Rockslide Music

Seth Walker

2010-02-04T03:07:00.007-06:00

What brought you to Austin?

Probably listening to Stevie Ray Vaughan…I didn’t really start playing guitar until I went to college at East Carolina University. Some cats in my dorm had guitars, and I was like, that’s cool. You know, man, I want to try that. That’s what they were listening to, electric blues. Stevie Ray, Clapton and Jimmie Hendrix.

About that time I was exposed to my uncle, Landon Walker…a jazz bassist from Florida. He was sending me tapes of a radio show, which had all this Texas blues stuff. The older stuff, T-Bone Walker, Lighting Hopkins, Mance Lipscomb to the whole gamut— Little Son Jackson, B.B. King, Louis Jordan, and on and on, Son House, Muddy…

What happened first was I moved to Florida. Moved down there to be with him. And started digging into the music there. I was just starting—I didn’t know what the hell I was doing at all. But I did know that I needed to go somewhere where music was woven through the city. And Austin was one of the spots I thought of.

What takes you to Nashville?

Well, I started working about two years ago with Gary Nicholson, who produced my last CD. He’s a world, world-class writer and producer. And we just became fast friends. Going up there in the last few years, meeting people and, of course, doing the record opened up a lot of new friends…

And change is always good. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. There’s other reasons too. It’s more of a central hub. It’s a lot easier to get to (tour stops). I am on the road a lot right now, and, in an eight hour radius, you can get to a lot of places. Another big reason is my Mother. She lives in Ashville, which is 275 miles away. So, I can get in my car, go see her, and my Dad, and my sister, and my niece. And, you know…I’m from that part of the world.

Rockslide Turns 50

2010-01-12T17:50:00.025-06:00

Rockslide Rocks 50!

It's this Saturday, February 13th, at the Fischer Haus--115 Fischer Store Road, Fischer, TX (just down the street from Fischer Hall). Brisket and beer served at 3PM, music starts at 6PM. Marshall Hood and Friends play Uncle Walt's Band music first--acoustic set just like them olden days, followed by Dustin Welch's band. Photo show in between. Suggested donation is $10.

Marhsall Hood and Friends - 6 PM
Rockslide Photo Show - 8:30 PM
Dustin Welch - 9 PM

After Party - 12 AM
Pick guitar, warm up by the fire, howl at the moon, stumble to your tent, get ready for Rice Grass www.cabin10.com/ricegrass.htm and Old Settlers www.oldsettlersmiusicfest.org, cause they're coming soon!

Photo Exhibit — Austin Music Scene

2009-09-26T12:07:00.007-05:00

I am getting together with Valerie Fremin to hang a couple dozen prints at House Wine, a cool locally owned venue just down the street from next week's ACL Fest. We'll be showing off some of our music photography. About time, don't you think?

House Wine is on Josephine just northwest of the intersection of Barton Springs and South Lamar. The opening is this Thursday, October 1st. There will be wine specials and free hors d'oeuvres. And, the amazing GumB will be sawing on his cello for us. Come hang out—buying photos is good, but you can just look, or browse on cheese, wine and beer.

In keeping with ACL protocol, Will T. Massey and Richard Bowden will take care of the after party from 9-10.

The photos will be up through the end of October, so if you can't make it for the opening, drop by and take a look later.

Click here for a new Rockslide gallery. The photos I am hanging at House Wine are in here—just don't which ones.

Check up on me on Flickr

2009-09-13T11:12:00.002-05:00

I have been pretty lazy about posting to this blog, but the photos keep coming. Check me out on flickr to see what's new.

Photos on Flickr

Laughing at My Station

2009-07-09T18:07:00.008-05:00

I can make Bala laugh
She did flips in the Pacolet
When I said I was okay with
The little man in her car stereo

I heard someone say
That the desert made him
Sing...
That the sky
Was so full of stars
He had different ears

Take a look at recent photos on flickr

Old Settler's 2009

2009-04-22T18:59:00.024-05:00

The complete, unabridged view of Rockslide pics from this year's Old Settler's:

Warning! This link leads to a boatload of images.

So you heard about the rain...it really wasn't that bad unless you stayed out at Camp Ben McCulloch Thursday night and Friday during the day. It rained two or three inches starting sometime early Friday morning. When I rolled in on Friday evening, Rob Teter of the Belleville Outfit said' "If you had been here this afternoon, you would have lost all hope."

The rain had been relentless. The tarp attached to their van filled with rain water and was more floating blue lagoon than shelter from the rain. It took some fancy engineering to get a dry patch of ground under the tarp again.

Footing was treacherous in the mud, even with the OSMF staff covering the worst areas with truck loads of hay. Still, somehow with the threat of severe weather looming over each act, it never let loose Friday night--the air was just a thick wet cloud which made for interesting photos and slippery fretboards.

That was it--no more down pours during the festival except for a brief one that woke me up around 7:30 Saturday morning. Mid-day Saturday the sun broke through, and Sunday was spectacular.

My favorite shows:
Slim Richey with Katie Holmes, Jon Doyle, Red Young, Meaux Jeaux, and Masumi Jones
The Green Cards in the mist
Hayes Carll
Sarah Jarosz with Alex Hargreaves and Sam Grisman
The Traveling McCourys
Dave Alvin and the Guilty Women
The Traveling McCourys with the Lee Boys

Fred Eaglesmith closing the festival on Sunday was pretty fine except that I was a rambling wreck by that point.

Rockslide Music Awards

2009-03-27T21:27:00.011-05:00

I've been thinking that The Rockslide Awards are really more a list. Suzanna Choffel, Drew Smith, Fai Chow, Michael Lahrman, Buenos Aires, Warren Hood, Daren Apelt, Will Sexton, Stephen Doster, The Hudsons, the Rice Fest, Old Settlers, Belleville Outfit, Phoebe Hunt, Slim Richey, Jo's, Marshall Hood, Connor Forysth, Mark Hayes, Seth Walker, Jonathan Konya, Sean Faires, Jonny Burke, Dustin Welch, Savannah Welch, Jazz Mills, The Gourds, Joe Beckham, Graham Wilkinson, Graham Weber, Chris Brecht, Carlie Wolf, Susan Lippe, Katie Holmes, Collings, Wisebird, Berl and Georgia Armstrong, Pat Marshall, Momos, Rich Brotherton, Kat Edmundson, Sasha Ortiz, T-Bird and the Breaks, Nate Rowe, Red Young, Eldrdge Goins, John Allison, Jeremy Nail...

Breath!

Chris Ware, Kris Wade, Band of Heathens, Meaux Jeaux, Damien Llanes, The Greencards, Gary Clark, Jr., Seth Brown, Anthony Ferrel, Sarah Jarosz, The Daze, Sinners' Brunch, Brian Keane, Rachel Loy, Stephanie Hunt, Rob Teter, Laura Scarborough, Nathan Singleton, Kacy Crowley, Trisha Keefer, Laura Scarborough, Lonesome Heroes, Andrew Nafzigger, Tina Rose, Willie Pipkin, Mike Keller, TCs, Anne, Emory, Chisme, Merla, Coffee Kittie, Turtle Lee, Jazz, Kevin Welch, Stephen Bruton, Torchy's, Frogleg, Continental Gallery, Mingtones...

Neighborhood Story Project of New Orleans Benefit at Momo's, Party Begins this Thursday at 8:00!

2009-02-23T18:37:00.020-06:00

While I am recovering from the throw down at Scholz' Garden last night, I thought I would remind you that the Neighborhood Story Project of New Orleans Benefit is this Thursday, February 26th, at Momo's.

Music starts at 8:00 PM and the party will extend into the wee hours of the night. Food by Ararat. Drinks by Momo's. Joe Beckham on the soundboard. Dancing, laughing and generous hearts by you.

This would be fun even if it wasn't for a good cause, but NSP has got that covered too. Established in 2004, before Katrina, NSP started when coverage of a local shooting portrayed John McDonogh High School and the neighborhood in a poor light. Frustrated students, with help from two of their teachers, decided to collect stories in their communities, turn words and photographs into books, and then print and distribute the finished product. They called it media justice and had five books under their belt when the storm hit. Since NSP is community based, Katrina could easily have erased everything they had worked so hard for. Instead, it seems to have given them even more purpose. Their current book, Cornerstones, is a collaboration with Tulane City Center and has received critical acclaim, including a two-part feature on NPR.

If you don't believe that benefits can be fun, check out images from last night.

Rice Fest 2008

2008-11-15T12:38:00.008-06:00

What's so special about the Rice Fest?

Fischer Hall. Mandolins. Wood smoke. Kids. Rain on a cold tin roof. Cold beer. The Fisher Haus. Camp fires. Guitars. Generosity. Herradura. Hugs. Fiddles. Boots on an old wood floor. Cowboy hats. November.

Five years of music:
Karen Abrahams. Danny Barnes. Mike Barnett. Ponty Bone. Richard Bowden. Barry Brittain. Guy Clark. Slaid Cleaves. Dennis Crouch. RJ Cowdery. The Deadly Gentlemen. Chip Dolan. The Dust Devils. Marvin Dykhuis. Kat Edmonson. Carrie Elkin. Enchanted Rock. Eric Gerber. Susan Gibson. Eliza Gilkyson. Emily Gimble. Robbie Gjersoe. Pat Green. The Greencards. Sam Grisman. Chuck Hamilton. John Wort Hannam. Alex Hargreaves. Andrew Hartsock. Winston Haun. Robby Hecht. Terri Hendrix. Erik Hokannen. Warren Hood. Ray Wylie Hubbard. The Hudsons. Brian Hudson. Steve James. Sarah Jarosz. Kat's Meow. Joe Kyle. Jr. Laurie Lewis. Greg Liszt. David Llewellyn. Lloyd Maines. Grant Mazak. The McKay Brothers. Eamon McLoughlin. Meaux Jeaux. Ed Miller. Kim Miller. Hudson Mueller. James Nash. Tim O'Brien. Michael O'Connor. Josh Pinkham. Jeff Plankenhorn. Slim Richey. Peter Rowan. Tom Rozum. Danny Schmidt. Darrell Scott. The Seldom Herd. Betty Soo. Devon Sproule. Ben Solee. The Squeezetones. Cary Swinney. Two High String Band. Kym Warner. The Waybacks. John Webb. Graham Weber. Carol Young. Leah Zeger.

Rice's company of friends keeps growing. Get your tickets early!

Click here for photos

Yes Yes Yes

2008-11-05T22:32:00.004-06:00

It could be my imagination, but America seems much younger all of a sudden. More willing to take a chance. Ready to trade fear for hope. Move over Baby Boomers. There are some new kids in town.

Click here for election night photos

Halloween

2008-11-02T23:52:00.005-06:00

T Bird and the Breaks, ghoulish guests, and a brand new moon made for an extra spooky Halowwen

Trick or Treat

ACL Hangover

2008-10-25T10:13:00.003-05:00

Ouch. That pic is a little over exposed. ACL, Hardly Strictly, Joshua Tree Roots, Voodoo, South Padre Island, Fun Fun Fun, I can't keep up with these wacky musicians and their fests.

Here is a link to some recent shots...

Click here for photos

ACL Primer

2008-09-27T10:05:00.004-05:00

Accidentally dropped in on Dustin Welch and company at the Hole in the Wall last Wednesday. I have ACL photos to come, but thought I would send these out your way until I get this weekend's photos processed.

Click here for photos

CD Release

2008-09-06T11:20:00.005-05:00

One down; one to go...
Went to Drew Smith's CD Release last night at the Continental. It was a fantastic show: Jeremy Nail opened, Drew Smith slammed down the tunes, and Dustin Welch closed out the night.
Getting ready for another CD release next Saturday. Warren Hood releases his debut CD at Momos.
It's good to live in Austin!

Momolympics 2008

2008-08-30T17:28:00.006-05:00

Momos 8th Anniversary kicked off early on Wednesday night. The actual event runs from Friday through Sunday and showcases many of the bands that make Momos THE choice for nightly entertainment in Austin.

Click here for photos

Stay tuned. Will post more images from the weekend. Plus a special preview of the poster for Warren Hood's CD release show in September 13.

After Math

2008-08-12T13:42:00.009-05:00

Well the numbers are pretty good. We raised a stack of money, got a heap of blood plus promises of bone marrow down the road, sold a lot of Hot Mama's espresso and goodies, and had a whale of a time.

If you came out this year, then this math is for you: 10(thanks(1000,000))

Seriously. I cannot tell you how much it means to have your support for this event. We will definitely do it again. When you see photos of my son, Emory, think of this. He is eight years old, the same age Melinda was when she succumbed to cancer. So, thanks again if you contributed in any way. You are making a difference, a BIG difference.

Click here for photos from the event.

John

Fight Cancer at Hot Mama's

2008-08-04T17:04:00.018-05:00

Our big party is this Sunday August 10 at Hot Mama’s Espresso at 2401 East 6th Street from 4-8. Suggested donation is $10 (kids free).

We’re calling this jamboree “Blood Feud- Melinda’s Payback” and the idea is to CELEBRATE LIFE with an Austin vibe in honor of my sister, Melinda. At 4 years old she was diagnosed with leukemia. What was in the late ‘60s just the Leukemia Society helped my family with medicines and other support, and for four years she was able to hold out against the cancer. Those are four years of memories that we now hold deep in our hearts, and which keep Melinda alive for us. What is that the commercial says? Oh yeah, “priceless”.

Now it is PAYBACK time. Proceeds from this jam will go to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society via their Team in Training program. The money will provide funds for research and also go to patient services to ease the burdens associated with treatment. Come help me FIGHT BACK against cancer! Let’s keep other families from numbering the life of a loved one on the fingers of two hands. But wait - don’t be getting out all y’all’s hankies… THIS IS A PARTY, remember! We’re gonna have some fun...

Two hot Austin bands will be playing- The Belleville Outfit and The Greyhounds - and you never know who else might sit in. If you don’t know these two bands yet, you will!

A blood drive truck and bone marrow registry table will be on-site. If you are anxious (!) to donate blood, please head over to in your hands so they can put out the red carpet for you (maybe an unfortunate choice of words there…). Where prompted for a keyword, type in “hot mamas”.

Don’t worry- if you need to ease into the idea of donating blood, you can make up your mind right then and there. The Texas Rollergirls and T-Bird and the Breaks have agreed to be on hand to help you make up your minds.

Hot Mama’s is a hidden gem of a coffee house on East 6th Street (several blocks east of I35) with a beautiful courtyard. Please email me if you need directions.

If you can’t come, but would still like to strike a blow at cancer, please forward this invite to someone you know who loves good music or may have been touched by leukemia or lymphoma. Or feel free to donate via the Team in Training website.

Click here for more information about the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Thanks,

Anne

Oh yeah -- John says look at his photos:

Click Here for Rockslide Photos

Help Rockslide Fight Blood Cancer at Hot Mamas!

2008-07-19T11:58:00.022-05:00

So, here's the story. My wife's sister lost her fight against Leukemia when she was only eight years old. That was a long time ago, back in the seventies, and fortunately much has changed for the better when it comes to taking on the Big C.

Despite all the advances, it is still an up-hill battle, so Anne decided to do something about that this year. She is raising money through Team in Training. Besides committing to raise $4,000, she signed on to walk a marathon in San Francisco this fall. Neither hurdle is easy to leap over, but Anne is doing both in style.

Here's a photo of a spunky Melinda in 1968.

Blood Feud is a party to help raise money and awareness for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. It is also a chance to celebrate overcoming BIG hurdles. We have already booked music from the Belleville Outfit and The Greyhounds, and you never know who else might sit in. A blood drive truck and bone marrow registry table will be on site. The Texas Rollergirls and T-Bird and the Breaks have agreed to be on hand to reward any blood donors with fantastic photo ops! Who knows what could happen? Sure to be a spectacle.

Come hang out at Hot Mamas with us. There will be plenty of food and beverage available; and, trust me, you won't want to miss this one.

See you there,

John

Independence?

2008-07-03T18:53:00.008-05:00

Hello there. Been extra busy with all facets of Rockslide. Some things remain the same. Headed out to see the Hudsons in a few, and will drink a toast to the Belleville Outfit who are opening up for Lyle tonight. That's right, Lyle Lovett. Check out a new web gallery system I am trying out from my new Apple world:

Click here for galleries

John

Spring 2008

2008-05-18T15:26:00.009-05:00

It's been a while since an official post, so I decided to put a composite gallery together. No rhyme or reason really, just what I could manage to pull together. It has been a fun Spring so far, and we are not done yet:

Click here to see images

Remember that I post images on flickr more frequently.

Marty Grass

2008-04-23T21:11:00.032-05:00

Click here for photos of the show
A full moon hung in the trees, and chills rippled through the crowd as Marty related the story behind Dark Bird.

Three tracts of land. One Johnny Cash's; one Marty Stuart's; and between, one Roy Orbison's. On the middle tract, a country cottage meant for the simple life where three boys danced with matches and two lost everything. They didn't mean to; they were just kids; such an awful price. Johnny bought the land and promised only living things would break the soil. He kept his word as long as he could. And then Marty bought the tract because some places shouldn't be disturbed.

Later, Marty wandered alone in the orchard and watched fruit go to the crows, thinking they ain't good for much, but damn they look cool all dressed up like JRC.

"Dark bird..."

Didn't know I would like Marty Stuart so much.

Gone Flickr

2008-04-14T19:00:00.002-05:00

I have finally gone flickr. Will continue to post blogs and web galleries from time to time, but wanted to have a place to organize images.

Slow going, so it will take a while to get a diverse set of images up on Flickr.

Recent Images

2008-03-28T19:06:00.003-05:00

Finally posting these images from SXSW and recent shows.

Click here for photos

Includes photos of Dustin Welch, Drew Smith, Cecil, Ham Jam, Slim Richey, Dan Dyer, Chris Ware, Eric Zapata, Gary Clark Jr., James Bullard, Taylor Hyatt, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Colin Gilmore, Warren Hood, Rob Teter, Lyle Lovett, John Hagen, Ivan Brown, Rich Brotherton, Phoebe Hunt, Marshall Hood, Jonathan Konya, James Gilmer, Floyd Domino, David Ball, Audrey Ball, Heidi Hyatt, Rose Hyatt, Will Sheff, Travis Nelsen, Roky Erickson, Thurston Moore, Michael Priest, Jim Franklin, Billy Gibbons, David Dorris, Ericson Holt, CJ, Dan Earhart, Mandy Mercier, Dave Heath, Ted Roddy, Chris Gage, Christine Albert, Brian Hofeldtt, Steve Clarke, Willie Pipkin, Kevin Russell, Mike Stewart, Eliza Gilkyson, John Inmon, Bruce Robison, Joe Beckham, Shawn Nelson, Jerry Rigged, Elizabeth McQueen, Jason Roberts, David Sanger, Eldridge Goins, Paul Oveisi, Laura Scarbrough, Suzanna Choffel, Brad Houser, Johnny V, Vanessa Lively, Danny Schmidt, Rayna Rose, Jeff Brown, and Todd Wolfson.

Quebe Sisters

2008-03-03T18:30:00.000-06:00

Happened on the Quebe Sisters at Central Market last Saturday. They collect quite the scene. Ran into James Hyland, Erik Hokkanen, Phoebe Hunt, Willie Pipkin, Howard Kalish, Seth Walker and Anthony Lott. Guess musicians know a good thing when they see it...

Click here for a few photos from the gig.

Walter Hyatt CD Release in South Carolina

2008-02-10T16:05:00.001-06:00

Heidi Hyatt orchestrated CD releases for Some Unfinished Business in Nashville, Spartanburg, and Austin. I picked Spartanburg—always wanted to see the hometown of the blue grass Beatles. All I can say is it's worth the trip.

Click here for photos

The CD release was a moving tribute to a writer who penned, collected, and shared a thick book of songs that continues to give breath to American music. Some compare Walter Hyatt to Stephen Foster. One thing's for sure—Walter studied up on Stephen's moves.

If you ever got to watch the interplay on stage between Walter and his cohorts, Champ and David, you knew that it was off the cuff and straight from the heart. Sometimes funny, sometimes enlightening, sometimes more than you bargained for—nearly everything Walter said was a story, and no matter how much fiction got inserted to serve the story, it felt real. For me, Walter’s secret isn’t how well he played and sang, but how honestly he connected with his friends and audience.

That was evident last Saturday at the Show Room in Spartanburg.

George Hyatt looks a lot like Walter, and you better not close your eyes when George is talking, or you might see ghosts. Looks can be deceiving, though, so he missed notes, words and chords with a wincing smile, and wink as if to say, “help me out here; I’m way up on a tight rope.” Which we did because after all George is human, and that, more than perfection, reminded us of the Walter we miss.

Tommy Goldsmith who played with Walter in the Contenders introduced “Baby” as a song that he wrote with Steve Runkle, only to have his son lean over and remind him to say, “Steve sang it. I wrote it with Walter.” Tommy shrugged. Kids, what would you do with out ‘em.

Searching for the right words before kicking off Rolling My Blues, Taylor Hyatt wrapped it up in a simple phrase, “I’m glad of where I come from.”

Brother, husband, dad, friend, peer, legend—which ever way you slice it, Walter was magic. The sound of his voice, the words he chose, the harmonies he fostered, and his love for us are gifts that were obviously treasured by everyone in the room.

Wherever there’s so much as one guitar, a voice, and the willingness to leap off tall buildings, the spirit lives on…for an audience of one, or thousands.

Thanks Walter. See you down the road someday…

Musicians at the show in Spartanburg included Taylor Hyatt, George Hyatt, Brandon Turner, Fayssoux McLean, Tommy Goldsmith, David Ezell, Wes Wyatt, Carroll Foster, Brian Ashley Jones, Caroline Aiken, Marshall Hood, Matt Parks, Rob Teter, Jeff Brown, Phoebe Hunt, Connor Forsyth, and Jonathan Konya.

PS

I was taking photographs not notes, so any discrepancies between this blog and the actual events of February 9, 2008 appear only for the sake of the story.

What in the World Would You Want to Do a Thing Like That for?

2008-01-22T23:09:00.000-06:00

Because I like to! And besides...

A friend of mine was given a notebook she took with her to Threadgill's for the ten plus years Champ and the Troubadours played Wednesday nights. In it she wrote down the names of nearly everyone who appeared on stage. No doubt she had fun every Wednesday, but the record she kept is priceless.

Now, when I go out, I take my camera with me. No telling what we might miss someday.

Click here for photos from the first three weeks of January.

First Week

2008-01-08T18:24:00.000-06:00

2008 is off at a gallup. Posting my first week's photos, but there is plenty left on the plate: unprocessed photos, more gigs to see, projects for the Austin Daze...

Hope to get out to some of the obvious shows like this weekend's benefit at Momo's with Bob Schneider and Stephen Bruton, the Resentments, Fast Ball and Hayes Carll; but I also hope to catch more of the off the beaten path shows like Soulkitchen on Tuesdays at 311 Club.

Other surprises lurk around the bend, including the possibility that I might get organized or something crazy like that...

Happy Old Year

2007-12-31T19:16:00.000-06:00

This old year ain't quite done yet. I am headed out to take one last slew of images before retiring 2007 to the archives. I owe thanks (and images) to a lot of friends! Hope I see you soon and/or remember to send you what I promised.

For those of you who don't know, I am now the photo editor for the Austin Daze. So pick up a Daze and look on the cover, the center section, and on random pages for Rockslide images.

Not sure what's next, but it's bound to be fun...

Click here for photos

The Latest Last Show

2007-12-28T18:20:00.000-06:00

What? Another last show at Waterloo?

Sure enough; the Hudsons have done it again. Gone out in style and left us wanting more. Of course, being the hardest working folk rap group in Austin, they will likely make a come back...just this once.

Bought their new double disc value pak last night, and I think I like it better than their summer release, Before I Sleep. But you should buy both and compare the two. The value pak pairs a remastered version of Songs about People with a new set recorded at KVRX called Other Songs about Things and Stuff. I say the new set is the closest thing yet to the real Hudsons, aka live and in rare form. You gotta love anyone who would close out a CD with Robeats Acoustic Cafe.

Thanks Brian. Thanks Hudson. And special thanks to Don (didn't know you had an NPR voice...)

Click here for photos

Christmas Blues

2007-12-24T16:07:00.000-06:00

I got the blues for Christmas. The blues, swing, folk, country, rock, and gypsy jazz. However you want to describe the Hoodlums, it was something else last night. Could be the best band in town.

Click here for photos

Confidante

2007-12-19T18:29:00.000-06:00

Bukka Allen came out with a new record this fall called Confidante. I’ll confess that I don’t have the CD yet, but I should and so should you. I know because I’ve heard samples live at Momo’s on Monday nights over the past few months.

I’ve got no idea what it sounds like on the record, but it sounds pretty damn good in person. Bukka brought a different line up to each show - combinations of Brian Standefer, Michael Hardwick, George Reiff, Rob Gjersoe, Richard Bowden, Sally Allen, Will Sexton…Maybe the album has a little bit of all that wrapped up into one package.

No evidence (aka photos) here, but Bukka often sat in with Dustin Welch later in the evening. That made for some late nights, but my ears went to sleep very happy every time.

Click here for photos

Migration

2007-12-14T18:29:00.000-06:00

Well the birds are lining up on trees like they mean to head out of town. Beating the birds to the punch, Brian Keane and Rachel Loy put on one last show, packed their bags, and headed east to Nashville. Imagine they are doing fine already - settling into a new scene.

Click here for photos (Includes whole show now)

Rockslides, Blizzards, and other Hazards

2007-11-26T18:47:00.000-06:00

Skip all the hoo ha and look at photos of Big Bend and the Big Blizzard

Summer's gone for sure - cut by a sharp wind.

A pack of scrawny coyotes yips at dawn circling something out there in the cold open flats east of Tornillo Creek. Maybe they're just circling around each other to keep warm until daylight covers the long shadows of the Del Carmen. The tent snaps and flaps as it shudders too, facing the brunt of the chill while we keep warm inside.

I should wake and tend to something. Already clouds are crawling down from the north, heavy and low to the ground, they mean to rain or worse.

When I do stir, I have enough sense, at least, to break camp; but not before we play in the ruins by the creek, and hike up to Ernst Tinaja, stopping at every turn for one more click. We tell Emory how we hiked up here long ago all the way from the black top, and how I asked Anne for her knife to open a tin of oysters - she hates oysters. And how I jumped into the frigid pool, not once, but twice, all on account of wanting to show her I wasn't afraid of hard work, or something like that.

We drive to Terlingua for lunch and coffee and to shop at the Trading Post. Really, I am hoping old friends will be on the porch, but it is too cold, or too early. Plus it is starting to rain pretty hard. I take my sweet time - no hurry. We have arrangements for a room in Marathon out of the weather.

I steer the bus, our as yet unnamed Highlander, inching up the hill through the Park as it starts to snow. What a sight! The Chisos foothills all white in the late afternoon. A word of caution. The light is fading, but I just want to soak in this dream all the way before it's gone.

The coyotes are huddled somewhere out of the wind by now I bet. I'm all white knuckles on the wheel.

The snow covers the road, and we slide in and out of ruts where there are any. Somehow I have to climb up the grade to Marathon some 70 miles away. The snow flies at the windshield. Emory says it looks like stars in space. We talk of warp speed, but the going is slow and rough.

A car ahead decides to give up the chase and eases over to the embankment. I have no thought but to keep it slow and steady. Just don't stop, I think. It gets darker and the snow comes down harder while I try to look past the shooting flakes at the road ahead. Two sets of headlights tag along, and we caravan single file. I plow the way. De facto guinea pig.

What a drive. We spend a lifetime before the Gage comes into view and we pull to a stop. Release. Fun. Snow balls. A snow man. And a warm bed.

Morning comes. The sun returns. The snow begins to melt away. Yepper. Something to remember then...

Best Thanksgiving ever.

Turkey Day in the Life

2007-11-22T22:27:00.001-06:00

Happy Turkey Day! Got up this morning and drove to Fort Stockton. One little hick up in Junction (two flat tires). Filled up with air at the truck stop and made a bee line to Segovia where we were pleasantly surprised at our good fortune. Replaced two leaking valve stems for $12. May be taking all repairs to Segovia from now on. Stopped for Thanksgiving feast and guided tour at the Caverns of Sonora. Finally, ran the deer gauntlet after dark on I-10. Managed to get through unscathed.

Hope you had a wonderful Turkey Day wherever you were...

Click here for quick photo tour

Rice Fest 2007

2007-11-12T19:02:00.000-06:00

November in Fischer. What can you say? Sunshine. Short-sleeves. Beer. Music. Friends. And fun, fun, fun!

Click here for photos of Fischer Hall, Jan's Fischer Haus, the folks who gather together the 2nd weekend of November each year. And, of course, the musicians: Ponty Bone and the Squeezetones, New Folk Winners, the Hudsons, Slaid Cleaves, Eric Gerber, Ed Miller, the Pat Green, Sarah Jarosz, Slim Richey and Kat's Meow, the Greencards, Guy Clark, and Daryl Scott.

While a rain storm pounded Fischer Hall's tin roof during Tim O'Brien's set at the first Rice Fest, I thought to myself, "it just can't get any better than this." The rain drummed a drone, we thumped the floor, and Tim reeled off an old fiddle tune he dubbed Fischer Stomp. And still, somehow the Rice Fest just keeps getting better and better. Thanks Cabin 10; thanks Jeff, Jack, Dixie and West.

The only sad thing is I have to wait a whole year to see what happens next!

Headed out to Fischer

2007-11-06T17:54:00.000-06:00

I am headed out to Fischer for the Rice Fest on Thursday. Thought I would send a quick collection of photos your way. Here is a set of Warren playing in various configurations, including shots with Marvin Dykhuis, Casper Rawls, Rich Brotherton, Mike Keller, Marshall Hood, Andrew Nafziger, Jon Doyle, Willie Pipkin, and more.

Click here for photos

I first caught Warren standing in with the Troubadours on Wednesday nights at Threadgill's North. Those shows featured Champ on guitar and fiddle, Marvin Dykhuis on guitar, Dave Heath on bass, and Ron Erwin on drums. Much like the Hoodlums, you never quite knew who might make a cameo appearance on stage.

If you want a taste of what you missed, or if you used to Sit and Sup on Wednesdays long ago, you get your chance next Wednesday, November 14th.

Warren and the Troubadours will make one last appearance at Threadgill's North before a remodel tears down the old stage. Show starts at 7:00 PM at the North Store.

It's Rice Pickin' Time in Texas

2007-10-21T19:16:00.000-05:00

So it's time once again for the Rice Fest held annually at Fischer Hall in tiny Fischer, a few miles west of Wimberly. This year's featured performers include Guy Clark, Darrel Scott, The Greencards, Slaid Cleaves, Sarah Jarosz, the Hudsons, Ponty Bone, and more.

The set list is always solid, but the vibe in the room is the real draw. Fischer Hall is basically a big room with exposed arches lifting the ceiling high above the floor. Everything is handcrafted, no prefab here, and the worn wood is as comfortable as that favorite flannel shirt your wife wants you to throw away, but you can't do it. Going out to Fischer on the second weekend each November takes me back to the early 70's, when Austin was still more small town than bustling metropolis.

Hope you have tickets, because this year's show is sold out. For a glimpse at what's in store, here are some photos of Sarah Jarorz and Ben Solee at the String Band Festival held out a Camp Ben McCulloch last night. Sarah and Ben will have a repeat performance at Fischer Hall in a couple weeks. Can't wait...

Click here for photos

Birds Fly South...Musicians Head East

2007-10-19T17:09:00.000-05:00

Somebody asked for some shots I took out on the patio at Cafe Caffeine last spring, and I finally got around to pulling them together. In doing so, I came across images from Bonnie Whitmore's going away party, which made me think of more friends destined for the wily streets of Music City, USA. While there is no shortage of good music in town, a little bit of emptiness haunts the bars and dance halls when our friends move away.

Click here for photos

Rags to Riches

2007-10-12T17:07:00.000-05:00

The Hudsons may look like threadbare folksters, but their tunes are spun of solid pop gold - pop in a good way of course. Equal parts Bob Dylan, Marvin Gaye, Todd Snider, the Beatles, Elliot Smith, Biz Markie, Willie Nelson, and Tiny Tim (only Uke player I could think of). The fun starts with the first note, and you never know what's next until it's quitting time.

Click here for Photos of the Hudsons

I understand that if written on the correct paper, most any request or suggestion is inserted into the set list. They are the only band I know of that would give the audience a mike for random commentary and interactive banter during a show - well, maybe not all their ideas are good ones...Then again, their new album came out this fall, and the inside sleeve features a Rockslide image from some summer afternoon in Gruene. Seems like they have pretty good taste after all.

I was watching them at Waterloo last night thinking that the folks at the Rice Festival have a treat in store for them the second weekend in November.

Odd Night Out

2007-10-10T00:20:00.001-05:00

Or, as Monty Python would put it, "and now for something completely different..."

I left the comfortable confines of my home(s) away from home and ventured over to Red River last weekend. Somewhat inclined towards Stubbs, I found myself tagging along for a visit to Emos. Scott H. Biram opened, followed by the Legendary Shack Shakers. Let me tell you, the Shakers could definitely shake a shack right off its foundation.

I did some fancy sidestepping from time to time to avoid the enthusiastic crowd in front of the stage.

Photos from Emos
Photos of Dustin Welch @ Momos
Photos of Nathan Singleton @ Momos

Catching Up

2007-10-04T18:27:00.000-05:00

An old friend sent me an email in August to let me know he was sitting in with Elana James. Finally got around to posting a few of the images: Elana James, Cindy Cashdollar, Doug Davis and Beau Sample @ the Continental Club.

Click here for photos of Cowboy Doug with Elana

Austin Blue Scene

2007-10-01T18:40:00.000-05:00

It was definitely a blue scene kind of thing in Austin Sunday evening. Just the typical Austin benefit - $15 to see Leeann Atherton, the Antone's House Band, Malford Milligan, Derek O'Brien, Marcia Ball, Mike Keller, Doyle Bramhall, C.C. Adcock, Jimmy Vaughn, James Cotton, Hubert Sumlin, Omar Dykes, and Joe Ely (well, okay; so, I petered out at 11:00 PM, and there are no photos of Joe).

The show and silent auction are examples of the best and worst of Austin. We are quick to rally to aid musicians and others when in need, but sadly they are in need way too often.

HAAM day is tomorrow. Buy some food, drop some money in the jar. Help a friend...

I was hoping to put up a show and give the proceeds to HAAM. Running late, but if you catch me in October, anything you buy adds to my HAAM kitty. Speaking of HAAM, time to eat some Ham...at the jam. If you know what I mean on this first Monday of the month.

Click here for photos of the Riley Osborne Benefit

Bukka Allen @ Momos

2007-09-26T21:22:00.000-05:00

Bukka Allen played a rare set at Momos the other night with Rob Gjersoe and Brian Standafer. He stuck around for a second set and played accordion with Dustin Welch and the House Band.

Bukka will be promoting a new album later this fall with gigs at the Cactus Cafe, Continental, and more I'm sure.

Click here for photos of Bukka Allen
Click here for photos of Dustin Welch and the House Band

Jefferson Street Blues

2007-09-23T18:29:00.000-05:00

Went to Kerrville over the weekend and spent the day down by the Guadelupe River with Emory while Anne attended a conference for her job. At the end of the afternoon, Emory and I waited on a bench in downtown Kerrville for class to let out. Emory played the blues...

Jefferson Street Blues
Plus another Recent Images Gallery

New Show Coming Soon

2007-09-18T23:41:00.000-05:00

Hey there. Haven't posted anything this summer, but I have been busy. I plan to show a few of my works early October in conjunction with the upcoming HAAM Benefit. Details soon.

Meantime, here is a link to some shots from my what cha call vacation:

Click Here for Recent Images

Best New Band?

2007-06-07T16:01:00.001-05:00

The Heathens may be the Austin Chronicle's Best New Band winner for 2007, but in my book, new has nothing to do with it. They are straight up great. I went to the ME TV taping at Antones last week, and they rocked the crowd as usual. Look for them at Momos on Wednesdays, with occasional shows at nearby venues like Gruene Hall and Poodies Hilltop Bar.

Click here for photos of the show

Gone Like a Thief in the Night

2007-05-28T21:47:00.000-05:00

Summer's a groove, everything is fine
You get used to the way things are
Blue skies ahead, not a cloud to be seen
Trouble ain't on your radar...

I totaled the blue Volvo Saturday night. Kind of bums me out. I was used to that old car. Just when you get things the way you want them, the rug gets pulled out from under your feet. Be good, man! Everything changes: your friends, your family, your haunts, the town you live in, the clothes you wear, the car you drive. The fact that you're here at all. Remember – for every show that opens, sooner or later, the curtain drops.

Click here for way too many photos

Old Settlerz

2007-04-24T16:48:00.000-05:00

Went out to Camp Ben McCulloch for four days of non-stop music last week at the Old Settler's Music Festival. What once was a straight bluegrass festival has grown into a diverse collection of acts bridging country, bluegrass, folk, latin, Americana, rock, gospel, blues, pop, jazz, and psycho...as in Psychograss.

That ought to cover it if you are interested in music. And if you don't find what you are looking for on stage, the 'campfires' are burning with hot music of all flavors.

Cya next year!

Click here for photos

Rain, Songs and More

2007-04-18T16:42:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that rain storms, especially short downpours followed by blue skies, are good for my soul. Yesterday's afternoon shower was not only followed by blue skies, but two of the better singer songwriters in town playing to an enthusiastic audience at Momos. Only problem was there weren't enough bodies in the room. What's up with that?

You would probably recognize Kacy Crowley's song Badass, played frequently on TV, and radio, I think (I just rarely watch ME TV or listen to the radio, so I am taking that on faith). Now, she doesn't wear roller skates on stage, but she's still a badass. Haunting voice, deep introspective lyrics, and a laid back sense of humor make for a good show.

Follow that with the hypnotic bounce of Suzanna Choffel's Brazilian laced rhythms and imagery rich lyrics, and you've got a first rate night of music. Suzanna's band rocks. There was no bass player last night, so we were treated with a jazz trio of Suzanna (guitar), Eldridge Goins (drums), and Brad Hauser (baritone sax). Two words, kick bass, or something like that.

If you aren't checking Tuesdays at Momos out, you're missing out.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl
Click here for photos from my trip to Big Bend

Friday the 13th

2007-04-13T18:20:00.000-05:00

What do you know? Here is another post. Took a short vacation after SXSW, so it was nice to return to the usual haunts: Phoebe Jeebies, Warren Hood and the Hoodlums, Erik Hokkanen and the Gypsy Tribe, and the Hudsons. Plenty more I wanted to see, and feel pretty bummed that I missed Eric Johnson sitting in with Redd Volkaert on Tuesday at the Shoal Creek Saloon.

Still, something tells me there are good tunes just around the corner.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

March Madness

2007-03-29T23:13:00.000-05:00

Hey, guess what. I finally posted another set of photos. I'll add attributions later, but for now:

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

Hello SXSW

2007-02-22T17:53:00.000-06:00

Thanks for visiting my photo blog. I hope that in addition to listening to some of the acts descending on Austin for SXSW showcases, you get a chance to experience some local talent.

I take my camera out to shows throughout the year and post what I call the Austin Pub Crawl every five to ten days. If you can't be here as often as you want, maybe you can check into the blog and catch up with what's going on.

Recent Shots

cya,

John Grubbs
Rockslide Photography

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

Here Comes March (there goes Valentine's Day)

2007-02-15T17:51:00.000-06:00

March in Austin means SXSW and the Austin Music Awards. Good luck to all my musician friends. Hope you land the showcases you want and win the awards you deserve. I voted for as many of you as I could on one ballot.

Since I have thousands of photos of bands playing at Momos, it seemed a natural to approach them to see if we could sell images in the venue during SXSW with all the proceeds going to a local music related charity.

So, here is the announcement: I will be set up inside Momos during SXSW selling images at several price points: postcards, posters, and fine art prints.

Let me know if you want to purchase one - you don't have to wait for SXSW.

Click here for this week’s Austin Pub Crawl

Thanks for supporting Rockslide Photography!

Dedringers Rock Momos

2007-02-07T21:37:00.000-06:00

The Dedringers got the midnight slot at Momos last Wednesday. Sean Faires was there early, and the Heathens invited him up for a song. Sean did not disappoint, leading the Heathens in a full throttle version of "I Shall Be Released." If you've seen Sean, you know he doesn't do much that isn't full throttle. Jonny returned to the band tonight for a birthday bash in San Marcos. I wasn't able to go for the birthday bash, but I am betting they had a good time.

With the two paired up again, I am looking forward to seeing more of the Dedringers soon.

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

When I Get Low...

2007-01-27T15:53:00.000-06:00

...I go to Momos -- that little bar high above Katz' on 6th Street. Why? Can you say the Hudsons, the Phoebe Jeebies, Warren Hood and the Hoodlums, Lisa Richards, the Side Hill Gougers and the Dedringers? Cameos by Slim Richey, Meaux Jeaux and Dennis Ludiker. And I missed the South Austin Jug Band, Jo Carol Pierce, Kacie Crowley, Emergenza, and others. All in a week at Momos.

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

Look Ma, No Head!

2007-01-13T19:52:00.000-06:00

8:00 PM on a Saturday night, and I am trying to get out to watch Sarah Jarosz at the Austin Friends of Traditional Music Mid-Winter Festival. It's been going on all day, but I have been holing up at home enjoying the rainy day.

I have four photos at the Diaz Gallery through the end of the month. Adam Diaz has a cool thing going at South 1st and Alpine and has been kind enough to give me some wall space. Stop by and look around – if you can't buy a photograph, buy a cactus. Plant Escape has some of the best agaves in town. Don't forget to tell them I sent you.

If there is no snow or ice, I recommend the Continental Club happy hour this Tuesday. Warren Hood, Scrappy Jud Newcomb, and Casper Rawls play a rare show. It doesn't get much better than this, so brave the weather -- pull on your coat and head down to South Congress. You won't regret it. See you there...

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

First Thursday: Last Mustache

2007-01-06T19:27:00.000-06:00

A moment of science for Vopni's vanished mouse stash...

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl (Mustached Edition)

Great week with lots of music, but the winner was once again the Continental Club Gallery. On a tip from Stanley Smith, I went to see Mike Flanigan's B-3 Trio. I won't say much other than don't miss this show.

Headed out to catch Erik Hokannen play at the satellite Flip's Satellite Cafe at the Y. Hope to finish out my Saturday catching Seth Walker's return to Jovitas.

Last Pub Crawl of '06

2007-01-01T12:54:00.000-06:00

Took in one last show on Saturday night, the Hoodlums @ Saxon Pub, and then called it a year. Not a bad line up: Warren Hood, Andrew Nafziger, Damien Llanes, Nate Rowe, Jon Doyle, and Willie Pipken. I almost went home at midnight, but wound up staying till closing. Since it was 2:00 am, I guess you could say that I celebrated New Year's at the Saxon.

See you in '07.

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

That's a Wrap

2006-12-29T23:53:00.000-06:00

Ricky Stein managed to land a spot opening for Alejandro Escovedo at Antones. The nine o'clock slot left me time to slip into Momo's on the way and catch the Hudsons for a half hour or so. If you haven't seen the Hudsons lately, Phoebe is back to having the longest hair in the band. And that's been a while.

It was fun hearing Hudson belt out a cover of Fred Neil's classic, Yonder Come the Blues, and take a turn on the vocal for Brian Hudson's song, Shield. And I could easily have settled in for the duration. After all, the Hudsons are my first Thursday choice. From Waterloo to Momo's and all points in between, the Hudsons are as comfy as a Pendleton wool blanket; so it was hard to pull away to go watch Ricky.

Outside, I was greeted with a steady mist, verging on light rain. I walked the few blocks over to Antones as fast as possible and arrived only moderately drenched. But I just keep learning that there is rich reward in the extra mile.

Ricky brought the full band, and they flat out rocked the house. Left the crowd chanting for more, which has to be good. The hour set went by too fast but rather than stay and listen to Alejandro, I opted for one more stop before turning in for the evening.

What a way to wrap up the last Thursday in 2006 – playing ping pong and soaking in pre-war jazz in the Continental Club Gallery. No kidding. This club definitely has the laid back part down. With the lack of stage or stage lighting, the listening room is more like hanging out with great musicians at a house party.

Let's hope Thursdays in 2007 live up to the standard...

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

Tuesday Night Special

2006-12-27T17:55:00.000-06:00

I spent the weekend at home enjoying the Christmas spirit. Had planned to stay home again, but an email from a friend lured me out to see Erik and the Hip Replacements at Flipnotics. Worn out from four days of last minute shopping and non-stop eating, I dragged myself to the car and headed into town.

Since I was out anyway, I decided to take in Lisa Richards at Momo's. This gig had actually been on my list of things to do, but I came perilously close to opting for a lazy TV night. As soon as Lisa started singing, I knew I had made the right choice. When she sang "Open" I was blown away. Power and grace and feeling... Lisa is the real deal.

Check out what she is up to on her website

After Lisa's show, I skipped over to Flipnotics for Erik's experimental swing laboratory. It has become pretty standard fair for full chaos to break out. Last night was no exception. Participants in the mania included Kerri Javorta, Phoebe Hunt, Warren hood, and Seth Walker. Hats off to the coolest cats in town. They play every Tuesday at Flips.

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

Merry Christmas and Stuff

2006-12-22T12:33:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas and other stuff, folks - whatever your tradition, nothing like the end of a year to make you reflect on where are, and where you are going. Hope you are headed someplace good!

I have a few images up at the Diaz Gallery through the end of January. Go over and take a gander. Here's an incentive: if you buy a photograph from the gallery, I'll give you one of my landscape prints for $20. Just show me your receipt.

I have been extra busy playing Santa but have managed to get out a few times.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

I went down to the Trail of Lights tonight and had some fun with long exposures (Click here for photos). Finished the evening with funnel cake for all.

Happy Holidays

2006-12-15T14:42:00.000-06:00

This just in: photos for sale by desperate artist. I hope to have four framed prints installed at the Diaz Gallery at South 1st and Alpine (just north of Ben White) by Sunday. I also have an inventory of 6 or so landscapes and somewhere around a dozen music prints in case you can't wait for me to get my gallery act together. All images are giclee prints on fine art paper from AgavePrint in South Austin. Most prints are 9X13.5 on 11X17 paper, but I have a couple landscapes at 13X20 on 17X22 paper.

Click here for Austin Pub Crawl

The Phoebe Jeebies

2006-12-04T17:45:00.000-06:00

Comprised of members from the South Austin Jugband, the Hudsons, the Marshall Ford Swing Band, and some torch named Gimble, this sexy jazztet – I mean jazzy sextet – belts out blues, viper tunes, swing and old standards slick as a oil on wet asphalt. The Phoebe Jeebies are: Willy Pipken and Marshall Hood on guitars; Phoebe Hunt on fiddle; Emily Gimble on piano; Jason Vopni on bass and James Gwyn on drums. Definitley a good warm up for the Hoodlums.

Check them out every Sunday eveing 8-9 PM at Momo's.

CLick here for Austin Pub Crawl

Upcoming Gallery Show

2006-12-03T10:22:00.000-06:00

Plan to have at least 4 or 5 prints up in a gallery for the Christmas season. Will post details including images for sale soon.

Winter Wind

2006-11-29T16:41:00.000-06:00

A winter wind is supposed to blow tonight, so take your jacket if you plan to stay out late. I am headed down to Momo's to watch Robert Socia open up for the Heathens. Feels kind of funny with no Jovita's gig on the schedule, but with every change you get something new – and new is mostly good.

I have been meaning to see Robert Socia for some time now, so I am looking forward to the show. Check out Robert's music, photos, schedule and press on his website.

I will probably stay for the first set of the Heathens and then head home to rest up for Hudsons at Momo's tomorrow night.

Click here for link to this week's Austin Pub Crawl

Wednesdays at Jovitas Winding Down?

2006-11-19T16:52:00.000-06:00

The word is that Seth will give up his residency at Jovitas soon, so come out this Wednesday to see what has grown into one of the best regular parties in Austin. Don't fret, although we may have to share Seth with the rest of the country more often, the calendar on Seth's website indicates that his touring schedule leaves plenty of chances for local audiences to get in on the act.

Seth's Calendar

Speaking of local musicians with busy touring schedules, I am getting ready to head down to Momos this evening to see Warren Hood and the Hoodlums. He has been in town every Sunday this month, but this will be the first time I have been able to make it out to see a show since mid October. Tonight should be special! Slim Richey and Emily Gimble will be opening for Warren. I can't wait.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl
Hoodlums' Sunday Gig at Momo's

Rice Fest Rocks

2006-11-14T18:49:00.000-06:00

What a weekend in Fischer! Sarah Jarosz put it best when she signed the mat around a photo of her at last year's festival, "Rice Fest Rocks!" The photo was part of a silent auction that raised money for an art scholarship at Texas State University.

I hope you enjoy the photos Click here for pictures of the Rice Fest, but there is something that they can't show – the feeling in the hall.

At some point, someone new to the festival came up to me and asked if everyone else already knew each other. I looked around the room and there were certainly lots of old friends, and familiar faces. But the truth is that everyone in Fischer Hall is a friend. A friend in music, a friend in laughter, a friend in spirit.

For that, I have the best friend I never met to thank.

Thanks Rice!

Too Much Monkey Business

2006-11-03T15:27:00.000-06:00

I went down to South Congress to take in First Thursday last night. I wandered around the market, and wound up catching a couple bonus shows, or at least they were for me – you guys may have already known about them. Gary Primich played at Jo's Hot Coffee with Mike Keller holding down the guitar; and the Bee's Knees Revue were playing on the sidewalk across the street. I was too late to catch John Dee Graham and the Resembles, or what must have resembled the Resentments. I bet it was good, but he was packing up his gear by the time I got to Ruta Maya. I guess I'll just have to get out to Saxon some Sunday evening. The second show was pretty good though, so I ended up kicking back and taking what the night had to offer – in this case, a band from San Diego called Tapwater.

Here is a look at what I have been able to get to so far this week:

Click here for AustinPubCrawl

I still have too much left on my plate – Blue Lapis Light's Requiem, the Austin Powwow, a couple three parties, Warren Hood's return to Momo's, Don Walser tribute at the Broken Spoke.

That's the Spirit!

2006-10-31T09:18:00.000-06:00

You knew it was bound to get spooky this week. Here are a few hallowed events I plan on taking in.

A number of local bands get together Wednesday night to raise money for Darcie Deaville – The Austin Lounge Lizards, Jimmy LaFave, Gurf Morlix and Tracie Lynn, to name a few. Check out the details on Threadgill's website:

Darcie Deaville's Fundraiser

It's also First Thursday again, and the Resentments are scheduled to play at Ruta Maya. Should be a good start to the holiday season. Come out and drink a toast to four years of keeping Austin weird.

Friday night, I hope to get out to Blue Lapis Light's Requiem show at the Intel Shell. I happened on this dance troupe when I was downtown one afternoon. I heard eerie music emanating from the Intel Shell and went to see what was going on. A couple of "dancers" were suspended from the Intel Shell on climbing ropes, slowly spinning and twisting around in what looked like underwater ballet, only 50 feet off the ground. Really cool! Check out their site for info on the event:

Requiem

On Saturday, the whole family will head down to the 14th annual Austin Powwow at Toney Burger Center. Traditional dancers, singers and artisans from all over North America descend on South Austin.

Austin Powwow Flyer

Hope your week is full of creepy fun...

Things that Go Boo in the Night

2006-10-27T12:05:00.000-05:00

I took my six year old out to Camp Ben McCulloch last weekend. We experimented with how close to horizontal a swing can get, caught frogs in what used to be Onion Creek, roasted marshmallows over the camp fire, slopped up some sausage and ribs from the Salt Lick, played a little guitar, carved a Jack-O-Lantern – oh, and watched the end of a pretty scary football game on somebody’s portable TV set.

On the downside, I missed the Hudson’s return to Waterloo Icehouse (that may have been a one time only deal); on the upside, I got to hear Sarah Jarosz play some spooky bluegrass, swing and “traditional” tunes. For my money, you can’t beat watching Sarah at a small festival.

I went out Wednesday night for Seth Walker’s return to Jovita’s. He’s been on the road for a couple weeks, playing a few shows with the likes of Marcia Ball and Charlie Musselwhite. One of the shows was at some kind of funky blues joint way off the black top on the back roads of Florida. Seth said the club held its own against T.C.’s Lounge – Austin’s Monday night home for the Little Elmore Reed Band.

Buy Seth's Latest CD

Thursday night I snuck in a little Troublesome Trio at Waterloo and then headed to Momo’s to watch the Hudsons for an hour. As always in Austin, there was more music to be had. Some of the folks were headed out to see Robert Socia at Shoal Creek Saloon followed up by Ricky Stein’s late night gig at the Hole in the Wall. I slunk home to rest up for tonight’s gig at La Zona Rosa – the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and James Hunter.

A gentle reminder – Cabin10 is hosting the third annual Rice Fest on November 10-11 at Fischer Hall. Tim O’Brien, Danny Barnes, Sarah Jarosz, Laurie Lewis, Slim Richey, Terry Hendrix, Lloyd Maines, Peter Rowan, Karen Abrahams, the Dust Devils, the McKay Brothers, Graham Weber, and the Pat Green… How can you go wrong? This festival not only showcases great local talent, it brings in the national names you expect from much bigger events.

This year’s Rice Fest is spread over two nights, so there is sure to be campfire fun on Friday night. Bring your jacket, your instrument of choice, and a camp chair and hope for crisp star filled skies.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

Strings and Things

2006-10-16T17:30:00.000-05:00

This coming weekend, the Austin Friends of Traditional Music will host a little festival at Camp Ben McCulloch. The Austin Stringband Festival (click here for festival website) is held in a covered pavilion in case you’re worried about rain, but I recommend chancing the weather and camping out. This should be low key, relaxing fun, and a good primer for the Rice Fest in November.

There is a contra dance on Friday night and things wrap up with a gospel sing on Sunday morning. I am guessing there will be plenty of picking in between at the camp sites. Bring some food, pitch a tent, set out a few chairs, and watch the festivities unfold…

Here is this year’s line up:

4 PM – Earl Brothers (short set) www.earlbrothers.com
5 PM – South Austin Jug Band www.southaustinjugband.com
6 PM – Grey Sky Boys www.greyskyboys.com
7 PM – Double Eagle String Band
8 PM – White Ghost Shivers www.whiteghostshivers.com
9 PM – Sarah Jarosz
10 PM – Grassy Knoll Boys www.grassyknollboys.com
11 PM – Earl Brothers (long set)

Sarah Jarosz could easily be the headliner. She has already shared the stage with almost everybody who is anybody in bluegrass music. I first saw her with Blue Eyed Grass at Old Settlers in 2004, but I was hooked at the Rice Fest later that year when she took the stage with Tim O'Brien and stole the show. Catch her any time you can; she is simply amazing.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

More Fun than You Can Shake a Stick at

2006-10-09T18:35:00.000-05:00

Last week I strolled down to the First Thursday Market on South Congress to see what was available in the way of photographs. In good old Texas fashion, I am fixin’ to start work on a project—which means I am gathering strength to overcome the inertia of laziness. The idea of the project is to sell selected Austin music scene prints and give the profits back to the musicians. If I get off the ground, there will be more details later. Prints will be available by request or at events like First Thursday. Feel free to contact me if you want to get on the bandwagon early.

Current plans for the Austin Music Scene catalog include photos of the Hudsons, Erik Hokkanen, Redd Vollkaert, the South Austin Jug Band, Stephen Bruton, Warren Hood, the Heathens, and Seth Walker.

After scouting the First Thursday Market, I finished up the evening at Ruta Maya listening to the South Austin Jug Band play another First Thursdaze. No surprise here that two A-list guests got up on stage for part of the jam: Billy Bright (mandolin) and Chojo Jaques (fiddle).

Billy plays mandolin for Two High String Band
Chojo Jaques' website

The Resentments are scheduled for November 2nd to celebrate the fourth year of First Thursdaze. The parties kick off each first Thursday after the market on South Congress winds down. The cover goes to the band, beer sales at the Austin Daze booth go to Austin Daze (go figure), and bar sales go to Ruta Maya. This spirit of collaboration and creative enterprise embodies the best of Austin.

Click here for this week's Austin Pub Crawl

Rice Fest: November 10-11 at Fischer Hall

2006-10-02T18:12:00.000-05:00

I was introduced to Tim O’Brien’s music on an Austin City Limits episode years ago when Hot Rise “shared” the bill with Red Knuckles and the Trailblazers. I was impressed by the idea that a band could reshuffle themselves with different instruments and a different sound—mocking themselves, the music—and damn, they were good.

Over time, I have found that virtually anything Tim gets involved in musically is good stuff. When, three years ago, my college roommate called me up and said his friend was hosting a fundraiser in Fischer, Texas, and the headliner was Tim O’Brien, the decision was easy, “I’m in!”

Festival Website

That first Rice Fest was one of those magical things you stumble into only a few times in your life. Held at Fischer Hall, between Wimberly and Blanco, the surroundings made me feel instantly at home. In a lot of ways I was transported back to the days when Austin City Limits had an Austin feel; hell, when Austin had an Austin feel.

November was cold that year, and as I got out of the car, I could smell wood smoke. I had heard about the hall, which is one of the oldest dance halls in Texas, and was anxious to take a peek inside. Unlike Gruene Hall, Fischer is not continually operated; available instead for rental by anyone who wants to throw a party. The lack of constant use lends a more rustic vibe to the facility.

Both hands in my pockets, and my collar up to stave off the cold, I approached the front door, the white clap-board building looking more like a country church than a dance hall. I paid for my ticket and walked inside for a look. Standing on the old wood planks, I felt like I ought to take my hat off. The floor had been polished smooth by years of boot heels scuffing the new away. It was hard to imagine this place new.

The party started early in the afternoon and continued on until after midnight. The crowd grew steadily stronger. The entertainment was unbelievable. Near the end of the night, Tim was playing solo. Just Red and his fiddle. Right then, the clouds opened up and let torrential sheets of rain clatter down on the tin roof. The crowd was stomping their feet on the raised floor. Tim kept time with the stomp, stomp, stomp...just smiling away.

After he finished playing, he told us that it was the Fischer Reel. Showmanship or cosmic synergy? No matter; it was the real thang.

Being that the event is held to honor the memory of Rice Harrington, Tim closed his set with a song that explores losing someone close to you and how even when they are gone, they live on in the spirit that you carry forward. Rice shares his spirit with us every November. It is a wonderful, healing spirit. Thanks to the team at Cabin10 for carrying it to us…

The after show that first year was Ponty Bone and the Squeezetones. The chairs were pushed aside in favor of an expanded dance floor. And nobody stayed in their seats. This was good old small town Texas fun the way it used to be—or still is in Fischer, Texas.

Back to the here and now. Here's a gallery of recent photos:

Austin Pub Crawl (and actual commissioned work)

See you around...

Band of Heathens CD Release

2006-09-28T22:16:00.000-05:00

There was extra incentive to make my regular pilgrimage to see the Hudsons this week. With Emergenza in town, the Hudsons’ Thursday gig at Momo’s was shifted to Wednesday, which meant they opened for the Band of Heathens.

Band of Heathens' Website

I first heard about the Heathens sometime late spring and managed to see them at Momo's in June. It took way too long for me to make it out to my second show, but this last Wednesday confirmed the obvious: I need to squeeze the Heathens' Wednesday show into my schedule.

Band of Heathens @ Momos

It’s not too late to jump on the band wagon. They are releasing their first CD on October 11th at Momo’s. The Heathens are four singer songwriters trading originals and a few covers. The delivery feels like a song circle around a campfire as each takes his turn, but this is no Americana folk set. It’s a soulful blend of southern rock, laid back Austin style with a heaping helping of fun.

My personal favorite on Wednesday night was Colin's cover of Townes Van Zandt's "If I Needed You." Gordy kept the signature alternating bass, finger-picking background, while Colin overlaid a pulsating slide on top of his vocals. Everyone joined in on the chorus, weaving a velvety four part harmony. Never heard that version before, but it was haunting.

Come on out and enjoy the party—every Wednesday night.

See you there…

Here Comes Fall

2006-09-25T18:15:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! An evening with Seth Walker; a drive to Garner State Park; a swim in the river; a norther announces the first day of fall; the loud camp neighbors wake up at 4:30 am; a drive back to town; a night with the DesChamps Band, straight-six edition... Fall comes in with a flourish.

In preparation for the trip to Garner, I had some errands to run on Friday night. Somehow, I found myself at Central Market watching Seth Walker play to a spirited crowd on the deck. Central Market is a pretty sweet music venue when the post oaks are still dressed up in their thick green leaves. Kids ran amok—on and off the deck, and into the playground below. Dancers, per usual at any Seth gig, filled the floor with swaying arms, legs, hips, heads, torsos…

Fortunately, I managed to accomplish my errands and return home in time to rise early enough on Saturday to get my wheels up for the drive to Garner. Garner State Park is about three and a half hours west and south of town. We had cloud cover for most of the trip; but by the time we got to Garner, it was sunny, hot, and humid. What to do if you are hot and sticky in Garner? Jump into the Frio River of course.

We played in the river until threatening clouds told us we might ought to make haste back to camp. I had to take a few pictures first (imagine that) but was convinced to take cover after a few ominous rumbles in the towering clouds—not to mention the sky was turning black.

Garner State Park

It rained a good part of the night, but the only unauthorized water in our rustic screened shelter came from a failed ice chest. I was actually pretty comfortable sleeping until our neighbors awoke at 4:30 am for family time around the camp fire. It was not a relaxed conversation over a cup of Joe or cocoa; instead, it was a loud chorus of “NO! YOU’RE HURTING ME! STOP! DON’T MAKE ME GET UP OUT OF THIS CHAIR!” finally punctuated around 8:30 am with the three year old yelling “BE QUIET” at the top of her lungs. Nothing like a night in the country to give you peace of mind.

We drove back through the hill country west of Ingram, drinking in the crisp fall sky. You know, it sounds a little crazy, but sometimes I forget where I live. I get stuck in a rut racing up and down Mopac with tunnel-vision focus trained on my day to day routine. It sure feels good to wake up from that grind every once in a while and realize how spectacular Central Texas can be.

Back in town, I took a short nap, and then capped off the weekend with the DesChamps Band down at Momo’s. Marshall had his large band in tow (I am calling it the Straight-Six edition), and they put on a good show. I heard at least one Walter Hyatt song I had never heard of before, as well as a couple new Marshall songs.

AustinPubCrawl

That’s about all I could squeeze into a weekend.

Under the Hood

2006-09-20T17:48:00.000-05:00

Well, what do you know? The DesChamps Band is driving a Straight-Six—as in a six piece band. They are scheduled to rev up their overhauled engine at Momo’s on Sunday, September 24th at 9:00 PM.

Marshall Hood (lead guitar and vocals) and Rob Teter (rhythm guitar and vocals) are back, but Jeff Brown (bass) and Matt Parks (fiddle) are replaced for this show by Mike Morris and Phoebe Hunt, respectively. Jonathan Konya (drums) and Conner Forsyth (keyboards) fill out the current edition of the band.

Originally formed to pay tribute to Uncle Walts Band, the DesChamps Band has grown to resemble UWB instead—writing their own material, picking up their own covers, and honing their chops. There will, of course, be a heavy dose of Walter, Champ and David covers.

Marshall has been getting loads of playing time as a sideman for Toni Price and Warren Hood’s Hoodlums, as well as occasionally sitting in with local bands like the South Austin Jug Band. Rob has been at Loyola University studying up on the music industry and is bringing fellow Loyola students, Mike, Jonathan, and Conner, along for the ride. Phoebe is on loan from the Hudsons; don’t worry Hudsons’ fans—she won’t quit her “day” job…

Together, the Straight-Six version of DesChamps Band should be hitting on all cylinders. Their second release, White Azalea Hotel, is available at Waterloo Records and the band’s website DesChamps Band Merchandise; but don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear them in person.

Thank You ACL Fest!

2006-09-18T18:23:00.000-05:00

You’ve got to love ACL Fest. Last Friday night, I drove down to the Saxon Pub at 8:30 PM to see the Dedringers, the Hudsons, and the South Austin Jug Band. When I rolled into the parking lot, I had five spaces to choose from…

AustinPubCrawl_060918

Watching the Dedringers and the Hudsons at new venues, you can see their audience growing every night.

I have mixed feelings on a bigger audience, especially for the Hudsons. For me, going to the Huds has been like going to a dance hall in a small town. You may not “know” everybody in the room, but there’s hardly a face you don’t recognize. That familiarity and camaraderie makes the Hudsons your home away from home.

On the other hand, I want the Huds to become stars: rich, famous, and sporting a big touring bus with tinted windows, a western scene airbrushed onto the side, a satellite dish on the roof, and a driver named Gator to negotiate the all night, black top rivers between tour dates. No early morning stops in Louisiana please.

Back to Friday’s show, the South Austin Jug Band finished out the evening with style. Sitting in on banjo, Noah Jeffries (a.k.a. Nug) gave the gig more of a bluegrass feel. Noah also picked up the mandolin and guitar for several songs each—is there any instrument he can’t play?

The $10 cover for three shows spreads to $3.33 per band—hardly enough for the entertainment delivered…

Anything Can Happen and Probably Will

2006-09-14T01:16:00.000-05:00

The Austin music scene has long been home to musicians of all kinds: jazz, blues, folk, funk, blue grass, rock, swing, etc. When they are not touring with their regular bands, frontmen and sidemen switch bands and places, reforming to play local gigs for the music not the money—a full tip jar is okay if you are so inclined.

Almost any week you can catch Redd Volkaert and Cindy Cashdollar, or the Resentments, or the Heathens, or Warren Hood and the Hoodlums, or Elizabeth McQueen, or Free Nug, or the Jazz Pharaohs, or Little Elmore Reed, or well, you get the idea. If you happen in on any of these gigs, you can pretty much count on high energy, foot-stomping, fun. And the musicians on stage are worth far more than the cover—which is usually just the tip jar.

Being an old Uncle Walt's Band fan, one of my favorite local gigs is Warren Hood and the Hoodlums. Warren’s motto is you can’t have too many Walter Hyatt songs in a set, so there are plenty of tributes to the past. Don't think this is just Uncle Walt's Band revisited, however—Warren’s originals and choices for covers definitely hold their own.

The Hoodlums

When Warren Hood is not touring with the Waybacks, the Hoodlums play blues and swing on Sunday nights at Momo’s. The Hoodlums usually include Andrew Nafziger (guitar), Mike Keller (guitar and vocals), Marshall Hood (guitar and vocals), Nate Rowe (bass and vocals), and Damien Llanes (drums); but in Austin, there are always all-star irregulars ready to sit in for a song or a set—Ephraim Owens (trumpet), John Doyle (saxophone and clarinet), Matt Giles (guitar and vocals), Marvin Dykuis (guitar, mandolin and vocals), Casper Rawls (guitar and vocals), Erik Hokannen (fiddle, guitar, mandolin and vocals), Eamon McLoughlin (fiddle), Willie Pipkin (guitar), Dennis Ludiker (mandolin)… and, I don’t know, maybe you?

That’s right, in a town where there is a musician or two, or three…in every audience, almost anything can happen.

Speaking of anything can happen, I stopped in on Seth Walker’s Wednesday gig at Jovitas last night. As usual, Jovita's dance floor was full, and the music was gritty, low-down blues—just the thing to pick me up. Like Warren, Seth has a lot of talented friends, and you never know who might get up on stage. Pinetop Perkins was this week’s special guest.

Pinetop

Wow, wow, wow, wow!!! A long time sideman for Muddy Waters, Pinetop has been recognized with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Austin gets a lifetime of blues on a Wednesday night...If that's the blues, I don't want nothing but the blues!

A Bonus Set

2006-09-08T17:38:00.000-05:00

All is right with the world. I stopped in on the Troublesome Trio at Waterloo Ice House for a listen last night, grabbed a quick bite to eat at Wahoo’s Fish Taco, and then headed up to Momo’s for the Hudsons' set.

AustinPubCrawl_060908

The Hudsons were only billed for an hour set, but the next band didn’t show up. That meant a bonus set; I am thinking that the Huds will have both slots pretty soon (hey Wally Pipp—you snooze, you lose). By the way, absolutely no truth to the rumor that certain fans misdirected the errant band.

Birthdays, surprise songs, dignitaries, beer, whisky, a few pork tacos…what else could an audience want? A group was headed off to see the Lonesome Heroes and Ricky Stein at the Hole in the Wall. It was late, and I had another errand to run, so we parted company.

I am sure I missed out. What can you do? Just too much fun to be had in Austin.

See you around.

John

Little Folk Rocks!

2006-09-06T17:04:00.000-05:00

Thanks for dropping in. I am just back from the Wine and Music Festival in Kerrville. It was a busy weekend—what with watching great music, visiting with long lost and new found friends, taking countless photographs and playing guitar until untold hours of the night, I am a little on the slow side this week.

The evidence:
Little Folk

My favorite shows of the weekend?

The Hudsons
What can I say; I can never resist a chance to promote this homegrown band. Sorry Guy, there is something better than homegrown tomatoes.

Zoe Lewis
Billed as a band in a body, Zoe is more an out of body experience. One person shouldn’t have that much energy. Maybe it stems from the eclectic Cape Cod community she now calls home. Whatever the source, she is powerful fun. I mean, how often do you get to see a duet on spoons?

Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart
Perhaps the most magical moment of the festival came from Stacey Earle. She sang a song for her son who recently surprised her with the news that he has enlisted in the army. It started off pining for the lost patter of little feet as songs for children often do, but the tension built until the last stanzas punched you squarely in the gut. Her lines about wrapping herself up in the memorial flag until she can put it away again were utterly heart wrenching. It takes courage to imagine these things, to distill your rawest emotions into crisp little images; but to share your darkest fear, to speak it out loud, takes unbounded love.

Lucky Tomblin Band
Wrapping up the event was the quintessential honky tonk experience. For the uninitiated, Lucky Tomblin’s band, Earle Pool Ball, Redd Volkaert, John X Reed, Sarah Brown, and Bobby Arnold, plumb drop the hammer down. I’m not sure it was folk music, but the folks were rockin’.

That’s all from little folk. See you soon…

A Hudson Homecoming

2006-09-01T13:59:00.000-05:00

I am behind in chronicling my weekly Austin Pub Crawl but did get out several times. I went to see Erik Hokannen (@ Central Market), Otis Gibbs, Steve Forbert, Dale Watson, Ricky Stein, Graham Weber, Chris Brecht, Doak Short, Toni Price, Erik Hokannen again (@ Flips), the Hudsons, the Consumption Hooks, Francis, and Graham Wilkinson & the Underground Township. I am posting the week’s photos without listing who’s who. Don’t worry--if you must have names, I will try to come back later and name the players and places:

AustinPubCrawl_060901

Notes from around town: After a long tour of the Midwest and Canada, the Hudsons are back in town. They drove all night from one last gig in Wichita, Kansas and arrived early Tuesday morning. I guess nothing looks better than Austin through your front windshield.

Their website lists a Wednesday gig here in town, followed by the show last night, another on Saturday at the Saxon Pub, an appearance on Sunday at the Kerrville Wine and Music Festival—then, it’s down to their usual two to three shows a week.

Friends, fans and family crowded Momos to see what a month of touring in a 1995 Chevrolet Astro Van can do for a band. The Huds should have been a road weary, but I couldn’t tell. They belted out a non-stop set, hardly pausing between songs which seemed to build one on top of the other to a Hudsonian crescendo.

If you don’t know about the Hudsons, you are in luck. They have a bazillion upcoming gigs to choose from.

The Hudsons' Tour Dates

The Hudsons are: Brian Hudson on guitar and vocals, Hudson Mueller on guitar and vocals, Phoebe Hunt on fiddle and vocals, and Jason Vopni on upright bass. The music is mostly original with occasional covers to pay tribute to the undercurrent of influences that run through their songs: Robbie Robertson, Uncle Walts Band, Dylan, Todd Snider, Willie Nelson, Johnny Vandiver, the Beatles…

For my money, the Hudsons are the best Americana, hip-hop, folkin’, roots rock, blue grass, singer songwriters in town. Okay, maybe they’re the only band in this category; but they are categorically good.

I also like the Hudsons because they are good folks; and, in large part, they are the genesis of Rockslide Photography. I ran into the Hudsons at Waterloo Ice House a few years ago and started bringing my camera along. A few tens of thousands of images later and here we are. Check out the retrospective Hudson’s gallery:

TheImprobableRiseOfTheHudsonsHipHopFolkinRock

Rockslide Goes Live!

2006-08-24T21:44:00.000-05:00

My website went live today! Just goes to show that anything is possible. If you are looking to hire me, please stop reading and just give me a call. If you are wondering what I am up to, it’s possible you have too much time on your hands.

From my Austin Music Scene gallery, you can probably guess that I enjoy living in the Music Capital of the World. I encourage you to support live music--in Austin, or wherever else you might be.

Tip for Austinites: there is a pair of songwriters new to town called the Dedringers. Fresh out of high school, you wouldn't expect the rough‑around‑the‑edges quality to their vocals and lyrics.

You wouldn't expect them to be holding down a weekly Monday gig at the Saxon Pub following Bob Schneider's show. But that's just the beginning. They had an invite to Woody Fest in Okema in July; last week they worked in bookings at Jovitas and Momos in addition to their Monday show. Next week they’re billed at the Cactus.

Picture John Prine and Steve Earle, fused with a twist of Dylan, and you'll have a hint; but I suggest you forgo the picturing and check them out in person.

With the Hudsons back in town next week, all I needed was another irresistible pair of songwriters to tempt me out into the Austin night.

It's getting hard to pick and choose, but I'll be out and about with camera in tow, even if it's only for partial sets.

Check out AustinPubCrawl_060825 for a view through the rockslide lens.

Rockslide photography - Austin, Texas

2006-08-15T21:08:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my photo blog.