Loquacious Magazine by LASA Ezine

LOQUACIOUS AUSTIN

Live Music Capital of the World The

festivals, fashion, and food + the inside scoop on Austin band Spoon pg. 7 From the Ground Up pg. 1 Taylor Wilkins, Constructor of the Destroyer pg. 23 Vintage Night at the Drive-In pg. 29

Letter from the Editors

Dear Reader, Welcome to the Loquacious Magazine! If you didn’t know, loquacious is another word for talkative, and our magazine is all about the latest buzz. In this Austin edition, we hope that you enjoy reading about everything from Waterloo Records to Threadgill’s restaraunt and learn a little about the Austin culture in the process. This edition includes an entire section on music festivals in Austin, including a feature on rising band, Spoon. These articles are centered around Austin’s slogan, the Live Music Capital of the World, and we hope we prove to you just how fitting this name is for the amazing city, Austin. This magazine would not have been possible without our willing interviewees and you, the curious reader, so thank you so much for giving Loquacious some of your time. Enjoy,

Nicole Vu, Copy Editor

Elena Keitt, Photo Editor

Gracie Vogel, Layout Editor

Charles Scott, Graphics Editor

Freddie Uriostegui, Content Editor

Photo by Elena Baldridge

About the Authors Freddie Uriostegui

Charles Scott

Nicole Vu

Freddie Uriostegui is from South Bend, Indiana. He attends LASA High School as a freshmen and previously attended Mendez Middle School. He loves playing any sport that keeps him occupied, and writes music.

Charlie Scott enjoys running cross country and his favorite event is the 5k which he runs frequently. He has been playing electric guitar since he was in sixth grade. He is currently a freshman at LASA high school.

Elena Keitt

Elena Keitt was born in Austin,Texas, and has lived there ever since. She attends LASA high school as a freshman. Elena loves to play tennis, travel, listen to music, and spend time with her Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Nicole Vu is a freshman at LASA High School. In her free time, she likes to play violin, piano, bake, travel, watch Friends, and obsess over Taylor Swift. She has lived in Austin her entire life with her parents and younger brother.

Gracie Vogel

Gracie Vogel has lived in Austin all her life, and currently attends LASA High School. Gracie loves her dog, swimming, and singing. She loves to travel. Over the summer she toured around Italy and ate good pasta.

Table of Contents

4 1 5

The Infrastrucure behind the Culture The Revival of Vinyl

The Live Music Capital of the World 9

Deep in the Heart of Music

ACL Headliners Through the Years

The Scoop on Spoon

What the World Needs Now

Festival Fashion Favorites

23 25 27

The Band of Heathens on the Rise Taylor Wilkins: The Constructor of the Destroyer Existing in the Moment The Road to Fame

23 29 33

Vintage Night at the Drive-In Movies through the Decades

Treble

Rhythm

From the Ground Up

The infastructure behind the Austin music culture

ustin is a thriving cultural has helped me immensely.” Tilley of Young the Giant, Dan hub, an international meca Erlewine said. He has worked Boeckner of Wolf Parade and for live music as well as with many legendary Texas McKinley Kitts of flor. food, film and performance. artists like Willie Nelson, Billy O’Brien spends plenty of time At the backbone of this, local Gibbons and Stevie Ray Vaughn. on each instrument. businesses that are just as After all these years, there “Something standard is about important to the success of have been plenty of interesting 40 hours of labor and anything Austin’s own scene as the artists repairs that Erlewine has done, that is hollow or complex ends up that cultivate it. but a few have been his favorites. being closer to 60 or 70,” O’Brien Mark Erlewine, owner of “A young cowboy couple came said. “Almost everything is done Erlewine Guitars, a small guitar into my shop with a garbage bag in house except for the pickups store that’s been in Austin since which held the parts of a nice and some of the hardware. All 1974, has played a great role in acoustic guitar,” said Erlewine. the woodworking and the finish keeping the Austin work, we do that here.” “Take the time to find someMusic scene alive After an apprenticeship and vibrant. This is thing you enjoy doing because, with Jason Burns of Blast due to the fact that Cult, he built guitars for that will really help keep you he has kept plenty Spalt Instruments and for of legendary guitars Needham guitars. All of going, whether business is good in working order, this work experience has most notably Willie shaped the way he runs or bad.” Nelson’s “Trigger.” Lincoln Guitars, “I got to - Mark Erlewine He got his start see what a lot of places did in Ann Arbor, Michigan, “I “They had an argument, and right and did wrong and took apprenticed to my cousin Dan she had broken it over his head note of it over time so when it Erlewine for a year, then went in anger. They had since been was eventually time for me to into partnership with him,” to a marriage counselor and do something by myself I could said Erlewine, “I eventually were on the mend and were avoid some of those mistakes.” bought him out when he went hoping I could put the guitar said O’Brien. back to work for the man he back together (Symbolic of their Just as important as the artists had apprenticed to.” Erlewine relationship). I was able to put it themselves are the fans, those recalls. back together for them and like that flock in the thousands to Eventually, he moved to think they are still together music festivals and shows to his business to Austin at the too!” see their favorite bands live. insistence of a friend and has Derek Asuan-O’Brien has These fans love to support their been deeply ingrained in the been building guitars for over favorite artists, and what better Austin music scene ever since. 15 years and started his own way to do that than to stop by “I feel so honored and Austin-based business, Lincoln a record store and buy their fortunate. I’m sure that, being Guitars nearly 2 years ago. He albums. Waterloo Records is a around so long, word of mouth has had notable players in Jacob local record store that has been 1

(top) Lincoln Guitars BitterBird. Photo by Derek Asuan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien (bottom)Mark Erlewine holding Willie Nelsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trigger. Photo by Mark Erlewine

cord store that has been in Austin for more than 35 years. Jessie Johnson, Marketing and Events director for Waterloo records has been there for 18 of those years. “I’m the marketing and event director so I book all the in store performances, I book the South by Southwest parking lot concert, I book the bands that play.” said Johnson “So we have a south by southwest show that happens during the four days

artists, “We have a really diverse genre selection of music in the store but we also really support texas music and austin bands as well, it’s always been what we’ve done and we still just really support the scene here.” Jessie said. Buying a vinyl record gives the artist much more money than a stream on a service like Spotify, Soundcloud, Napster or Pandora. Many people simply like the idea of having a physical, tangible piece of music. Vinyl is

C Graphic by

“We have a really diverse genre selection of music in the store but we also really support texas music and austin bands as well, it’s always been what we’ve done and we still just really support the scene here.”

harlie Scott

- Jessie Johnson

Treble

Rhythm

of south by music, we have 28 band that play in the parking lot over four days so I book all of that. Then we have the artist signings at Austin City Limits festival and Sound on Sound festival and I also do that. So any ad that you see in the paper or in the chronicle, any radio spots that you hear, all the advertising space on the front of the store that’s all stuff that I do.” Waterloo Records works especially hard to support local bands and

simply a unique format of music that benefits both the artist and the consumer. Without these businesses to back both the artists and the consumers, the Austin music scene may have never become what it is today. Austin City Limits, South by SouthWest and Sound on Sound festival may have never come to be. By Charlie Scott

Photo by Gideon Tsang, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Graphic by Charlie Scott 4

The Revival ofVINYL How vinyls are produced:

1. A master recording is made 2. A “lacquer” is placed on a record cutting machine 3. As the lacquer rotates, signals from the master recording travel to a cutting head, holding a needle 4. The needle imprints grooves into the lacquer 5. The lacquer is sent to the production company 6. The lacquer is covered in metal (Silver or Nickel) to produce a “metal master” 7. The metal master is used to create a “mother” 8. The mothers are used as “stampers” 9. The stampers are placed in a hydraulic press 10. Vinyl is pressed under the stamper 11. The disc is stiffened in cool water

How vinyls work: 1.The vinyl is placed on a turntable 2. The vinyl begins to spin 3. The needle runs through the grooves in the vinyl and sends vibrations through a metal strip 4. The vibrations are converted into an electric signal 5. Music!

Music Sales 2017:

9.9%

2.1%

58.5%

23.8%

Overall

Vinyl

Streaming

Digital Download

3.9%

N I V

“The history of the music industry is inevitably also the story of the development of technology. From the player piano to the vinyl disk, from reel-to-reel tape to the cassete, from the CD to the digital download, these formats and devices changed not only the way music was consumed, but the very way artists created it.” - Edgar Bronfman, Jr.

Fun Facts

There are 2 gold records aboard the Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 with instructons and a needle. Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony as recorded by the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra is the first vinyl record. Records themselves can be traced all the way back to 19th century France. Before vinyl, records were made from vulcanized rubber and shellac.

10 Best Selling Vinyl of 2017 (From The Official Charts Company) 1. Divide - Ed Sheeran 2. SGT Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band - The Beatles 3. Guardians of The Galaxy: Awesome Mix 1 Original Soundtrack 4. Human - Rag ‘n’ Bone Man 5. Back to Black - Amy Winehouse 6. Rumours - Fleetwood Mac 7. Legacy - David Bowie 8. The Dark Side of The Moon - Pink Floyd 9. Legend - Bob Marley & The Wailers 10. OK Computer - Radiohead Information from The Record Collecctor’s Guild, Disc Maker’s Blog, Digital Music News, The Official Charts Company, and How Stuff Works

By Charlie Scott 6

The Live Music Ca

apital of the World Since 1991, Austin has been known as the Live Music Capital of the World. This cultured city has had more live music venues than anywhere else in the nation, and big-name festivals like Austin City Limits (ACL) and South by Southwest (SXSW) take place there. This section explores the details of these festivals and goes in depth of the Austin music experience. 8

Deep in the Heart of Music ACL Music Festival features two weekends of live music in the Live Music Capital of the World

Electronic muscisian ZHU performs on the Barton Springs stage during the second weekend of ACL 2017. Photo by Roger Ho.

very year as October approaches, Austinites and tourists alike get excited for the Austin City Limits (ACL) music festival hosted at Zilker Park. With two weekends of live music and local food, ACL is truly a great place to make unforgettable memories, minus the heat exhaustion. Founded in 2002 and organized by C3 Presents, ACL

features over 140 bands every year. “For me, getting to see the fans come together and enjoy a festival weekend is the best part

Leal, marketing manager at C3 presents for six years. And hard work it is, as ACL requires year-long planning complete with a team of talent buyers that scope out and book the best new and old talent in a variety of genres. “It can be challenging to coordinate all the moving parts that go into putting on a festival of this size. Clear communication and organization are key

“Seeing people have the time of their lives makes all the hard work that we put in worthwhile”

-Brooke Leal

of this job -- seeing people have the time of their lives makes all the hard work that we put in worthwhile,” explained Brooke

for putting on a successful festival,” Leal said. Some of the headliners this year included Jay-Z and The Red Hot Chili Peppers, big names for a big crowd. As the festival grows, so do the amount of people that want to attend. “The festival has grown a lot over the years. In 2013 the festival expanded from one weekend to two weekends, which was a big change,” Leal said, “The layout of the festival has also changed quite a bit over the years – each year we’re making improvements to the fan experience in the park.” Approximately 450,000 people have attended ACL each year

since the expansion into two weekends, from young children to adults, locals and tourists. Ava Polakowski, a student at Austin High, has been attending ACL ever since she moved to Austin in 2012. “I really love the music and the atmosphere it has. The food’s really good, and you meet a lot of new people,” Polakowski said. There are over 30 local restaurants in the food court, a wide variety to choose from when festers need a break from all the singing and dancing. “This year I really enjoyed the frozen banana popsicles dipped in chocolate from Bananarchy, I had one all three days,” said

Jay-Z performs on Friday night on the first weekend of ACL 2017. Photo by Greg Noire.

Polakowski. The food at ACL is not the kind you would typically find at a festival or carnival. “All of the food is really high quality and really reflects Austin culture, which food is a big part of,” Polakowski said. Even at the airport, tourists will be introduced to only local restaurants, and of course, live music. After all, Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World. ACL is not only a boost to the economy, but a time for people to truly live the Austin experience. By Gracie Vogel

(top) RHCP band member Flea jumps on stage while performing Saturday night at ACL 2017. Photo by Roger Ho. (bottom) Festers enjoy some popsicles from Austin’s GoodPop at ACL 2017. Photo by Katrina Barber. Photos courtesy of C3 Presents.

ACL Headliners Through Wilco Ryan Adams Joe Bonamassa Emmylou Harris Los Lobos Gillian Welch

The Killers Jack Johnson Modest Mouse Franz Ferdinand Wilco Spoon

Kings of Leon Jack Johnson The Shins The Dandy Warhols Bright Eyes Spoon

Kings of Leon John Mayer Massive Attack The Shins Phoenix Muse

Coldplay Jason Mraz The Black Keys Widespread Panic Death Cab for Cutie Arcade Fire

Source: https://www.aclfestival.com/past-lineups/

Foo Fighters Beck Robert Plant and Allison Kraus Gnarls Barkley Manu Chao

Bob Dylan The White Stripes The Killers Arcade Fire Bjรถrk Wilco

Th LCD

Pearl Jam Dave Matthews Ban Kings of Leon John Legend The Dead Weathe Thievery Corporati

the Years

The Eagles Norah Jones The Strokes The Flaming Lips D Soundsystem Muse

er ion

Red Hot Chili Peppers Florence+The Machine The Black Keys Neil Young and Crazy Horse Jack White

Eminem Pearl Jam Calvin Harris Lana Del Ray Foster the People Sam Smith

Stevie Wonder Arcade Fire My Morning Jacket Fleet Foxes Kanye West Coldplay

Radiohead Mumford & Sons Kendrick Lamar Willie Nelson The Chainsmokers LCD Soundsytem

Foo-Fighters Drake Florence+ The Machine Twenty-One Pilots The Weeknd Hosier The Cure Vampire Weekend Kings of Leon Lionel Richie Depeche Mode Fun

Jay-Z Red Hot Chili Peppers Chance the Rapper The Killers Gorillaz Martin Garrix

By Gracie Vogel 12

The Scoop on Spoon Austin band with a new member takes on the World

(left) Spoon preforms in Brussels, Belgium. This preformance is part of their 2017 world tour. Photo by Greg Ackerman. (middle) Britt Daniel, Spoon’s lead singer, preforms in Nashville Tennessee. Photo by Amy Price. (right) Spoon preforms at The Metro Theater in Sydney Australia. Images courtesy of Spoon’s Instagram.

orld tours, performances on Ellen, the Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and Jimmy Kimmel – Austin band Spoon has done it all. The band was created in 1993 by Britt Daniel and Jim Eno. Spoon, which now includes Rob Pope, Alex Fischel, and their newest member Gerardo Larios, has released a total of nine albums and has been signed to Elektra Records, Merge Records, and Matador Records. Their most recent album “Hot Thoughts” was released March 17 2017. Gerardo Larios, a long time part of the Austin music scene, discussed how thrilling joining Spoon has been.

“Everything about it is exciting, Public Hi-Fi and we kept but we’ve done some really cool in touch and became friends things like played the Jimmy throughout the years” said Kimmel Show, the Stephen Larios. Larios came through the Colbert Show, and the Ellen Public Hi-Fi by being in bands: Hard Proof, Echocentrics, and Money Chica which Eno had produced or recorded. - Gerardo Larios “He [Jim Eno] knew Show” Larios said “All of that I played guitar and keyboards, is super exciting as well as so he called me one day and playing in front of large crowds asked if I would be interested in at festivals like Lollapalooza and auditioning for the band” said Larios, adding that he agreed to ACL”. Larios started performing audition and landed the part. “The audition was crazy with bands like Hard Proof, Echocentrics, and Money Chica because I only had a few days in January of 2006 shortly after to learn 4 songs, and get all the sounds right,” Larios said. “At he moved from Boston. “I met Jim Eno (drummer for the same time, I already had commitments to play with three Spoon) in 2006 at his studio

“We try to create a full experience for the audience where it’s not just about the music”

(top) Britt Daniel prefoms with spoon at the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL). (bottom) Spoon members Britt Daniel (left) and Gerardo Larios at ACL. Photos by Roger Ho, courtesy of C3 presents.

Spoon members Gerardo Larios (left), Jim Eno, Alex Fischel, and Britt Daniel prefrom at ACl. Photo by Roger Ho courtesy of C3 presents.

other bands that weekend, one of which I had never played with before, so I had to learn that material too.” Even though Larios described the audition as “stressful to say the least” he said that “of course it was all worth it”. Spoon performed during the 2017 ACL both weekends. “I’ve performed three times with different bands in the past and will be performing both weekends this year as well,” Larios said. Larios plays guitar and keyboard in the band. “I started playing guitar when I was about 7 years old,” Larios said. “My older brother played guitar and I would grab it and try to figure out songs when he wasn’t playing it. I’ve been 15

playing keyboards for about 15 years now. I got interested in piano when I was in college.” Since January -when Larios joined Spoon- they have been touring worldwide. “We’ve toured Europe, Australia, Mexico, Canada, and the US” said Larios. According to Larios the most interesting part of going on world tour is “getting to see and experience new places and people that I wouldn’t have otherwise.” While on world tour the band played in Aspen Colorado where they were invited to one of their fans restaurants. “It was an amazing sushi restaurant,” Larios said. “We ate amazing food and drank amazing cocktails all for free”.

Spoon tries to make their performances as interesting as possible. “We try to create a full experience for the audience where it’s not just about the music,” Larios said. “We have a really cool light rig and fog machines that add a lot of mood to our performance. We also work a lot on transitions between songs so that there is always something for the audience to hear or see”. Larios has no specific plans in the music industry and will be content as long as he can continue playing an instrument. Larios is currently touring with Spoon on the U.S. and will be returning to Europe for the world tour in November. By Elena Keitt

Britt Daniel preforms with Spoon at ACL. Photo by Greg Noir courtesy of C3 presents.

What the World Needs Now SXSW gathers talent from across the globe to perform in Austin for thousands of people at their annual SXSW Music Festival

arch Madness is not the only thing that comes to mind for Austinites when Spring time comes around. Since 1986, South by Southwest (SXSW) has attracted artists and musicians from around the world in hopes to be discovered, or if they are already popular, gain more fans.

such a high-scale festival isn’t easy. “The hardest part of planning SXSW is just trying to keep track of all the details. We are pretty good at that -- but we can always get better,” said Hugh Forrest, the Chief Programming Officer of SXSW. Each year after the festival,

The festival has since branched out into including comedy, film, and interactive portions, but music still remains as one of the major attractions. Over the course of a week, music is performed at local venues including bars, parks, hotels, etc. In 2017, over 2000 performers were registered from 63 different countries. Accomplishing and planning

SXSW planners spend 6-8 weeks reviewing and collecting feedback, and then they start planning for the next year. “Given how many such details there are, it is a long, long planning process for SXSW. That means that by July, we are knee-deep in preparation for March,” said Forrest. Most of the bands or artists that perform at SXSW

apply through the Showcase Application Process. However, SXSW does reach out to the bigger names in the music industry. Ryan Adams, ASAP Ferg, The Head and the Heart, and Børns are just some examples of bigger names that have played at SXSW in recent years. Lots of now-famous artists were also discovered by playing at SXSW. After all, performances are watched by record labels, booking agencies, management, PR firms, etc. “Foster the People played their third or fourth show ever at SXSW. Earlier than that, Katy Perry got a ton of momentum by playing SXSW 2008,” said Forrest. SXSW has been growing rapidly over the past decade. With eighty thousand plus registrants and roughly over 400,000 attendees to the events, SXSW has expanded and become even better than before. “The biggest change is just scale. The growth opens us up to a lot of new possibilities and opportunities. But, it also means a lot more details and a lot more work,” said Forrest. All the work is worth it, however, because in the end SXSW is about giving people the opportunity to shine, be

noticed, and have a great time. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love being able to interact with, and be inspired by, incredibly creative people from across the United States and around the World,â&#x20AC;? said Forrest. And what better city to host this talent in than the Live Music Capital of the World? Austin is truly a place where dreams can become a reality. By Gracie Vogel (left) Canadian sisters Iman Hashi and Siham Hashi of FAARROW perform onstage at ContraBanned during SXSW 2017. Photo by Katrina Barber. (top) A crowd gathers at the Lady Bird Lake Outdoor stage at 2017 SXSW Music Festival. Photo by Merrick Ales. (right) English rock band Temples performs on stage at 2017 SXSW Music Festival. Photo by Joseph Riggs. Photos courtesy of SXSW.

Festival Fash Sunglasses are a must have for any festival outfit. They provide protection for the sun and are a stylish accesory.

Crops tops and floral patterns are a yes. Not only are they cute but they also are perfect hot weather.

Lipftick is for life. Pink, blue, orange, purple. Wear bright and bold colors for the perfect finising touch.

Sneakers > Sandals. Bring a pair of comfy kicks to the festival and get ready for a day of for and music.

Information gathered from a small survey sample at LASA High School Photo by Charles Reagan Hackleman, courtesy of C3 Presents

hion Favorites SUNGLASSES 27%

JEWLERY 0%

CROP TOPS 20%

JEAN SHORTS 20%

SNEAKERS 33% By Elena Keitt 20

Sittin’ and Singin’

Threadgill’s restaraunt serves comfort food and live music

(left) Austin band performs during dinner at Threadgill’s (right) The Threadgill’s Old # office still looks like it belongs in the 80’s. Photos courtesy of Threadgill’s.

ince 1981, Threadgill’s restaurant has been serving comfort food, good-ol’southern-cooking style. Aside from being one of the oldest joints in Austin, it is also a strong contributor to the music culture. Threadgill’s is not only a restaurant, but a wellknown live music venue. Threadgill’s Old #1, the original location, features local artists every Wednesday for the traditional Sittin’ and Singin’ Supper and Sunday for Bluegrass Brunch. “We’ve had some pretty good talent that has come through Threadgill’s even from back in the day with Chant Hood, Joe Elee, Noel Mckay, Brennen Leigh, and the Carper Family,” said Melanie Bounds, General Manager at Threadgill’s Old #1 for 31 years. 21

Janis Joplin was one of the most famous stars who started her career performing at Threadgill’s when it was a Gulf filling station in the 60s. “Janis Joplin is our claim to fame. She was a freshmen at UT during prohibition, and Threadgill’s got the first beer license in Travis county,” Bounds said, “They camped on the capitol grounds to be able to sell beer at Threadgill’s, and when they could sell beer, the students at UT would come and sing. Janis Joplin started singing at Threadgill’s at 19.” Later, Janis went on to win a Grammy and her music is honored in the Grammy Hall of Fame. Even after her death she remains an icon, and to think that it all started in a small Gulf filling station in Austin. Threadgill’s restaurant was

founded by Eddie Wilson, in honor of Kenneth Threadgill, after he closed his Gulf filling station in hopes to pursue his own music career. Wilson previously owned the Armadillo World Headquarters, a restaurant that also featured live music and Southern meals, but after closing the Armadillo in 1980, Wilson essentially reopened his restaurant under a new name and at the original Threadgill’s location. “The best part about managing would be meeting all the different people, whether they are performing or eating and, of course, the food,” said Bounds. Today, Threadgill’s remains a creator of Austin sound and provides “fertile ground” for growing musicians, while also being a delicious place to eat. By Gracie Vogel

The Band of Heathens posing for one of their albulm covers. Courtesy of Band of Heathens

The Band of Heathens on the Rise

ordy Quist moved to Austin 15 years played an instrument, so they wanted to try ago. Quist was inspired by Austin’s music something new and created what was Quist’s culture. One night, Quist was playing a first ever band. Now, Quist is part of one of gig with his current band at the time, and he Austin’s most praised musical groups. got to know some of the band members that The Band of Heathens’ original band name played in the bands after him. These members, was The Good Time Supper Club. One day, Seth Whitney, Ed Juri someone listed them to “ We’re taking our influences the paper as The Band of , and Colin Brooks started to play together Heathens and the name just and pushing them into with Quist and had jam stuck. different sonic territory” sessions on Wednesday Quist and Jordi, being nights. He started The the songwriters of the -Gordy Quist Band of Heathens with group, look for inspiration Ed Jurdi in 2006. Ever in the world. From past since, the band has aspired to continue making relationships, books, and just life in general, music and going on world tours. they try to conncet with their audience. Quist first got into music when he was 10, “Making connection, that’s what makes it his parents played music around the house, fun,” Quist said, “We’re taking our influences and that inspired him to do the the same. and pushing them into different sonic Music and electric guitar soon became a territory.” passion of his. At age 13, he and his friends all By Freddie Uriostegui cjhjdjg

Taylor Wilkins, Constructor of The Destroyer

Otis the Destoyers playing live. Courtesy of Otis the Destroyer

How Austin Indie Band Otis the Destroyer started

ade in Austin, the members of Otis the Destroyer were drawn to the city to make a name for themselves. Together, they formed Otis the Destroyer, a rock and roll band started by the guitarist, Taylor Wilkins. Everyone was originally from a different band, until Wilkins was introduced to the drummer of his new band by his girlfriend. Soon after, Taylor Wilkins, Clellan Hyatt, Kyle Robarge, Anthony Rucci, and Andrew Dalton officially formed the band. The band gets inspiration for their music from everything and anything, and from other music. 23

Otis the Destroyer’s early albums were “Keep Bash”, “Belushi”, and “Dark Arts EP”. Plans for the future of the band are to continue to grow and make music in Austin. They are mostly making appearances in local venues like Mohawks, Stubbs, and some hotels. Otis the Destroyer has made a name for themselves in Austin. “I got into music at the age of 18,” Wilkins said. His dad was already playing guitar and Wikin s looked up to him. He fell in love with music the first time he picked up his sister’s guitar, and has continued to make music ever since.

Otis the Destroyer tries to make their music fun, they do this by making some of their song s humorous like “Fat Attraction.” But in the end, it’s mostly about doing the thing they love. “We just try to give something to people that they can enjoy,” Wilkins said, “nothing rocks for 45 minutes straight. We try to have some valleys and mountains.” Wilkins tries to have a variety in his sets. “I want people to really get excited and pumped up for a few songs, then take them to the left or the right, not always up and down,” Wilkins said. The feeling he gets while performing. The rush, the energy, and being able to let loose, it’s an amazing feeling.

“The feeling is intoxicating there’s no other feeling like it.” -Taylor Wilkins

Otis the Destroyer recording at KUTX. Courtesy of Otis the Destoyer

Wilkins first started the band because he wanted to be part of something with more of a rock and roll kind of style, and making music was his passion. The band mostly makes fast paced music with electrifying beats and abstract vocals, giving their music so much variety. Wilkin’s favorite song of the band’s is “Monster Eaters” from the album “Keep Bashing”. It is a song with a sick beat and spine-chilling vocals to back it up. Otis The Destroyer is surely a one of a kind band. By Freddie Uriostegui

Otis the Destroyer relaxing at home. Courtesy of Otis the Destroyer

Exsisting in the Moment Drew Blackard and how he made a name for himself

rew Blackard is not that inspires me, I break out birthday and was addicted originally from Austin, the notebook and see if I have immediately.” he spent the summer in any words that fit the melody Blackard has been playing the city in the 2000s working or vibe of the music. Once I ever since. Over the years he’s and doing open mics. He have that as a starting point, learned to play bass, mandolin, officially moved to Austin it establishes the mood of the ukulele, harmonica, and a in 2004. For many years he song and the rest of the words variety of other instruments, played in a number of bands. usually write themselves.” which he trys to include in his Eventually went solo as soon Later he started to perform music. as he learned how to play the live in places like the Cactus Young Neil was an artist guitar. Blackard would go to Cafe, Maggie Mae’s, Fox & he looked up to and loved record to hear his listening to. Before sound. He was getting into Neil, “Unlike a drawing, painting, experimenting with he was into a lot tone and with 90s Seattle bands, or recording, a musical different sounds, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, performance is something that and maturing as Soundgarden and an artist. Then he classic rock like Led just exists in that moment. ” decided he should Zeppelin, and Jimi - Drew Blackard put his music into Hendrix. the world and Neil Young was a started to self-release albums Hound, the Carousel Lounge, “bridge of sorts” that exposed on iTunes. the Hard Rock before it closed Blackard to more of the folk Normally writing songs is down, and some spots on genre. Neil Young had the a struggle, but Blackard has South Congress heavier electric guitar driven it all down. Blackard said, Blackard was enthusiastic music with Crazy Horse but “It usually starts with the about music from the start also folkier acoustic stuff. music-some chords and a and as he grew up his passion Blackard was inspired by melody. I keep a notebook increased even more. the range of his music. And it filled with words that come Blackard said, “I was felt accessible to him in ways to me at random times...when always into music growing that his previous favorites out walking or traveling or up but didn’t start playing an hadn’t - they were rock stars, whenever. Usually a phrase or instrument until later than but Young’s music was music a verse. When I have a basic most. I asked my parents Blackard could understand chord structure and melody for a guitar for my 18th and relate to. 25

Drew Blackard visiting Temecula, California. Courtesy of Drew Blackard

“That’s what made menwant to buy my first guitar-to learn Neil Young songs,” Blackard said. “From there I got big into Bob Dylan. That’s when I started wanting to try my hand at songwriting.” Blackard mostly has a folks style music with some classic rock, his favorite original song, “Right About Now I’d Like to Move to Austin and Buy a Purple House” is the song that really gave him confidence as a songwriter.

“A lot of people have respond to it for whatever reason. It’s over 7 minutes long and has no chorus, but it felt effortless and natural when writing. Totally unforced,” said Blackard. Blackard wrote the song after moving to Dallas from Austin. He was missing Austin and it was “[his] ode to living another life as a folk singer back in Austin someday.” Blackard is an unpredictable beautiful art. He spends many dedicated hours practicing and

rehearsing. Performing is the final step and he is confident. “When you are performing you just have to be in the moment. It’s unlike any other type of art.,” said Blackard. Blackard has been in a number of bands in his life , but all has lead him to be the amazing solo folks artist he is today. By Freddie Uriostegui

The Road To Fame Top

Highest-Grossing Concerts of 2017

1) Gunsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; N Roses - $151.5 million 2) U2 - $118.1 million 3) Justin Bieber - $93.2 million 4) Metallica - $88 million 5) Depeche Mode - $68.2 million

Step 1

Be a Boss

Rhythm

Treble

Source: https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/

Step 3

Put your heart and soul in it

Step 2

Be yourself

Do you want to be the celebrity that you see on television? Well here are some tips you should keep in mind to be the star youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always wanted to be. By Freddie Uriostegui, edited by Gracie Vogel and Charlie Scott

Vintage Night at the Drive-In Blue Starlite shines bright as first drive-in in Austin

ixty years ago, when drive-in movie theaters were in high demand, people could just pay a few dollars to view a movie from the comfort of their cars. Today, finding a functional drive-in theater is a hard task, but it’s not impossible. Drive-in movie theaters were popular in the 1950s and 1960s and were an iconic date location in their time. The opening of movie theaters, building of new homes and malls, and the advent of home video caused drive-in movie theaters to become less popular. According to Nerve. com, there are only about 338 operating drive- Owner, Josh Frank stands proudly at the entrance of his business. in theaters left in the United States, 17 of those Photo by Nicole Vu. “We show older movies that people have a very located in Texas. Founded in 2009, The Blue Starlite Mini Urban fond spot for in their life and want to revisit,” Drive-In is Austin’s first and only drive-in movie said Frank. “We aren’t really competing with new movies at all.” theater. Frank came up with the idea for the drive-in Owner Josh Frank wants the drive-in to be while on a date. a place where people can come for a “I was with my girlfriend at the time, unique experience. He believes who is now my wife, and I that being the only drive-in in the wanted to come up with middle of the city is one something d i f f e rent of the many things that to do for our 6 month makes it unique. anniversary. There’s an “People come to the alleyway behind a building drive in because they want a I was managing, so I set up very specific experience,” Frank a little movie screen on the said. “We are a very intimate Courtesy of Blue Starlite Mini wall, brought a projector, Urban Drive-In. drive in, we’re very small. We talk and showed her a movie to all our customers and that’s one outside in the city...It was there where I got the of the things that makes it special.” The Blue Starlite is a completely different idea to do a bigger version of that where people experience than going to a movie theater or could go on a date in the middle of the city and IMAX. Instead of new or current movies, iconic have a special experience,” said Frank. Aside from being an entrepreneur and business 70s and 80s classics, such as Ghostbusters and The owner, Frank has a side job when he’s not working Outsiders. 29

at the drive-in. He likes to write books as a side career, and watches movies as a hobby. When it came to fears, Frank didn’t have many when starting the business. He claims that the spontaneity of his business starting caused him to not be afraid of what he was doing. “There wasn’t some big investment. I just got a projector, I got a screen, and I didn’t know what the hell I was doing,” said Frank,“it has become more scary over the years because it has become a realer business with people who count on me, and customers who count on me, so the responsibility has grown as the years have gone on.” Frank likes greeting customers and believes that customers seeing the owner of the drive-in makes it more special. “One of the things I get most pleasure out of by

having this drive in is greeting the cars and talking to people.” claims Frank. “I make a point of trying to be the first person people see and I think that makes it an extra special experience.” Frank lists the key elements for starting and running a successful business. “Creativity, thinking outside the box, not being terrified with risks, making your own rules, and improvising.” explains Frank. He describes his favorite parts of his job as an entrepreneur.“[The Drive-In] is my sandbox, and I love playing in my sandbox...I love coming out here and figuring out how I can make things better.” Also, Frank says that he likes being a business owner because it allows him to spend more time with his family.

“I make a point of trying to be the first person people see and I think that makes it an extra special experience.” -Josh Frank

Customers wait for the movie while watching the sunset at the Blue Starlite in Austin. Courtesy of Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In.

Customers appreciate Frank’s effort. “My boyfriend and I went for the first time last night and had an amazing experience!” exclaimed Amanda R. on Yelp. “Blue Starlite Drive-in brought back memories when my parents would take my cousins and I during the weekend. We would bring numerous snacks, candies, sodas and our blankies as we hang out under the stars.” “ So much fun!...Love this place! Blue Starlite

creates a real relaxed, family friendly vibe. Again, I am a fan!” said Jay T. on Yelp. The Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In never fails at creating an amazing experience for guests, and owner Josh Frank does an outstanding job of incorporating Austin’s unique culture into his business. By Nicole Vu

Giving the customer an experience they’ve never had before and having the customer basically be like ‘this is so great’, that makes me feel good.” -Josh Frank

(top) Customers can buy food and drinks from the concessions trailer to enjoy during the movie. Picture by Nicole Vu. (bottom) Picture by Jay T. Courtesy of Yelp.

(top) The grounds of the drive-in allow customers to sit outside to watch the movie, rather than viewing it in their cars. Courtesy of Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In. (bottom) The 40ft. screen at Blue Starlite provides a great view of the movie to all customers. Photo by Michelle W. Courtesy of Yelp.

(top) Photo courtesy of Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In. (bottom) Customers set up chairs and blankets while they wait for the movie to start. Courtesy of Blue Starlight Mini Urban Drive-In.

Movies Through The Decade It (2017) It is a great and fun movie. The film isn’t filled with jumpscares, instead it uses creepy atmospheres and psychological factors in order to scare the audience. The characters are also great, and each cast member fit their role. Overall, it was an exciting movie that broke the stereotype of the typical “jump scare” horror film. “I really liked the movie because as scary as it was, it had a lot of comedy to it.” said Elizabeth Shymkiw. Image courtesy of New Line Cinema

Review courtesy of Fabian Isaola

Moana (2016) Moana is another Disney film for the books. The riveting storyline and strong female main character teaches kids valuable lessons of perseverance and selflessness. Disney does it again with the catchy soundtrack that will have you humming for weeks. Although this fillm is classified as a children’s movie, people of all ages will enjoy it. Auli’i Cravalho does an amazing job of portraying an adventurous teen who goes on a daring quest to save her island.

Jurassic World (2015)

Image Courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures

Jurassic World is a sequel to the Jurassic Park movies. Although the plots are similar, Jurassic World offers a futuristic aspect that makes it unique. The movie definitely has it’s flaws and plot holes, but it still keeps viewers on the edges of their seats. The creativeness and details of the park itself are astounding, and the visual affects are believable and breath-taking. Although rated PG-13, Jurassic World seems to be popular in all ages.

Image courtesy of Universal Pictures

The Fault in Our Stars (2014) The Fault in Our Stars is a heart-wrenching love story. Its tragic storyline about childhood cancer will have viewers reaching for the tissues. “While The Fault in Our Stars seems to be classified as romantic, it also explores themes of discrimination, family, isolation, and idenitity.” said Grace Kim, an avid fan of the movie. Based on the book by John Green, The Fault in Our Stars teaches people that they shouldn’t take what they have for granted.

Image courtesy of Fox 2000 Pictures

Frozen (2013) Frozen is the 3rd highest grossing movie of 2013. Making $400,738,009, this film teaches the vital lesson of family first, while also touching on the topic of self identity. The soundtrack was extremely popular in children at the time of release. However, through no fault of its own, the movie and the soundtrack has been overplayed, taking away some of the beauty of the movie. It is definitely not the best film that Disney has released, but it is still entertaining for all ages.

Picture courtesy of Walt Disney Pictures

The Hunger Games (2012) Based off the book by Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games was a teen favorite when it came out in 2012. Set in the futristic version of America, The Hunger Games has the perfect amount of gore, while also including a love story. “The visuals and soundtrack truly were a breath of fresh air.” said Brisza Isaola. Jennifer Lawrence potrays Katniss Everdeen, another strong and inspirational female character. The storyline is unique and not cliché. It does a great job on exploring the topics of heroism and family.

Picture courtesy of Lionsgate

By Nicole Vu

Photo courtesy of SXSW