Grand Stafford Theater

Grupo Fantasma w/ Este Vato
2013-10-25 21:00 - 23:55 (America/Chicago) | TX
GRUPO FANTASMA

Grupo Fantasma has been praised as one of the most important independent acts in the Latin genre and has continually defied expectations to create one of the most unique musical voices to come out of the United States in the last decade. In 2011 they garnered further acclaim by winning a Grammy (their second such nomination) for their self-produced release El Existential on Nat Geo Music which the Wall Street Journal called “Latin music both new and traditional…vibrant fusions that transcend easy classification.” In 2012 they continued to tour the globe with club and festival dates and spring/summer 2013 will bring their next studio release produced by multiple Grammy Award winner Steve Berlin of Los Lobos as well as a live DVD / album package recorded in their hometown of Austin, Texas.
“Grupo Fantasma is in their own unique place in modern musical culture so I was overwhelmed when asked to produce their upcoming release” says Berlin. “No band around is as authentic and at the same time utterly groundbreaking in so many idioms, not to mention deadly on stage with some of the best arrangements and players around. I think this album will have a solid chance to redefine the entire genre yet again for the current and next generation.”
The band’s incendiary live show, declared by NPR as “seamless whenever and wherever they’re on stage” has brought the band to major festivals and venues internationally including Bonnaroo, North Sea Jazz Festival and Lowlands in the Netherlands, Kennedy Center, London’s O2 Arena, Montreal Jazz Festival, WOMEX, Tempo Latino (France) as well as two tours to Kuwait and Iraq to entertain US troops. Their diverse spectrum of rabid and devoted fans such as Rodney Anonymous from the Dead Milkmen and Stu Cook from Creedence Clearwater Revival speaks to the ensemble’s universal appeal beyond just Latin or world music fans. In addition, they have worked or recorded with Prince, Fania All-Stars pianist Larry Harlow, Maceo Parker, Sheila-E, Curt Kirkwood of the Meat Puppets, Ruben Ramos, GZA of the Wu-Tang Clan and cult-hero Daniel Johnston.
Grupo Fantasma is a nice piece musical collective formed in 2000 in Austin, Texas consisting of Jose Galeano (timbales, vocals), Kino Esparza (vocals, hand percussion), Beto Martinez (guitar), Greg Gonzalez (bass), John Speice (drums), Matthew “Sweet Lou” Holmes (congas), Gilbert Elorreaga (trumpet), Josh Levy (baritone saxophone) and Mark “Speedy” Gonzales (trombone).
Grupo Fantasma on Facebook | Grupo Fantasma on Twitter | Official Website
Este Vato

Este Vato is an original eight-piece Latin-Fusion group from Austin, TX formed in early-2008 by brothers Rocky and Oscar Reyna. EV includes: Rene Chavez, Ricardo Lara, Feliciano ‘Chano’ Lopez, Frank ‘FAAR’ Ramirez,Rocky Reyna, Oscar Reyna, Rey Treviño and Dave Farris.
EV‘s sound can be described as a blend of English and Spanish lyrics with many styles from Cumbia to Rock to Hip-Hop to Reggae and everything in between. EV calls this sound “Latin-Fusion” and credits its member’s vast musical tastes, experiences and contributions as the key to its originality.
The rhythm section, Rocky Reyna (bass), Oscar Reyna (guitar) and Frank ‘FAAR’ Ramirez (drums), come from families with tremendous musical backgrounds which provide the solid foundation that EV‘s sound is built on. Feliciano ‘Chano’ Lopez contributes his ability to combine English and Spanish lyrics with an arsenal of intricate rhymes that define his political views and life struggles, while Rey Treviño adds turntables, electronic samples and sound effects to the mix. Ricardo Lara brings his talent and experience as a Singer/Songwriter to the band’s lineup by showcasing his eclectic style and powerful voice. Newest members,Rene Chavez & Dave Farris provide an electrifying additional guitar and percussionist that ties the band’s sound together.
Este Vato on Facebook | Este Vato on Twitter | Official Website

Alpha Rev w/ Quiet Company & The Reynolds Number
2013-10-24 20:45 - 23:55 | TX
ALPHA REV
“I want the band to mark a moment in time, to celebrate the being of something new;
The light at the end of the tunnel, the first step toward revealing something that needs to be seen,” says singer-songwriter Casey McPherson of Alpha Rev. Following the Triple A Radio success of New Morning (2010), the band’s third album Bloom (March 19, 2013 on Kirtland Records) is a set of personally transformative and redemptive songs, born in the spirit of creative expansion, and a mandate to blossom and grow.
“To bloom implies something beautiful is going to happen, but it’s a process—just like our own journeys,” says McPherson.
“Casey and I met when we were really young, and have been playing music with each other off and on over the past 13 years,” explains guitarist Zak Loy. “That growth comes across in the music the group is creating now,” he says. Rooted in lyrical wisdom, the more recent addition of drummer Tabber Millard—trained by master percussionists—is credited for the band’s contemporary tribal rhythms. “Tabber means drummer boy in Arabic and his life revolves around this gift he has,” says McPherson. Newest Alpha Rev addition Jeff Bryant rounds out the band, playing pedal steel, piano, organ, and bass.
With a glistening rock sound that is at once fragile and tough, Bloom picks up threads from the past while it takes a big bite into the eternal here and now. Drawing from the wellspring of American history, the grandeur of its landscape, and life’s sweet and tragic mysteries, McPherson leans into his personal challenges as well as the wages of the 21st Century and emerges with a triumphant statement on the ways in which music can serve as a constant source of strength and inspiration.
The shimmering, hymn-like “Sing Loud” – created with songwriter/producer Jamie Kenney (“He’s cut from the same stone I am,” says McPherson) – confronts a failing relationship, “But with the belief that you’re going to experience freedom again,” McPherson explains.
Love and death informs the heart-wrenching “Lexington,” based on actual historical love letters from Civil War soldiers to their wives and families. “The amount of pain they were in to be away from those they loved while their lives were at stake was incredible,” says McPherson.
“’Black Sky,’ is about dealing with losing everything you have from a fire. ‘Lonely Man,’ is about losing your family from working too much and ‘When You Gonna Run,’ is about losing the ability to look good in front of somebody,” he says.
“Alpha Rev is a collective of musicians,” explains McPherson, “Once you join, you’re never really gone.” On Bloom, Alex Dunlap holds down the bass, while Brian Batch (violin, viola) and Dave Wiley (cello) serve as the band’s string section. The players were joined in the studio by a longtime friend of McPherson’s, Dwight Baker (Brandi Carlile, Bob Schneider); he oversaw the project in his Austin studio. Producer Jamie Kenney (Marc Broussard) also worked with the band for two songs on Bloom. “Austin is a great city that takes care of musicians; it helps foster ideas and creativity,” says McPherson. Producer Jamie Kenney (Marc Broussard) also worked with the band for two songs on Bloom.
Since his beginnings in Jackson, Texas, where he was classically trained on piano, McPherson has traveled the distance: Working in a recording studio by age 16, at 17 he was touring overseas as a keyboard player; at 19 he formed Endochine, its name translating from its Latin and Greek roots as “to explode from within.” Turning once again to ancient alphabets for his band’s handle, “Alpha Rev is a combination of the Greek word for the beginning, and the incredible Latin prefix rev, as in revolve, revolt, reveal,” he says. The band’s Hollywood Records debut, New Morning (produced by David Kahne) rose to #3 on the Triple A chart, reaching an audience 40 million listeners-strong. The title song and “Phoenix Burn” also entered the charts.
Yet while scaling his own dreams, McPherson lost both his father and brother to suicide. Forming in 2005, Alpha Rev, became a vehicle to grapple with the outpouring of grief that results from losses of that magnitude. Today, McPherson helps others who’ve lost family to depression and suicide as a volunteer spokesperson for the National Institute of Mental Health organization, Mental Health America of Texas [http://mhatexas.org].
“Music changes people,” says McPherson. “We’re trying to find happiness in music as opposed to self-destruction,” he says. “It’s my desire, and has always been to be a part of our group, that we make each other better musicians, we make each other better men, we challenge each other, we fight and we forgive. Everybody in the band has really adopted that ideal,” says McPherson. “Alpha Rev is more than a band name—it’s a motto.”Alpha Rev on Facebook | Alpha Rev on Twitter | Official Website
QUIET COMPANYTaylor Muse sang those words in 2011 and the time has certainly come for his anthemic Austin pop-rock band. Formed in 2005 Muse (guitar/vocals) and his bandmates have spent much of the last year in increasingly rarefied air; playing late night talk shows (Carson Daly), performing at the Austin City Limits Festival, setting a record crowd for radio station KGSR’s Blues On The Green outdoor concert series, recording a session in the original studio of the iconic “Austin City Limits” television show, winning a record- shattering 10 Austin Music Awards and receiving glowing reviews for the late-2011 release We Are All Where We Belong. Mixed by legendary engineer Tim Palmer (Pearl Jam, U2, The Cure), We Are All Where We Belong is a startlingly personal album that finds Muse – backed by Tommy Blank (Guitar), Matt Parmenter (Bass), Jeff Weathers (Drums) and Cody Ackors (Trombone) – growing up and questioning the religious beliefs that underpinned the band’s early work. The album’s gut-punch honesty is presented on a foundation of expansive arrangements that build to anthemic choruses; songs that shift from moments of hushed intimacy to full-on explosions. “It is easily the most personal thing I’ve ever written,” Muse said. “It is, essentially, a break up record, only the romance that’s ending was between myself and religion.” That thematic break from past releases – 2009’s “Everyone You Love Will Be Happy Soon” and 2010’s “Songs For Staying In” – is bridged by the band’s songwriting ear for ambitious melodies like Death Cab For Cutie or Arcade Fire, with Pedro The Lion’s soulful honesty mixed in. Quiet Company’s explosive live show is notable both for the sheer energy of the band and the fact that each member is an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, making it a much simpler task to bring their complex studio arrangements to the stage in a fresh, exciting way. Ever prolific, while the band works its way into a heavier touring schedule, they’re also in the process of writing and recording an EP of songs written for Muse’s daughter, as well as their next full length record.Quiet Company on Facebook | Quiet Company on Twitter | Official Website
THE REYNOLDS NUMBERFormed in early 2011, The Reynolds Number is an Austin based quintet that has discovered a very unique blend of melodic rock and roll. Since their conception, the band has toured around Texas in support of their upcoming EP, set to be released in November of 2011. With Josh Atkins and Chris Soltani on guitars, Gabriel Elpers on bass, and Om Shankar on keys/vocals, the band has crafted its niche in the Austin music scene by using choral guitar harmonies, thumping bass, intricate percussion, and powerful vocal melodies to captivate the crowd. Their upcoming record, “For November”, is a seven track CD that truly shows the bands diverse musical influences, and its true soul, telling a story of a man simply trying to find his way again. With the record being on the brink of release, The Reynolds Number simply hopes that those listening will find some inspiration in their words and melodies.The Reynolds Number on Facebook | The Reynolds Number on Twitter | Official Website

Big Texas Nights feat. Deer Vibes
2013-10-23 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
Doors open at 6PM for Happy Hour ($2 wells and domestics) and music starts at 8pm. Get there early, beat the cover (starts at 8pm), get some great drinks & enjoy live music with us!
DEER VIBES“To refer to Deer Vibes as a band would be selling them short. Hailing from San Antonio, TX, Deer Vibes might be better described as a miniature indie rock orchestra..” “Anchored by the ambitious songwriting of frontman Mikey Vibe, Deer Vibes exhibits a musical and emotional depth that belies their young age. Since forming in 2008, Deer Vibes have been spreading their brand of indie rock gospel all over Texas, flooring audiences with their mesmerizing live shows and sharing the stage with the likes of Minus the Bear, Maps & Atlases, Owen, This Will Destroy You, Tera Melos, The Honorary Title, Good Old War, The Octopus Project, El Ten Eleven, Maserati, and Dignan. Their self-released debut EP, Ventura, has been turning heads amongst fans and critics alike. Currently, they are touring heavily through Texas while working on material for their forthcoming full length album.”
– Ross Ingram
Star Dot Star RecordsDeer Vibes on Facebook | Official Website

Homebrew Live feat. Wellborn Road w/ Hellsouth, Saint Carmen & Downfall Rising
2013-10-19 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
Rock 103.9 and Lone Star Metal present Homebrew Live featuring local and regional rock & metal.
Tickets for this show will be available at the door only for $5.
WELLBORN ROADEstablished 2005, Wellborn Road has carved its name as one of the heavy weights in the Texas hard rock and metal scene. The band was formed in College Station, Texas. Their debut album “Home” proved to be an uncompromised, raw, and unique record. The band is currently jamming everywhere possible and working on their sophomore album.Wellborn Road on Facebook | Official Website
HELLSOUTHHellSouth is a Houston metal band with influences from country, blues and rock bringing in an eclectic sound to their music.Hellsouth on Facebook | Official Website
SAINT CARMENSaint Carmen is a hard rock band with a modern sound and face-melting intensity; A new breed of ‘mainstream’ rock that knows no limits. Things started kicking off when the band found it’s current line-up in September 2012. With Avery Krueger on lead vocals/guitar, Dylan Cash shredding out the lead guitar, Buck Blackerby on bass, and Jake Bellamy smashing the skins and singing the back-up, Saint Carmen was built on a recipe for a hellacious wall of rockin’ sound.Saint Carmen on Facebook | Official Website
DOWNFALL RISINGDownfall Rising is a female fronted modern rock band hailing from east Texas. The bands vocalist, Rachel Peloquin has been referred to as possibly having “the most powerful voice in Rock music today” by the Indie Music Review. The band also consists of guitarists Aaron Hillin, and Greg Wenrich, Stephen Rushing on bass and Tyler Lewing on drums.
Downfall Rising’s sound is instantly recognizable and their music combines pure, genuine emotion with attitude, pain and pleasure. The band instantly got the attention of 8 time Grammy award winner, Bil VornDick who signed on to produce their first self-titled EP released in March of 2013.
Downfall Rising is quickly taking the south by surprise. Their “spot on” live performances are earning them a loyal fan base and garnering the attention of local media everywhere they perform. The band has been sharing the stage with national acts and rocking prominent venues such as the House Of Blues and various festivals.
The band recently performed at the Dallas stop of the “Making Of Rockstars” reality TV show series with Machina (featuring former members of Evanescence) and they currently have 3 singles receiving airplay in various radio markets around the US.
Downfall Rising recently re-entered the studio to begin recording their second EP with Charlie Ray of Digital Services. A live video and concept video is also in the works as the band continues to play shows throughout the region.Downfall Rising on Facebook | Official Website

Haywood reunion concert w/ Whiskey Shivers & Hello Wheels
2013-10-18 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
HAYWOOD
Haywood came together in the Fall of 1996, in College Station, TX. With no more intent than to have a great time with a large group of friends, Brandon Elam and Stephen Sandlin put pen to paper. Kris Arnold and Craig Hoenes filled in the danceable foundations, and the percussion stylings of Chris Huntley and Chris Ginsbach settled down on top. What resulted was an outstanding mix of melody, fun, and a heartfelt exploration of life. Music that makes you want to move… and laugh a little, too.
The next 8 years flew by. Three CDs, one EP, plenty of local praise, and the ability to regularly pull in 1000+ person crowds, helped Haywood make a name around College Station and Houston. Haywood was named Band of the Year, got radio airplay, and was generally considered one of the best live shows around town. As members moved on, the shows slowed, but everyone has remained involved. Brandon Elam has pushed The Literary Greats to success on the Houston music landscape, and Chris Ginsbach has helped plant the seeds of a flourishing Jazz and arts scene in Midland, TX.
While things may have changed over the last few years, the purpose of the band remains. Have a great time, and bring the crowd along for the ride. We’re excited to be back together, and share it with some friends.
Brandon Elam – Guitar, Vocals, Keyboards
Stephen Sandlin – Vocals, Acoustic Guitar
Kris Arnold – Bass Guitar
Craig Hoenes – Drums
Chris Huntley – Percussion
Chris Ginsbach – Percussion
Brendan Anthony – Fiddle
Russel Willis – Drums
Haywood on Facebook | Official Website
WHISKEY SHIVERS

Hatched in the twilight months of ought nine, these five young men came from all corners of the US looking to do one thing: knock the dust off roots music.
A freewheelin’, trashgrassin’, folk tornado, the Whiskey Shivers take traditional instrumentation, soak it in gasoline and send it into outer space. Breakneck speeds, killer grooves and impeccable musicianship: it’s enough to make Bill Monroe himself do a double-take as he spins in his grave.
With upright bass, fiddle, washboard, banjo, guitar, and reasonably priced merchandise, Whiskey Shivers adds a fine layer of grit on top of the hard-driving rhythms of traditional bluegrass. They’ve been called everything from “trashgrass” to “hardcore roots” to “crazy-assed redneck music” — whatever the words, the meaning is the same: Whiskey Shivers brings the house down.
Whiskey Shivers on Facebook | Official Website
HELLO WHEELS

We sing the songs we write with the power of four-part harmony. We all write the songs. We all sing them together.

We thump. We pluck. We strum. We strike.

We stomp. And the people do to.
Hello Wheels is the collaboration of four singers and songwriters. Matt Bradshaw(Keys, Trumpet, Harmonica), Nick Garza(Banjo), John Shaw(Upright Bass), and Peter Shults(Guitar) came together in 2009 to create a unique brand of harmony driven, percussive music they call stomp-folk. With one EP, Baby John the Fox, a split 7-inch with contemporaries Whiskey Shivers called Friends Do Things Together, and their debut full-length record underway with Wild Child producer Alex Peterson, the band stands poised to have a big year as they spread their original take on Americana throughout Texas and the rest of the nation.
Hello Wheels on Facebook | Official Website

Rob Baird w/ Chris King and The Liberators & Nick Verzosa and The Noble Union
2013-10-17 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
ROB BAIRDRob Baird will be the first one to tell you that he hasn’t always been 100%, shall we say, forthright as a songwriter. Back in college (not too terribly long ago), he recorded an album that he has since “completely buried” — primarily, he says, because back then, “I just wasn’t writing about anything that really meant anything to me.” His next album, 2010’s Blue Eyed Angels (which he considers his proper debut), was a fair deal closer to his heart, but even then he was still an artist in search of himself. Songs like “Could Have Been My Baby,” “Blue Eyed Angels” and especially “Fade Away” all demonstrated that he was ultra-confident in the hooks department and talented enough to sound like he knew what he was doing, but Baird himself was still not entirely convinced. By striking contrast, one listen to his new album, the aptly titled I Swear It’s the Truth, and it’s clear that Baird has not only found his sincere artistic identity, but grabbed his sense of purpose by the wheel and pushed pedal to the metal. “I’m moving like the wind through the trees, like a train on a track, there ain’t no stopping me,” he declares on the opening “Dreams and Gasoline. “Let the wheels spin free.” “I just think it’s a really honest record, and it’s kind of the only record that I knew how to make at this point,” says Baird. “‘I’ll swear it’s the truth’ is how I feel about all of these songs. I’ve definitely felt this way in the past three or four years, and I feel like this is a pretty strong collection of songs representing where I am now and what I’m trying to do, whether it’s for better or worse. “I’ve really spent a lot of time trying to perfect my writing, or at least trying to figure out who I am and convey that better in my songs, and trying to perfect the live show, because I want to be around for awhile,” he continues. “I just want longevity. If it takes a long time to figure out how to get enough fans to be able to tour the country and stay out there, then that’s fine. Because if it’s just going to be a flash-in-the-pan kind of deal, it doesn’t seem like it’s worth doing.”Rob Baird on Facebook | Rob Baird on Twitter | Official Website
CHRIS KING & THE LIBERATORSBorn in East Texas then transplanted & raised in a tiny South Texas town, Chris King is an honest songwriter who places the subjects of his songs in the middle of heartbreak, moonlight, alcohol, Cadillacs, hope, dance halls, & thunderstorms… all with as much gallop or yawn as he can muster. With a new voice in Texas music, Chris King’s first full-length record, “1983”, will be released January 15, 2013.Chris King on Facebook | Chris King on Twitter | Official Website
NICK VERZOSA AND THE NOBLE UNIONNVNU was the 1st winner of the Thirsty Throwdown Battle of the Bands Competition held over 3 months in the historic Ft. Worth Stockyards during the summer of 2012.
They competed with 12 bands selected from the venue’s top draws over the previous 2 years for over $12,000 in cash and prizes including the recording, mixing, mastering and manufacturing of the first “Live at Thirsty Armadillo” record.
The album was engineered and produced by Lubbock music man, Jon Taylor, and the band’s frontman/singer/songwriter, Nick Verzosa at Mount Vernon Studios in Lubbock, TX.
Staunchly independent, Nick has proven to be that necessary mix of pure talent, hard work and personality required to dig deep roots into the always competitive Texas music market and shows the ability to spread his branches outside the state lines as well. Averaging 4 shows a week is nothing uncommon for he and his 4 piece band of talented musicians as they continue to impress and entertain a constantly growing fan-base. His strong belief in working hard for what you want is self-evident in his road-warrior mentality, still finding time to vigilantly hone his songwriting craft, what he would tell you is his true passion.Nick Verzosa & The Noble Union on Facebook

Big Texas Nights feat. Tyler Darby & King and Nation (formerly The Twenty Sevens)
2013-10-16 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
Tickets for this event are $5 at the door starting at 8pm.
Happy Hour and Southern Star pint night starts at 6pm, get there early and beat the cover!
Tyler Darby
Tyler Darby and his band is a new, up-and-coming band from Bryan/College Station picking up some steam in the last few months having played around town constantly and participating in various events on campus.
Tyler Darby on Facebook
King and Nation
King and Nation (formerly The Twenty Sevens) are a new indie/alt rock band from College Station gearing up to play venues in Austin already and MSC Town Hall’s Battle of the Bands on campus to compete for the best band in town.
King and Nation on Facebook

Musicians Jam
2013-10-14 18:30 - 22:00 | TX
This group of musicians was created by the music-loving minds behind the newest live music venue in the area, Grand Stafford Theater. It’s for the people who share our passion for music and culture.
Bryan-College Station has a live music scene on the the verge of changing the musical landscape of Texas. Outstanding artists have been moving through our area for many years. Some come from out-of-town and some are grown right here in the Brazos Valley. It is our hope that we can bring the professionals of the music industry in the area together to continue to push, drive and amplify the bond of those on the stage and behind the music.
As a result of individuals building these relationships with one another, the music culture of Bryan-College Station and the Brazos Valley will abound when the community sees the creativity that comes from our own backyard.
Grand Stafford Theater is here to help tell the nation about the vibrant music culture that is alive and well right here in the heart of Texas.
We ask you to attend our jam and networking sessions regularly and meet new people in the area who share a common interest. Let’s make Bryan-College Station area a place where music is known and remembered.

BTHO Breast Cancer Benefit Festival 2013
2013-10-12 17:30 - 23:55 | TX
Tickets for this event are $10 at the door.
F13 Music Presents:
Beat The Hell Outta Breast Cancer Benefit Festival 2013
The very first BEAT THE HELL OUT OF BREAST CANCER FESTIVAL took place on October 6, 2007 and would continue on for four straight years, benefitting local women who were either fighting the deadly disease, or struggling financially from surviving it. Since 2007, the event has continued to grow and has raised thousands of dollars for it’s beneficiaries. After not having a home venue for two years, the festival is back and this year, the proceeds will benefit Janice Arvo, the aunt of Myra Maybelle guitarist, Will Anderson.
Come out and support the cause and let’s make a difference. There will be many great acts on two different stages, and we’re raffling off some cool stuff including a car stereo.
Sponsored by: F13 Music, Grand Door Company, Anderson Family Remodeling, Unleashed MMA, and Mobile Toys
5:30 – ENDEPTH
6:40 – SHOULD’VE BEEN COWBOYS
7:50 – ISONOMIST
9:10 – INSURGENCE
10:30 – MYRA MAYBELLE
11:50 – EVERYONE DIES IN UTAH (Tragic Hero Records)

Sphynx w/ Marmalakes, Major Major Major & Golden Sombrero
2013-10-11 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
SPHYNX

Cory Dennis, Todd Harris, and Aaron Miller’s first glimpse of success came in high school with The El Guapos, an indie-rock outfit that disbanded after three years of packed Austin venues, a capacity performance at the 2009 NAMM SXSW-Underage showcase, and a botched European record deal. While Miller and Harris studied at The University of Texas, Dennis honed his recording and production skills, founding Indie Fort Studios and working with local favorites like Zlam Dunk, Mother Falcon, and Little Lo. The three remained best friends and it wasn’t long before they embarked on another musical project, this time experimenting with pop and electronic music. They called it Sphynx.
Propelled by several Austin artist collectives, Sphynx’s debut single, “Razberry Wine,” was released on two local compilations and picked up by University of Texas radio station, KVRX. Sphynx gained more momentum with the February 2011 release of their debut EP, ‘Human Beast.’ Critics applauded the EP’s “elaborate synth pop,” and proclaimed that “here we’ve got a new breed” who “recycles a bit of history and puts a bit of soul to their songs.” During the summer of 2011, ‘Human Beast’ charted in the top 30 on radio stations in Canada, Alaska, New York, Michigan, Florida, California, Louisiana and Texas. In September of 2011, Sphynx was the featured artist on the website of nationally syndicated radio program, Loveline. The three continued to navigate their way through the world of music and in December of 2011, Sphynx released a full-length version of ‘Human Beast,’ in Japan on Thistime Records (The Posies, Anoraak, College). During SXSW of 2012, Sphynx was named one of the top 10 best new bands in Austin at The Austin Music Awards, presented by The Austin Chronicle. In their SXSW 2012 Awards, Unique Squared named Sphynx the “most shocking wall of sound from a 3-piece” seen at SXSW. Sphynx released their second EP, ‘Pre Wild,’ in October 2012, garnering praise from reputable sites like AOL Spinner, The Burning Ear, and Pop’stache. The band followed the release with a month-long US tour that included 3 dates supporting Tilly and The Wall and a sold out CMJ showcase at Mercury Lounge in Manhattan. In their review of ‘Pre Wild,’ Austin-based music blog, Ovrld, called Sphynx “one of the best pop acts coming out of Austin right now.”
Sphynx’s growing popularity is due in part to their energetic and bizarre live show, which “brings together musical elements of punk and glam rock to create a big sound and a live experience worthy of an arena.” The group has toured the US consistently since late 2011 and have been official performers at SXSW Festival, CMJ Festival, Bunbury Festival, 35 Conferette Festival (35 Denton), Chaos in Tejas, and more. They’ve supported Wavves, Tilly and The Wall, Art vs. Science, Baths, Japanther, Maps and Atlases, Holy Fuck, White Denim, El Ten Eleven, Peelander-Z, and The Octopus Project. Their songs can be heard on independent radio stations around the US and their music video for ‘Sha Dynasty’ has been played in Tower Records stores throughout Japan. Sphynx is currently recording their debut full-length album.
Sphynx on Facebook | Sphynx on Twitter | Official Website
MARMALAKES

MARMALAKES is a rock band from Austin, TX. Dynamic and lyrically-attentive, their songs carry folk-pop sensibilities. Since 2008, they’ve released 3 EPs and a 7-inch.
They have played with Portugal. The Man, Shearwater, and Sondre Lerche and have sold out venues such as The Mohawk Austin, The Parish, and Rockwood Music Hall.Marmalakes on Facebook | Marmalakes on Twitter | Official Website
MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR

MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR is a two piece garage pop band from Austin influenced by the energy and rawness of garage punk bands like Ty Segall and WAVVES with the poppy hooks of power pop bands such as Big Star. Frontman Adrian Sebastian and drummer Andrew Torrey have been playing music together for the past 2 years in Austin, TX. Although originally a 4 piece, Adrian and Andrew decided to take a new direction by arranging their previous sound to adapt to a raw in your face two piece set up.MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR on Facebook
GOLDEN SOMBREROA band from Bryan, College Station, San Antonio, Houston or a garage near you.Golden Sombrero on Facebook

The Band of Heathens CD Release Show w/ Haley Cole & Dillon Myers
2013-10-10 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
THE BAND OF HEATHENS

Since emerging as a favorite new live band out of Austin TX in the late 2000s, the Band of Heathens has toured relentlessly, building a devoted following and landing on some of the finest stages in music. Over three studio albums and hundreds of shows each year, they’ve evolved as a group and broadened their sound.
Their most recent studio album Top Hat Crown & The Clapmaster’s Son spiked the already potent punch with a dash of jammy psychedelia. And their four-disc, twovolume, live DVD release called the Double Down – Live in Denver (Vol. 1 & 2) features the band’s live variations and extensions of original material mostly from their last two studio albums. The rich and righteous vocal harmonies and legendary live shows that set TBoH apart from the beginning have just gotten better.
In 2012 The Band of Heathens experienced the first lineup change in 4 years with the departure of Colin Brooks, Seth Whitney, and John Chipman. So going forward, songwriting frontmen Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist are complimented by the rhythm section of drummer Richard Millsap, bassist Ryan Bowman and keyboard player Trevor Nealon. With a growing resume of key shows and broadcasts to their credit, (Bonnaroo, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits TV Show and ACL Festival among them), the slightly rejiggered Band of Heathens has never enjoyed so much renown or optimism.
The band got its start in late 2005 when a group of likeminded songwriters established residency gigs on the same night of the week at Momo’s, a club on Austin’s famous Sixth Street. Friendship, sit-ins and harmony jags gelled into something quite rare: a band with multiple front-men, each with enough humility and passion to invest in the larger project. The sum transcended the parts, and very quickly, word spread about TBoH’s special chemistry. The strong voices up front all played a role, whether as leaders or locked together in harmony.
The show’s-the-thing focus led them down a somewhat unorthodox path: launching their recorded career with two live discs, “Live from Momo’s” and “Live at Antone’s”, released in 2006 and 2007 respectively. The Heathens took their time getting their first studio album out, but when that eponymous debut was released in 2008, they proved they could write and record a coherent statement that measured up to their show. They followed relatively quickly with One Foot In The Ether toward the end of 2009. Both shot to the top of the Americana chart and remained there for months, a longevity rare in any format of music.
Top Hat Crown & the Clapmaster’s Son, released in 2011, stretches further, without breaking faith with the feel and integrity that got the Band of Heathens this far. The positive reaction from fans and critics vindicated the group’s hopes that the album would show growth. Blurt magazine said that “in a crowded roots rock field, (their) diversity sets them apart.” And “it would have been easy for [them] to play it safe on Top Hat Crown & the Clapmaster’s Son,” said Pittsburgh’s Daily News. “But they decided to tweak their formula a bit and the results are truly memorable.” And American Songwriter ruled it “an album that begs to be listened to from start to finish.”
The Band of Heathens has been honored as Best New Band at the Austin Music Awards, and has been nominated in various categories at the Americana Music Awards over the past few years. The Wall Street Journal’s Jim Fusilli called theirs the best set at South By Southwest 2009. And the rest of the press has been equally effusive: The Dallas Morning News calls them “a must-see show.” Maverick magazine says they’re “magnificent.” For The Chicago Tribune, the band felt “refreshingly different,” and The New York Times called their show at Brooklyn’s Union Hall “hungry, unflagging and lean.”
The Band of Heathens continues to be distinguished by creative collaboration and their epic live shows, which have earned them a strong fan base of folks who appreciate improvisation and a good jam, but crave a great song. And while songwriting and vocal duties are chiefly handled by the guys at the front of the stage, they are decidedly a five man band, benefitting from the equal input of all. It is truly a band that needs to evolve to survive, and the fans have rewarded that growth at every turn.
The Band of Heathens on Facebook | The Band of Heathens on Twitter | Official Website
HALEY COLE

I could tell you where Birch, Texas, is but that would also require you to know where the other two towns are that surround it. Let’s just say it’s not easy to find, which is appropriate because talent like Haley Cole is not easy to find either.

Haley was born into a family full of talent and grew up singing alongside her parents and 3 sisters. By the time she hit 16, she was equipped with a guitar and the determination to make a music career happen for herself. Inspired by the hard work of her blue collar family and instilled with the same ethic, Haley began performing anywhere she could find a microphone. Starting out at local venues, it wasn’t long before she found herself on well-known stages like Hurricane Harry’s, Dosey Doe’s, and the former Texas Hall of Fame. In her short time on the Texas Music Scene, Haley’s incredible voice and clever lyrics and composition has elevated her to opening for the biggest names in the industry such as Drew Womack, Bart Crow, Ryan Beaver, Max Stalling, Brandon Rhyder, The Rankin Twins, Bri Bagwell, Jason Eady, Folk Family Revival, Jason Cassidy, and Mickey and the Motorcars, just to name a few.

Haley’s kind heartedness, fun personality, and love for her fans leave a lasting impression on every stage she plays. Haley dreams of being the next Miranda Lambert, and has every ounce of talent needed to do so, but she is also very humble about her career in music. She says “If I make it, great, if not, at least I can say I gave it my all, but either way I will keep creating honest music for the fans I cherish as long as they continue to listen.”

Haley released her first professional project on February 22, 2013. The seven song self-titled EP, all originally written, is a cornucopia of Country, Americana, and folk with a touch of rock and bluegrass flavors. Her album features Drew Womack, one of the biggest songwriters in country music, on the amazing track “Devil in Disguise” and look out for her forthcoming single “Satisfied” on a radio near you next month. Do yourself a favor and check out Haley Cole’s album on iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby.com, Spotify, Facebook, and her website www.haleycoleband.com – because just like Birch, Texas: talent like Haley Cole is hard to find.
Haley Cole on Facebook | Haley Cole on Twitter | Official Website
DILLON MYERS

Dillon Myers is a southern/rock/country/rock singer/songwriter originally from Dallas, TX who has made Aggieland a home for himself in the past few years after spending a year living in town and playing around the area.
Dillon Myers on Facebook

Big Texas Nights feat. The Bigsbys w/ Austin Meade
2013-10-09 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
Doors open at 6PM for Happy Hour ($2 wells and domestics) and music starts at 8pm. Get there early, beat the cover (starts at 8pm), get some great drinks & enjoy live music with us!
THE BIGSBYS

“The best songs come from the people and stories you know best, from the things you’ve experienced.” – Alex Smith

True Story, the new album from The Bigsbys, consists of stories that are all a little bit true.

The Bigsbys play original roots rock music. It’s muddy and blue with a soul-filled center. Gritty, yet easy on the ears… This music is more of a feeling than a product.

The Bigsbys have toured 9 states and counting in support of their True Story album on top of a full-time Texas schedule.

Four guys from East Texas make up The Bigsbys. Alex Smith(Guitar/Lead Vocals) has been writing songs for the better part of a decade. Brad Hobson(Lead Guitar/Vocals) brings a blues-soaked Gibson SG to the group and gives the tunes a sound like no other. Russell McClendon (Bass) lays chunky, funky beats down and Nick Odom is featured on drums. The bands sound is all their own, and their ability to entertain any crowd separates them from the pack of bands touring today.

The bands first studio album “True Story” features 10 original compositions by the band. True Story is available now on ITunes, Amazon and Lonestar Music.
The Bigsbys on Facebook | The Bigsbys on Twitter | Official Website
AUSTIN MEADE
Austin Meade is a young artist who has recently stepped onto the scene. His music is honest and catches a wide range of attention. With classic influences like Croce and Cash as well as many modern Red Dirt and Blues influences such as Cody Canada, Adam Hood and Sean McConnell, you can find Austin’s music somewhere in the middle. Live shows are exciting and keep listeners interested.
Austin Meade on Facebook

Mushroomhead w/ One-Eyed Doll & Signal Rising
2013-10-06 19:30 - 23:55 | TX
Tickets for this concert can be purchased here.
Grand Stafford Theater, Rock Signal Productions & Rock 103.9 present:
MUSHROOMHEADMushroomhead – are one of the most unique and adventurous alternative metal bands working today. Known for their stunningly theatrical live show and artsy masks, this innovative band has forged new ground in the rock world and influenced many other bands to push the envelope and bring art into rock. Formed in the early-1990s in Cleveland Ohio, the band’s combination of metal, rock and atmospheric elements has struck a chord with thousands of fans worldwide.
Mushroomhead have been performing incognito since 1993, when drummer Skinny founded the band. The band was meant to be a side-project so they wore masks to go unrecognized, but after only a few shows they developed a rabid and loyal fan base in Cleveland. Mushroomhead released their 1995 self-titled debut album independently and it went on to became an underground hit. This was history in the making because the band really had no proper distribution. Superbuick followed in 1996 and M3 in 1999, all released via an underground street effort. After the band felt its image and hyper-melodic, heavy style of music was being diluted by other bands jumping into this space, the band started to change their look to reflect nothing out there. After a brief stint on Eclipse Records, a move to Universal Records saw the release of XX (a combination of the past independent releases) in 2001 and XIII in 2003. The band’s last album sold over 200,000 units in the USA alone.
Mushroomhead released Savior Sorrow for the pioneering rock label, Megaforce Records (Metallica, Anthrax, Ministry, Warren Haynes, Bad Brains) in 2006. Mushroomhead released “Beautiful Stories for Ugly Children” in the Fall of 2010 and it debuted at #44 on Billboard charts.
It can be said that Mushroomhead’s musical ascendance was a singular, original, aesthetic of eight guys decked out in matching jumpsuits and artsy masks, playing unbelievable, unsettling music. No other band was wearing masks and jumpsuits and purveying this type of ultra-melodic, ultra-dynamic music at the time – Mushroomhead sounded like nothing else. The band’s merging of metal, atmospheric elements, rock, and theatrics mixed with a punk DIY attitude has inspired and spawned other bands. Even though Mushroomhead’s music is rock-leaning in thought, the group remains firmly committed to pushing the envelope and trying new things. Influences range from the driving rhythms and breakneck turns of Pantera, to the dark melodies of Faith No More, to the atmospheric stylings of Pink Floyd, but all done in Mushroomhead style.Mushroomhead on Facebook | Mushroomhead on Twitter | Official Website
ONE-EYED DOLLDescribed as Strawberry Shortcake meets Gwar and Valentine’s Day meets Halloween with the visual impact of Japanese Anime, One-Eyed Doll is an award-winning Austin, Texas power rock duo with a loyal global fan base and extensive international press exposure. For several years in a row the group has swept the SXSW Music Awards in categories such as Best Punk Band, Best Metal Band, Best Goth Band, Best New Band, Best Acoustic Guitarist, Best Electric Guitarist, Best Producer, Best Drummer, Best Songwriter, Best Female Vocalist and more. The group has independently released three full-length albums, appears in Revolver, Guitar World and Guitar Player magazines and has left several tours from the USA to New Zealand in its wake including major anime conventions (DragonCon, AniMix, IKKiCON, Anime Overload, ShadoCon, etc.). Blazing the band’s wildfire buzz amongst their growing legions of religiously crazed fans is One-Eyed Doll’s cult leader: the impossible-not-to-love Kimberly Freeman, whose punishment is so sweet you’ll beg for more.
One-Eyed Doll’s core members are the iconic Austin, TX wild child guitarist Kimberly Freeman and drummer Jason Rufuss Sewell: AKA “JUNIOR”.Freeman and Sewell have been working together in the studio since 2006. As Kimberly’s career-long record producer, he became an integral part of the band’s unique sound and even played instruments on the albums. With this experience in mind, Jason joined as drummer in late 2009.One-Eyed doll claims four commercially released albums. Another has already been completed, this time produced by multi-platinum industry icon Sylvia Massy.One-Eyed Doll on Facebook | One-Eyed Doll on Twitter | Official Website
SIGNAL RISINGRock that will snatch you up….draw you in! Signal Rising (formerly Linus) came together to create music that our fans connect with. We are a regional touring rock band based out of College Station, TX. Signal Rising has exploded on the scene over the last three years playing dates with national touring acts Ten Years, Fair to Midland, Earshot, The Hectic, Flyleaf, Static X, Pat Travers, Skidrow, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, The Last Place You Look, Deuce,New Medicine and Saturate. Using monstrous guitar riffs, explosive drums, enthralling bass lines and soaring Vocals to draw in new fans at every concert, club gig, and acoustic show!Signal Rising on Facebook | Official Website

JR & The Starlights
2013-10-05 20:30 - 23:00 | TX
JR & THE STARLIGHTSProfessionally involved in the music and entertainment business for 40 years with extensive experience in all categories of the music industry,touring, production,musical arrangement and composition as well as studio recordings, radio interviews. Always maintaining high standards for production and entertainment. Joe Arias Jr. has also earned the professional recognition of many magazine publishers throughout the state of Texas including that of Mr. Jesse Hernandez (Tejano Entertainment) out of Austin TX.. Also that of his friends and true followers. Jr. has always had a special talent for producing special music qualities in his guitar style, band, and music. With a smooth and special touch to his playing, he tends to enchant his audiences time to time with Blues, Jazz, Rock, Texas Blues, soul, funk and from smoothness to hard driving and energetic guitar sound. His fine artistic playing has earned him confident recommendations from Highly Respected Veteran Performers and Club Owners, as well as his friends and fans through out the State Of Texas.

Free First Friday feat. The Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival
2013-10-04 18:00 - 23:55 | TX
Grand Stafford Theater is proud to host Mic Check’s 2013 Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival FREE of charge from 6pm – 11pm with an after party concert to follow. Don’t miss this state-wide event, one night only for FREE on First Friday.
TEXAS GRAND SLAM POETRY FESTIVAL

The Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival is a 2 day poetry feast featuring 42 poets with the gumption to compete for the Title: Texas Grand Slam Poetry Champion and a $1200 Grand Prize. It is the answer to those who are hungry clutching a Sunday morning back row pew of worry with prayers for poetry. We hope that the Drought for a statewide poetry slam has come to a conclusion. We invite everyone to return and are proud to present to you the 3rd Annual TEXAS GRAND SLAM POETRY FESTIVAL.
For festival passes, schedules, and poet registration, please visit their official website below.
TGSPF Facebook Event | TGSPF on Facebook | Official Website & Registration Link

First Friday Magic & Illusion Show: Spectacular! --- CANCELLED
2013-10-04 15:00 - 17:00 | TX
THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED FOR THIS FIRST FRIDAY ONLY AND WILL RESUME ON NOV 1ST.
Spectacular
Spectacular is a magic and illusion stage show featuring the magic of Cameron Rivers, extraordinaire. The stage show features illusions of all sorts including slight-of-hand, prop magic, and large-scale illusions.
Big Red Drum Entertainment presents a brand-new entertainment venture sure to provide a night of fun-filled memories.
Presenting, Spectacular featuring the magic and illusions of Cameron Rivers. Cameron is a Professional Illusionist who has entertained crowds from Dallas/Ft. Worth to California to Houston and many stops all over the U.S. and Texas in between. He has held many residencies at Renaissance Fairs and Festivals, as well as providing private shows for close to a decade now. Always practicing his craft, Cameron has studied magic, juggling, card tricks, slight-of-hand, large-scale illusions and many forms of entertainment over the years. He is always adding new facets to his toolbox. He was also a founding member of the Aggie Order of Illusionists at Texas A&M University. He still serves as a very active former member and a mentor at the National level for the chapter.
This show is produced to give the audience member every possible advantage in enjoying a full-scale illusion stage show. Cameron has a way of presenting his craft to the audience that makes guests feel involved from curtain up til the last trick has been performed. Audience participation is a must! You will be fully entranced by the magic going on all around you.
The show will start at 3 pm this First Friday at Grand Stafford Theater. From 3-4 pm there will be a cocktail hour featuring many talented magicians performing up-close floor magic. Rope tricks, cups and balls, juggling, rings, and table magic are just some of the many skills that might be on display.
If you can’t make it right at 3 pm, DON”T WORRY! You can still make the stage show. Cameron Rivers will take the stage at 4:15 every performance to perform a full scale illusion Spectacular featuring large scale illusions you will find in many Vegas-style magic shows.
Spectacular is sure to become a popular addition to the monthly attractions at First Fridays in Downtown Bryan, TX. We hope you will consider enjoying a night of magic with us. Its going to be a night you will not forget and want to experience again, we promise.
Tickets will be available at the door. Adults are $8. Children 6-12 are $5.
Community support for endeavors such as this are a must. If you’d like to see more attractions like these, please get out on First Friday and enjoy the show.
Spectacular on Facebook | Official Website

Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights w/ Oil Boom & Megafauna
2013-10-03 21:00 - 23:55 | 106 S Main St, Bryan, TX, 77803, United States
JONATHAN TYLER & THE NORTHERN LIGHTSContrary to doomsayer rumor, rock music doesn’t need saving. But a wake-up call is long overdue, and this is it. Actually, not just a wake-up call, but a joyous reunion of rock with its oft-forgotten prodigal twin, the roll — with papa blues and mama soul along for the ride, too. All of which makes Pardon Me the perfect introduction to one of the most electrifying young bands in America — or at least the next best thing to experiencing Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights live. Literally. Don’t be fooled by the good Southern manners implied by the title of Pardon Me, the major-label debut by Dallas’ Jonathan Tyler and the Northern Lights. The walloping roundhouse punch of Pardon Me’s lead-off title track and everything else packed into Tyler and Co.’s Texas-sized can of rock ’n’ roll whoopass. “Hey!” Tyler shouts after the opening salvo of guitars lands like a gauntlet slap across the face. “Can you hear me? Can you feel me, coming through your stereo?” Then comes the coup-de-grace, a shot of Hendrix-laced adrenaline plunged deep into the listener’s heart and soul by a diabolically persuasive Dr. Feelgood. “Maybe it’s been too long since rock ’n’ roll turned you on,” sneers Tyler, with equal measures of promise and threat. “So pardon me, just let it set you free.” And that’s when things get loud.JT&TNL on Facebook | JT&TNL on Twitter | Official Website
OIL BOOMOil Boom has a new 7” coming out. But rather than talk about it, the trio of rock enthusiasts would prefer to wax humorous on their preferred method of music consumption. “Did we make sure this was actually seven inches of music,” asks singer/guitarist Ryan Taylor. “I don’t want to catch hell from the audiophile contingent of the garage rock community.”
All jesting aside, the DFW mainstays couldn’t be more excited about their latest foray into the realm of vinyl acetates and lacquer coated discs. The group is riding an impressive wave of buzz after their last EP, Gold Yeller, garnered a generous amount of critic praise not to mention extensive radio play across the Lower 48. But not ones to rest on their laurels, Oil Boom are set to unleash another pair of earworms just in time to make your best of summer soundtrack playlists. The A side, “45 Revolutions Per Minute,” a clever nod to the speed at which the actual song will be played, bursts out of the gate with a Hives like fury and never relents. The song encapsulates much of what makes the group stand out: barnburning riffs, hooky choruses and a rhythm section not afraid to throw their sonic weight around.
And on the flip, there’s “The Fiftease,” a wry take on rockabilly culture with an old-school Motown bass groove and an indie-rock guitar coda that could wind up stuck in your head like musical Pomade. The two songs couldn’t be more different and that’s just fine with the Boom. Says Taylor, “Our influences are so diverse and even contradictory sometimes, that it’s really hard to pin us down in one style or another. But we’re all about variety, so that’s perfectly cool with us.”
In drummer ace/engineer Jordan Richardson (Son of Stan, Epic Ruins) the group had the ear of both a longtime friend and supporter of the band since its inception in 2010. “We always wanted to work with Jorts, so when the opportunity came up it was a no-brainer,” says drummer Dugan Connors. “You hear people talk about someone’s enthusiasm being infectious, but in Jordan’s case, it really is.” Recorded in Justin, TX, at the Swamp (AKA Electric Barryland), the band found its recording haven in a place quickly becoming synonymous with great Texas music.
Look for this 7” needle to drop on August 13th, 2013 A.D. And with plans to record a full-length this fall and a robust tour schedule, Oil Boom just keeps on spinning.Oil Boom on Facebook | Oil Boom on Twitter | Official Website
MEGAFAUNAMegafauna formed after established Brooklyn shredder Dani Neff packed her bags for Austin, TX. After four years of playing and touring, Megafauna has become one of the most sought after rock experiences in Austin. Megafauna has embarked on 12 tours throughout the US and Europe.Megafauna on Facebook | Megafauna on Twitter | Official Website

Big Texas Nights feat. Stefan & The C-Otters w/ Daniel Gonzales
2013-10-02 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
Doors open at 6PM for Happy Hour ($2 wells and domestics) and music starts at 8pm. Get there early, beat the cover (starts at 8pm), get some great drinks & enjoy live music with us!
Stefan & The C-Otters

Stefan Cotter was born in 1986 in Morgantown, WV. He has been playing music since 1995 when his father handed him a trumpet and taught him to read music. Stefan received his first guitar in 1998 and has been playing in bands since 2000. He studied Classical/Jazz Guitar Performance at West Virginia University for 6 years before moving to Tyler, TX in 2010.
Jacksonville, Texas native and C-otter drummer, Jakeb Ham, is an educated and trained musician. A teacher of the arts, Jakeb has played in bands and toured extensively throughout Texas and the Southwest in the past.
Groovemeister bassist, Cam Holley, and percussionist Shane Swan round out this most deliciously tight rhythm section. The band rocks!
In Texas, Stefan & the C-otters, perform at a wide range of venues, including: Clicks, Stanleys BBQ, Fresh, Coffin Shop, Java Jams, Tara Winery, Fast Freddies, The Barn, Fredonia Hotel, Red Goose Saloon, Villages Marina and many others. Stefan & the C-otters are guaranteed to bring an awesome collection of original songs to your venue, festival, party or event.
Stefan & the C-Otters on Facebook | Official Website
DANIEL GONZALESDaniel Gonzales is a singer/songwriter out of Dallas, TX currently living in College Station. You can usually find him playing around town with soothing melodies and smooth song writing, this is an up-and-coming artist to keep an eye out for.Daniel Gonzales on Facebook

KEOS 13th Annual Volunteer Jam
2013-09-29 13:00 - 20:00 | TX
KEOS 13th Annual Volunteer Jam
Sunday Sept. 29 1-8pm
Admission $10.00 at the door.
Proceeds to KEOS for Operating Funds for one of only a few nationwide and the ONLY ALL VOLUNTEER Radio Station in the Brazos Valley!
www.keos.org
Performers:
Joey McGee
Coby Tate
Jeff Cooper
Mark Jungers
Mike Ethan Messick
Matt Harlan
Karan Chavis
Silent Auction from 1-5pm Winners announced at 6pm and must be present.
OUR MISSION:
KEOS is committed to the creation of radio broadcasting by and for a public of diverse cultures, ages, income levels, and backgrounds.
KEOS provides musical, cultural, and informational programming that celebrates and expresses the diversity of the community. It provides a voice for groups in the community that may otherwise go unheard, sustaining a forum for alternative points of view on local, national, and international issues, with particular awareness to women, students, labor, minorities, and other public interest constituencies.

Downfall 2012 w/ Myra Maybelle, Dimitri's Rail & Saint Carmen
2013-09-28 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
DOWNFALL 2012Downfall 2012 has shared the stage with Hed(pe), The Hunger, Twisted Sister, Alice Cooper, The Damned Things, Fair to Midland, Dirty Wormz, and numerous other national acts. The band has won metal band of the year from Houston’s Radio station 94.5, and has been nominated for multiple categories yearly from The Houston Press Music Awards.
The first single off of “Every Man for Himself”, “Divinity”, is currently in rotation across the US and Canada, on FM, satellite,college and internet radio stations with the video for “Divinity” set to drop mid March 2013.
With a ferocious live show, growing radio airplay and Issue 2 slated for release April of 2013, Danny Gil, Boo Rogers and Casey Bowen have the take-over underway.Downfall 2012 on Facebook | Official Website
MYRA MAYBELLEWe all come from a long line of musicianship. Will and Camo were formerly members of Behold the Great Throne. After BTGT departed ways Will,cam, and former guitar play of sea of wolves luca, decided to launch a new project with no limits. Night after night the booze clanked the walls shaked and and music littered the air. We had minor set backs, but we shook them off and rose out of the ashes and found the Norwegian pancake-c lo green, and former Transcend before Azalia bassist Michael Brammer, to form what you would call powerhouse band “Myra Maybelle”. Music is love. Friendship is key. And family is everything.Myra Maybelle on Facebook
DIMITRI’S RAIL

Dimitri’s Rail was formed by lead singer/songwriter Paul Ehmer. They released their first EP with Universal Music Group/Fontana “Wake Up” through Indie Extreme / Desert Highway Records in 2010. The title track, “Wake Up”, received airplay on major market radio stations KTBZ 94.5 The Buzz in February of 2010, reaching #51 on the national play list for the station. The band continued to sustain a top 10 national ranking on the Clear Channel New Music Network which is used to select artists for national airplay. With this success, Dimitri’s Rail received airplay nationally with the single “Will Never Break” from their upcoming release of their national debut album.
Dimitri’s Rail on Facebook | Dimitri’s Rail on Twitter | Official Website
SAINT CARMENSaint Carmen is a hard rock band with a modern sound and face-melting intensity; A new breed of ‘mainstream’ rock that knows no limits. Things started kicking off when the band found it’s current line-up in September 2012. With Avery Krueger on lead vocals/guitar, Dylan Cash shredding out the lead guitar, Buck Blackerby on bass, and Jake Bellamy smashing the skins and singing the back-up, Saint Carmen was built on a recipe for a hellacious wall of rockin’ sound.Saint Carmen on Facebook | Official Website

Zeale w/ GOBI & Lance Lane
2013-09-27 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
ZEALEZEALE is an emerging Hip-Hop/Indie artist from Austin, Texas. Often playing chemistry with the genres of Hip Hop, Indie Rock, and EDM, ZEALE seeks to create a hybrid of music with depth. ZEALE is currently working on his debut EP featuring the sounds of AWOLNATION, Dwight Baker, CJ Eiriksson and more.Zeale on Facebook | Zeale on Twitter | Official Website
GOBIThe story of GOBI begins in west Texas, in the far border town of El Paso, where Justin Dillon and Phil Arciniega first met. The two would venture across the border every weekend spending countless nights dancing in the clubs and Discotecas on “The Strip” in Ciudad Juarez. There the thriving grooves and uptempo beats would take them on many sleepless nights and instill an unstoppable curiosity and desire to create electronic dance music. GOBI’s hybrid of EDM mixed with lyrically driven hooks, has been compared to “RATATAT fronted by Zack De la Rocha”, and has gained GOBI the reputation for turning any room into a dance party. The band’s highly anticipated debut LP is set to be released in the fall of 2012.GOBI on Facebook | GOBI on Twitter | Official Website
LANCE LANELance Lane is a songwriter/mc/instrumentalist residing in Austin, TX.Lance Lane on Facebook

The Wheeler Brothers w/ The Dirty Guv'nahs & The Docs
2013-09-26 21:00 - 2013-09-27 02:00 | 106 S Main St, Bryan, TX, 77803, United States
THE WHEELER BROTHERSMaking music continues to be a family affair for Wheeler Brothers. The Austin, TX quintet traces a personal lineage of rock, folk, roots, Americana, and blues on its second full-length album, Gold Boots Glitter [Bismeaux Records], cooking up an irresistible and inimitable gumbo of styles in the process. Marching forward from 2011’s critically acclaimed Portraits, the group—Nolan Wheeler [vocals, guitar], Patrick Wheeler [drums], Tyler Wheeler [bass], A.J. Molyneaux [guitar, lap steel, back up vocals], and Nathan Rigney [guitar, backup vocals]—opens the door even wider for everyone to join the family. Gold Boots Glitter began to stomp to life while the band was on the road supporting Portraits. Holed up in a Wichita hotel for two blisteringly cold days in early 2012, the boys began sharing ideas for what would eventually become their next batch of tunes. “That was when we really started working together on music,” remembers Nolan. “It was freezing outside so we bunkered down and got to work on some songs. This album truly began out there on the road.” Returning to their ranch in Texas hill country to record, the collective vision started to take shape naturally. Located an hour outside of San Antonio, there isn’t any cell phone reception on the secluded ranch, but there’s lush wilderness to jog through and a lake perfect for a refreshing swim. The atmosphere definitely allowed the musicians respite from the hustle and bustle of touring. Simply put, trivial distractions didn’t exist. “There’s just something about removing yourself from the city and getting out into the country,” Nolan smiles. “Nobody’s cell phone worked! We had to climb up a mountain to get service, but it was so beautiful. We were able to fully immerse ourselves in the process.” Local Austin singer-songwriter Drew Smith definitely encouraged that immersion as well. This time around, Wheeler Brothers enlisted Smith’s production talents behind the board. Together, they further fine-tuned the band’s signature sound as they cut everything live in unison. “It was our first time collaborating with a producer,” the singer goes on. “His background resembles ours. He understands mixing genres and implementing different elements into one thing. We have similar personalities, and we were all working towards the same thing.” That cohesion shimmers on “Sleep When I’m Dead.” A finger-picked twang kicks off the song with Southern-fried flavor before it rolls into an anthemic and amplified refrain. He reveals, “It’s a rock ‘n’ roll song with a little Americana and rockabilly. Lyrically, it reflects on some of the late nights you spend in barrooms on tour. You’re always up past two or three in the morning and driving to the next gig or hotel to go to sleep.” Elsewhere on the record, “Cigarette Smoke” billows with a calculated blues chug, while “You Got A Lot of Love” boasts a dreamy melody and Nolan’s soulful delivery. “Straight & Steady” channels both bluegrass flare and raucous energy. Touring informed and inspired pensive and poetic “My Time.” A soft strummed ukulele and slide guitar round out this vivid rumination on missing home. “It’s also about being on the road and away from somebody you love,” Nolan continues. “You’ve got to understand one another in order for it to work if you’re going to be away from somebody you really care about. You might miss home and your family, but touring and the people you meet out there are truly inspirational at the same time.” Wheeler Brothers have certainly spent their fair share of time on the road. Along the way, they’ve opened for The Avett Brothers and appeared at festivals including SXSW, Austin City Limits, and many others. For 2013, they’ve got Lollapalooza, Firefly, Newport Folk Festival, and more on the horizon. They made their national television debut on Last Call with Carson Daily and received widespread acclaim from tastemakers including Rolling Stone, Paste Magazine, AOL Spinner, The Washington Post, Elmore Magazine, and The Austin Chronicle to name a few. In addition, with “Portraits,” they swept the “Austin Music Awards” at SXSW 2012, winning “Best New Band”, “Best Roots Rock Band”, Nolan Wheeler for “Best Acoustic Guitar”, Tyler Wheeler for “Best Bass”, and A.J. Molyneaux for “Best Miscellaneous Instrument” for lap steel. Meanwhile, their label, Bismeaux Records was named “Best Local Label”. At the end of the day, Wheeler Brothers are welcoming everyone to put on Gold Boots Glitter and become a part of their musical dynasty. “We consider the listeners our extended family,” Nolan concludes. “We want people to feel like they’re a part of our music. To have their support is the most powerful thing in the world. They’ve brought us here, and they’ll be a part of this family forever.”— Rick Florino, February 2013The Wheeler Brothers on Facebook | The Wheeler Brothers on Twitter | Official WebsiteTHE DIRTY GUV’NAHS“Youth may be in their blood, but tradition guides their instincts”, reveals M! Music and Musician’s Magazine. “The Dirty Guv’nahs are wise in the ways of rock n’ roll beyond their tender years”. The swell of grassroots momentum for this 6-piece rock n’ roll collective from Knoxville, TN is undeniable. “The Guvs” have been steadily growing their fan base across the country, selling out shows in theatres and bars alike, and making standout festival appearances at Bonnaroo, Wakarusa, and SXSW, to name a few. The band has also shared the stage with a diverse and notable list of major artists, including Wilco, Zac Brown Band, Levon Helm Band, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Train, Dr. Dog, and Chris Robinson. After two independent releases and relentless touring, The Dirty Guv’nahs’ new album, Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies (Dualtone Music) raises the bar significantly for this explosive ensemble. Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies was recorded in Nashville, TN with producer Ross Copperman and Grammy winning engineer Richie Biggs (The Civil Wars). Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies marks another successful milestone for The Guvs, showcasing an energetic blend of rock and soul interwoven with a distinctive modern edge. The result is a joyous 14-track offering that combines honest, heartfelt lyrics with gritty and passionate musicianship. Standout tracks “3,000 Miles”, “Don’t Give Up on Me”, and “Temptation” exemplify the band’s keen ability to effectively infuse traditional rock sounds with contemporary relevancy. Upbeat foot-stompers like “Good Luck Charm” and “Can You Feel It” conjure the familiar American rock feel that The Dirty Guv’nahs began fashioning on their 2010 Release Youth Is In Our Blood. The Dirty Guv’nahs’ unlikely genesis took place when band members were introduced through a mutual friend, nicknamed “The Guv’nah”, who eventually became the band’s namesake. Their following grew quickly and after a string of sellout shows in their hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee, they were offered their first performance slot at Bonnaroo. That concert led to a recording opportunity in December of 2009 at roots-rock mecca Levon Helm Studios, and the band hasn’t looked back since. The Dirty Guv’nahs’ live show is led by the soulful holler of frenetic front man James Trimble. Brothers Justin and Aaron Hoskins’ lay down a sturdy foundation of tight rhythms on bass and drums (respectively), while Chris Doody’s thick Hammond organ and bluesy piano along with Michael Jenkins’ and Cozmo Holloway’s tasty guitar stylings round out the group’s sound. The result is accurately described by a recent review in Music Connection Magazine: “The Dirty Guv’nahs don’t just play music; they capture the human experience through song.” Relix Magazine was so impressed with The Guv’s live show; they recently made the group one of their “On the Verge” artists for March 2012. Upon witnessing the band’s blue-collar approach, they commented, “Musicians today that don’t want to connect with their fans are just missing the whole point. The Dirty Guv’nahs are grassroots all the way.” The Guvs grassroots success story received its most recent validation when the band funded their new album entirely through Kickstarter donations from fans. The band raised 100% of their target funding in 3 days, prompting recognition of the Guv’nahs campaign in Billboard Magazine, and went to work creating an album that is sure to stir the hearts and shuffle the feet of their organic fan base. Somewhere Beneath These Southern Skies is a riveting collection of songs for a new generation of listeners starving for a fresh and authentic rock n’ roll music experience.The Dirty Guv’nahs on Facebook | The Dirty Guv’nahs on Twitter | Official Website
THE DOCS

A new bold sound of rock from College Station, TX introduces a modern, energetic style of music intertwined with a familiar, classic rock tone. The Docs encompass all shades of rock, from alternative and grunge to 70’s rock. The four members fuse these different genres of rock together to create a timeless masterpiece.
The Docs on Facebook | The Docs on Twitter | Official Website

Big Texas Nights feat. James Pardo and The Federales
2013-09-25 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
JAMES PARDO AND THE FEDERALESDrawing from personal experience and the experiences of those around him, as well as looking at the world through his own looking glass, James crafts songs about love, loss, joy, pain, hate, and occasionally…optimism. This doesn’t mean to imply that he’s not fun to be around. In fact, James can normally be found with a smile on his face. With roots in traditional country music, but not content to stay in one place for too long, his music runs the gamut from country, to roots rock, folk, R&B, & Americana. Simply put: It just depends on his mood & time of day, as to what may surface musically. From San Antonio, by way of Sinton TX, James has been playing music in the bars & clubs in TX for close to 20 yrs. If you’re looking for a dancehall band that will swing from the rafters and sing songs about floating rivers and drinking beer…you’d better search somewhere else. But if honest songwriting, with thought and effort placed in to music and lyrics and musicians conscious of the audience and their presence, then don’t be afraid to stick around and listen.James Pardo on Facebook | Official Website

Kinky Friedman's Texas Liberation Tour
2013-09-22 20:00 - 22:00 | TX
KINKY FRIEDMANThis tour stop includes a performance, reading and book signing along with an auctioning off of a three bottle set of his Man In Black Tequila during the show to benefit Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch. Limited amount of meet & greet tickets sold separately from the performance tickets available soon!Like so many cool people in the boom generation, Kinky Friedman first saw the world through the Peace Corps in the sixties. Kinky did his PC time in Borneo as an agriculture extension worker, wherein he introduced the Frisbee to the natives and taught farming techniques to people who had been farming successfully for thousands of years. But it was in Borneo that Kinky began to write the tunes that would propel the rest of his life.
Kinky had formed his first band, King Arthur & the Carrots while a student at the University of Texas, prior to his Peace Corps stint, but when he returned to the states, he really got serious with his second band, Kinky Friedman and The Texas Jewboys, the unit for which he is most famous, musically.
For his first album, Kinky released ‘Sold American’ in 1973 for Vanguard Records. His repertoire mixed social commentary (‘We Reserve the Right to Refuse Service to You’) and maudlin ballads (‘Western Union Wire’) with raucous humor (such as ‘Get Your Biscuits in the Oven and Your Buns in Bed’). His ‘Ride ‘Em Jewboy’ was an extended tribute to the victims of the Holocaust, and one of his most famous tunes from this session, ‘They Ain’t Makin’ Jews Like Jesus Anymore,’ is still on many hip playlists.
In the mid-’70s, Friedman and the Jewboys toured with Bob Dylan & the Rolling Thunder Revue. By 1976 he had recorded his third album, ‘Lasso From El Paso,’ featuring appearances by Dylan and Eric Clapton. The Texas Jewboys disbanded less than three years later, and Friedman moved to New York, where he became a Sunday night fixture at the legendary Lone Star Cafe. His performances, often featuring guests like Robin Williams and John Belushi, were equally legendary.

During the seventies, Kinky set several high water marks in his early performance career. In 1975, Friedman and the band taped an Austin City Limits show which was never aired. According to the show’s executive producer, Terry Lickona, this was the only time in the show’s long history that an episode went unaired. Lickona told the Austin Chronicle “I’ve seen it many times – I think it was a great show, and it might be as offensive today as it was back then.”
Kinky was a musical guest on Saturday Night Live in October 1976, the first year of SNL, and he claims to have been the first full-blooded Jew to take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. Apparently, this is true.
Starting in the early eighties, Friedman shifted his creative focus to writing detective novels, after a bizarre incident at an ATM machine. Kinky spotted a woman being robbed and dashed to her rescue. The episode unleashed Kinky Friedman the private detective and sparked a series of detective novels that have become world-famous. Featuring a fictionalized version of himself solving crimes in New York City and dispensing jokes, wisdom, recipes, charm and Jameson’s whiskey in equal measure, the books are written in a straightforward style which owes a certain debt to Raymond Chandler, though Kinky has also quite fairly been referred to as the “Mark Twain of Texas.”
Kinky continued to tour throughout the eighties, this time in support of his novels, and a series of international publishing deals took that touring around the globe. During this period, his musings began appearing in such places as the New York Times, Playboy and Texas Monthly (where he later began a regular column).
Ebooks and audio books (read by Kinky, himself) of all his great detective novels are all available on line.
In 1986, Kinky took a break from writing and touring to try something new – politics. He ran for justice of the peace in his home town of Kerrville, Texas. Though he lost the race, he did discover a passion for politics. It would be another eighteen years, but he would revisit that arena.
In the nineties, Kinky began branching out with more personal writings, as he wound down the detective series. Since then he has discussed everything from social mores (‘Kinky Friedman’s Guide To Texas Etiquette: Or How To Get To Heaven Or Hell Without Going Through Dallas-Fort Worth’) to armadillos (‘The Great Psychedelic Armadillo Picnic: A “Walk” In Austin’). He’s even written a hit children’s book (‘The Christmas Pig: A Fable’).
In 2004, the Kinkster returned to the political field, this time daring the state of Texas to think big and elect him governor in 2006. Running on a shoestring budget, with help from folks like Jesse Ventura and his Minnesota team of political handlers, Kinky garnered over a half million votes – not good enough to win it, but good enough to influence Texas politics long onto the future. Kinky was the first candidate in the history of the state to make it onto the November ballot as an Independent candidate – astounding, considering his campaign motto: “Why the hell not?”
Kinky has become a darling of the cable news set, with appearances with folks as diverse as John Seigenthaler and Bill O’Reilly. He has also become a favorite featured speaker for all types of political events, left and right of the aisle.
In February 2007, Sustain Records released a compilation of the songs of Kinky Friedman sung by other artists called ‘Why the Hell Not…’ The compilation includes contributions by Dwight Yoakam, Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and Kelly Willis, and is one of two Kinky tribute albums available today. More recently, hot rising star Jesse Dayton recorded a full cd of Kinky songs, which has been getting enormous interest in Nashville and around the US.
Meanwhile, Kinky continues to “spit out books like sunflower seeds,” with one currently available at his tour stops, ‘Heroes of a Texas Childhood,’ and a brand new co-write with old pal, Billy Bob Thornton, called ‘The Billy Bob Tapes – A Cave Full Of Ghosts’ (foreword by Angelina Jolie) now in stores everywhere. Even more exciting is the upcoming co-write with Willie Nelson, due in the fall of 2012, and titled, ‘Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die.’

As if he needed to be more legendary, Kinky has now been immortalized on stage, with a play called ‘Becoming Kinky….the World According to Kinky Friedman.’ Written by Ted Swindley, who created the long-running hit ‘Always….Patsy Cline,’ the work is in previews in 2012, starring the afore-mentioned Jesse Dayton.
As the summer of 2012 heats up, Kinky has just finished the first leg of his fourth major tour in the last three years, Kinky Friedman’s BiPolar Tour. It followed his Springtime For Kinky Tour of middle America, his Go West Young Kinky west coast tour, and his tour of Australia with another legend, Van Dyke Parks, which some were tempted to call, Asunder Down Under, but which was a huge success. In the works for 2012-2013 are a Russian movie production of one of his detective books, KIll Two Birds And Get Stoned, another fantastic co-write with a good friend (details of which cannot be released yet), and a full Euro-tour and Aussie tour. Meanwhile, the Kinkster, who has not officially ruled out another shot in the political arena, insists he be addressed by his proper and rightful title: ‘Governor of the Heart of Texas.‘ The boot fits. And he’s wearing it.
Kinky Friedman on Facebook | Kinky Friedman on Twitter | Official Website

Larynx w/ Should've Been Cowboys & Joe Teichman
2013-09-21 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
Tickets for this concert can be purchased at the door for $5.
LARYNXAfter humble beginnings in the small town of College Station, Texas the Band now known as “Larynx Music” began what they thought would be a slow and steady growing process. Playing their original music at various open mic nights, and other events in the college town home of Texas A&M University, Larynx’s music went viral and made it way across the map… On Monday August 20, 2012 Larynx Music recorded their first single “The One” along with “Circles” for their First EP ” Cosmic Love ” at ” New Fiction Studios” in Dallas, Texas with Producer Bryan David. This platform propelled their music off the ground like never before… Larynx Music seeks to inspire and to make the listener feel the pleading vocals, and thoughtful arrangements of every song. Their music will surely tap at you heart until you let them in.Larynx on Facebook | Larynx on Twitter | Official Website
Should’ve Been CowboysShould’ve Been Cowboys is a 4-man rock band based out of College Station, TX.Should’ve Been Cowboys on Facebook | Should’ve Been Cowboys on Twitter | Official Website
JOE TEICHMAN
Joe Teichman is a singer-songwriter based out of College Station, TX, a very pivotal view for the up and coming music scene in the state. Joe has been playing for the past four years and is nowhere near through. He has had many full band shows around College Station with the “Cool Arrows” but also many acoustic shows consisting of himself and mandolin player, John Terry, traveling the state to cities and towns such as, Dallas, Plano, Dripping Springs, Johnson City, Breckenridge, Austin, Georgetown and even Lampasas, TX. Dates are being added so come catch a show and let’s have a good time!
Joe Teichman on Facebook | Official Website

Homebrew Live feat. Predominant Mortification, Solomon & Birth at the Massacres House
2013-09-20 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
Rock 103.9 and Lone Star Metal present Homebrew Live featuring local and regional rock & metal.
Tickets for this show will be available at the door only for $5.
PREDOMINANT MORTIFICATIONStarted around August of 2006 as a one man band. But shortly after starting, Cody obtained a full band. Only one recording of these days exist as a demo. After dealing with line up change after line up change, Ryan Moss and Johnny McKenna joined the band in 2007. Not long afterwards, both Ryan and Johnny left the band. Neither were from hard feelings. Since the departure of 2 members, Cody went on to tour and play shows as a one man band. Toured with such bands as VITAL REMAINS and Deterioration. In November of 2009, Bloodgurgled Suffocation, the band’s first full length, was released. Things slowed down in 2010 because Cody started to finish school. In 2011, Cody started re-recording older songs and writing new songs. With a new sound that will crush faces, worldwide.Predominant Mortification on Facebook
SOLOMON5 piece band from Houston, TX. We love playing music and meeting new people at shows.Solomon on Facebook
BIRTH AT THE MASSACRES HOUSEBAMH is a one-man metal band from Bryan, TX.BAMH on Facebook

Foxtrot Uniform w/ Hunter McKithan and The Offenders, Brandon Aguilar (formerly of Blue Bear) & Madison King
2013-09-19 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
FOXTROT UNIFORMBand members always seemed to leave, so it only seemed right that Kenny Uptain and Kelly Test (Cooder Graw, Polyphonic Spree) turned their band into a duo. After being thrown out of country bands, and losing their best bud of a bass player to the working world, they decided to go the route of the 2 piece rock and roll band. After recording their first full length album, “Huj! Huj! Hajrah!” in the living room of Test, and playing close to 200 shows their first year, the two felt the need to expand. In September of 2012 the duo became a trio with the addition of Dallas musician Zack Busby (Slow Roosevelt, The Burden Brothers, Descender). Adding many layers and depth to the band’s already full sound, Zack plays the parts you might find yourself humming instinctively. In January of 2013 the group has seemingly filled out their lineup with the addition of Fort Worth area songstress, Katie Robertson. Keep an eye and an ear out for this newly structured, always evolving Texas band.Foxtrot Uniform on Facebook | Foxtrot Uniform on Twitter | Official Website
HUNTER MCKITHAN & THE OFFENDERSHunter McKithan & the Offenders are a rising force with well-seasoned songwriting skills to back up their gifted musical and instrumental talents. With roots buried deep within the genres of blues, alt. country, americana, soul, and a major influence of old-fashioned American rock and roll, it’s extremely hard to describe exactly what brand of music you’re hearing coming from whatever stage or stereo system the Offenders are occupying. But one thing is for sure. It refuses to go unnoticed. And what good is music once it’s been labeled anyway? The guys released their debut album, ‘Shape of it All,’ late in the summer of 2007 and have sent several songs to the top requested lists – including the number 1 song of 2008 on radiofreetexas.org, ‘Fallin From High.’ The band spent much of 2009 gearing up for the release of their much anticipated ‘Lee Road Sessions’ EP to be followed up with a full length album of entirely all new material. Now, after teaming up with famed producer Mike McClure, the third record is complete and will be released January 18th, 2011. ‘Not Broken Yet’ is a 13 track (12 new, 1 re-recorded) album of material unlike anything you have ever heard from Hunter McKithan & the Offenders. Be sure to grab a copy of the album and catch a live show next time they’re in your area.Hunter McKithan on Facebook | Hunter McKithan on Twitter | Official Website
BRANDON AGUILAR (FORMERLY OF BLUE BEAR)Brandon Aguilar is a singer/songwriter from Dallas/Fort Worth who formerly sang & played guitar in the band Blue Bear.Brandon Aguilar on Facebook | Brandon Aguilar on Twitter
MADISON KINGMadison King in her own words – “I write songs. Then I play them. Eventually I sing them too. Unless I’m ‘jamming’.”
Recently, this talented Dallas based singer-songwriter celebrated the release of her highly anticipated debut full-length, Darlin, Here’s to You, which counts among its backing performers such area mainstays as Ryan Thomas Becker, as well as members of The King Bucks, Homespun Remedies and Here in Arms. “It’s a relatively swaggering effort, reliant mostly on King’s gritty, and yet somehow comforting, coo.” (Pete Freedman of the Dallas Observer Music Blog).
Preceding the release, a Deep Ellum mural was painted in June that immortalized King’s image well before the album’s arrival.
When Madison is not writing, playing, singing or jamming, you may find her down around her home club, the City Tavern.Madison King on Facebook | Madison King on Twitter | Official Website

Big Texas Nights feat. The Britt Lloyd Band
2013-09-18 20:00 - 23:00 | TX
THE BRITT LLOYD BANDWhen The Britt Lloyd Band merged in 2003, the thirst for new, edgy, and intriguing music in Texas and the South was on the rise. Despite a market attraction to a mainstream sound across Texas, both rock and country music resided in the BLB’s bones, and the crossroad of the two served as a rendezvous point for the band’s gathering. Thus, the answer that so many looked for in a new and innovative sound found its home in the ears of a fast growing number of the BLB listeners. Today, The Britt Lloyd Band continues to maintain a harmonious tie between country and rock, and continues to attract droves of faithful fans through both touring and radio. With the release of the debut record “Unlabeled” in early 2006, the singles “Chokin’ On Air” and “Day In, Day Out” have made leaps up the Texas Music Charts, rising to within the top third of the charts. The record was also ranked in the top 100 Texas Music Albums of 2006. With the release of “The Ink” in late 2008, they have imprinted their name in the Texas Music scene and with the first single “That Kind” reaching the top of the Texas Music Charts and the Best in Texas number 61 most spun songs of 2008, it looks like the future is very bright for the BLB. Fans also have their opportunities to witness the BLB’s energy-packed shows at many major venues and events around Texas. New and returning listeners alike are amazed and wowed by the energetic sound that the group offers and they are quick to tell you that this group has just the right chemistry, and edge to entertain. Equipped with a commanding voice, catchy guitar hooks and riffs, and creative songwriting, Britt fronts an experienced ensemble composed of hard-driving, steady drums, technical and tasteful bass lines, and filling harmonies that will leave fans starving for the encore. Sharing the stage and working with artists such as Jack Ingram, Stoney Larue, Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers Band, Kevin Fowler, Charlie Robison, Phil Pritchett, Honeybrowne, Bleu Edmonson, Eli Young Band and Mickey And The Motorcars, the BLB continues to put skins on the wall and establish itself more and more as a household name. With sweeping momentum, new sponsorships, and enthusiastic backing, The Britt Lloyd Band is quickly gaining the reputation and clout that guarantees them not to disappoint or lose speed any time soon.The Britt Lloyd Band on Facebook | The Britt Lloyd Band on Twitter | Official Website

Midnight River Choir w/ Haley Cole Band and Matt Fracht & The Contraband
2013-09-14 21:00 - 23:55 | TX
MIDNIGHT RIVER CHOIR

The story of Midnight River Choir is proof that sometimes great bands just happen. One night, four strangers ended up on a late night float trip down the Guadalupe River. As they made their way down the river singing songs, the beautiful harmonies floated into the heads of sleeping campers. The next morning, the boys overheard a man telling a friend that he was “awakened by a midnight river choir.” That was all it took. Eric Middleton (lead singer and guitarist), Justin Nelson (lead guitarist), Jeromy Yager (bassist), and Mitchell Pyeatt (drummer), realized the magic of their combined talents and began writing and performing together under that River-God given name.
The formation of Midnight River Choir was nothing short of a force of nature that now translates seamlessly during their live shows. This band needs no labels or comparisons. Their music speaks volumes about who and what they are. Their lives have been woven together by a strong thread of energy both on and off stage. That energy is raw and natural and soaked up from the earth through their bare feet. They believe that what you get is what you give and they give everything they have to their crowds. When that kind of energy lands back at the feet of the boys it is something of supreme intensity. And no one ever forgets it.
Midnight River Choir on Facebook | Midnight River Choir on Twitter | Official Website
HALEY COLE BAND

I could tell you where Birch, Texas, is but that would also require you to know where the other two towns are that surround it. Let’s just say it’s not easy to find, which is appropriate because talent like Haley Cole is not easy to find either.

Haley was born into a family full of talent and grew up singing alongside her parents and 3 sisters. By the time she hit 16, she was equipped with a guitar and the determination to make a music career happen for herself. Inspired by the hard work of her blue collar family and instilled with the same ethic, Haley began performing anywhere she could find a microphone. Starting out at local venues, it wasn’t long before she found herself on well-known stages like Hurricane Harry’s, Dosey Doe’s, and the former Texas Hall of Fame. In her short time on the Texas Music Scene, Haley’s incredible voice and clever lyrics and composition has elevated her to opening for the biggest names in the industry such as Drew Womack, Bart Crow, Ryan Beaver, Max Stalling, Brandon Rhyder, The Rankin Twins, Bri Bagwell, Jason Eady, Folk Family Revival, Jason Cassidy, and Mickey and the Motorcars, just to name a few.

Haley’s kind heartedness, fun personality, and love for her fans leave a lasting impression on every stage she plays. Haley dreams of being the next Miranda Lambert, and has every ounce of talent needed to do so, but she is also very humble about her career in music. She says “If I make it, great, if not, at least I can say I gave it my all, but either way I will keep creating honest music for the fans I cherish as long as they continue to listen.”

Haley released her first professional project on February 22, 2013. The seven song self-titled EP, all originally written, is a cornucopia of Country, Americana, and folk with a touch of rock and bluegrass flavors. Her album features Drew Womack, one of the biggest songwriters in country music, on the amazing track “Devil in Disguise” and look out for her forthcoming single “Satisfied” on a radio near you next month. Do yourself a favor and check out Haley Cole’s album on iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby.com, Spotify, Facebook, and her website www.haleycoleband.com – because just like Birch, Texas: talent like Haley Cole is hard to find.
Haley Cole on Facebook | Haley Cole on Twitter | Official Website
MATT FRACHT & THE CONTRABAND
Matt’s music is a highly refreshing tribute to true Texas country music, juxtaposed to the abundance of “pop country” so prevalent in this day and age. Behind every outstanding frontman is an incredible band. In accordance with this standard, Matt Fracht is supported by a diverse and versatile group of musicians known as The Contraband that wholly complete Fracht’s dynamic sound.
Matt Fracht on Facebook | Matt Fracht on Twitter | Official Website

Only Beast w/ Genuine Leather, Race To The Moon & Magic Girl and Her Ex-Husbands
2013-09-13 22:00 - 23:55 | TX
Tickets $5 available at the door the day of the concert.
Only BeastSometimes people say things about Only Beast. Here are some of those things:
“An explosive mix of punk, melodic rock and blues. Their live performances are sure to melt your face off, make your ears bleed, and give your musical soul the nitrous-oxide high it was looking for.”
– Nathan Hudgins, Heights Funk Collective
“Anti-matter in leprous hands. They will summon demons and use them as coffee tables to prop their feet on.”
– Stephan B. Wyatt, The Illegal Wiretaps
“Houston rock oddballs Only Beast have a unique almost prog-ish kinda sound that is hard to describe, but the band is so magnetic to watch you become mesmerized just the same.”
– Kelly Minnis, Ex-Optimists
“22nd century schizoids.”
– Clark Armstrong
“Drummer John Salinas and guitarist Peter Bernick spent several years working together in various instrumental bands before deciding to try working with a vocalist. Who they got was Danielle Renee, a waify ball of fire with a huge voice able to match Bernick’s Cure-ish guitar wail and the progressive thunder of Salinas’s drums.”
– Jef With One F, Houston PressOnly Beast on Facebook
Genuine LeatherGenuine Leather is a rock band from Austin, TX.Genuine Leather on Facebook
Race To The MoonRace to the Moon, based in Houston, TX, draws on its punk and indie rock influences to create driving, sophisticated music. Four recent transplants to the Houston area joined forces with a shared love of Wilco, Dinosaur Jr., and high energy live performance to create a charging rock and roll band. Race to the Moon started its journey in June 2012 and is gaining steam, bringing a boost of punk rock energy and dynamic songwriting into the local Houston indie scene. Their first EP is set to be released in July 2013.Race To The Moon on Facebook
Magic Girl & Her Ex-HusbandsMagic Girl is the nom de plum for Southern born and bred singer-songwriter Mary-Charlotte Chavez. Magic Girl sets picture portraits of characters from Fly-Over Country to song, the downtrodden and the triumphant. The music follows in the folk and classic country tradition of the 1960’s but with a modern lyricism. And the voice…tough as nails, supple as willow and sexy as Saturday at 2 AM. Magic Girl’s stay in Texas came to an end in the fall of 2010 and she now resides in Long Beach, CA. She hopes to return to Texas in the future, but until then, she is trying to conquer Southern California with her southern sass and brass. Magic Girl has one self-recorded album, ‘Petunia Mailbox Demos’, as well as two records, ‘Poor Man’s Queen’ and ‘Dove and Raven,’ both released under Sink Hole, TX Inc. ..Magic Girl on Facebook
