Rooting Around
Talent scouts for the USA Network program Nashville Star (think American Idol with a twang) will stake out the Saxon Pub Saturday afternoon to see if any of the 18 performers have what it takes to make it in that other Music City. Among the acts scheduled are Elizabeth McQueen, Django Walker, Haydn Vitera, Pete Benz, Roger Wallace, Susanna Van Tassel, and James Hand, who appear in 15-minute intervals starting at 1pm. Admission is free.
Internet-only nostalgia outlet RhinoHandmade.com is offering a limited-edition pressing of Doug Sahm: The Genuine Texas Groover for $39.98. The double-disc release collects outtakes, rarities, and alternate versions of material from the Texas Tornado‘s Atlantic sessions in the early Seventies.
With recent appearances by the likes of elusive outlaw Calvin Russell, the Longbranch Inn’s open stage is rapidly eclipsing even Scott H. Biram‘s Parlor residency as the place to be on Monday nights. Even so, curator J.T. Van Zandt says he feels the need for “new blood.” Troubadours, aspiring or established, need only show up; things usually get going around 10pm.
Sultry young country-blues chanteuse Jane Bond has traded in her Monday happy hour slot at the Continental Club for the greener pastures of Thursday nights, effective tonight (Thursday). Tape will be rolling for a live recording at tonight’s and next week’s shows, as well as at Bond’s Dec. 13 date with Split Lip Rayfield.
Published by the Texas State Historical Association, the recent Handbook of Texas Music would make a perfect gift for that Lone Star audiophile on your Christmas list. The 393-page tome contains entries on everything from the Houston Symphony Orchestra to the Kerrville Folk Festival.
Mr. Kite’s Corner
Since the construction on South First Street started two years ago, business on the funkier-than-South Congress strip is down an estimated 50-75%. The city has agreed to clear out the forklifts and actually pave the road this weekend to aid the various establishments participating in the South First Street bazaar Dec. 4-7. Jovita’s hosts a benefit for the South First Business Association Saturday with Monte Montgomery, South Austin Jug Band, Kacy Crowley, Vallejo, Ginger Leigh, and Flaco Jimenez. Music starts at 12:30pm; tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door.
This article appears in December 5 • 2003.