. She's got the money from the Bananas song. Forget The Killers, The Bravery or whoever you've been listening to lately. I like their soft new wave rock vibe, but it lacks a certain edge that I'm hearing from Glass Candy. OK - you now know where I stand with this band.
Kill Me Tomorrow was more challenging to my ears. Thanks to a couple of alcoholic beverages I was getting a little sleepy. The trippy Gong-like music wasn't helping either. So I sat down on the comfortable side bench and pretended to medititate. The Gary Oldman look-alike lead vocalist/percussionist/synth ops man woke me up with the beat of a drum at the end of the sound check. The melodic blass player, a blond lady with skunk streak bangs (who also reminded me of Blondie), and the frenetic guitarist kept up the pace with the intimidating but talented drummer. It's not the best recording, but listen to the sound check on the second track of the concert @ MySpace for proof that this is a bad, bad man. His vocals are grating, and the a lot of the rhythms he pounded out were not easily danceable. Yet he got the crowd moving, and he dad my complete attention. This is definitely not synth pop. The second brief song had an almost pulsating hip hop beat with erratic guitar riffs, and I thought I was in love with the man for a moment. The rest of the audience probably had the same reaction. Dark primal synth would be the best description for Kill Me Tomorrow. They sounded almost improvisational at times, which may frustrate - or annoy - some listeners. For other it's a primal dance experience worth hearing. The only way to describe it: Kill Me Tomorrow is a land bridge between the continental divide of Experimental American Rock and European Ambient Techno.
With Dance Disaster Movement I had a few preconceived notions from the description in the AC that were completely dismissed with the opener. Keyboardist, guitarist and human synthesizer Kevin Disco and drummer Matt Howze continued the primal dance beat. It was symphony of organ-like notes and heavy beats. I was expecting funky, quirky dance rhythms, and two guys dressed all in white doing the centipede or breakdancing across the stage. Oh, there was a little of that. Mr. Disco & Mr. Howze were in fabulous form. With the second song it was evident that this would be a beautiful disaster. The dissonant keyboards and driving drum beat had me as mesmerized as the vocalist almost chanted the lyrics. He played to the crowd with the holes in his valentine t-shirt. (Was that a red thong underwear peaking out the back of his trousers?) And there was even crowd participation with the audience (myself included) chanting along "Way-oh!" (or something like that). Then it became a pep rally for the anti-sports league. More audience participation? I didn't know where this was headed with the chants, and I was a bit skeptical. But the music soon had me not thinking so much, which is sometimes a good thing. By the end of the show, DDM delivered an electric performance that rivaled the best traditional indie rockers.
Hearing these bands live I felt as though I somehow belonged to a community of outcasts and aliens, which is easy to feel in a land of homogenization that frowns on differences that aren't automatically marketable to the masses. Today's punk has become re-packaged and gone pop. Some of it is actually worth listening to, don't misunderstand me. But planned suburban living to escape the undesirable elements (?) of urban dwellings, generic strip malls and witnessing people talking on cell phones in front of cashiers taking their orders has an alienating effect. This definitely comes out in the varying forms of musical expression with all of the bands that performed tonight. The result was unifying the music and the listener. It was people connecting through music in a world of hardwired and wireless extremes. I'll let Dance Disaster Movement have the last words in this blog review:
"Hey. Let it move. Make it right. Dance. Dance. Dance. Dance.
Lift up, take a stand. Revitalize. Dance. Dance. Dance. Dance.
Rise, captivate. Make a move. Dance. Dance. Dance. Dance.
Try, let it be. Make it through. Dance. Dance. Dance. Dance."*
~ diy-danna

* From the track "Seizure" - We Are From Nowhere (2003 LP).

Zom Zoms Share "One Brain"

2005-07-25T22:56:00.000-05:00

(out of 5)

Future Zom Zoms CDs should come with a warning label: If you're expecting to hear something familiar, you may experience alienation which includes feeling like a stranger in a foreign land, and occasional discomfort accompanied by bouts of manic head bobbing and jaw dropping awe. In other words, the zolo* and art punk sound achieved using new wave synthesizers and spiraling vocals won't have the usual catchy pop riffs of new wave. But for some listeners it may be a welcome holiday to a strange, dark and colorful land.
Listening to One Brain then reading a mediocre review proves that a lot of music critics are full of hot air. It's almost as if they feel guilty if they enjoy hearing something that challenges their personal sense of what is functional, fashionable and simply good. Usually I'm not critical of a previous reviewer's opinion. But in this case, I think one critic did a haphazard job in the case of reviewing Zom Zom's second CD release. While I do agree with Darcie Stevens on two points - this CD is reminiscent of Devo, and "...intelligent, quirky, and rhythmic"** - I can't agree with her dismissal of the CD as "annoying, repetitive, and noisy"**. Of course music is subjective, like any other art form, and everyone has different tastes in music. I also understand that the paper she writes for is limited in space when it comes to music reviews. But she insults an active listener's intelligence when her assessment of a band's music relies on ambiguous references to the differences between art and punk, and not references to examples (tracks) that make it good, bad or somewhere in between. This is why I'm breaking my own rule. Normally I don't mention or highlight more than 5 tracks on a CD. But thanks to the Austin Chronicle's murky review, this amateur blog reviewer will mention every track to make it clear why One Brain may be worth another listener's attention.

Live or on record, Zom Zoms are brilliant at capturing attention and polarizing an audience. They succeed immediately with the spasmatic intro "Wake of Zom Zoms". It lies disturbingly between the paranormal and psychosexual and caught me off guard (even though I heard similarly disturbing lyrics in a live version of "Hyper Lenny" a few nights before). "Pray to Zom Zoms" is an absurd song that masks the ridicule of idol worship with holier than thou vocal stylings. For me, it was the real intro to a band that thrives on off the beaten path lyrics, peculiar and exciting vocals, and of course, dynamic synthesizers. This isn't just chaotic noise. It's real music. Listen to "Hyper Lenny" more than once and you might agree. It's a work of dark humor that will remind you of a cartoon, and lead vocalist/guitarist Zom is the foley artist. The sounds coming out of his mouth are as cool and quirky as any classic Saturday morning surrealism fest. My favorite track "Static" has a great chord progression that sounds almost melodic, and the lyrics are brilliant. Following that is an awful train wreck of a song - "The Cockatoo Cries "Zom!"". It's a frivolous mess, but for some reason it's so horrible it's actually good when it all unravels. I thought about skipping "Recipes Resume" because the lyrics mean absolutely nothing to me. I'd like to believe that's the point of this song. I simply can't understand it, and probably wouldn't understand it all if they gave me the lyrics. But the funky rhythm is worth mentioning. "Steve Martin Is Going Nowhere" is a merciless and funny track. I like a few movies listed in the song, so it took a lot of composure not to scowl. But it took even more composure not to crack up laughing when the actor's less auspicious movies were mentioned. "Stubborn Beast Flesh" is as disconcerting as the title indicates, and the darkest and most deeply disturbing of all the songs. "Laser" had the opposite effect. The wordplay is absurd so of course I thought it was an original song, but now I am compelled to seek out the original version by Aviador Dro. The finale is a cover of a song by The Judy's - "TV". I heard the song before at The Record Rack when I was a little kid. I thought it was a cool song then. I still do. These three music artists share One Brain very well. Overall, there are some brilliant tracks that make this a very good CD to play often. I look forward to a new release featuring adventurous vocals and synthesizers from Zom Zoms.
~ diy-danna

Photo by Elizabeth Skadden

Zom Zoms Are (left to right):
Phil Philmapster - Fabulous Keytar, Synthesizer & Vocals
Zom Philmapster - Jaw-dropping Vocals, Guitar & Synthesizer
Zoms Frenchman - Incomparable CompuRhythm, Synthesizer & Vocals
A self-titled 12" Vinyl EP is now available through Wonk Records, or at Waterloo Records and End of An Ear. A New CD Coming Soon!
Visit the band's web site: tubezomzoms.com
MySpace: Zom Zoms

*See "Zolo Synthesis" 1997 by Terry Sharkie
** Austin Chronicle Review - October 22, 2004

AUX In ATX - Local Band's First Performance

2005-07-17T12:42:00.000-05:00

AUX
July 16, 2005*
Hole In The Wall
Austin, TX

(out of 5)

I went to Hole In The Wall with a few friends and missed the first band, but we were just in time to see AUX, a brand new band from right here in the live music capital of the world. What did I enjoyed most about AUX? The fact that this was their live debut. The energy, obvious onstage chemistry, and love of music is something that the crowd appreciated too. They started off strong with the upbeat lead vocalist, Rodney, who also plays guitar. Bass and drums were a little sluggish at first, But the lead guitarist, Cole, swung his axe and by the end of the song the crowd was impressed. By the second song I began to see life in the rhythm section, and they sounded like they'd been practicing together for two years - not two months.
~ diy-danna

*Performance notes are missing so no further detail at this time, but this blog entry will be updated with AUX's debut highlights by 11:59 PM (CST) Thursday, July 21, 2005.

Julie Dexter - Conscious LP

2005-07-10T15:58:00.000-05:00

(out of 5)

With Conscious, the third time is indeed the charm for the soulful U.K. singer Julie Dexter. I first heard her silky neo-soul vocals while sampling new indie music at the eclectic cdbaby.com 3 years ago, and have been looking forward to hearing more from Ms. Dexter. I had high expectations after waiting so long since her wonderful sophomore LP Dexterity, to the point of downloading mp3s from the new album before a copy of the LP was available. From hearing "Choices", the opening track, I knew her latest CD was worth the 3 years wait. She starts off with a very laidback but musically conscious vibe that is consistent throughout the album that announces a strong, "new" force of nature in R&B/Soul. Unlike many Top 40 R&B albums, Conscious has wonderfully subtle and poetic lyrics, and music that doesn't sound programmed from a keyboard or the latest software for mass consumption. Please make a mental note: Julie Dexter offers the triple threat talents of writing, performing and producing - her way. This perfect example of how wonderful diy music is and can be is reflected in her conscious decision to take creative control of her music, not being dictated by marketing trends. As a British singer of Jamaican descent in a U.S./Multinational Corporation dominated music industry, this is a risky move. But the risk has paid off in more ways than one - she's sold more than 40,000 copies of this CD since it's limited release in Fall 2004, reaching fans across the Atlantic and around the globe - and inspiring other musical artists to write their own destinies. (Just listen to the Marvin Gaye "What's Goin' On" vibe of "The Race".) And please quote me on this: Julie Dexter's "Conscious" rivals Jill Scott's gem "Beautifully Human" and Erykah Badu's underappreciated "Worldwide Underground". And she does it without relying on a copycat style. Julie Dexter has found her own voice, and that voice is clear with relaxed confidence and grace. Like her previous albums, Peace of Mind and Dexterity, she further explores her reggae roots, yet maintains her distinctive soulful jazz and funk sound in Conscious. Some of the remarkable songs include an opposite's attract heart-clencher "Like Ours", and "Show Me Now" - a beckoning slow groove with a seductive flute in the background. The title track asks the listener to question our existence, or as one biography states "re-evaluate ourselves".* Then it all unwinds with "Rain Song", a jazzy, lazy Sunday afternoon track reminiscent of the sweet and soft Abbey Lincoln. Overall, her leisurely musical meditation "Conscious" is welcome in a culture that seems dominated by mediocre talent that doesn't survive 15-minutes of fame. Julie Dexter is truly conscious in an unconscious music scene. This CD is higly recommended for R&B, reggae, and neo-soul lovers, hip-hop heads, and even jazz purists. Ketch a vibe and enjoy.
~ diy-danna

I loved every track, but here are my 3 Radio Play Picks: "Like Ours", "Look Who's Got Your Back", and "Show Me Now"

CD available at CDBaby.com, CDNow/Amazon (free mp3 downloads), and Waterloo Records in Austin, TX.

Julie Dexter web site: www.juliedexter.com

*Biographical quote courtesy of CDNow.com's Editorial Review.

Remembering Luther Vandross

2005-07-02T08:37:00.001-05:00

Luther Vandross (1951-2005)

I fell in love with Luther Vandross' in 1984 when he sang a medley of the Carpenters' "Superstar" and Aretha Franklin's "Until You Come Back to Me" at a concert in Beaumont, TX. My mother finally decided I was old enough to attend a concert. I had really wanted to see Jesse Johnson (a one hit wonder associated with Prince and The Time) and Midnight Star that night. I thought Mr. Vandross was too mushy for me because my mom and her friends adored him. But of course, it was Luther who stole the show and my heart. He went on to become one of the best male R&B singers of all time, stealing the hearts of fans of all ages. To quote one of his closest friends, Roberta Flack, who compelled him to go solo after years in the background:

"He was a musician who couldn't help but give you all he had. He was the kind of guy who was born to do what he did musically and let the world know about it. He was not born to keep it smothered in the chest."

Luther Vandross definitely gave all he had that night at my very first concert over 20 years ago. He will be missed.

~ diy-danna

Heartless Bastards - Stairs and Elevators

2005-07-01T12:37:00.000-05:00

(out of 5)
*Read the live show review here.*

Like more than a few people who listened online and bought the CD after hearing Heartless Bastards live, I felt a little disheartened with "Stairs and Elevators" at first hearing. When I finally ripped open the CD after the last show's encore I expected a polished (and less sincere) CD than hearing the band in person. But in this case, the live performance was more polished. With an amazing live sound like theirs, I understand it may be difficult for the best recording engineer in the world to capture the same magic of a live performance. However, this less than stellar production surprised me after listening to two great Fat Possum releases - rock 'n' soul king Solomon Burke's "Don't Give Up On Me" and R.L. Burnside's "A Bothered Mind". Erika Wennerstrom's honey & vinegar vocals are just as powerful as these living legends, but you may not be able to make this bold comparison by just listening to the album. Her equally profound guitar, Mike Lamping's soulful bass, and Kevin Vaughn's intense percussion also sound confined, and at times muzzled. What good is lightning in a bottle if it isn't released? But forgive the techincal limitations and listen to the heartfelt sound of the invitational "Gray". You will be hooked. There are several other standout tracks that make this CD a dream to listen to: "New Resolution", a song that reads like a journal meditation/poem; the sleepy rocker "My Maker"; "Runnin'" - a scorching track that should get serious radio play; the enigmatic slow groove of "The Will Song"; and the subdued discontent of "The Piano Song". In between are unforgettable emotional highs and lows present in great lyrics, wonderful tempo changes, and daring punk crescendos that accentuate the many shades of the blues they play so well. If you're not lucky enough to hear Heartless Bastards create an amazing alchemy of punk & blues live this year, I highly recommend "Stairs and Elevators". It's an uplifting CD (pun intended) despite it's technical flaws. I dare to hope for the release of a live CD by the winter holidays. What wonderful gifts they would be.

~ diy-danna

An abridged version of this review was originally posted July 1, 2005 @ cdnow/amazon.com.

diy revolution • do-it-yourself art and entertainment • austin, tx

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community Rummage Sale @ GREEN HOUSE Today!

SUX BY SUXWEST: The Biggest Noise Fest in Austin

See my photos and favorite places

My new @myspace.com email address

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

Music:

The Kominas

Sarmust

Propaganda Anonymous

Coma In Algiers

The Cocker Spaniels

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

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

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

SXSWeek Music Events That Won't Bust Your Budget

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

An Entire Month Without DIY Revolution?

Get Exposed to the Local Art Scene

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

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

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

4aaasp! Today @ Salvage Vanguard Theater

Experience A "Third Life" by Ben Aqua @ CRL (Thursday-Saturday, November 6-8)

The Weekend Starts Today With 'Newfangled' Music and Recycled Fashion

HAAM Benefit Day: How You Can Help Local Musicians Get Health Care

A Free Alternative to ACL: Freewater Festival at Clementine's Saturday September 27th

Music Outside The Box: A Weekend w/ The Box Set at Emo's - And More

Believe The Hype: Audible Hype Offers Valuable DIY Hip Hop Resources in Hard Times

Wave Your Freak Flag This Saturday at Make Austin Weirder Fest!

Vote for the Best of Austin

Out of Town: Connect The Dots Music Festival in Beaumont, Texas

Save Austin's Enchanted Forest @ Ruta Maya Tomorrow

The Opera House Grand Closing (Last Shows Announced)

Pataphysics Local Addition to Ariel Pink Show @ The Mohawk - Saturday, 9 August 2008

How We Do 512: Saturday, 30 August - The Return of Baby Robots!

Blog About A Blog: Kill The Critic

Free Form Film Presents "Tetsuo: The Iron Man Film Score" Live @ Red 7 Thursday Night

Tangled Snark Productions: D-I-Y Musician and Promoter Singer Mayberry Rocks Our Summer

KOOP Radio's Raffle Party - Sunday, 27 July + Keeping Up With P.A.C.E.

The Best of Country, Jazz, and Pop: The Gary Newcomb Trio

Coma in Algiers @ Beerland - Friday, July 25th

Managing Editor Sean Claes Becomes Publisher of Austin's INsite Magazine

Next Week @ The Parlor : The Cocker Spaniels + Hooch Dupree and the Trapdoor Band

Nomo's Musical Hat-trick: KUT 90.5, Waterloo, and Emo's Today

Space Rock Coalition Presents: Monument to No One - Saturday, July 19 at Trophy's

Now Playing: Summer Acts! Austin TheatreFest

3 killer shows you don't want to miss

Hottest Hip Hop Show in Town: The Gathering - Thursday, 7/17

Nanobangbang Comes Out with A Bang and Goes Pop Art

Twice As Nice: Daniel Francis Doyle @ Beerland and Emo's

Doing The Attic Ted Shuffle

Waxing Vaudeville with Luna Tart

Summer Music Carnival: Attic Ted, NanoBangBang, and Luna Tart @ The Parlor - Tonight!

Say It Three Times, Fast: Charles Potts' Magic Windmill Band Opens for Silver Jews @ Emo's September 19, 2008

"Cabaret Meets Carnival" @ The Parlor - Friday, July 11th

"Vote DIY, Dammit!"

Inaugural mp3 Blog: Austin - Take Five!

DIY REVOLUTION EVOLVES!

Kill The Critic Returns!

Cry Blood Apache Become The Searchers

Wanted: New Bass Player - and Master Tapes*?

Performing Diversion AcrobaticsCry Blood Apache2006 Ghetto Pagoda, Awthum, Blackk Wainbow

The Before Pic:

Cavedweller and Ryan Anderson at The Parlor

Friday 9:00 pmAugust 25, 2006

The Parlor100-B E. North LoopAustin, TX

For The Record

CavedwellerThe Best Version of "Gloria" Ever There WasBusiness DealReleased July 2006

Ryan AndersonTrains Take Away Old FriendsBi-Fi RecordsReleased July 2006

Get Him Eat Him - Double The Pleasure This Saturday

About The La Snacks CD Giveaway That Never Happened, etc.

La Snacks CD Giveaway Today on KOOP 91.7 FM

Save The Awesome Cool Dudes Tomorrow Night

Performing Diversion Acrobatics
Cry Blood Apache
2006 Ghetto Pagoda, Awthum, Blackk Wainbow

Friday 9:00 pm
August 25, 2006

The Parlor
100-B E. North Loop
Austin, TX

Cavedweller
The Best Version of "Gloria" Ever There Was
Business Deal
Released July 2006

Ryan Anderson
Trains Take Away Old Friends
Bi-Fi Records
Released July 2006

Things That Go Pop
ST
©2005 Self Released

O'Doyle Rules
Dover Drive

August 2, 2005
The Carousel Lounge
1110 E. 52nd Street

August 6, 2005
Ars Ipsa Gallery
503 San Jacinto
Austin, TX

Kill Me Tomorrow

Glass Candy

The Parish - August 5, 2005

214 6th Street (Upstairs)

Austin, TX

One Brain
Zom Zoms
©2004 Omega Point Records

AUX
July 16, 2005*
Hole In The Wall
Austin, TX

Conscious
Julie Dexter
©2005 Ketch A Vibe Records

Heartless Bastards
"Stairs and Elevators"
©2005 Fat Possum Records