One would think we’d reached the tipping point with music festivals in this town, but apparently there’s room for one more. In the spirit of the Fourth of July comes the Red, White & Blue Ball. This year’s event, scheduled for Saturday at the Ball Farm in Lytton Springs, a tiny burgh out near the Caldwell and Bastrop County line, will be the second Ball.
Even if you’re burned out on day-long music events, the sparkling lineup caught my eye and would set off fireworks no matter where it was held. Festival co-producer Josh Ball’s grandparents were the original owners of the land where the concert takes place.
“My dad built the house for them,” he explains.
Music on Saturday gets underway at 6pm with the jangly rock of Austin’s Couch, followed by the pop hooks of the Gents. Then one of the fastest rising local roots acts, Whiskey Shivers, performs. After that, it’s the genre-bending country rock of Crooks and the horny horns and swirling Afro rhythms of Hard Proof.
For those who choose the camping option or aren’t willing to venture a 25-minute drive back to town late at night, there will also be an after-hours DJ set by Roger Sellers.
Crooks are the only repeat from last year’s event, but the alt.county stalwarts have shifted their lineup since the last time they played with the addition of Anthony Ortiz Jr. on accordion and Doug Day on trumpet, percussion, and guitar.
“We tried not to duplicate from last year,” acknowledges Ball. “But Crooks has become something more than they were. They’re really coming into their own.
“We’ve been doing things out here for eight years or so,” continues the promoter. “So things will be more streamlined and more permanent this year. Last year we had about 700 people. We’re hoping to approach 1,000 this time, but we’re okay with growing slowly.”
And if you’re concerned about baking yourself in the weekend heat, bring a bathing suit, as they’re offering the “Tropical Falls Water Slide” to cool you off.
This article appears in June 21 • 2013.