Austin’s OTHER Entertainment Magazine MARCH 2009
2009 Texas Rockfest
Four Days. Nine Stages. Free.
Jimmy Fallon
Talking With The New Late Night King
2009 Rodeo Austin
Bullfighting, Bronc Riding, BBQ, and Bands
Burger Time?
Freddie's Place Does It Right
CONTENTS MARCH 2009 “I just get a rush out of stepping in front of a bull as he is looking for the cowboy. He wants to hook someone, it might just as well be me.” – Lance Brittan, bullfighter for Team Rodeo Austin
PUBLISHER BoysenClaes Productions, Inc. MANAGING EDITOR Sean Claes COPY EDITORS Marsha Mann, Caprice Padilla FOOD EDITOR Marsha Mann MUSIC EDITOR Ana Wolken MOVIE EDITORS Cole Dabney Robert McCurdy PHOTO EDITOR Jay West DESIGN Karry Thomas Graphic Design CALENDAR LISTINGS Do512 – http://www.do512.com
p. 16
03
Letter From the Editor
FOOD 04 Restaurant Guide 05 Freddie's Place SPORTS 06 Longhorn Nation 16 Team Rodeo Austin MOVIES/TV 08 Movie Reviews 09 Jimmy Fallon 15 Jennifer Aniston
COVER FEATURE 10 2009 Texas Rockfest MUSIC 12 Riverboat Gamblers 13 Do512 Music Calendar 14 Between Rock and a Hard Place 14 CD Reviews 19 InSite Hindsite ART/THEATRE 17 Austin Improv 18 Kat McTee
CONTRIBUTORS Jodie Claes Gregory Cooper Cole Dabney Kenneth Deville Veronica Garcia Matt Lawson Chuck Loesch Bret Love Marsha Mann Robert McCurdy John Moore Alex S. Morrison JoAnna Ordóñez Caprice Padilla Radames Pera Mary Rehak Brian Paul Scipione Michael Shane Jay West Danna Williams DeMarco Williams Ana Wolken Insite Hindsite Photographers 16221 Crystal Hills Drive Austin, Texas 78737 PH 512.462.9260 E-MAIL mail@insiteaustin.com WEB www.insiteaustin.com MYSPACE www.myspace.com/insiteaustin The editorial content of INsite is the opinion of the individual writer and is not necessarily the opinion of INsite, its staff or its advertisers. No portion of this paper may be reproduced without the expressed written permission of INsite. © Copyright INsite 2008. All Rights Reserved.
Cover Photo: FAILURE (myspace.com/thedeadbirdproject)
Letter From the Editor
H
ello, and let me be the first one to welcome you to the March issue of INsite Magazine. We’ve got a month of entertainment that will melt your face just like LOST melts your brain. If you don’t watch LOST.. well… that means it’s friggin awesome. Our cover is dedicated to the Texas Rockfest (texasrockfest.com – March 18-21). Now in it’s 10th year this free festival is bringing some great local legends (Monte Montgomery, Broken Teeth) as well as some local“watch out for these” bands (Full Service, Deejer, Ember). Of course, there’s bands from all over the world playing… like Rocko Dorsey (NY), Superpancho (Germany), and the Luchagors (Atlanta, GA). Heck…I could probably name 60 bands of the 200+ as bands to be sure to catch… so we’ve got about a hundred bios in this issue to famaliarize yourself with some of the acts. You should go to the Rockfest site for the full list of bands and showtimes… or just wander into one of the 9 venues to pick up a schedule. I’m almost equally excited about the Star of Texas Fair and Exposition.. aka Rodeo Austin (rodeoaustin.com – March 13-28) - BBQ, carnival, entertainment, music, art, an auction, all wrapped around an awesome rodeo. INsite had a chance to talk with
Bad Joke of the Month: Q: Who are the sexiest animals in the barnyard? A: BROWN CHICKEN BROWN COW
Team Rodeo Austin – Saddle Bronc rider Chet Johnson and World Champion Bullfighter Lance Brittan. Music and livestock isn’t the only thing taking center stage in Austin this month, so INsite rounds out this month’s issue with a feature on local improv shows, local textile and color artist Kat McTee, and the bad-ass burgers at Freddie’s Place. Also, Longhorn Nation explores the controversial retirement of Kevin Durant’s jersey. On a national stage, we were able to talk with new Late Night host Jimmy Fallon as well as former Friends and He’s Just Not That Into You superstar Jennifer Aniston. All that and movie reviews, CD reviews, a restaurant guide and INsite Hindsite. Just as every month, we’re bringing you the best of what Austin has to offer. And for those who are in town visiting… welcome. If you like what you see, check INsite out each month on insiteaustin.com. You CAN take it with you… online. Be safe out there and enjoy the free. – Sean Claes Managing Editor AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
PG 3
RESTAURANT GUIDE 24-HOUR KATZ’S DELI 618 W. 6th St. 472.2037
Can’t recommend the Matso Ball Soup, but they’ve got extra thick deli sandwiches and yummy Strawberry Blintzes to go with the complimentary dill pickles & potato chips.
KERBEY LANE 3704 Kerbey Ln – 451.1436 2700 S. Lamar – 445.4451 2606 Guadalupe – 477.5717
I know you usually have Pancakes at 1am here, but just for a change, try the all-natural Pork Tenderloin Salad and tell me you’re not impressed. Very eclectic menu.
LA MEXICANA BAKERY & RESTAURANT 1924 S. 1st St. 443-6369 MAGNOLIA CAFÉ 2304 Lake Austin – 478.8645 1920 S. Congress – 445.0000
ZEN JAPANESE FAST FOOD 1303 S. Congress – 444.8081 2900 W. Anderson Ln – 451.4811 3423 Guadalupe – 300.2633
Good, ready-made Sushi at affordable prices. Also try the Salmon Dashi Bowl or Spicy Dharma Noodle. My favorite: Seared Tuna Sashimi and a Ginger Pudding chaser.
BBQ ARTZ RIB HOUSE 2330 S. Lamar 442.8283
This lively roadhouse serves up perfect Baby Back & Country Style Ribs w/ top-notch sides (try a Veggie Skewer), soups & desserts. Great Burgers and $6.95 Lunch Specials.
Bring your Spanish cuz this is the real deal. If you’re not mesmerized by all the shapes & colors of pan dolce, order a trio of Tostadas w/ fresh Mexican cheese & guacamole.
GREEN MESQUITE 1400 Barton Springs Rd. 479.0485
A funky Austin original with spicy Mesquite Smoked Wings & yummy Pulled Pork Tacos. Sides are a little dicey but you can’t go wrong with the Fried Okra.
Austin’s favorite all-night joint, probably due to the friendly vibe and excellent service. Good breakfasts and delicious homemade desserts.
HOUSE PARK BAR-B-QUE 900 W. 12 th St. 472.9621
‘Need no teef to eat my beef’, says owner Joe Sullivan, who turns out some of the tenderest Brisket, Pork Loin & Chicken in town (no ribs). Lunch only/cash only, Mon-Fri.
RUBY’S 512 W. 29 th St. 477.1651
Melt-in-your-mouth Chopped Beef Sandwiches made w/ all-natural brisket; killer collard greens & potato salad; to-die-for AppleCranberry Buckle. Open‘til 12am.
THE SALT LICK 18001 FM 1826 858.4959
Gas up and head for the Hill Country cuz you gotta see how HUGE this place is! Famous for their Brisket, Pork Ribs & Sausage, slathered in brown-sugar sauce.
UNCLE BILLY’S BREW & CUE 1530 Barton Springs Rd. 476.0100
Sleek but friendly establishment with live music, yummy Cue, tasty sides, huge salads and great beer, brewed on-site by Brian Peters. Get a sampler and taste them all.
AMERICAN & TEXAN AUSTIN DINER 5408 Burnet Rd. 467.9552
A 50’s-style neighborhood diner w/ great pancakes, waffles & cinnamon rolls. For lunch, try a BLT (best bacon ever) or the madefrom-scratch Meatloaf. No tourists allowed.
AUSTIN LAND & CATTLE CO. 1205 N. Lamar Blvd. 472.1813
Classic downtown steak house, without the snooty attitude. Favorite choices include Ribeye & Top Sirloin, as well as Buffalo Lamb Chops, Grilled Chicken & Jumbo Shrimp.
BOOMERANG’S 3110 Guadalupe 380.0032
Australian-style comfort food – gourmet meat & veggie pies topped with freshly mashed potatoes & gravy. Try the Guinness Steak & Potato, the Curry Chicken, or the Spinach & Mushroom.
CAJUN & CREOLE
CENTRAL MARKET 4001 N. Lamar – 206.1000 4477 S. Lamar – 899.4300
Great place to take a date or out-of-towners. Delicious sandwiches, salads & daily specials at down-home prices. Opens for breakfast at 7am if you want an early start.
ALLIGATOR GRILL 3003 S. Lamar 444.6117
SoCo headquarters for Mardi Gras revelers. Their extensive Cajun menu includes the popular Shrimp Orleans made with jalapeno, bacon & melted cheese. Good live bands.
DART BOWL CAFE 5700 Grover Ave. (E. of Burnet) 459.4181
Where else can you enjoy some Chicken-fried Steak or Enchiladas topped w/ homemade Chili and still have enough money left over to bowl a few games?
CYPRESS GRILL 4404 W. William Cannon 358.7474
This charming café (in a strip mall) has the best Crawfish Etouffee in Austin! Also good, the Rattlesnake Chicken Pasta & 9-in-round Muffaletta Sandwiches. Cajun/Creole breakfast (wknds).
FREDDIE’S PLACE 1703 S. 1 st Street 445.9197
Come play in Freddie’s backyard…eat, drink, pitch washers and listen to live music. I have a thing for the Blue Cheese Portabella Mushroom Burgers and the gigantic Onion Rings.
GENE’S POBOYS & SOUL FOOD 1209 E. 11th 477.6600
Friendly East Side staple. If you don’t crave the Shrimp Poboys here, try the Southern Fried Chicken or Smothered Pork Chops w/ Collard Greens & Sweet Potatoes on Thurs.
GALAXY CAFÉ 9911 Brodie Lane – 233.6000 1000 West Lynn – 478.3434
You’ll love the Jetson-like décor in these places! The food is contemporary, tasty, and very reasonably priced. A good place to have breakfast or lunch with a friend.
Eating at this 18-seat establishment can earn you points in heaven! Stellar Gumbo loaded w/ chicken & sausage; tender, juicy Pork Chops; amazing Hamburgers.
HOOVER’S COOKING 2002 Manor Rd – 479.5006 13376 Research Blvd. – 385.0300
Now with two locations. Southern comfort food that’s good enough for Mom. An awesome array of sides and the biggest portions around for the money.
NUBIAN QUEEN LOLA’S CAJUN SOUL FOOD 1815 Rosewood Ave. 474.5652
HUT’S 807 W. 6 th St. 472.0693
An Austin legend as much for the funky, retro atmosphere as the huge, juicy burgers and two-for-one deals on Mon & Wed. Surprisingly good Veggie Burgers as well!
SHOAL CREEK SALOON 909 N. Lamar 474.0805
A great place for Sausage Gumbo and cheap pitchers of beer. Be prepared for some loud, live (and quite possibly good) music in the adjoining space as well.
NXNW RESTAURANT & BREWERY 10010 Capital of Texas Hwy N 467.6969
Impressive stone lodge, exceptional food & damn good beer brewed on the premises. Start with Skillet-fried Cornbread, add a NXNW Cobb Salad, and end with some Duckabish Amber.
RANCH 616 616 Nueces 479.7616
Fine dining, Austin style. A cozy, elegant restaurant with crazy-cool décor, good vibes, and superb food created by one of the best chefs in town. Splurge a little!
SHADY GROVE 1624 Barton Springs Rd. 474.9991
Dine cowboy-chic inside, picnic-style outside with majestic shade trees. Texas home cookin’ featuring Chicken-Fried Steak w/ Green Chile Sauce & their famous Hippie Sandwich.
SOUTH CONGRESS CAFÉ 1600 S. Congress 447.3905
Classy but unpretentious – for a few dollars more, everything is beautifully prepared & presented. A great choice for Sunday Brunch, or Happy Hour (4–6pm) at the sleek little bar.
THE WOODLAND 1716 S. Congress Ave. 441.6800
Comfort food for SoCo hipsters…love the woodsy, minty-green décor! Gourmet Meatloaf, Pulled-Pork Sloppy Joes & house-made Veggie Burgers. Plus, check out those desserts!
ASIAN BUFFET PALACE 4608 Westgate Blvd. 892.1800
Every kind of Asian food (including Crab Claws, Mussels, Korean BBQ & Sushi) in a buffet the size of Texas! Lunch is $7.50; dinner is $10.95. Your meal for the day!
CHINATOWN 3407 Greystone (upstairs) 343.9307
One of Austin’s oldest and best Chinese restaurants w/ excellent seafood and spicy Hunan-style dishes. Also, mighty fine Dim Sum available on the weekends.
DIN HO CHINESE BBQ 8557 Research Blvd. 832.8788
The best BBQ Duck & Pork in town! Everything is super fresh & authentic. Delicious Won Ton Soup, Orange Beef, Oysters w/ Ginger & Green Onion, Sizzling Bean Curd.
888 VIETNAMESE & THAI 2400 E. Oltorf St. 448.4722
Forget the Pho – Flank Steak in Green Curry Sauce, Lemongrass Shrimp, or crispy Orange Chicken will blow your taste buds away! Big portions at meager prices. Open ‘til 2am.
ICHIBAN 7310 Burnet Rd. 458.3700
Excellent Appetizers & Sushi in a charming setting that includes semiprivate rooms with tatami mats and sunken tables. Better prices and service than many upscale places.
KOREA HOUSE 2700 W. Anderson Ln. 458.2477
Cook your own Bulgogi at the table or sample some of the fresh Sushi – Lunch Specials $6.95/$7.95. Tucked away in the Village Mall with a charming koi pond & step bridge out front.
KORIENTE RESTAURANT & TEAHOUSE 621 E. 7 th St. 275.0852
Fresh, fast, healthy & cheap Korean-inspired food in a hip setting with cool music. Try the Summer Roll, Koriente Curry, or Bibimbap, then top it off with a Bubble Tea.
MADAM MAM’S 2514 Guadalupe – 472.8306 4514 Westgate – 899.8525
The best Thai food on the Drag now has a second location. Large portions & authentic flavors – hot means HOT here! The Tom Kha Coconut Chicken is perfection.
PHO SAIGON 10901 N. Lamar (Chinatown Center) 821.1022
Where all the 20-something Vietnamese go. Huge bowls, great broth, lean meats, lots of fresh herbs & veggies; and just as important, clean, fast and cheap!
SHANGHAI CHINESE RESTAURANT 6718 Middle Fiskville Rd. 458.8088
A current favorite for tasty Dim Sum, brought to your table in rolling carts (wknds only). Perfect Steamed Pork Buns, Shrimp & Leek Dumplings, and Egg Custard Tarts.
TITAYA’S THAI CUISINE 5501 N. Lamar 458.1792
Some of the most authentic Thai food in town. Delicious Coconut Soup, Pad Ke Mao (Drunken Noodle) and Green Curry. Yummy exotic desserts. Even Thai exchange students eat here.
M AR CH 2 0 0 9
PG 4
CARIBBEAN & SOUTH AMERICAN BUENOS AIRES CAFÉ 2414 S. 1 st St. 441.9000
A charming little cafe with the most delectable Empanadas…I could eat a plateful. But save some room for dessert cuz they sure know how to bake here!
CUBA LIBRE 409 Colorado 472.2822
Voted Best Happy Hour in Austin. A swanky, fun place in the Warehouse District serving delicious Tapas and Mango Mojitos. Favorites include Quesa Y Tomate and Pollo Caribe.
sun, mar 8
hellcats vs. rhinestone cowgirls
sun, mar 29
cherry bombs vs. holy rollers sun, APR 19 HEllCATS vs. Putas del fuego all bouts held at the Austin Convention center doors open at 6pm, bout starts at 7pm get ticket and other info at txrd.com can’t make it to the bout? check out our live webcast at txrd.com!
FOOD FEATURE
HAVIN’ A BURGER IN FREDDIE’S BACKYARD
Artz Rib House, 2330 S. Lamar. This classic roadhouse
By Marsha Mann
Angus Beef Burgers made with green leaf lettuce and ripe
T
he scene: We’re sitting under a glorious natural canopy, warmed by the filtered sunshine of an early spring day. Servers clad in black T-shirts with humorous phrases like ‘Fred’s Got A Big Deck’, ‘I’m Freddie’s Love Child’ and ‘Name Your First Child After Fred and Get a Free Beer’, wind their way between the tables and plastic chairs, making sure everyone has what they need. A group of guys are laughing and pitching washers at the other end of the yard and the resident grackles are having a noisy discussion in the branches overhead. A small dog is lapping up some water from a metal bowl on the ground next to us as one of my favorite rock tunes begins playing on the outdoor sound system.
Two of my favorites are the Blue Shroom (blue cheese, grilled mushrooms and bacon), and the Cowboy (b.b.q. sauce, grilled onions and cheddar), but when I feel like going ‘healthy’ the Nouveau South Austin (avocado, hummus, pepper jack and sprouts) does the trick nicely. All the burgers come with green leaf lettuce and two big slices of tomato on a white, wheat, or jalapeno-cheese bun custom made by a local baker. They start at $6.19 (which includes the cheese), with an additional charge for any of the twenty extra toppings listed…pineapple or banana peppers anyone? Freddie’s also delivers when it comes to fries, offering both plain and sweet potato versions ($1.99), hand cut with the peel on and cooked to perfection. If you’re feeling
known for great B.B.Q. also serves up charbroiled, 100% red tomato on a white or whole-wheat bun. Try the Teriyaki Burger ($5.99) or the South Austin Cheeseburger w/ grilled onion, jalapeno & bacon ($6.99), which include a choice of potato salad, pinto beans or tri-color slaw – all excellent. The Jackalope, 404 E. 6th Street. A charming dive bar with velvet paintings of nude women and a luscious halfpound, flame-grilled burger served on a toasted wholewheat bun. Try a Blackened Caesar Burger (topped with Caesar salad) or the Ancho Cheeseburger w/ crimini mushroom, jack cheese & ancho steak sauce ($5.95 each). They also offer 1/3 lb. ‘slim’ versions for a dollar less.
photos by Greg Cooper
“Atmosphere counts. It won’t make up for bad food, but if the food is good it will seem even better in a great setting.”
Atmosphere counts. It won’t make up for bad food, but if the food is good it will seem even better in a great setting. No one understands this more than Fred Nelson, who took over the abandoned building in 2004 determined to take full advantage of the site, with its huge shade trees and outdoor space overlooking Bouldin Creek. The resulting ‘Freddie’s Place’ is a casual, down-home restaurant that falls somewhere between the cowboy-chic of Shady Grove and the dive-bar charm of C. Hunts Icehouse, fitting into the surrounding South 1st Street neighborhood so well you’d swear it had always been there. The menu focuses on American Comfort Food made from scratch, including burgers, sandwiches, and daily blue plate specials like Stuffed Meatloaf and Velveeta Sliders. There’s also some ‘serious meals’ – Center Cut Pork Chops and Seared Tuna Steak. But my friend and I are definitely here for the scrumptious half-pound burgers that are some of the best in town.
a little ‘trailer park’, you can get the sweet potato fries dusted in cinnamon with a marshmallow dipping sauce. Earl and his friends would feel right at home. You’ll also find some of the biggest and t a s t ie s t , h a nd- d ipp e d onion rings in town. If you can’t decide between the fries and rings, order the half-n-half Frings ($3.59). Daily Happy Hours feature $2 Frozen Margaritas, Lone Star Tall Boys, and Freddie’s own Summer Crutch (a Jack Daniel & lemonade slushie), with free brisket and wings ‘til they run out. On Thursday, Friday & Saturday (sometimes Sunday afternoon), there’s live music on the colorful outdoor stage, which for March will include some out-of-town bands, in Austin for the music festivals. As my friend and I bask in the sated afterglow of our devoured burgers, the birds above us let loose with a shower of white goo…no doubt an editorial comment on our discussion of the economy. The nearby waitress offers us some extra napkins and a refill of iced tea and all is right with the world once again. 1703 S. 1st Street, 4459197. Open 7 days. Also go to www.freddiesplace austin.com and add up the pie chart.
Hut’s Hamburgers, 807 W. 6th Street. An Austin institu-
Other burgers I highly recommend based on flavor, size, quality of ingredients (none use frozen meat) and bang for the buck (no $10 + designer versions are included):
pickle, onion & mayo costs $2.85 ($3.19 with cheese). Try
tion since 1969, these 1/3-pound beauties ($6 - $7) can also be made with buffalo meat or Texas grass-fed natural beef for $1.75 extra. Try a Ritchie Valens w/ guacamole, grated cheese, chopped tomato & jalapeno, or an AlleyOop w/ swiss cheese, sautéed onion & 1000 island dressing. Expect to wait in line on two-for-one nights. The Galaxy Café, 1000 W. Lynn; The Triangle at 47th & Guadalupe. These health-conscious, Jetson-style cafes offer a perfectly seasoned, 1/3-pound 100% Angus Beef Burger w/ green leaf lettuce, tomato, onion & mayo on a whole-wheat bun, along with a side of fries, soup, or salad for $7.25. For an extra .75 you can get some stellar sweet potato fries instead. Crown & Anchor Pub, 2911 San Jacinto. Open every day of the year, this 20-year-old campus favorite offers a yummy half-pounder served with fresh tomato, shredded iceberg, and a pile of seasoned fries for about $5.00! Get a juicy Mushroom/Swiss Burger or Jalapeno Cheeseburger w/ grilled onions then wash it down with a $1.50 pint of beer. Top Notch, 7525 Burnet Rd. This old-fashioned mom & pop drive-thru was featured in Richard Linklater’s ‘Dazed and Confused’ and makes the only charcoal-broiled hamburgers in town. A basic burger w/ iceberg lettuce, tomato, the Top Pick Burger with their own secret sauce, grated cheese, onion & hickory sauce for $3.09.
AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
PG 5
sports
early retirement By Matt Lawson
I
The arguments began the minute the University announced the ceremony. How do you hold this player above all others in Texas history when his time in Austin was so short? Think back on some of the names of Long-
n late February the University of Texas retired
horn basketball’s past: from Jack Gray and Jim Krivacs in
the jersey of former Longhorn basketball
the old days to the Lance Blanks/Travis Mays teams and
player Kevin Durant – only the third player
onward through guys like Chris Mihm and P.J. Tucker. You
in school history to receive that honor. Never
won’t see any of their jerseys hanging in the Erwin Center
again will the number 35 be worn on the UT hardwood. There’s no question that if we’re talking about pure talent, Kevin Durant is almost certainly the best player ever to wear a Longhorn singlet. He was Big 12 Player of the Year in 2007. He was also the first freshman to win the Oscar Robertson Trophy, the Naismith Award, the Adolph F. Rupp Trophy and the Associated Press Player of the Year Award. No first-year player had ever won any of those accolades.
rafters. Some of them gave their blood, sweat and tears for four hard seasons – but there is no retirement ceremony. Is it disingenuous to honor a one-hit wonder? In a word: no. What Durant gave Texas on the court is easy to document. But what he gave the team off the court is immeasurable. Kevin Durant put Texas back in the national basketball discussion. Kevin Durant put Texas on SportsCenter just about every night. Kevin Durant put Texas
But then he was gone. He had the greatest individual season in the history of Longhorn basketball… and then he left. One and done. Off to the NBA and a 60 million dollar shoe deal. Hard to blame him, though. Kevin Durant was selected #2 overall in the NBA draft and was the 2007/2008 NBA Rookie of the Year. The professional thing seems to be working out just as well as the college thing did. In this, his second year in the
in a position to forever point to his NBA career and tell future recruits, “that guy played here.” Maybe you shouldn’t retire his jersey because he’s a “Texas guy” through and through who has bled burnt orange since he was a kid. The guy’s from D.C. for crying out loud. Maybe he’s not the “heart and soul of the team” guy that you’d like to fill your rafters with. Maybe 34 games does not a legacy make. But you retire Kevin Durant’s jersey because it’s good
pros, Kevin Durant is currently 4th in the NBA in scoring.
business. You retire Kevin Durant’s jersey to remind any-
Kevin Durant was only here a year… but it’s pos-
Only Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant and Lebron James have
one who ever sets foot in the building that one of the
sible that it was the most important year in the history
scored more points. Not bad company. Michael Jordan
best players ever to lace them up started here. You retire
of UT basketball – and he’s the one and only reason for
nicknamed him “Flight 35” but he DID take flight from
Kevin Durant’s jersey so that you never forget the year
that.
Austin awfully quick.
that every individual basketball award landed in Austin.
So the question remains: Is pure talent alone enough to
You retire Kevin Durant’s jersey so that he’ll keep com-
Matt Lawson contributes on behalf of LonghornNation.com.
get your jersey retired… even if that talent is only on display
ing back to visit, because each time he walks through the
Visit today at www.longhornnation.com - where rivals
for one year?
doors another kid signs a letter of intent to play here.
meets facebook meets myspace (without the suck).
RESTAURANT GUIDE EL ZUNZAL 642 Calles 474.7749
This East Austin gem serves up inexpensive Salvadoran specialties like Papusas, Fried Plantains w/ Black Beans & Crème, and huge Tamales wrapped in banana leaves.
FLYING FALAFEL & POBOYS 2001 Guadalupe St. 494.1400
Recently opened by a ‘Cajun Arab’ family, this whole-in-the-wall has some of the best Middle Eastern food (try the Sampler Plate) as well as excellent Poboys & Gumbo.
HABANA 709 E. 6 th St – 443.4252 2728 S. Congress – 443.4253
It’s like a vacation, sitting next to the river, munching on sweet & salty plantain chips. For a truly Cuban experience, order a Roast Pork Sandwich or Ropa Vieja w/ Congris.
HOG ISLAND DELI 1612 Lavaca 482.9090
Chow down on the Best Philly Cheese Steak in Texas! They also have great hoagies with a variety of high-quality Italian cold cuts.
SAO PAULO’S 2809 San Jacinto 473.9988
Skip the Tex-Mex and go for some Brazilian Black Bean Stew, Paella, or the Churrasquinho Meat Platter w/ all the fixins. For those who imbibe, the Caipirinha is a must.
JIMMY JOHN’S 601 W. MLK – 478.3111 3203 Red River – 499.0100
A locally-owned chain that’s out to please…they’ll make it how you want it. Start your addiction with the popular Beach Club or Italian Night Club.
LULU B’s (Food Wagon) 2101 S. Lamar 921.4828
Fresh & spicy Vietnamese Sandwiches on French rolls (BBQ or Lemongrass Pork, Chicken, Tofu); tasty Summer Rolls & thick avocado smoothies. (Cash only/noon–6pm)
MANNY HATTAN’S N.Y. DELI 9503 Research Blvd. 794.0088
If you’re craving GOOD Matzo Ball Soup or Cheese Blintzes, it’s worth the drive. Sandwiches so big you can take half home, and the Cheesecake is flown in from N.Y!
PHOENICIA BAKERY & DELI 2912 S. Lamar; 4701 Burnet Rd. 447.4444; 374.9081
Everything you need to have your own Middle Eastern party…just hit the cold cases and then the olive bar. And don’t forget the Baklava for dessert.
TOP NOTCH BURGERS 7525 N. Lamar 452.2181
Mom & Pop run shop with old-fashion charbroiled burgers and extra thick fries at bargain prices. Not many of these left, so get it while you still can.
WHEATSVILLE CO-OP & DELI 3101 Guadalupe 478.2667
Where the health conscious shop and the biggest selling item is a Southern-Fried Tofu Patty on focaccia bread. And yes, they have outstanding ‘natural meat’ sandwiches, too.
COFFEEHOUSES AUSTIN JAVA 1206 Parkway – 476.1829 1608 Barton Springs Rd. – 482.9450
Extremely popular place with a huge selection of coffees and free WiFi. Brunch, lunch and dinner too, with fast and friendly service.
CAFÉ MUNDI 1704 E. 5 th St. 236.8634
An eclectic East Austin gem, serving fair-trade coffee, imported beer & wine, and some great food for vegetarians & meat eaters alike. Breakfast day & night.
CLEMENTINE 2200 Manor Rd. 472.9900
Sleek modern shop on the Manor Strip with signature specialties like the Peanut Butter Bomb & Mocha Clementine. Also, vegan treats by Celeste and live music on Tue & Fri.
EPOCH COFFEEHOUSE 221 W. North Loop 454.3762
A magnet for serious nerd types…laptops, chess, and tasty technoambient music. Beans provided by Texas Coffee Roasters and the pizza is brought in.
FLIPNOTICS 1601 Barton Springs Rd – 480.8646 The Triangle – 380.0097
The coffee Mecca for Austin’s acoustic musicians w/ an outdoor patio and some very good sandwiches If you’re not a caffeine freak, they also serve beer.
THE HIDEOUT 617 Congress 236.8485
Funky & relaxed downtown hangout w/ excellent coffee & perfect foam! The Theater upstairs showcases comedy acts and offers cheap rehearsal space to actors & directors.
DOLCE VITA GELATO & ESPRESSO 4222 Duval 323.2686
Gelato as sustenance in this Hyde Park locale that also offers Italian sodas, dessert liqueurs, pastries & Panini with the feel of a Parisian sidewalk café.
JO’S HOT COFFEE 1300 S. Congress – 444.3800 242 W. 2 nd St. – 469.9003
The hottest spot on the block, with a second location on 2 nd . Walk, run, bike or drive to this great local hangout and catch free outdoor movies or live music on Thurs. nights.
HEY CUPCAKE (Food Wagon) 1600 Block of S. Congress 5530 Burnet Rd.; 476.CAKE
Line up at the Silver Stream and hope they’re not out of your favorite flavor (7 kinds to choose from) or the free whipped cream they squirt in the center. Yumm.
PROGRESS COFFEE 500 San Marcos (at E. 5 th) 493.0963
Located in a revamped media complex, this socially aware, art savvy hub serves organic, fair-trade coffee and the best Bagel, Lox & Cream Cheese in East Austin.
MADCAKES 3808 Spicewood Springs Rd. 795.9285
Cakes, cookies & dessert bars any Mad Hatter would devour. Made from scratch w/real butter & natural flavorings. Killer Lemon Bars & Pumpkin Cookies slathered in caramel icing.
RUTA MAYA 3601 S. Congress 707.9637
Up on the hill where the big water tower looms over S. Congress, you’ll find the new location of this classic community coffee house. World Music & political fundraisers rule.
QUACK’S 43rd St. BAKERY 411 E. 43 rd St. 453.3399
Another one of those places that makes Austin great. Righteous Key Lime Pie and huge Chocolate Éclairs. Perfect coffee & free Wi-Fi.
SWEETISH HILL CAFÉ & BAKERY 1120 W. 6 th St. 472.1347
An old favorite in the Clarkesville neighborhood. Stop in for some coffee and a Chocolate Croissant, Banana Bread Pudding or whole Peach Pie, when it’s in season.
DELIS & SANDWICH SHOPS
DESSERTS
BEST WURST (Food Cart) 6 th and San Jacinto St. 912.9545
Great tasting (and smelling) Bratwaurst and Italian Sausage cooked in the great outdoors. Don’t forget the yummy grilled onions. Servin’em up 8pm – 3am.
DIRTY MARTIN’S 2808 Guadalupe 477.3173
80 years old and still a player. Delicious burgers, chili, fries & shakes at unbelievable prices. When everything is made fresh daily, the flavors stand out from the rest.
BLUE DAHLIA BISTRO 1115 E. 11 th St. 542.9542
BIG, beautiful, open-faced sandwiches at fantastic prices! Try the Roast Beef or Egg Salad. Fabulous soups, French toast & waffles (wknds) and a lovely patio out back.
FOODHEADS 616 W. 34 th St. 420.8400
A short jog from the Campus to this cute little house with some of the most creative sandwiches in town. Daily specials and a build-yourown option as well.
CHEZ NOUS 510 Neches 473.2413
For a true French dining experience that’s still within reach, this downtown charmer delivers. Lunch runs $10-12; the set 3-course dinner is $24.95 and worth every penny.
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PG 6
FRENCH & EUROPEAN
RESTAURANT GUIDE DRAKULA ROMANIAN RESTAURANT 8120 Research Blvd. 374.9291
Affordable, authentic dishes straight from Transylvania! Stuffed Cabbage w/ fluffy polenta, creamy Chicken Stew w/ peas, and warm Apple Strudel will calm the beast within.
MAUDIE’S 2608 W. 7 th St. 473.3740
The most beloved of the local Tex Mex chains. The extra cheesy Enchiladas and nicely done Margaritas seem to do it for most people. Call for other locations.
FLIP HAPPY CREPES (Food Wagon) Jesse & Butler (off S. Lamar) 552.9034
Even Iron Chef Bobby Flay admits Andrea & Nessa make the best crepes this side of France. Both savory & sweet varieties attain perfection. Lunch only/Wed-Sat.
NUEVO ONDA 2218 College (off S. Congress) 447.5063
GREAT Migas & Huevos Motulenos, tasty Lunch Specials for $5.15, yummy tamales by the dozen ($7.50), and the best horchata in town! Breakfast & Lunch only (seat yourself).
POLVO’s 2004 S. 1 st St. 441.5446
A festive outdoor patio, colorful muraled interior, and bountiful salsa bar. Huge veggie or meat-stuffed Rellenos; savory Fish & Shrimp Dishes. Good Mariachi band on Sat.
VIVO COCINA 2015 Manor Rd. 482.0300
Healthy Tex-Mex in a lush tropical setting with plenty of outdoor patio seating. Awesome Chili or Verde Enchiladas, and killer Cucumber Margaritas.
GREEK & MEDITERRANEAN EL GRECO 3016 Guadalupe (around the corner) 474.7335
A little pricey but without a doubt, the best and most authentic Greek food in Austin. They even make their own melt-in-your-mouth pita bread & pastries.
FINO 2905 San Gabriel St. (upstairs) 474.2905
Hip Mediterranean dining w/ reasonable lunchtime prices. Lounge on the deck with a Bitter Queen (drink!) until your sandwich, salad, or Potato Gnocchi arrives.
MILTO’S 2909 Guadalupe 476.1021
Half Greek/half Italian, what could be better? The cheap prices! Good Greek Salads & Gyros alongside Lasagna & Fettuccini Alfredo. And, nothing’s fried.
TINO’S GREEK CAFÉ 13450 Research Blvd – 336.5999 9911 Brodie Ln. – 233.4999
Cafeteria-style w/ large portions of chicken or gyro meat, soup or salad, and 3 additional sides: $6.99-$10.99 (lunch & dinner). Tasty vegetarian plates also available.
INDIAN CLAY PIT 1601 Guadalupe St. 322.5131
Upscale, contemporary Indian cuisine in an historic stone building. If there’s a line, sit at the bar and order some Shrimp Tandoori & Mulligatawny Soup. Nice lamb dishes.
TAJ PALACE 6700 Middle Fiskville Rd. 452.9959
One of the oldest and most beautiful Indian restaurants in town. Excellent Saag Paneer (creamed spinach w/ cheese) and a Tandoori Chicken that melts in your mouth.
SWAD VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT 9515 N. Lamar 977.7923
Located in a vast strip mall, this authentic hole-in-the-wall serves inexpensive South Indian treats such as dosas, idli & samosas, along with a very good sampler Thali Tray.
WHIP IN (Convenience Store) 1950 S. IH-35 442.5337
A one-stop-global-shop for beer, wine & local specialty foods with a deli-cafe serving unique sandwiches made w/ chutney and tasty Indian entrees served w/ rice & naan.
ITALIAN CRAIG O’S PIZZA & PASTARIA 4970 W. Hwy 290 891.7200
A family-run restaurant with satisfying, traditional-style Italian food and great beer deals, tucked away in a strip mall next to a used CD & DVD shop.
EAST SIDE PIES 1401 Rosewood Ave. 524.0933
Awesome, extra thin-crust pizza like they make in Italy, not NY! Lots of unique combos w/ quality ingredients (try the ‘Guiche’). It’s a dinky little place but they also deliver.
ENOTECA 1610 S. Congress 441.7672
A chic but affordable Italian bistro & deli with fresh pasta, Panini & pizza, handmade pastries & desserts (the Lemon Panne Cotta is to die for). Nice for brunch.
FRANK & ANGIE’S 508 West Ave. 472.3534
A little piece of Brooklyn. Check out the mural before settling in with an extra large pizza or heaping plate of delicious spaghetti & meatballs. Live balalaika music on Wed.
HOME SLICE PIZZA 1415 S. Congress 444.7437
A welcome addition to the SoCo restaurant scene…good pizza, great atmosphere and a huge kickass Cannoli for dessert!
MANDOLA’S 4700 Guadalupe 419.9700
A Houston family tradition new to Austin. A café, bakery, deli & grocery in one, and everything is ‘Mama Mia’ good. Try some fresh pasta or a juicy Pot Roast Sandwich.
PRIMIZIE OSTERIA 1000 E. 11 th St. 472.9299
Gentrification brings divine Goat Cheese Ravioli & Spaghetti Puttanesca to the east side ‘hood. At least it’s really good! I also like the Beet Salad…what a yuppie.
ROUNDER’S PIZZERIA 1203 W. 6 th St. 477.0404
A dark, cozy place with fabulous pizza. The NY-style thin crust and high-quality ingredients make all the difference. Big-screen TV, vintage Atari games & free movies nights.
LAKE VIEWS CARLOS N’ CHARLIE’S 5973 Hiline Rd. 266.1683
Tex-Mex, waterside. Decent food and powerful drinks. This place was made for partying!
JOHNNY FINS 16405 Clara Van Trail (off RR620) 266.2811
A casual, full-service, 2-story floating restaurant…the largest one in Texas! Good burgers, sandwiches, salads & seafood along with some interesting mixed drinks.
MOZART’S COFFEE 3825 Lake Austin Blvd. 477.2900
Every kind of coffee drink imaginable, an on-site bakery, and a fantastic lakeside location. Lots of outdoor seating on the deck.
SHORELINE GRILL 98 San Jacinto 477.3300
Expensive, but perfect for visiting relatives. Outdoor patio with a view of the bats at Sunset. Nice entrée salads for lunch, Seared Salmon & Prime Rib for dinner.
MIDDLE EASTERN & AFRICAN ASTER’S ETHIOPIAN 2804 N. IH35 469.5966
Get yourself to this authentic eatery for delicious Doro Wott (chicken simmered in Berbere sauce), a bountiful Vegetarian Combo Plate, and Coffee Ceremony at the table.
ALBORZ PERSIAN CUISINE 3300 W. Anderson Ln. 420.2222
For an exotic taste treat, try their all-you-can-eat Lunch Buffet for $8.49 (wknds $9.49). Lovely dishes full of unusual ingredients and lots of dill. Do not be afraid.
PARS MARKET & DELI 8820 Burnet Rd. 452.4888
A north Austin gem. Friendly, fast, inexpensive & delish. Try the Kebabs & Rice or the amazing Fesenjon (Persian chicken stew w/ pomegranate). Allow some time to browse.
MARAKESH CAFÉ 906 Congress 476.7735
Palestinian Café (not Moroccan) with great prices. Shawarma, Kebabs (beef or chicken) Falafel, Hummus, Grape Leaves and my fave, Mujadarah…they’ve got it all.
PUBS & SPORTS BARS AUSSIE’S SPORTS BAR 306 Barton Springs Rd. 480.0952
Laid-back vibe with 25 indoor/outdoor screens for your viewing pleasure – if you’re not busy playing volleyball on the real-sand court out back! This is some serious fun.
BD RILEY’S IRISH PUB 204 E. 6 th St. 494.1335
Brought from Ireland in pieces and reassembled in Austin…no shit! Some great Guinness, good Fish & Chips or Shepherds Pie, and Trivia on Wednesday nights.
CROWN & ANCHOR 2911 San Jacinto 322.9168
A friendly campus hangout with 30 beers on tap and an excellent Veggie Burger, as well as the meat & cheese variety. Dogs welcome in the patio (the furry kind).
CASINO EL CAMINO 517 E. 6 th St. 469.9330
Great Vampire bar with a cool jukebox, weird movies, and a 1/2 lb. Angus Burger people have orgasms over. Pool tables in the upstairs lounge, Mayan-themed patio out back.
THE DOG & DUCK PUB 406 W. 17 th St. 479.0598
The Crazy Uncle of the pub scene. Nothing goes better with 42 beers on tap (mostly English & local brews) than delicious Fish’n Chips or Bangers’n Mash.
THE DRAUGHT HOUSE 4112 Medical Parkway 452.6258
To quote a yelper ’English on the inside, Texan on the outside’. Lawn chairs & dogs allowed in the parking lot. Huge selection of beer on tap, including some decent house-brews.
THE GINGER MAN 304 W. 4 th St. 473.8801
The King of Pubs with darts, pool, jukebox, patio, and reading room. What more could you want? One hundred bottles of beer on the wall and another 80 on tap!
LOVEJOY’S 604 Neches 477.1268
A funky refuge for punks and misfits of all stripes…thank god! Some good house-made brews and a kick-ass jukebox stocked with the best of the local alt scene.
MOTHER EGAN’S IRISH PUB 715 W. 6 th St. 478.7747
The Queen – Irish, English, German & Dutch beer on hand, with Shepherd’s Pie or Corned Beef & Cabbage. For the total experience, try a Deep-Fried Snicker or Milky Way!
OPAL DIVINE’S FREEHOUSE 700 W. 6 th St – 477.3308 3601 S. Congress – 707.0237
An excellent selection of beer with a separate Scotch Bar upstairs. Good pub food, great service, and a rockin’ atmosphere make for some good times here.
SCOOT INN 1301 E. 4 th St. 478.6200
Odd but cool Eastside dive with monthly sock hops, live indie bands & a big outdoor space occasionally used for fundraisers. Can be crazycrowded, or lonely-empty.
SPIDERHOUSE 2908 Fruth St. (E. of Guadalupe) 480.9562
Coffee, sandwiches, beer & cocktails in a converted old house and large garden patio with great atmosphere. DJ’s spin on Fri. & Sat. (unless its raining).
THE TAVERN 922 W. 12 th St. 320.1545
Historic-building-turned-sports bar with 52 TVs that can be tuned to any game you like. Cheap beer & good happy hour deals, best enjoyed on the upstairs patio.
SEAFOOD
MEXICAN & TEX MEX
EDDIE V’S EDGEWATER GRILLE 301 E. 5 th St. 472.1860
If you’re willing to spend some real dough, this is the place. Extensive menu, but its the long happy-hours w/ 50-cent Oysters & half-price appetizers that make it seem fun.
LA MOJARRA FELIZ 8624 N. Lamar 491.6961
Nicely done Mexican Seafood in a classic kitch setting. Whole Talapia flash fried, grilled or steamed (get the Vera Cruz style), and tender, chewy Pulpo (octopus) w/ loads of garlic.
QUALITY SEAFOOD 5621 Airport Blvd. 454.5827
This local seafood market & restaurant offers a dozen Oysters on the Half-Shell for just $9.99 and $2 Fish Tacos on Tuesdays! Also love the daily soups & house-made cornbread.
WAHOO’S FISH TACOS 509 Rio Grande St. 476.3474
Great location off W. 6 th with an authentic California surf & skateboard theme. Sweet Hawaiian fish cooked w/ teriyaki or Cajun spices & allnatural veggie options as well.
AL PASTOR 1911 E. Riverside Dr. 442.8402
Don’t judge a book by its cover…look at the menu! There’s 17 different ways to enjoy your Al Pastor here – all superb. One of the most authentic Mexican joints in town.
CURRA’S 614 E. Oltorf 444.0012
Forget they have one of the best drink selections in town, its their Interior Mexican staples, the Seafood dishes and daily brunches that keep ‘em comin’ back.
EL AZTECA 2600 E. 7 th St. 477.4701
This 50-year-old east side gem is still run by the same family and is loved for their Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas & Cabrita, strong Margaritas, friendly service and kitchy art.
EL REY 4109 S. Capital of Texas Hwy. 443.1911
If you’ve got a hangover they’ll fix you up with the best Menudo in town. Then sample some Sonoran-style Chile Rellenos, Mayan Chicken, or Chile Verde. Unique flavors.
BABY GREENS 2316 S. 1 st St. 462.1697
A convenient drive-thru with lots of super fresh salads & veggie wraps but ONLY ten dressings to choose from! For a dollar more, they’ll add some chicken.
EVITA’S BOTANITAS 6400 S. 1 st St. 441.2424
Authentic border town cantina with superb Tacos, Enchiladas & Chicken Mole. They also have some of the best salsas in town…5 varieties on a rotating tray at the table.
BOULDIN CREEK CAFE 1501 S. 1 st St. 416.1601
Way funky South Austin café catering to the no-meat crowd with tofu scrambles, tacos & burgers. Or, hang with a great cup of Jo and make some new friends.
GUERO’S TACO BAR 1412 S. Congress 707.8232
Three reasons to come here: fun place to people watch (maybe spot a celeb); stays open ‘til 11pm; good Pollo Caldo (chicken soup) loaded w/veggies. Understood?
DAILY JUICE 1625 Barton Springs Rd – 480.9502 2307 Lake Austin Blvd. – 628.0782
Drink your breakfast, lunch, or dinner here. Fantastic tasting organic juices, smoothies & detoxifying concoctions, a stone’s throw from the hike & bike trails of Lake Austin.
HABANERO MEXICAN CAFE 501 W. Oltorf 416.0443
THE place for Fajitas and Grilled Lengua. Not much on atmosphere, but at these prices who cares? Have a Mexican beer or two and create your own.
MOTHER’S CAFÉ & GARDEN 4215 Duval 451.3994
Back in action after the fire, offering favorite staples like the Bueno Burger, BBQ Tofu, Mushroom Stroganoff & Artichoke Enchiladas. Good salads & dressings as well.
JUAN IN A MILLION 2300 E. Cesar Chavez 472.3872
If Menudo doesn’t work on your hangover, then try the Don Juan Special. Friendly east side joint with delicious, inexpensive breakfast & lunch and a lively patio out back.
MR. NATURAL 1901 E. Cesar Chavez – 477.5228 2414 S. Lamar – 916.9223
Tasty Tex-Mex vegetarian with daily specials like Tofu Tamales, Veggie Enchiladas & Zucchini Poblanos. Also, honey smoothies & some strange and wonderful pastries.
MARIA’S TACO XPRESS 2529 S. Lamar 444.0261
Got to love a place with this much character, great Pollo Guisado Tacos, and Hippie Church on Sundays. A South Austin original run by one of the nicest families around.
VEGGIE HEAVEN 1914-A Guadalupe 457.1013
This cheap and popular Campus spot serves Tofu, surrounded by veggies, in too many ways to count. They all taste similar, so just pick one!
VEGETARIAN
AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
PG 7
MOVIE REVIEWS
Gomorrah I’m tempted to say that “Gomorrah”, a purebred Italian film, is the best Italian crime film since “The Godfather”. I can say that it’s the best since “Goodfellas”, but it is still so different in so many ways—less about getting to know the characters as they are humanized for the audience, much more about getting to know the mafia from the ground up. In a way, it’s a type of survey of modern day Italian organized crime. In a multi-narrative plot with the lives of 6 males in the mafia intertwining throughout the film, we get to see how a 13-year old grocery delivery boy turned gang member, two cocky teenage frauds, a haute couture tailor, a middleman money distributor and a mob-boss in running a toxic waste dumping scheme are all connected in one way or another, although the 5 separate stories never directly come in contact with each other ala “Crash” (a good thing). While both of the previously mentioned masterpieces of cinema are more or less a straightforward narrative that takes place in America, therefore giving way to a sort of neo-mafiaism, “Gomorrah” is straight out of the ever so mentioned old-country in every way. Above all
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PG 8
else, the film looks to educate the viewer about the dirty truth that is the mafia. It in no way glorifies the crime or violence, and consistently checks itself on the facts. After the film ends and we are done peering in on these people’s lives for a short period of time, we are forced to consider not only how many lives have been wastefully lost and negatively affected since the emergence of the Cosa Nostra in the late 19th century, but how it has gone on for so long. I believe in the end it all comes down to attempting to fulfill an avarice that lies deep within these subjects, whether it’s the 13-year-old runner or the 80-year-old boss. Though nominated by Italy as its official entry to the 81st Academy Awards, it somehow slipped through the cracks and failed to receive a nomination, but don’t let that fool you. Winner of the Grand Prix at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival and Best Film at the European Film Awards, “Gomorrah” is that rare dramatic picture that contains enough action and sincerity to warrant a ‘must see’. – Cole Dabney
The International and other horror concepts that this just feels like a retread. The film introduces nothing new, and instead relies on the same thrills that the original invented. But until Hollywood comes up with new ideas for the genre, horror will continue to remain as dull as ever. - Bobby McCurdy Waltz with Bashir
Friday the 13th Horror remakes generally come in three types: bad, worse, and worst. As expected the Friday the 13th remake that no one wanted belongs to the last category. There must have been something lacking in those ten sequels to the original that someone had the grand idea to reboot this franchise. That someone happens to be Michael Bay, whose production company turned in a decent new installment of Texas Chainsaw Massacre back in 2003. This gem of a picture instead settles for the lowest rung of celluloid entertainment, turning in cliché after cliché, boring everyone until it hurtles to an unsatisfying finish an unbearably long 97 minutes later. Despite being a “remake,” the film’s plot picks up where the original left off, albeit with new characters and in a new millennium. As always, fun-loving teenagers head to the lake to party and instead find themselves chased by a machetewielding madman. Following the trend of the original series, the characters matter little, instead focusing on the sex and action. The original Friday the 13th is iconic because it essentially birthed the slasher genre, setting a standard for death and mayhem that others tried to one-up for decades. At this point though, the market is so inundated with torture porn
“Waltz with Bashir” is without a doubt the first movie of its kind: a featurelength foreign language animated documentary. The story follows director Ari Folman on a journey meeting with former friends and acquaintances as he attempts to recreate a period in his life that he simply cannot remember. After first encountering an old friend in his infantry division and learning that he has been having nightmares regarding his service in the army, Folman discovers that he cannot recall a thing during that same period. The one faint image in his head is bathing nude in the Mediterranean Sea when flares began going off on September 16, 1982 in West Beirut, Lebanon during the Sabra and Shatila massacre in the First Lebanon War. From there he is bound and determined to fully piece together his tour of duty in the Israeli Army, visiting 5 other Lebanon War-veterans and an Israeli journalist who was covering the conflict. During this time he continues to consult with a long-time friend and a psychologist who specializes in psychological trauma in order to discover how this memory was lost and how he may possibly regain it. Beautifully animated with a newly created and pleasantly unique technique developed exclusively for this project, “Waltz with Bashir” is flooded with dark colors that perfectly display the overall tone of the film. (Though it should not be confused with rotoscoping, the style used in Linklater’s “Waking Life” and “A Scanner Darkly” and in those creepy Charles Schwab commercials.) The soundtrack is wonderfully 80’s and very Hebrewaut hent ic, while t he accompany ing original electronic score is continuously haunting and noteworthy. “Waltz with Bashir” will have a very limited core audience at the box office, but if you’re up for it, don’t pass up the chance of waltzing with this marvel of animation. – Cole Dabney
The conspiracy thriller has a long and established history in Hollywood, from Sydney Pollack’s films in the ‘70s to the more recent Bourne series. The underlying theme throughout these has been shadowy entities, whether criminal or governmental, chasing down an agent and his femme fatale. The International models itself after these and is clearly influenced by those works, but the antagonist organization in this film is a bank. That’s right, just a bank. Not the CIA or the Soviet Union, but just a bank that ostensibly funds terrorism. This premise is just the beginning of this miserable work that squanders a likable duo (Clive Owen and Naomi Watts) and becomes one of the more boring films in recent memory. The story centers on an Interpol agent (Owen) and a New York assistant DA (Watts) who inexplicably team up to take down a corrupt bank based in Luxembourg. Their investigation takes them all over the world, from assassinations in Italy to shoot-outs in New York. The two display remarkably little chemistry and proceed through the script as if they were pulling teeth. The pacing is all over the place, and for long stretches the film is an exercise in boredom. Most disappointingly, the film marks Tom Tywker’s American directorial debut. Are we to believe this was the best effort from the man who turned the movie world upside down with “Run, Lola, Run”? From the convoluted story to the cardboard acting, this movie is plagued by problem after problem. Attempts to incorporate action fall completely flat, and more than anything it’s just not fun to watch. All this from such solid talent reminds us that there are few sure things in Hollywood. – Bobby McCurdy
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cole and bobby .com
TV
Jimmy fallon by Veronica Garcia
I
f you’re a college student, overnight security guard, or walking past an electronics store, you are the likely audience of “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.” Or if you just want one more laugh before you go to bed, then you’ll be tuning in this spring for Fallon’s debut as the new host of the talk show. Fallon is replacing Conan O’Brien who is moving to “The Tonight Show.” But even though he’s got some pretty big hair to fill, Fallon says he’s got his own hair issues and he’s ready to take the helm. “My nerves are gone, I’m anxious, I’m ready to go,” he said in a recent telephone interview. “The cool thing is that Conan is on before me. So, he’s not gone.” The show will feature comedy, guests, sketches and the music of new house band The Roots. Fallon tapped The Roots because of their amazing abilities and their many friends and fans. “They have so many friends in the music business it’s insane, and they’ll be inviting them to the show,” he said. “On top of that they’re funny as hell. And so they’re going to do sketches and it’s going to be good.” The new set will have a balcony behind the band so audience members can dance to the music between commercials, he added. Fallon is also taking the show to another level with a video blog (vlog) and Twitter updates. “The Internet exists, but you know, I think a lot of shows don’t really mention that, I mean, they barely touch on it,” he said. Don’t expect Fallon to have a sidekick as some hosts have on other talk shows. “As much as I loved Andy Richter with Conan and Conan without Andy, I just think when is it too much?” he said. “This isn’t ‘The View.’” Fallon has been working on learning the fine art of going from standup and sketches to interviewing guests like a proper talk show host. “There’s these series of bullet points you ask the guests and you have to learn how to ask them in a conversa-
tional manner,” he said. “I need to calm down and get better. That’s why we’re doing test shows.” Fallon’s dream guest to interview is a bit unconventional. “The Queen of England,” he said. “I love her. If you have her email, I’d love to have her on the show. I’d like to play Wii Bowling with her. If you could arrange that it would be great.” Fallon’s biggest challenge will likely be keeping a straight face during the sketches. “I’m an easy laugh,” he said. For example, Fallon says the best of Will Ferrell’s career on “Saturday Night Live” is him laughing at the wrong time. Fallon called the infamous cowbell sketch “a perfect storm of comedy.” Let’s hope the weather conditions are right for “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” and he can ride the wave for a long time.
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PG 9
COVER STORY
2009 Texas Rockfest Four Days. Nine Stages. Free.
By Sean Claes
T
exas Rockfest is an Austin-born tradition that spurred from the idea that the third week in Austin should be accessible to everyone – bands that would like to play, fans that would like to watch, and folks who want to have a good time without spending a dime on entertainment. The mantra that organizer Adam Brewer has chanted for years is “No Badges, No Bracelets, No Problem.” At it’s inception, it was called the “Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass Festival.” After reading that you can understand two things… where the Texas Flag Heart logo came from and why they decided to shorten the name to Texas Rockfest. Now in it’s 10 th year, Texas Rockfest is bigger than ever, boasting four outdoor stages and five club spots. There’s genre-specific stages like the Hip-Hop and R&B stage and Singer/Songwriter stage, and there’s also the outdoor stages which will offer the gamut of musical styles from rock to metal to alternative to Americana. For a full list of bands and where to see them, visit texasrockfest.com or come to one of the locations between March 18–21 and pick up a program. Locations: TRF Outdoor 1 – (7th & Neches) TRF Outdoor 2 (7th & Neches) HML Outdoor 1 (7th & Trinity) HML Outdoor 2 (7th & Trinity) RockFest Club Stage 1 – Treasure Island (413 E 6th St) RockFest Club Stage 2 – Mugshots (407 E. 7th St.) Rockfest Club Stage 3 – Malaia (300 E 6th St) Singer/Songwriter Stage – Pure (409 E 6th St) Hip-Hop/R&B Stage – Fuel (607 Trinity St) 3 Kisses (Austin) – “Texas Party Punk” – Experience an explosive, high-energy performance with a positive party vibe. Web: 3kisses.com American Zeros (Dallas) – This rock trio has been compared to Foo Fighters, Incubus, Collective Soul, and Cheap Trick. Web: americanzeros.com After Midnight Project (Los Angeles, CA) – Based in Los Angeles the rock outfit watched their star rise via hard work and melodic, face smashing anthems. Web: myspace.com/aftermidnightproject Ashbury (Las Vegas, NV) – First found success when they won both a local and the subsequent national “Have a Nice Gig” contest thrown by internationally known artist Bon Jovi in 2006. After playing with Bon Jovi at MGM Grand Gardens, Jon Bon Jovi and Ritchie Sambora personally invited the band to join them on their tour at Giant’s Stadium in New Jersey, in front of 50,000 people. Web: myspace.com/ashbury Atomic Outlaws (Tacoma, WA) – Rolling Stone says: “Seeing The Atomic Outlaws is like having a ring side seat at Pearl Harbor. The Most Explosive live band of 2009”. Web: theatomicoutlaws.com The Banner Year (Austin) – Punk-influenced pop-rock band from Austin, TX that is gathering steam nationwide with their unique songcraft and intense live performances. Web: myspace.com/TheBannerYear Before Dawn (Austin) – A super hot DIY Duo who M AR CH 2 0 0 9
PG 10
photo by Greg Cooper
Broken Teeth
makes sexy, nerdy, dance music with heavy beats, rock guitars and experimental pop aesthetics. Austin’s bravest buzz band! Web: beforedawnband.com Big Fat Alice (Seattle, WA) likes its music like its women: Big, Fat & Rockin’. They write lush, explosive lyrics thick with emotion and texture. The jams stick in your head with unforgettable melody & shredding guitar. This band’s sound truly satisfies the whole palate of rock ‘n’ roll taste. Want to sample that big, fat sound? Web: sonicbids.com/bigfatalice Justin Black (Derry, Ireland by way of Nashville) – Justin Black’s raw unique sound cuts to your soul and plants the seeds of authenticity. Life is the influence this cancer survivor uses to bring a fresh sound you won’t soon forget. Black Queen Speaks (Houston, TX) – Black Queen Speaks delivers broad strokes of blues, funk, and hard rock through a clear channel of soul. Web: blackqueenspeaks. com Butcherwhite (Austin) – Loud, raw & heavy original hard rock with a nod to old school metal and classic punk. Web: butcherwhite.com Cold December (Fall City, WA) – Cold December is a progressive rock group out of the woods of Fall City Wa, and was formed in December of 2008. Web: myspace. com/colddecember The Culprit – UK based electronic rock band, heavy and hooky, six strings meet sawtooths! Explosive live show, also back touring in the summer...check it out! Web: myspace.com/theculprit1
Lilian Borunda (New York, NY) – A vivacious singer with vocals compared to that of Christina and Mariah, Lilian Borunda’s songs bring a young, trendy, and truthful perspective to pop/r&b music. Web: myspace.com/ LilianBorundaMusic Dawn Over Zero (Austin) – From the pages of Metal Edge Magazine to the Ernie Ball Stage at Warped Tour, the band has accomplished much in their emergent existence. Web: myspace.com/dawnoverzero Jon Davidson (Portland, OR) – Jon Davidson is an alt/ rock artist from Oregon. He tours internationally and his music can be heard on over 100 stations in 38 states. Web: jondavidsonmusic.com DC4 (Los Angeles, CA) – With some of the most impressive hard rock credits behind their name, DC4 is comprised of Rowan Robertson (guitar), Jeff Duncan (guitar/lead vocals), Matt Duncan (bass, backing vocals), and Shawn Duncan (drums). Past associations of individual band members include stints with Ronnie James Dio, Odin and Armored Saint, among other notable major and independent label-recording artists. Web:myspace.com/dc4duncan, chavisrecords.net/dc4.html, airplaydirect.com/dc4 Dead Earth Politics (Austin) – A thundering mix of old and new metal influences, and a helping of dissidence, Dead Earth Politics is here to brand their Mark on Texas! Web: deadearthpolitics.com Dead Town Revival (Chicago) – driving melodic music that speaks of love lost, hard luck and a complete disdain for authority. They have created a unique style that stays rooted in the undeniable ‘Chicago punk sound’. Web: deadtownrevival.com Deejer (Austin) – In 2008, Deejer released “Dark Summer Dawn,” showcased at Amplify Music Festival in Vegas, and were endorsed by Traben Bass Co. and Michael Kelly Guitars. This spring, Deejer will be included in the reissue of “An Education in Rebellion: The Biography of Nikki Sixx” bonus CD. Web: myspace.com/deejer Dented (Austin) – A freight train crashing through a Guitar Center, and their 2009 debut EP – Wolf at the Table – would do little to prove otherwise: think Queens of the Stone Age… only half the weed and twice the whiskey. Web: myspace.com/dentedatx Divide The Day (Cotton, CA) – Seeking refuge from a stagnant music scene in Southern California, Divide the Day can be best described as hard-hitting, ass-shaking, Dirty Western Rock! Web: myspace.com/dividetheday Dremnt The End (Austin) – A 4 piece rock band from Austin, TX. Web: dremnttheend.com Droids Attack (Madison, WI) – Droid’s throw down style consistently leads all scowling metal heads in the room to the front row beaming with delight. It’s fun to have your ass kicked this good. Web: myspace.com/ droidsattack Rocko Dorsey (New York) – Punk rock/power pop trio for fans of high energy Rock and Roll and the return of guitar solos! Web: myspace.com/rockodorsey Exit380 (Denton, TX) – Formed in the Spring of 1999, this traveling rock band has produced four full length albums & one compilation “best of” disc: Exit380’s style comes from a varied combination of rock, alternative, & blues. What sets this band apart is their dedication to their grassroots fanbase, eclectic writing styles, & energetic live shows. Web: myspace.com/exit380 Faded (Northwest, US) – Combine distinct writing styles and sounds with the influence of classic rock, classical, and hard rock genres and you get five guys known as Faded. Web: myspace.com/fadedmusic Folio (Los Angeles) – “Next Wave Electro-Rock.” Newly signed to Hensley Records. 3 songs in new “Stoked” game (Xbox 360). Multiple TV/Podcast placements. Writing new album. Web: myspace.com/nuwaveboi, folioband.com For Every Day (Dallas) – High above the horizon of today’s emerging rock heavyweights, flies the refined refrains of For Every Day. Their masterful mix of heavy-hitting rock anthems and carefully-crafted melodies converts almost everyone into instant fans. Web:foreverydayrock.com, myspace.com/foreveryday Fortress of Attitude (Los Angeles) – Half rock band, half comedy troupe, Fortress of Attitude packages hilarious, hard-hitting songs into a stage show littered with costumes, props and audience participation. Web: myspace. com/fortressofattitude
Courtesy Photo
COVER STORY Lucid (Spokane, WA) – From the Pacific Northwest, Lucid is a mixture of hard rock and metal with soaring melodic vocals. This is a band to watch out for. Web: myspace.com/lucidband Andy Macintyre & The Primal Groove – Andy Macintyre plays the perfect infusion of Classic Rock and Blues; a killer combination of meltyour-face guitar playing mixed with a soulful voice. Web: myspace.com/ andymacintyre or andymacintyre.com Marashino (Milwaukee, WI) Formed in 2002. From the very beginning they had a goal – to deliver well crafted rock songs and to give their fans a memorable live experience. Web: myspace.com/marashino, marashino music.com Man Automatic (Sacramento, CA) – For six years, rock band Man Automatic’s fresh sound and stunning live performance have earned them critical acclaim and an impressive fan base Web: manautomatic.com Manifesto Destiny (Dallas) – Miniature instruments? Band started as a Eddie Ojeda party cover band called Holy Diver (never a Dio Tribute) and quickly made a name for themselves as an energetic thrust machine that takes people through many changes. Now an all original band renamed (appropriately) Manifesto Destiny. Web: myspace.com/manifestodestinyband photo by Mike Rhine Monstro Flora (Los Angeles) – L.A. Indie band with an arty approach to pop-sensible songwriting. Monstro Flora navigates the spaces between full-throttle, wall-of-sound rock and intimate, sparse vulnerability convincingly and with ease. Web: sonicbids.com/epk/epk.asp?epk_id=126244 and myspace.com/monstroflora Monte Montgomery (Austin) – Monte Montgomery has taken the acoustic guitar beyond anyone’s expectations. With his amazing fretwork, unique combination finger and pick style playing through trailblazing “chordal” thoroughfares often baffling even the most accomplished players. In 2004 Monte was named on Guitar Player Magazine’s list of “Top 50 Greatest Guitarists Of All Time.” Web: montemontgomery.com Monte Montgomery Witchburn Mothers Anthem (Austin) – Born from unrelenting passion and a wealth of experience, Mothers Anthem crashes through barriers and brings new life to the rock scene with songs that lift, instruct and connect with those Freebleeder (Austin) – Buy the cheapest tall boy you can find, shake the Hell out seeking to find music with meaning. When created, the band had one goal in mind, to deliver each song as a passionate message. The music has a purpose. The purpose is to of it, then pop the top. Meet Freebleeder – Drink and Destroy.” Web: myspace.com/ inspire. Web: myspace.com/mothersanthem freebleeder Moxxy (Elgin, IL) – a collaboration of musical talent that has successfully fused the Full Service (Austin) – FS is like pizza. I dare you to try to describe what pizza tastes Midwest’s greatest underground scenes to create an original style. This is a high energy like! The only thing to do is eat it… and love it. Web: fullservicemusic.com band with screaming guitar riffs, ridiculous bass lines, insane percussion, passionate lyrFull Stride (Austin) – Wide open rock and roll with a tone that is unmistakably full ics, and powerful vocals. Web: myspace.com/moxxymusic throttle. Amber Dickerson, on guitar, pushes that big sound through both a vintage New Professionals (New York City) – An original rock band that tours America and Orange guitar rig and an Ampeg SVT classic bass amp to cover the bottom end. A vehicle gets radio play in various cities around the world...Karen Curious, born in Tennessee, with that much power can only be driven with strength and fineness. Trent parker straps raised in S. California and Texas ended up in NYC where she formed New Professionals in and commands this ride, cranking out rhythm on his drums as though he had a big and met up with drummer Nate Smith from Utah and bassist/guitarist Abigail Henblock engine floored. Web: myspace.com/fullstride nessy from Washington DC. All three musicians have extensive histories in rock bands Fulton Read (Austin) – Fulton Read wants to rock with you til the world ends in 2012.... throughout their lives on this earth. Web: reverbnation.com/newprofessionals, myspace. don’t ya worry about tomorrow cuz we’re living right now. Web: fultonread.com and com/newprofessionals myspace.com/fultonread Nipsey (Hoboken, NJ) – 70’s rock mixed with punk and blues and in your face guitar mayGoodnight Goddess – “It takes most first-timers a moment to realize the vocalist is hem. And trips to outer space. Seriously. If you want to know about the merits of space travel, male, but then the group will transition in seconds from the frailty of Bright Eyes to the and enjoy blazing guitars and one of the most solid, slamming rhythm sections around, then frenzied aggression of System of a Down...” Web: goodnightgoddess.com come and see us. After all, it’s all coming on. Web: myspace.com/nipseyband Grady (Austin) – Gordie “Grady” Johnson guitars and lead vocals, “Big” Ben Richardson Nocturnal Sun (Austin) – Real. Groovy. Metal. Nocturnal Sun is a 5 piece from Austin, bass and vocals, Nina “Drumbellina” Singh drums and more vocals. “The soundtrack to Texas that brings it! Come see for yourself. Web: myspace.com/1nocturnalsun your next bar-fight...” – Classic Rock Magazine “I been listenin’ to Grady every day.” – Nothing More (San Antonio) – Passionately progressive rock with a live show full of Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) Web: shadygrady,net, myspace.com/gradyaustin energy, eclectic drum break downs, innovative instruments (such as the “bassanator”), grampadrew – An acoustic balladeer who sings direct, honest music delivered alternately and unparalleled showmanship. Web: NothingMore.net and/or myspace.com/nothing with the fire of a street preacher or the quiet of a gravedigger. Web: grampadrew.com moremusic Johnny Hardy (Dallas) – This Dallas artist reflects influences of George Harrison, Oak is Keeping (Austin) – Oak is Keeping jams out a blend of stoner rock that will give Bob Dylan, David Bowie etc; a departure from his other performing acts Hawk Vs Dove, you a love punch in the face. Web: oakiskeeping.com Manifesto Destiny, and Holy Diver. Web: myspace.com/paidattention Eddie “Fingers” Ojeda (New York) – Solo artist and guitarist for the legendary multi Hawk Vs Dove (Dallas) – Heavy Sludge Stoner Rock similar to Boris, Earth, Harvey Milk, gold and platinum selling group TWISTED SISTER will be rocking the main stage at Texas the Melvins, NWOFHM, The Psychic Paramount, Comets on Fire, The Goslings, Cave, Les Rockfest on March 20. He’ll be performing some TS Classics, as well as songs from his Rallizes DeNudes, Burmese, Nadja, Black Mayonnaise, Circle, Expo 70, Aquarius Records recent Solo CD “Axes to Axes”, which features appearances by rock legends such as Ron... etc. etc. etc. Web: myspace.com/HawkVersusDove nie James Dio, Joe Lynn Turner, Dee Snider, Joe Franco, Rudy Sarzo, Terry Ilous and Chris Hotel St. George (San Diego, CA) – Hotel St. George formed in January of 2008 and McCarvill. Web: myspace.com/eddieojeda they don’t play sublime covers. Web: myspace.com/hotelstgeorge One-Eyed Doll (Austin) “...combines the rock-star bravado of a Jack White (or Jack Illusion33 (Sandpoint, ID) – Hailing from the Inland Northwest, Illusion 33’s modern Black) with the visual impact of a Japanese Anime... a super heroine that’s alternately rock sound is gaining fans exponentially across the country with their in your face high fierce, outrageous, vulnerable and sweet.” Web: OneEyedDoll.com energy performances. Web: ill33.com or myspace.com/illusion33 Parallel The Sky (Lake Charles, LA) – A home grown intense, powerful, and energetic Imperial Battlesnake (Chicago) – With razor-sharp guitar riffs and cast-iron vocals rock group from Lake Charles, LA. Their music is in your face with catchy guitar riffs Imperial Battlesnake ride roughshod astride a rhythm section fervently dedicated to punand unforgettable lyrics backed with solid drum patterns, and smooth bass lines. Web: ishing dynamics. Web: imperialbattlesnake.com myspace.com/parallelthesky Lenny King And The Heroine (San Antonio) – This Texas Rock outfit plays over 150 CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 dates a year touring through out the nation. Rocking the Hearts of every man woman and child they meet. Web: myspace.com/theheroinerock KANUDE (Houston) – The musical project of Kingsville-born, Houston-bred, song maestro Chris Knudson. This self-proclaimed Americronica is a new musical breed that brings together the best elements of Tin-Pan Alley songwriting with 1960s and 70s Southern Rock and Pop. Web: kanude.com Kreisor (New York City) – Inspired by 70’s legends such as Hawkwind, Deep Purple, UFO, Blue Oyster Cult and Captain Beyond and the NYC & European heavy music scenes of today; psychedelic hard rock of the highest order. Web: myspace.com/kreisor & teepeerecords.com KriticKill (Temple, TX) – Hard rocking band from Central Texas. Have three self released CD’s, “Trust”, Psalms” & “Nothing Time Can’t Heal”. Currently working on their Fourth CD. Have toured to east and west coasts. Worked with Multi Platinum Producer Beau Hill. Web: kritickill.com & myspace.com/kritickill Language Room (Austin) – fresh off the release of their debut album One By One, Language Room is changing what to expect from Austin bands. Web: languageroom.net Ledaswan (San Antonio) – Ledaswan inhabit a terrain where the manicured noise of the ‘White Light / White Heat’ era Velvets meets the narcotic woozy world of Mazzy Star. Web: ledaswanmusic.net, myspace.com/ledaswan Love Trucker (Vancouver, WA) – A four person band, they grew up craving the attitude and swagger of rock lore from the past. Their sound delivers an authentic rock and roll vibe masterfully crafted in the traditional roots of American music. Influences range from Chuck Berry to Led Zeppelin to Gram Parsons. They are on a singular mission to share their passion and vision of American Rock and Roll, adding their own unique layer to musical greatness. Web: myspace.com/lovetruckerband photo by Sean Claes
Courtesy Photo
AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
PG 11
MUSIC
Riverboat Gamblers Release The Owl
By Ana Wolken
W
hen the Riverboat Gamblers’ new album Underneath the Owl drops nationwide on March 10th, it will be the band’s sixth album in their storied career. Through many personnel changes, The Riverboat Gamblers have continually put out some of the best in modern punk. They’ve also gained a reputation for their raucous, sometimes insane shows that sometimes resulted in injuries but always left their energetic crowds wanting more. Guitarist Ian MacDougall took time to answer some questions about the band’s inspiration behind Underneath the Owl, how the band approaches the writing process and how life in Austin has treated The Riverboat Gamblers. Ana AW: What is the inspiration behind Underneath the Owl? Ian IM: Musically we were trying to do something, not really different, but mess around a little bit more. Try to mix it up from the standard three chord punk songs. Lyrically, Mike (Wiebe) wrote a lot of songs about the things he’s got going on upstairs. He’s on several different types of anti-depressants and anti-psychotics. Stuff like that, mental issues. Normal kind of stuff that we usually deal with day-to-day. AW: What is your writing process like? IM: What usually happens is that we all contribute. Everybody has made their stamp on this new album. We got a new bass player and he’d only been in the band for a little while. He’s really solid on the record. Basically, somebody will come up with something that’s not totally set in stone. A pretty firm idea for a song. I usually like to demo a lot in my home studio. Just tons of stuff, even from years ago. Hundreds and hundreds of idea. Everybody brings something to the table. We all fuck with it a little bit and in the end it comes out the way we like it. This one, definitely everyone had a big contribution. The last couple records were definitely Fadi (El-Assad) and Mike switching off. Mike writes music and lyrics and same thing with Fadi. Mike will write music to the song he wrote and stuff like that. This time around I definitely had a pretty big part in the songs, the first single. Whole sections of the songs were pulled out of my recorder. Turned out awesome. It’s pretty organic, you know. It’s not like, “It’s my song, you’ve gotta play it like this. This how it’s gonna be.” It’s not like that at all. We don’t do much jamming. We come in with something set and go from there. AW: How is the band liking Austin since moving from Denton? IM: We moved 4-5 years ago. I love it here. I probably wouldn’t live any other place. Everything combined, the food here is great, the scenery, there’s stuff to do. Like Dallas is this concrete jungle. DFW is just like building, building, store, freeway. I like how everything is pretty close here. It’s funny how people complain about driving all the way to north Austin, which takes about 15 mins. Going anywhere in Dallas takes like 30-40
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mins. I also love all the places to swim in Austin. There’s these cliffs down in the Greenbelt, like these 30 and 70 foot cliffs. AW: Do you keep up with the Denton scene at all? IM: We still go back pretty often. It’s definitely a shell of it’s former self. A lot of places have been torn down. We still keep going up there. Band wise, The Marked Men are still really awesome. High Tension Wires as well. Other than that I haven’t heard much of other bands from Denton who come down here. We only go up there at holidays to visit family and stuff. AW: Are there any bands in particular from Austin that you’ve been impressed with? IM: There’s so many bands here. I really like that band Ume a whole lot. They’re pretty awesome. Oh I don’t know... it just seems like all my friends in Austin are in bands and if I start naming them off I’m going to have to name them all. It’s such a melting pot. The Urgencies are pretty awesome. Grand Champeen are awesome, they don’t really play that often anymore though. There was a while there was I was going to every show they played out. There’s just so many good bands in Austin. The Riverboat Gamblers new album Underneath the Owl is out on Volcom Entertainment, March 10th. They celebrate that day with an in-store performance at Waterloo Records. They’ll be back in Austin April 5, playing the Grind: Action Sports and Music Festival (thegrindseries.com) Ana Wolken is the Music Editor for INsite. You can keep up with her other adventures in music at AustinSoundCheck.com and DeadBunnyMusic.com.
MUSIC CALENDAR
INsite Recommends - MARCH 2009 3/6/2009 Cut Copy w/Matt & Kim and DJ Knightlife (outdoors) Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Hudson Falcons, Born To Lose, Sore Losers, Combat Shock Room 710 Danny Schmidt (cd release) w/special guest Carrie Elkin Cactus Cafe Language Room CD Release Party La Zona Rosa When Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth, Woodgrain, Follow That Bird, Air Traffic Controllers Emo’s Austin Symphony’s Butler Pops Series presents The Charlie Daniels Band The Long Center for the Performing Arts L.A.X. - Cut Copy Aftershow Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Ott (Twisted Records) w/Bluetech (Aleph Zero, Native State) The Parish Del Castillo Antone’s Free in the lounge- Waterloo Records DJ night w/Edmund and Andy Red 7 Miles Okazaki Flamingo Cantina Larry Lange & the Lonely Knights Evangeline Cafe Erik Wofford and Cacophony Recorders DJs w/The Great Nostalgic Club de Ville Hello Lovers Lamberts Ugly Beats Beerland $3 Total Faggots, Backsliders (Dallas) Hole in the Wall QUIET COMPANY CD Release Show w/the Rocketboys, Jets Under Fire The Mohawk Hurts to Laugh, Vitamins, Seizures, Damage Pants Trophy’s EARLY SHOW: Damiera, The Urgency, Consider the Source, Prom Nite Red 7 Power Squid, The F & The C, Watching the Moon, We’ll Go Machete (Outside) Emo’s Corto Maltese EP Release Party Scoot Inn & Bier Garten Sixes & Eights, AchAchChay, Kittinger, Joe’s Rocket Shoppe, Satellite Soldiers Red Eyed Fly Juan De Marcos’ Afro-Cuban Allstars The Paramount Theatre James Polk Orchestra The Monarch Jon Napier & Colin McDonald, Alan Haynes One2One Bar 3/7/2009 Big Head Todd w/Joan Jones from Sun ‘60 (outdoors) Stubb’s Bar-B-Q 11th annual Townes Van Zandt Birthday Salute w/Butch Hancock & compadres Cactus Cafe Take Action Tour w/Cute is What We Aim For, Meg & Dia, Breathe Carolina, & Every Avenue Emo’s $4 Cover: Baby Got Bacteria, Brass Ovaries Pole Dancers & more! Hole in the Wall Flametrick Subs, Black Irish Beerland High Watt Crucifixers, Ignitor, Year of the Kid, Bat Castle (Inside) Emo’s Junior Brown w/American Graveyard and Flatcar Rattlers Antone’s Staple afterparty Red 7 Rich & the Obits Carousel Lounge Sunset Valley Boys Evangeline Cafe Lost Soul Review Club de Ville GHOULTOWN, GENTLEMEN’S SOCIAL CLUB, SABBATH CROW Room 710 Channel One and Spies Like Us Flamingo Cantina Mario Matteoli, Cayce Rose and the Mind Games Lamberts Killing Industry, El Camio Boys, Tba Trophy’s Warren Hood Threadgill’s North Old No 1 James McMurty Threadgill’s South World HQ Five Dollar Friend CD Release Show w/Evoleno, Sedium, Life on Loan Red Eyed Fly Ring The Alarm w/Jah Mighty, DJ Baby G & Jr. Vibes The Parish Paul Renna, Chicken Strut One2One Bar Foot Patrol / HUG / Over THE Hill / Baby Got Bacteria Austin Moose Lodge No. 1735 3/8/2009 One Night of Queen The Long Center for the Performing Arts Ludo w/Sing It Loud, This Providence, and The Morning Light Emo’s La Tampiquena’s Sunday Service Potluck Roadhouse Rags Dave Insley’s Careless Smokers, Chris Jamison, Havilah Hole in the Wall Blacktop Bend Threadgill’s North Old No 1 George Ensle Threadgill’s South World HQ Small Stone, Melodic Drifters, N.E.P., Gil Wildin Band Red Eyed Fly Make Austin Weirder Fest: BABY DICK, LIKE DOGS, CRAPULENCE, BLACKHOLICUS, MUPPLE Room 710 Warren Hood & The Hoodlums, Milkdrive Momo’s 3/9/2009 Rock N Roll Karaoke Beerland Pompeii, Weaver at the Loom, Hollywood Gossip, Gatlin Arms Emo’s Earle Brown, Freedy Johnston, Billy Crompton Momo’s 3/10/2009 Tim Barry, Austin Lucas, Josh Small, Broken Gold (Inside) Emo’s Texas Tuesday w/Kyle Park Aces Lounge Pack of Wolves Full Moon Vinyl Release Party!!!!! Red 7 Solange Knowles Antone’s March Mayhem!!! Carousel Lounge Dertybird Saxon Pub Beans & Rice, The Go Getters Red Eyed Fly Wayne Sutton, Karl Morgan One2One Bar Shenanigans, Goldcure, Castro’s Beard Momo’s 3/11/2009 Onix Ensemble McCullough Theatre The Buzzkillers, Pride Like Lions, Dun Bin Had, Head Panic, A Letter of Warning (Inside) Emo’s Merle Haggard Austin Music Hall The Contrabandits and Dub Trance Mission Flamingo Cantina Matt The Electrician & Danny Malone Cactus Cafe Eric Tessmer Band Antone’s No Quarter - The Led Zepplin Experience Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Colin Gilmore & Special Guest, Jimmie Gilmore Threadgill’s North Old No 1 The Nearly Normal, The Starboard Green, The Leprechaun Theory Red Eyed Fly One-2-One Bar’s 5 year Anniversary Party w/Vallejo! One2One Bar Os Alquimistas, Dan Dyer, Kacy Crowley, Jack Valen, Ben Balmer Momo’s 3/12/2009 Irresponsible Voltron presents - KILL THE NOISE & VEGA Barcelona Adele La Zona Rosa Rebirth Brass Band Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Silver Pines, Clay Nightingale, Collin Herring, Halleyanna Beerland Free in the lounge- DJ The No No No Hopes Red 7 Fatback Circus Flamingo Cantina Hip Hop Nation Recession Special Tour featuring Black Sheep w/Zeale, Phranchyze (inside) Emo’s
Opposite Day, A Giant Dog, Corrine Rose Room 710 Prayer for Animals, JBE, Skeletonfarm Hole in the Wall Esther LaVonne & The Rottens Apple Bar Craig Hella Johnson Waterloo Records Catie Curtis w/special guest * Jenny Reynolds Cactus Cafe Two Hoots and A Holler Trophy’s For Sake of the Ruins, Less is More, Woolgather, The Organics Red Eyed Fly Eric Tessmer One2One Bar Hannah McLendon, Tongue Tied Lightning, Wisebird, Low Expectations Momo’s 3/13/2009 Papa Mali Trio at The Parish The Parish SAD WINGS, DRIFTER, SUICIDE SOLUTION Room 710 Shake Russell Band (cd release) Cactus Cafe Dubkids Flamingo Cantina Pink Nasty, La Snacks, Ethan Azarian Hole in the Wall Bob Schneider w/Good Luck Academy Antone’s The Quebe Sisters Kam and James Morris Theatre A Ride With Bob: The Bob Wills Musical The Long Center for the Performing Arts Zenith Fuzzbomb, Perfect Pants, The Blind Pets, The Devil Rides Trophy’s Danny Malone (inside stage) Club de Ville DJ Sambo in the Wreck Room Red 7 Pastries and Pastries (A Burlesque Cupcake Cookoff) Emo’s Oliver Future w/TBA (Inside) Emo’s Gary Clark Jr. Threadgill’s North Old No 1 T-Bird & The Breaks Threadgill’s South World HQ McMercy Family Band & Gospel Choir, The Electric Mountain Rotten Apple Gang, Country Willie and the Cosmic Debris Lamberts Brink of Disaster, VgZero, Tombstone Union CD Release, The FollowThrough, Burning Witches Red Eyed Fly Uncle Bruno One2One Bar Hipnautica, Neuroma, Sullen Serenade plus DJs None, KLAK, & Subspace Freakquency Elysium Cavashawn Nuno’s on Sixth Patrice Pike, The Steps, Sahara Smith Momo’s Iris Leu / Victoria Noll Austin Moose Lodge No. 1735 Lucy The Poodle Zine Launch Party w/Shapes Have Fangs, Agent Ribbons, Bubbles and Sheboygan Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Live at White Rocks!! The Rockland Eagles, The Trees, The Red Notes Club de Ville The Black Angels and Live Music Capitol present: Psych Fest 2 | Day 1 Radio Room Sinsations Adult Boutique presents: FETISH NIGHT! Red 7 3/14/2009 GURF MORLIX (cd release) w/guest star Sam Baker Cactus Cafe Eliot Lipp w/Michna and Raw Paw The Parish Rodeo Austin Travis County Expo Center Amplified Heat Hole in the Wall Esther LaVonne & The Rottens Beso Cantina Shotgun Hustlers CD Release Party , Little Gentlemen, Tba Trophy’s Ray Wylie Hubbard Threadgill’s South World HQ Noise Revival Lamberts Alan Haynes One2One Bar Kalu James, Bus Stop Stallions, Sideshow Tragedy, Drew Smith Momo’s Spoiled Royals at Mean Eyed Cat Mean Eyed Cat SCOTT H. BIRAM, THE IN & OUTLAWS, THE BEAUMONTS Room 710 Punk Rock Karaoke (Eric Melvin, Gret Hetson, Steve Soto, Derek O’Brien) Red 7 The Black Angels and Live Music Capitol present: Psych Fest 2 | Day 2 Radio Room ATX Emerge Club de Ville Ramon Ramirez CD Release Party Kick Butt Coffee Cosaco Station/AG Promotions Rock-Volution’ Ruta Maya Gigotron Best of Texas Party w/The Strange Boys, The Hex Dispensers, Manikin (Free Show!) Emo’s 3/15/2009 The Gunslingers Beerland Brent Adair B.D. Riley’s Irish Pub Durden Family Threadgill’s South World HQ CONFUZATRON Room 710 Crybear w/David Garza, Milkdrive Momo’s The Black Angels and Live Music Capitol present: Psych Fest 2 | Day 3 Radio Room 3/16/2009 Rock N Roll Karaoke Beerland Happy Cog Highbeams Club de Ville Lower Heaven (Silverlake), Jason Simon of Dead Meadow (L.A.), Black Nite Crash (Seattle) Hole in the Wall Mingo Fishtrap Antone’s Dertybird Saxon Pub Indie Hip Hop night! Yarah Bravo (London) and more! Red 7 The Gin Riots (from the UK), Infinite Partials, Freedy Johnston, Kacy Crowley Momo’s 3/17/2009 20:20 SOUNDSYSTEM w/The Egg and more! The Parish St. Patrick’s Day Celebration w/The Black Irish, Jungle Rockers, Mr. Lewis & The Funeral Five Room 710 Walter Trout w/Mike Zito Stubb’s Bar-B-Q FREE SHOW!! Lucy The Poodle Productions and Performer Magazine present 2nd Annual Circus Party Carousel Lounge Minor Threat cover band feat. National Guests, Death in the Park, True Widow, more! Red 7 Moving Matter & Bump Flamingo Cantina St. Patrick’s Day Party Scoot Inn & Bier Garten Erin Harpe Evangeline Cafe Uncle Lucius Threadgill’s North Old No 1 Porcelain One2One Bar T-Bird & The Breaks, Johnny Goudie, Second Day Red, Goldcure Momo’s Grand Champeen, Two Cow Garage, Glossary Beerland 3/18/2009 10th Annual Texas Rockfest 3/19/2009 10th Annual Texas Rockfest 3/20/2009 10th Annual Texas Rockfest
3/21/2009 10th Annual Texas Rockfest 3/22/2009 Rockstar Taste of Chaos with Thursday, Pierce the Veil, Four (San Antonio) Sunset Station POCKET FISHRMEN, UNICORN MAGIC, THE JAZZUS LIZARD Room 710 Woodstock 40th Anniversary Tribute Hole in the Wall Panache presents Past Lives, Crocodiles, Champagne Champagne, Mika Miko, PRE, MAE SHI, Crime Novels, That Ghost, When Dinosaurs Beerland I’m a Fucking Genius presents The Frustrations, Kurt Vile, Elvis, John Barrett’s Bass Drum of Death Beerland Alejandro Escovedo & Friends Continental Club GRADY Continental Club 3/23/2009 Rock N Roll Karaoke Beerland Knock Out, Johnny Hootrock Emo’s Bukka Allen, Freedy Johnston, Kacy Crowley Momo’s 3/24/2009 Tom Pacheco Cactus Cafe Vital Remains, Gigan, Predominant Mortification, Disfigured (inside) Emo’s Dertybird Saxon Pub Wayne Sutton, Karl Morgan One2One Bar Speak, Goldcure, Yellow Lady Slipper, No Show Ponies Momo’s 3/25/2009 Lonesome Heroes plus more! Hole in the Wall Montserrat McCullough Theatre George Kahumoku Jr. (Hawaiian slack key guitarist and singer) Cactus Cafe THE BANTERS Lucky Lounge The 80H Project One2One Bar Free Show - Sleeperstar w/Stars Go Dim & Jillian Edwards Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Free Mobley Show The Parlor Dan Dyer, Jack Valen, Nathan Hubble Momo’s 3/26/2009 Marvin Hamlisch The Long Center for the Performing Arts Imani Winds McCullough Theatre Pataphysics, Cry Blood Apache, TBA (Outside) Emo’s The Refugees Cactus Cafe Capital Scam, CLR, Molotov Compromise, Black Market Syndicate Red 7 Two Hoots and A Holler Trophy’s Alan Haynes One2One Bar BURN HEAVY (Co.) Room 710 Black Bone Child, Second Day Red, David Shehane, Wynn Taylor Momo’s 3/27/2009 Shapes Have Fangs, Cause For Applause, Gospel Truth, A Giant Dog Emo’s THE DICKS!, WORLD BURNS TO DEATH, MASSHYSTERIA, YOU PEOPLE Room 710 EARLY SHOW: The Cabaret (final show) TBA Red 7 Live From The Plaza: Marshall Ford Swing Band Austin City Hall Plaza High Watt Crucifixers, The Hoodrats, Devil Rides Red 7 Chris Cornell Stubb’s Bar-B-Q El Paso Heist, We Werewolves Tba Trophy’s Tribute Band Marathon Emo’s Brannen Temple One2One Bar Buster Jiggs, The Belleville Outfit, No Show Ponies, Ben Mallott Momo’s 3/28/2009 Strings Attached Plays Sgt. Pepper and Abbey Road Threadgill’s South World HQ The Sieker Band Artz Rib House Kat Edmonson at the Elephant Room Elephant Room HOD CD Release Show W/Mala Suerte, Disfigured, Butchered Saint Room 710 Baby Got Bacteria, Brass Ovaries Pole Dancers, Churchwood Emo’s Stick To Your Guns, Shai Hulud, In Fear & Faith, Stray From the Path, Katsumoto, No Bragging Rights (Outside EARLY SHOW) Emo’s Pocket Fishrmen, Crapulence Red 7 Marathon* featuring: Darden Smith (two shows 7pm & 9:30pm) Cactus Cafe Esther LaVonne & The Rottens Beso Cantina Howie Day Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Strange Boys, Mass Hysteri (sweden), Hex Dispensers, DJ Timmy Beerland Bridges and Blinking Lights, Distant Second, American Werewolf Academy Trophy’s Jon Napier & Colin McDonald, Lisa Tingle One2One Bar 3/29/2009 Anton Nel The Long Center for the Performing Arts T.X.R.D - CHERRY BOMBS VS. HOLY ROLLERS after party Room 710 Blue Voodoo, Trophy 500s, Deuce Coup Beerland ROGER’S PORN COLLECTION Room 710 Dust Bowl Dreamers- A Benefit for Groundwork Music Project Whip In Milkdrive Momo’s 3/30/2009 Rock N Roll Karaoke Beerland Dark Castle, Lions of Tsavo, Split Hoof, TBA (inside) Emo’s The Upper Echelon, Freedy Johnston, Ben Mallott Momo’s 3/31/2009 Neko Case w/Shearwater Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Texas Tuesdays w/Gary P. Nunn Aces Lounge Dertybird Saxon Pub Wayne Sutton, Karl Morgan One2One Bar Aly Tadros, Miguel Briones, Paul Minor, Hunter James Momo’s 4/1/2009 Big John Bates & The Voodoo Dolls, Kitty Kitty Bang Bang Emo’s Zenith Fuzzbomb Beerland 4/2/2009 Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band with Christian McBride, Kenny Garrett & Vinnie Colaiuta Bass Concert Hall Time Out 10pm, Brooks Brannon 8pm Hole in the Wall Lisa’s Sons w/Hurricane Bear, tba Red 7 FREE in the wreckroom: DJs Ben Blackout and Stevie Sparks Red 7 Sam Silva and the Good w/John David Kent & The Somebody’s Darling Stubb’s Bar-B-Q THE OPEN CASKET Room 710 Ari Hest w/Amy Kuney Cactus Cafe UNCLEFUCKER plays Red Eyed Fly!! Red Eyed Fly
List your show on do512.com by FEBRUARY 21 to be considered for MARCH'S Music Calendar AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
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MUSIC
By Chuck Loesch
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ith so many shows coming up in March, and the following months, something has been on the top of my mind the past few weeks. It is a part of my job that so many people think has got to be the coolest thing in the world, but when faced with it, the task can be daunting. Most people would believe it is easy, or by appearance, that it is a smooth process that happens flawlessly as a function of the industry, but interviewing bands is one of the biggest pains in the ass that I have to do. There is part of me who loves to meet the dudes who make the music that I love. I have had the opportunity to meet Zakk Wylde, Mudvayne, Slipknot, Dragonforce, BTBAM, Dillinger Escape Plan, Psyopus, Kingdom of Sorrow, Gojira, GWAR, As I Lay Dying, Mastodon and so many more that I can’t even list them out, but it is a lot of hard work and truly a draining experience. I figured I would release a little background on how this process goes from start to finish. I won’t out any specific bands as being douche bags or problems, because usually it has nothing to do with the bands. Meeting guys who play music for a living is typically a good time, they are as normal as they can be when you are trying to peer into their private lives. The difficulties and trials come with trying to get the ball rolling, to get them cornered for a few minutes during their busy day. With large tours life is pretty easy. The bigger the band, the more used to this process they and their managers have become. Promoters of large tours
make the press part of their overall promotional schedules. Giving the press access to bands can only help to promote the tour. Most of the time the media get set-up in comfortable quiet areas and bands are brought to the cattle calls and make the rounds with the media. Well organized and scheduled to the minute, festivals and big tours are the easiest way to gain access to a lot of bands in a short period of time. Where the fun really begins is with individual bands and small tours. This is where the most work seems to come in. Phone interviews are easy and simple, but when you attempt to get bands to get on schedule, sit down for a radio interview, or even more difficult the dreaded video interview, you encounter the gauntlet of management that makes you want to rip your eyes out. First I have to get with the record company to get permission to do what I do, video, audio or otherwise. This is the easy part for sure. Record labels want to see their bands on the radio or on the web, it is good promotion for them to sell records, but the next step gets kind of interesting. Once I have permission, it goes to the planning stage. The info gets filtered down to each bands management, and I wind up with a tour manager’s cell phone to set up times, places and the specifics about what we are going to be doing. Although bands may be touring together, they each have their own system, managers, preferences and it is my duty to do whatever I can to accommodate and make these things happen.
By the time I sit down with one band, depending on what type of interview I am doing, I have spent at least six to ten hours of time collecting info, preparing for the interview, scheduling my crew, gathering equipment and securing the permissions from various people to make it happen, not to mention the time added for post editing. You wouldn’t think it when you view or listen to the final products, but it can be an arduous task. Admittedly, I do enjoy it, I get to meet a bunch of diverse people, and bands are usually the easiest going people you can meet. I have made connections with people that I will never forget, had awful interviews, no shows and been screamed at by managers, but would never give up this bit of my job. But the planning, I wish there was a better way, but it has been this way from the beginning of my career (over 10 years ago). It's probably not going to get any different. So there you go, next time you click on an interview on You Tube, read an interview in a magazine or listen to a podcast with your favorite band think about the truly hard work that your media ‘professionals’ put into a simple interview, and be sure to listen to my show for some of these debacles on the air, or check out www.nocontrolradio.com/ for some of my coolest video interviews too. Be sure to catch a glimpse of insanity with NO CONTROL Radio every Friday from 10p to 1am on 101X, and get more info at www.nocontrolradio.com
LOCAL & NATIONAL TRAXX
Preston Dukes – Amarillo by Midnight (Business Deal Records) Better known as guitar shredder for experimental hard rock lounge act Count Dracula’s Weed Smuggling Jam Engine, Preston Dukes’ longtime solo side project became a fully realized band with a November 2008 debut at Hole in the Wall. The subsequent full-length debut produced by local studio Bundyhill Recording maintains a collective feel, with Business Deal partners and associates filling in for the live experience. The eponymous opening track, cowritten by local filmmaker and videographer James Oswald, is a favorite staple of Business Deal partners Charles Potts Magic Windmill Band, one of the coolest stoner country songs you’ll ever hear. It’s a deceptively country and folksy song that underlines an appreciation of styles and comfort with crossing musical boundaries. The existential cravings of “Chinese Food” and anti-comedy of manners “Out of Jokes” shy away from the lovelorn “I’m so sensitive” singer/songwriter posturing, thanks to Dukes’ insightful lyrical range – humorous self-deprecation to serious personal contemplation. The song that may become a cult video hit, “I’m On A Budget,” is a relatable rock smoothie. Feel good pop melody blends well with a slightly funky beat, synthesizer horns (replaced live by trumpeter Adam Avaremscu), and somewhat agitating vocals by Dukes. “E.S.T” is quite a contrast to this, as he holds a musical séance, conjuring images of Nirvana. The CD mellows M AR CH 2 0 0 9
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out by the gently rocking closing track (another Dukes & Oswald collaboration). The shifting of styles was somewhat jarring at first listen, but Amarillo by Midnight becomes a worthwhile ride. Make a trip to your favorite local record shop and buy the CD for your next road trip. Go to www.prestondukes.com or visit businessdealrecords.com for upcoming shows, including a release party. – Danna Williams
Lily Allen – It’s Not Me, It’s You (Capitol) Lily Allen is back with her sophomore album, “It’s Not Me, It’s You.” Unfortunately, it’s not a far stretch from her 2006 debut album, “Alright Still.” Nevertheless, it’s still her signature style that resonates throughout the 12-track album. Simple lyrics tell stories of relationships- with those who you love and with those who screw you over. Other than a couple of exceptions, there isn’t much variety among the tracks, as they sound quite similar. Allen launches the album with dazzling keys and synthesizers on “Everyone’s At It,” one of my favorite tracks, and guarantees her spot in the pop kingdom. Another notable track is “Never Gonna Happen,” which sounds a bit like a party with accordions and kazoo sounds softly in the background. Its lyrics and beat are infectious. However, she is able to wind things down with “Who’d Have Known,” a ballad about a growing love. Don’t let Allen’s sweet voice mistake you into believing that the album is just
about its girlish charm. The album is sprinkled with obscenities and expletives, earning it a parental advisory warning on the cover. It’s amazing how her sweet voice can make songs like “F*** You” sound so innocent. The album is still a fun listen. – Caprice Padilla
and drinking your troubles away. And for a slow paced “get to know you better, hold me closer” romancer, Wanting You is a seductive southwestern pleaser with low vocals to enjoy and sway along to on a nice cool night whether at the beach or in the club parking. – Kenneth Deville
Johnny Falstaff – Honky Tonkin’ Daddy (JFM) With his trademark cowboy hat and flashy western cut suit to go with his honky tonk fueled brand of country, Johnny Falstaff is a Honky Tonkin’ Daddy. He brings rustic rhythm into working class music, back to what country and rockabilly music; all made with a road worn heart. Honky Tonkin’ Daddy clocks in at 27 minutes. It may seem short, but those 27 minutes are packed well with some of the best music to come out in 2008. The music is perfectly executed by the musicians and cherished dearly by Falstaff’s listeners. Not only is Johnny Falstaff’s fiery guitar slinging mesmerizing, he has the vocals to match whether soft and subtle or full and robust. With a vocal combination featuring the twang of Dwight Yoakam, the soul of Elvis Presley, and the melodic depth of Chris Isaak, Johnny’s brands his own country sound. This proves so true on the opener One Hand Tied, with hot paced and rockabilly rhythm. Closing Time is the real showstopper of the release and the perfect example of classic honky tonk featuring a good belt polishing two step rhythms with tales of lost love, loneliness,
Pronto – All is Golden (Contraphonic) Those expecting Wilco keyboardist Mikael Jorgensen’s side-project to play the same alt-country indie rock his full time group is known for may be in for a disappointment. Instead, the Jorgensen-fronted Pronto sticks to a brilliant combination of classic AM radio pop with a healthy dose of lyrical cynicism. All is Golden, 13 tracks of truly imaginative rock music, was actually recorded in 2006 with members of Iron & Wine and Califone. As if that lineup weren’t enough to excite the indie kids, the band’s current roster also includes members of Cat Power and Childballads. With strong harmonies, plenty of piano, guitars and occasionally a few horns, Pronto’s influences stretch back to ‘70s rock, with songs such as “Precious Like a Sneer” that could easily have been written by Randy Newman or Warren Zevon. The bare bones “Good Friends Have Gone” showcases Jorgensen’s no-frills vocals best, but just about any song of the album is destined to win over skeptics. It may not be Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, Pt. II, but Pronto’s debut is just as impressive. – John Moore
MOVIES
THE SECOND COMING OF JENNIFER ANISTON By Alex S. Morrison
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hough she’s been portrayed in the media as the woman scorned ever since ex-hubby Brad Pitt began his relationship with Angelina Jolie on the set of Mr. and Mrs. Smith in 2005, 2009 is shaping to be the best year of Jennifer Aniston’s life. Sure, the former Friends star has experienced a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs over the course of her 40 years, but lately she seems to be on a hot streak. Since its release on December 28, Marley & Me has emerged as one of the biggest films of Aniston’s career, grossing over $140 million in the U.S. alone. With February’s He’s Just Not That Into You bringing in nearly $60 million at the box office in its first two weeks and two more films scheduled for release later this year, Aniston’s career seems to soaring once again. And she has a certain mischievous pooch to thank for the boost. While her on-again/off-again relationship with musician John Mayer has been the subject of intense tabloid
TOP DOGS Marley proved top dog at the box office last Christmas, but he certainly wasn’t the first canine thespian to win audience’s hearts. Here are five of our favorite films featuring our 4-legged friends: LASSIE COME HOME (1943) Stars: Roddy McDowell, Elizabeth taylor, Donald Crisp, Elsa Lanchester The REAL star: A gorgeous collie Why We Love It: Lassie escapes from her new owner in Scotland and makes the long journey back to the destitute British family who’d been forced to sell her. Three-Hankie Moment: When Toots is killed trying to save her master.
scrutiny of late, the actress admits the mundane family situations explored in Marley & Me were a big part of her attraction to the film. “I wanted to be in the movie [because] it wasn’t about the girl trying to get the guy or the guy trying to get the girl, and then they ride off into the sunset. This is sort of the sequel to that,” she suggests, “where you get to see the ins and outs of a relationship over 15 years and have a human thread that’s funny just because life is funny. I loved it, and really responded to the material.” After a film career filled with broad comedic fare such as Bruce Almighty, Along Came Polly and The Break-Up, Marley & Me offered Aniston a rare chance to display her dramatic chops. Alongside co-star Owen Wilson, she plumbed her emotional depths in scenes that dealt with serious subjects ranging from relationship struggles and child-rearing issues to death and mortality. “Those were really hard,” she says of the film’s final scenes. “That was the last two weeks of shooting, so it was fortunate that that came at the end because you don’t always get to shoot in order. Those were the days where I was just bubbling over with emotion. I was just hoping that I would be able to look at the lines while I was on set and remember them.” Aniston seems to have welcomed the challenge of playing one half of real-life couple Jennifer and John Grogan (on whose best-selling book the film was based). She insists that honoring the original material was a huge priority for the cast and crew, and suggests that the relatable nature of the true-to-life film made it resonate with audiences on a profound emotional level. “It’s a true story, and it’s a simple story. I think people go to movies and they escape with these big crazy plotlines, but here is a movie where people
OLD YELLER (1957) Stars: Dorothy McGuide, Fess Parker, Tommy Kirk, Kevin Corcoran The REAL star: A mischievous Labrador Retriever Why We Love It: A boy left to take care of the family ranch when his father goes off on a cattle drive in the 1850s adopts a yellow mongrel that ultimately wins their hearts. Three-Hankie Moment: If you don’t tear up when Yeller gets put down, you have no soul. 101 DALMATIONS (1961) Stars: The voices of Ben Wright, Martha Wentworth, Betty Lou Gerson and J. Pat O’Malley The REAL star: See the title! Why We Love It: Adorable pups stolen by one of film’s greatest villains, Cruella De Vil, must make their escape or be turned into a fur coat that’d make PETA cry. Three-Hankie Moment: Two dogs and their masters fall in love simultaneously. BENJI (1974) Stars: Patsy Garrett, Allen Fiuzat, Cynthia Smith, Peter Breck The REAL star: A streetwise mutt with the most expressive eyes you’ve ever seen. Why We Love It: A homeless stray saves two kidnapped children who feed and play with him against their parents’ wishes. Three-Hankie Moment: Any time there’s a close-up on the canine star’s sad eyes. MY DOG SKIP (2000) Stars: Frankie Muniz, Diane Lane, Luke Wilson, Kevin Bacon The REAL star: A Jack Russell Terrier. Why We Love It: A shy boy growing up in Mississippi circa 1942 comes of age with a little help from his playful puppy. Three-Hankie Moment: The ailing Skip tries to jump on the bed, but can’t, so Jack gives him a push.
are actually going ‘I went through that.’ Even if you don’t have a dog or you’ve never been in married, you [can relate to] the simplicity of it.” The film was a rare mainstream hit for the actress, who has often seemed to do her best work in indie film fare such as The Good Girl and Office Space. Now, having moved from TV to film, genre to genre and independent to mainstream, Aniston has proven she can handle anything Hollywood dares to throw her way. Still, she acknowledges that it can be tough finding projects that challenge her. “I’ve been lucky to have things come to me that creatively fulfill me,” she admits, “and those are usually the independent films, just because you have more freedom. But this particular movie is rare, where you hit all the notes, and it was unbelievably fulfilling. This one was a home run, but they don’t always happen that way.”
Lucky? Perhaps. But, coming along five years after Friends said goodbye, Marley & Me and He’s Just Not That Into You certainly seem to herald the second coming of Jennifer Aniston’s career. Yet she refuses to acknowledge that it has all been part of some grand plan for success. “I’ve never plotted out how I was going to become famous,” she insists. “I just really wanted to do good work ever since I was at a High School of Performing Arts and my Russian acting coach told me I was a disgrace to the theatre. I was determined to prove him wrong, but I never had my eye on a prize. Before Friends, I had a graveyard of [failed] sitcoms. I was just happy to get a job every year. I got the opportunity to do films while I was on Friends, and somehow was welcomed into the other side. I crossed over…” And now, dismissing rumors of a Friends movie, she seems extremely unlikely to ever look back.
AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
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Sports
How A Bullfighter and Bronc Rider Represent Team Rodeo Austin By Sean Claes
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hen you head out to the Travis County Expo Center this month for the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo, try not to forget that you’re attending a rodeo. I know, there’s so much to distract you from the actual event, what with the carnival, music, BBQ cookoff, art show, exhibits, and a kids 1K race, and all the other fun stuff they wrap around the rodeo arena. The event, which happens March 13-28, has a mission to promote youth education and preserve the western heritage. Over the past 25 years, they’ve raised over $25 million dollars for youth. INsite had a chance to talk with Team Rodeo Austin. They are two cowboys, Saddle Bronc rider Chet Johnson and bullfighter Lance Brittan, who put their life on the line every time they step in that ring, and since 2005 they’ve been serving ambassadors of Rodeo Austin. Brittan has a permanent fixture in the Star of Texas rodeo arena for a decade as a Bullfighter. They used to be called Rodeo Clowns, but in all reality, their job during the big show is no laughing matter. Johnson is a Saddle Bronc rider who. made it to the “big show,” National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in 2008.
SC: A lot of what you score depends on the horse. What do you look for in a horse? CJ: Horses that kick hard and jump high in the air are the kind bronc riders love to get on. On the other hand horses that have a lot of direction change are usually very hard to ride and not near as fun, we call those kind “eliminatiors.” SC: I heard you won’t eat chicken before a rodeo. Care to explain? CJ: Well I used to be a little superstitious and the theory behind that is you are what you eat and you really don’t want to be a chicken when you’re about to climb on a bucking horse! SC: Do you have any pre-competition rituals? CJ: About the only two things I do every time is stretch and pray. SC: You’re out of Wyoming, but represent Rodeo Austin. How did that partnership end up happening? CJ: A few years ago when Rodeo Austin came up with the idea to sponsor a rodeo cowboy to promote their event they asked their two rodeo announcers for suggestions. I
Lance Brittan and Chet Johnson
Saddle Bronc Rider Chet Johnson Sean Claes: How did you end up being a Pro Rodeo Saddle Bronc rider? Chet Johnson: My father used to ride bucking horses when he was younger and that sparked my interest as a kid. When I got old enough I went to a few rodeo bible camps where I got on my first few broncs and it just kind of took off from there. SC: For the novice, can you explain how the competition is judged. CJ: All three roughstock events (bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding) are judged on both the performance of the rider and the livestock. The two judges each have 50 points to hand out, 25 points for the rider and 25 points for the animal for a total possible score of 100. A good score is high in the high 70’s to mid 80’s while any thing above that is pretty exceptional. In the saddle bronc riding the horse is judged on its difficulty to ride, some things judges look for are how high the horse kicks, if the horse ducks and back and forth, and how high they jump off the ground. The rider is judged on how well his spurring motion matches the horse, control, and aggressiveness. SC: You’ve been at this for a while, I’ll bet your body us pretty beaten up. What have you broken? CJ: I’ve broken my heel bone in one accident and broke four other bones in my other foot when a horse fell on me. Other than that I’ve just tore a couple smaller tendons in both my knees. M AR CH 2 0 0 9
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was having a good year so they suggested me and several other contestants. I went in for an interview and we hit it off. They offered me a sponsorship and the rest is history. It’s been a great experience and a real blessing. SC: How do you spread the good word of Rodeo Austin? CJ: Two big parts of it are just by competing while wearing the Rodeo Austin logo’s all over the U.S. and Canada. The other is by promoting Rodeo Austin through interviews and media exposure. SC: Besides the action of the rodeo itself, what is your favorite part about the Rodeo Experience? CJ: I get to travel all over the country with some of my best friends and meet so many people along the way. And not having to have a real job is a huge plus! SC: What are some of your favorite things about Austin? CJ: I really enjoy all the unique restaurants in the city, like Guerro’s or the Hill’s Cafe. I also think the Hill Country is some of the best scenery around with a ton of great things to do and see. Bullfighter Lance Brittan SC: How did you end up as a bullfighter, being chased by bulls? Lance Brittan: I began at the age of 19 riding bulls. I loved riding but I was never going to be good enough to
make a living at it. As a bull rider, you get quite the adrenaline rush, but it doesn’t last very long especially if you buck off quickly. I saw the bullfighters got to be there for every ride in the arena. I grew up on a farm and around cattle my whole life, it just seemed natural to me to be on the ground out in front of them. Then I realized the adrenaline rush was much more satisfying. SC: You are a World Champion Bullfighter. How does one earn that distinction? LB: I am the 1999 Wrangler Jeans World Champion Bullfighter. In 1980 the Wrangler Jeans company and the bullfighters of the PRCA, created an event to showcase the athletic talents of the rodeo clown. For 20 years, until 2000, freestyle bullfighting events were held all over the U.S. and Canada. The NFR (National Finals Rodeo) in Las Vegas was home to the bullfighting finals and the top six bullfighters in the world. Freestyle bullfighting consisted of a Mexican fighting bull and a bullfighter in the arena for the duration of 70 seconds. Now that is only 1 minute and 10 seconds. Sounds easy. Most people can hold their breath that long. The bull would like to kill you, but all you want to do is dance! Essentially, we try to get as close to the bull and get creative moves, such as, jumps, touching his head or horns. Getting into as much danger and getting back out unharmed. Keeping control of the bull. SC: I grew up calling people who did your line of work Rodeo Clowns. Is that still an accurate description, or am I offending? LB: Prior to the creation of the freestyle bullfighting event, we were all called rodeo clowns. They did comedy acts or skits, they fought bulls to protect the riders, and they would fight a fighting bull to entertain the crowd. The freestyle bullfighting event allowed the profession to become more specialized. Some of the younger guys didn’t have acts or skits and that made it hard to get hired at rodeos. Now there was an event for the daredevils to showcase their talents. Over the years it has opened the doors to more and more bullfighters. Today at rodeos, normally there is a rodeo clown/barrel man who entertains the crowd with jokes or skits, and bullfighters who’s job is to protect the bull riders. I am not offended to be called a rodeo clown as long as you come out to watch and be a fan of rodeo. I will always try to entertain the crowd! SC: Do you have a signature move? LB: As a bullfighter in the freestyle bullfights, my signature move was a flat footed jump. As I stood in front of the chute to call for my bull to be released, I would stand still as the bull ran directly at me. As he lowered his head to strike me, I quickly jumped straight up in the air, allowing him to run right under me. This move takes careful timing, jump to soon and the bull will react leaving me to land on the ground in front of him or on his head. Jump to late and the bull hits me in the thigh, knee, shin or ankles sending me into a uncontrolled flip. I was successful more times than not. This move won’t work with every bull either, some bulls carry their heads high, making it difficult to accomplish this. Many younger bullfighters now try this trick. However, I was the inventor! (1995). SC: In your 14-year career as a bullfighter, you must have a lot of stories. What jumps out in your mind as one of the most memorable stories? LB: I have had many injuries. I just get a rush out of stepping in front of a bull as he is looking for the cowboy. He wants to hook someone, it might just as well be me. My most memorable stories are the ones the fans recount to me. SC: How has it been, traveling the country representing Rodeo Austin? LB: As I wear the Rodeo Austin logo all over the country, many people stop and talk about Rodeo Austin. Whether it is the cowboys telling me how much they enjoy the hospitality given to them, or people telling me, Austin is their favorite place to visit or live. I am honored to be a representative for such a great rodeo. I have been working Rodeo Austin as a bullfighter for the past 10 years. Rodeo Austin has really grown and changed in those 10 years, more than any other rodeo I go to. Every year they have given more back to the community and to the cowboys who compete in the event. For more information, list of events, or directions to the Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo, visit – www.rodeoaustin.com. See you out there.
THEATRE
Is Improv Short for Improve (Or Am I Making This Up As I Go)? By Brian Paul Scipione
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HEATRICAL EXPERINCE? Sure, I have some. I’ve tripped the light fantastic in front of stranger and friend alike: lilting out the mellifluous rhymes of Shakespeare’s best works, delivering unto the masses the time-tested laughs and tears of the world’s oldest stories. I’ve dared to fail, as Samuel Beckett insisted, with ridiculous make up and absurd story lines hoping beyond hope that the playwright would take all the blame for the incarnate folly of my onstage antics. Once, I even spent a cramped two hours stuffed into an under-sized dustbin popping up only occasionally to deliver lines like “After all I’m your father. It’s true if it hadn’t been me it would have been someone else. But that’s no excuse.” to an overtly patient and wholly bewildered audience. But Improv? Now that’s a whole other ball of cerebral wax completely. As a waiter, my idea of improv was coming up with a quick and logical reason why there’s a ten inch long black hair in a blonde customer’s sandwich. All of us are familiar with this type of invention, whether it is putting on a convincing display of restroom urgency for the police officer who’s pulled you over for doing 38 in a school zone or suddenly ‘realizing’ that the unknown eight-hundred dollar expense in your tax return was used for quote charity donations unquote. But improv for the traditional purpose of entertaining others? Now that’s a stretch. As we can see in the above examples, the blatant engagement of a fantasy persona is a common facet of every day life. One day you’re suggesting in earnest that litterers should get the electric chair and the next you’re at a jury impaneling session with tears in eyes emoting over the sheer travesty and injustice of capital punishment. Not to mention, the all too common three ring circus of the singles bar in which the only thing missing is a brass band belting out the “Bring in the Clowns” theme as you attempt to joke, rib, chuckle, pantomime and perform your way into a stranger’s heart. All this natural affinity for making stuff up on the spot just to get by in life should make all of us naturals at onstage improv, shouldn’t it? Well as I found out first hand at the Austin Improv Collective’s Tuesday Night Jam, this isn’t exactly the case. What it does explain, however, is the immense popularity of the improv scene in Austin. On almost any given night of the week, there is an improv event somewhere in our fair city and the Austin Improv Collective wants you to know about it. The Salvage Vanguard, Hideout, and Coldtowne theaters have banded together to form a collective which comprises over 150 members and 20 to 30 active troupes at any given time. This roguish band of merry tricksters are hardly limited to these three arenas, members have been known to win the O. Henry Pun Off, perform in the Frontera Fest, as well as teach U.T. Informal classes and private lessons. Wesley Bain, a member who leads classes as well as performs regularly, describes the group as a “very open community.” He recognizes improv’s origins in Chicago, New York City, and San Francisco but prefers Austin’s “less rigid approach” to the still fledgling art form. “The uses for improv vary greatly” he explains. “Entertainment and performance are obvious, but it goes so much deeper than that. I’ve performed on many stages and even in places as unusual as giving improvised tours on the Blanton’s opening night.” Off the top of his head, Bain is able to list a vast panoply of improv’s applications. He’s used it in his work in marketing, to teach seemingly complex math and science concepts to his niece, in corporate team building exercises, not to mention, improving his personal relationships. “My wife and I share this vocabulary, backed up by years of experience with it, and we use it as a short-hand in communicating with one another. It helps us not guess at what it is about our behavior that is good or bad and to correct it accordingly.” Discovering the vocabulary of improv is one of the first steps to learning how to perform it. An offer is the process
Maestro is Austin’s longest running Iimprov show.
Wesley Bain w/ “Start Trekkin” in 2007.
photo by Jon Bolden – jonbolden.com
Saturday Night Special @ Salvage Vanguard
of presenting a concept or imaginary gift to an onstage partner for acceptance. It may be something physical such as an elephant gun or it may be an idea such as love or hate. When your fellow actor accepts the offer (Thanks I need an elephant gun to kill this rhino or Oh my, I love you too) it is said to be complimentary. A block happens when an offer is denied (What rhino? or I could never love you). Any onstage situation can be heightened (Look there is a yeti on that Rhino’s back or I could never love you because you killed my mother and I am here to avenge her). This tactic of upping the ante is where the real hilarity of improv begins. Another key concept is status. “Status,” Bain tells us, “is what a person thinks of them self and how they relate to those around them. People can have multiple statuses simultaneously: a different status with your boss, your child, and your best friend, even when they are all in the same room. Status is used extensively in establishing characterization and relationships.” Sounds simple enough. You jump on stage, establish your status with your other actors, and then decide on the fly whether you want to accept or block their offers in an attempt to heighten the situation. Well when you find yourself, as I did, trying to explain to a dragon why you tried to slay him just after the queen has cut off your ear during a botched knighting attempt you discover it is anything but simple. But have no fear as the unoffi-
cial motto of improv is the commensurately reassuring phrase- “Nothing is wrong.” The audience wants you to succeed and our elated when you do so but even watching a failed attempt is invigorating. The Tuesday Night Jam at the Hideout Theater is open to everyone and populated by novices and die-hards alike. The love for Improv is abundant and infectious. In fact, many of the troupes in Austin today started out here getting their first nervous taste through exercises such as the story spine in which every player adds one line in an attempt to compose a narrative that starts and ends with two completely unrelated concepts. But perhaps you’d like to try the Monday Night Mash first, in which three different groups perform for free at the Hideout. At ten p.m. on Thursday you can dip into improv’s kissing cousin, sketch comedy, at Coldtowne theater’s Midnight Comedy Sketch Show. On Friday nights there are up to six shows to choose from. One of which, Lola, is as homage to the move of the same name, in which one story line is presented with three belly-achingly funny conclusions. To get all the details one needs only visit the Austin Improv Collective’s website at www.austinimprov.com. Once there sign up for the weekly newsletter and they will keep you up to date with all the upcoming events. And who knows, soon enough you might find yourself breaking that mystical fourth wall and joining in on the fun yourself.
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ART
The Color and Texture of Art – Kathleen McTee By JoAnna Ordóñez
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ucked away in central Austin is the studio of Kathleen McTee, a textile and color artist who enjoys bringing her vision to light as well as educating and empowering others to do the same. Kathleen, or Kat as she’s known to many, first became interested in textiles in 1999 while studying at the Southwest School of Art and Craft in San Antonio. The San Antonio native was inspired by her very DIY family and by the collective mix of cultures surrounding her. “My inspiration comes from many sources; from the play of light and color in nature to art, music, stories and family,” McTee said. Inspired by her great-grandmother who quilted wildly colored pieces, all stitched by hand, she decided to enroll in a UT quilting class. Soon, McTee found herself in a fabric store surrounded by a bounty of color and patterns. “I was in love,” she recalls. McTee began studying all she could find on techniques for making art cloth. A book by Jane Dunneworld, Complex Cloth, led her on a journey from dying one of a kind cloth pieces, to embellished and layered textiles for depth and beauty. “I knew instantly that I wanted to make fabric.” Many of her works embody the creative spirit, which has evolved from her experiences and her own techniques that have serendipitously found their way into her studio. After making yards and yards of fabric, Kat found a way to sell her work. In 2001, she and her husband welcomed a son. She realized there was a need for children’s clothing that was somewhere in between the super-cute blue with football wearables and the much too old for them to wear attire. So, she began creating brightly colored dyed
shirts with robots, pickup trucks, milagros and whatever else she fancied. Viewing her cloth, you see not only the fabric, but also all the intricacies that led to this piece and it’s completion. Color, stitching, imagery and more come together to create a piece that is alive and harmonious. Her latest series is inspired by her South Texas heritage, by the wide-open spaces and landscapes, the American west Roadside and travel experiences. “My work is all about the process, as much as it is the product. I may create beautiful cloth, but the kudos at the end are not my reward,” she said. “Instead, it’s the act of making, of solving a hundred little problems along the way, questions of color and design and placement and technique, that feeds my soul”. Art and community are a big part of McTee’s life. She is a teacher of textiles and has been involved with the community in art empowering projects for several years. Her courses at Studio 1408 (studio-1408.com) are instrumental in helping those who might need that extra nudge to give it their best shot at creating. So many artists, and those who may think they are not creative at all, put up mental blocks that keep the creative process from flowing. She reminds her students that “creative blocks and self-doubt aren’t just for beginners, every artist gets to that point where they don’t think they can make anything again. It’s just a step along the way, and the more you make, the more quickly you can move on.” McTee embraces the idea of bringing the creativity out in her students and encouraging them to open the door to the amazing possibilities that art can bring. Students also find that in making there is healing and the realization that making mistakes are not roadblocks, but essential. McTee adds, “I love teaching and empowering
photo by Jay West
people, that’s why I do what I can to show my students that there are many ways to create images of their own and that they don’t need to be Leonardo daVinci to create a masterpiece!” Visit McTee online for information on her work and Studio 1408 classes at www.artcloth.com. JoAnna Ordóñez is a local glass artisan and owner of Vidriosa Glassworks. Her work can be found at The Lucky Lizard (412 East 6th Street), Things She Adores (2306 E. Cesar Chavez, Suite 101), Moxie and the Compound (2110 South Lamar Blvd) and Local Art Shows. Visit her online at www.4coolglass.com.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 Petals (Austin) – Petals is a female-fronted rock band whose love of sixties music fused with modern pop sensibilities makes for an undeniably fresh sound. Web: myspace.com/petalsband Pimpadelic (Fort Worth) – A mix of hard rock, a little rap and even some country music, these guys are truly talented at bringing danger back to rock-n-roll. Web: myspace.com/pimpadelic Powderburn (Austin) – A multi-award winning metal band from Austin, Texas. The band is sponsored by Jagermeister and Budweiser, and are veterans of the Austin scene, and no strangers to the Heart of Texas Rockfest. Web: powderburn.net Quartershackle (Austin) Hard-rock outfit QUARTERSHACKLE have established themselves as a band with a dynamic sound and relentless stage presence, featuring hard-hitting riffs and tempo changes with clever ability and approach. Web: quartershackle.com Ragsy (Los Angeles, CA) – En route to matrimonial bliss in Mexico one hot September day 2002, Kelly Barnes and Sutton Althisar formed a band. Sadly the nuptial did not survive its trials and the once inseparable pair made the difficult decision to end the marriage. However, what was conceived between these overwhelmingly talented, passionate lovers is Ragsy. Their story is good. Their music is refreshingly heartbreaking. Their live performance is undeniable and fiercely captivating. Web: myspace.com/ragsy The Kieran Ridge Band (Allston, MA) – Kieran Ridge writes back to basics roots rock & roll – mixing together the best of blues, country, and rock into their own unique style. Web: thekieranridgeband.com Rook (Austin) – “All three members are multi-talented and bring their considerable skills to bear. Their live shows are full of energy, dynamic change, surprises, and humor. The three are polished performers and musicians and it is always a joy to catch their show.” – TwoGroove. com Web: myspace.com/rooktheband Rude Rachel (Austin) – A three piece experimental rock band created by artists, Kasey Short(vocals, strings), Steven Schuster (percussion), and Chuck Beaman(keys,guitar). Rude Rachel is from the live music capital of the world, named after its fierce muse, “Rude Rachel.” Web: myspace.com/ruderachell The Secret State (Jacksonville, FL) – Music is an emotion that we choose to wear on our sleeves and show the world. To us it is “all about the music”. Let us show you how we feel. Web: myspace.com/thesecretstaterocks Simplistic Urge (Chicago, IL) – Simplistic Urge are hard hitting rockers from Chicago, IL. Picked as MTV2 on the rise Artist from Chicago in 2008. Web: myspace.com/ simplisticurge Shandon Sahm (Austin) – The youngest of Sir Doug Sahm. Besides playing with his dad he has played w/Gibby Haynes and His Problem and Curt Kirkwood of The Meat Puppets. Now Shandon embarks on a solo 70’s glam rock journey. Time to bring back fun,big,rock shows like there M AR CH 2 0 0 9
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used to be before the weight of the world crashed peoples hopes. Web: myspace.com/shandonsahm She Wolves (New York) – A Sonic Rampage inflicted by ex-Cycle Slut & Co., the last enduring menace from an ever-sanitizing New York Shitty. Dava She Wolf, Tony Mann, Ash Gray, Laurie Safdie. Web: myspace.com/ shewolves Shorelines End (Dallas, TX) – In a very short time SE has made it’s way onto the industry radar with several Major Labels showing interest. Shorelines End recently signed with TQ Management headed by veteran manager Tommy Quon (Vanilla Ice – Capital; Blessid Union of Souls – EMI; Marcos Hernandez – TVT , Forever the Sickest Kids – Universal & Red Car Wire – Universal). Web: myspace.com/shorelinesend Kevin Smith (Austin) – With a deep, booming voice harking back to a time in music history when singers like Johnny Cash reigned supreme, Kevin Smith’s songs relate to just about anybody, and his sound is all his own, no doubt. Web: myspace.com/kevinsmithband Snake Skin Prison (Austin) – Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to the Loudest Spectacle Under the Sky!! Snake Skin Prison drips down your throat one scream at a time!! Web: snakeskinprison.com Street Light Suzie (Austin) – a monster dirty rock and roll three piece strait outta Austin TX. Web: streetlight suzie.com Strike the Sun (Longview, TX) – Well I am the wolf, that wears the clothing of the sheep…” This lyric is a fitting description of Strike the Sun. The guys that make up the band are the nicest most laid back people that you could meet, but when the curtain goes up and the amps hit full song you’ll want to hide your girl and leave your poser wanna be rock star gear at home. This hard rock band means business... Web: myspace.com/strikethesun SuperPancho (Germany) – Since 2006, SuperPancho has become a synthesis of music, art and philosophy. For the German band, Texas Rockfest 2009 will be the debut on US soil. Web: superpancho.net tandoorifinger (Austin) – Since 2008, tandoorifinger has been turning heads with their genre-bending sets around Austin. Deep grooves, three lead vocalists, and a distinctly new sound. Web: tandoorifinger.com thelastplaceyoulook (Houston) is a rock band. They recently released their debut full length “see the light inside you”. It is available on itunes. Web: thelastplace youlookonline.com Trashy And The Kid (Austin) – TATK consists of a flamboyant cross dresser, a brooding chef, a cheerful hippy, a lecherous dyke, and a hyperactive Christian. Guess which is which. Web: trashyandthekid.com (CD on iTunes) Mike Truth & The Replacement Killers (Austin) – A true fusion of funk, hip-hop, jazz & rock, this band, made up of veteran musicians from the austin area, that has a sound that is definitely unique to it’s own. Web: myspace. com/miketruthandthereplacementkillers
Trebuchet (Denton, TX) – Hailing from the rural, music metropolis that is Denton, TX, Trebuchet is what one might expect; and yet the use of the proverbial phrase “and then some” would be a sufficient ending to that expectation. Trebuchet dabbles in rock-and-roll, jazz, blues, metal, and prog. to keep the music experience close to their roots, and translate it all into a live experience that one will hear in their head over and over for weeks to come. Web: myspace.com/trebuchetband Underdriven (Austin) – Mixing powerful guitar riffs and harmonious lyricism, Underdriven sends a loud message with the local release of their self-titled debut album. Web: underdriven.com The Upper Echelon (Austin) – A small band with a big sound. Two acoustic guitars, drums and a hell of a lot of harmony. Web: myspace.com/theupperechelonrock The Van Gobots – Formed in the summer of 2007 in a sweaty practice space in Minneapolis, The van Gobots play a driving brand of post-punk revival. Web: myspace. com/thevangobots Jesse Vick Band (Fort Worth) – The Jesse Vick Band is truly a rare breed of amazing young talent, and they are prime and ready to take the world by storm. Web: myspace.com/jessevickrocks White Witch Canyon (East Bay, CA) – Hailing from Northern California, White Witch Canyon is a blend of Psychedelic, Heavy, Blues based Rock ... ala Queens of the Stone Age meets Black Sabbath. It will flat line even the casual fan or rock music. With insane riffage and thought provoking lyrics, White Witch Canyon is the future and the future is now. Web: whitewitchcanyon.com Wicker (Los Angeles, CA) – This trio is a Hollywood party that combines hip hop, industrial and screamo to create a frenzy in the club. Web: myspace.com/wickerband Witchburn (Austin) – Awe-inspiring vocals over heavy, down-tuned, whiskey-soaked sabbra cadabra. Their readyfor-battle anthems, apocalyptic overtones and dirty, doom-laden riffs command you to throw your metal horns up high! Web: myspace.com/witchburn Wrinkle Neck Mules (Richmond, VA) – If you like bluegrass and Americana with a side order of foot-stompin’ banjo and a light dusting of Southern rock, Wrinkle Neck Mules are a godsend. – Sounds XP Web: wrinkleneck mules.com Writer (San Diego, CA) – In a small corner of San Diego, Writer drives melodies through the air sharp as nails; while plugged into buzzing amps in a space cluttered with a dozen instruments and tangled cords. Web: writerthe band.com Wyrdgrl (Austin) – Singer-songwriter Dana Davis began her professional singing career at 13. Cover bands ranging jazz to heavy metal, Gilley’s house singer, Peer-Southern and PolyGram published writer to founder of femme-progrock innovators Velvet Hammer to solo artist Wyrdgrl creating life-adventures sifted thru the mask of mythos. Web: wyrdgrl.com
Naked Empire @ Stubbs BBQ – 2/5 By Jason Ewing (esquaredphotography.com)
Tesla @ La Zona Rosa – 2/6 By Scott Moore (limelightimaging.com)
Citizen Cope @ Stubb’s BBQ – 2/14 By Jay West (jaywestphotography.com)
James Hunter @ La Zona Rosa – 2/7 By Scott Moore (limelightimaging.com)
Iron Age @ Emo’s – 1/31 By Greg Cooper (phivephotography.com)
Ben Kweller @ Waterloo Records – 2/4 By Sean Claes
HINDSITE
Susan Tedeschi @ La Zona Rosa – 2/7 By Scott Moore (limelightimaging.com)
Dremnt The End @ Stubb’s BBQ – 2/20 By Sean Claes
Andrew Bird @ Paramount Theater – 2/12 By Jay West (jaywestphotography.com)
Deejer @ Spill – 2/18 By Scott Bushey
Mack Brown w/The Harlem Globetrotters @ Frank Erwin Center – 2/5 By Jay West (jaywestphotography.com)
Eric Hutchinson @ Austin Music Hall – 2/5 By Scott Moore (limelightimaging.com)
The Banner Year @ Spill – 2/18 By Scott Bushey
A.N.S. @ Emo’s – 1/31 By Greg Cooper (phivephotography.com)
Nakia and His Southern Cousins @ The Bob Bullock Museum – 1/31 By Jay West (jaywestphotography.com) AUS TI N ’ S OTH E R E NTE R TAI N M E NT M AGA ZI N E
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1-800-LONGHORN