Blog and Roll

Last weekend, a panel of representatives from Billboard, Rolling Stone, Spin, Idolator, Aquarium Drunkard, My Old Kentucky Blog, and the Austin-American Statesman met at the Mohawk to share their wisdom with music bloggers old and new.

The panel was set up as a lecture and Q&A session, covering a wide spectrum of information, from how bloggers make income to how many people look at websites for information instead of the blogs and how the Internet has changed reporting forever. Unsurprisingly, many of the bloggers had great things to say about Austin, claiming our music scene is always on their radar.

Kyle Albrecht Debuts New Show

Local guitarist, songwriter, harmonica, bass, and banjo player Kyle Albrecht is definitely a musician to look out for this year. Kyle debuted his new show as part of Jam Fest Café Nov. 6, though he’s been playing music in some way, shape, or form all his life. Albrecht brings a fresh, new approach to the Austin scene, creating buzz-worthy guitar riffs, original melodies, and a sound comparable to the Violet Femmes and the White Stripes.

U21 Bands Compete

This month holds many opportunities and shows for Under 21 bands. Jamfest, a fundraiser for the Eanes Education Foundation, is being held at the Belmont Nov. 14, 3-7pm. The event showcases the best of Austin’s teen musicians and features a set by NELO. Austin Guitar School is holding a songwriting contest for musicians aged 10-17. The last audition is scheduled for tonight, Nov. 12, at Ruta Maya. Lastly, Youthcast finals are being held at the Long Center Nov. 15. Come to see the finalist compete in front of industry professionals for a chance to win a prize to promote their act.

Speak Up!

You read about Speak last week, and they're playing Saturday night at Threadgill’s World HQ with the Steps.