With so much live music in Austin to see every weekend, we know it’s difficult to pick which bands to watch. To make it easier, we’ve picked 10 great shows to see this weekend. Featuring both local and national bands, we’ve rounded up some of the most diverse groups Austin has to offer this weekend. Read on to see our picks!
Thursday, July 13
Jonny Craig
Best known for fronting the band Slaves, Jonny Craig will be coming to the Sidewinder tonight with support from Hearts Like Lions for an intimate stop in one of Austin’s favorite clubs. Check out Craig’s new song, “House of War,” to get a taste of his explosive style.
July 13 | 6 p.m. | Sidewinder | 715 Red River
Ruby and The Reckless
Fronted by Austin’s most beloved fiddler Ruby Jane, Ruby and The Reckless combines alternative rock and psychedelic sounds to create a band that Austinites will eat up. Known to draw crowds for just her fiddle performances, Jane and her latest project is not one to miss if you have yet to see her live. The relaxing atmosphere around the W Hotel’s pool deck means you’ll want to see this show.
July 13 | 5 p.m. | W Hotel | 200 Lavaca Street
W.C. Clark Blues Revue
Named the “Godfather of the Blues” due to his influence in the local scene since the 1960s, W.C. Clark will be appearing at Antone’s with his band the Blues Revue for the venue’s continuing 32 year anniversary celebration.
July 13 | 7 p.m. | Antone’s | 305 East 5th
Mt. Eddy
Coming to the Sidewinder this Friday is young Bay Area punk band Mt. Eddy, fronted by Jakob Armstrong, the son of Green Day front man Billie Joe Armstrong. The band originally started out several years back under the name Jakob Danger, and now they’re a full group that has recently released a new record titled Chroma. Tracks such as “Metaphor” highlight the Bay Area’s deep punk roots, while reminding listeners that musical skill is sometimes entirely genetic.
July 13 | 8 p.m. | Sidewinder | 715 Red River
Concrete Shoes
Concrete Shoes is a local jam style band that will be taking the stage at Swan Dive this weekend for some musical fun. With numbers such as “Woke Up Early This Morning,” listeners will get a taste of the band’s laid back feel. With funky beats and energetic gang vocals, Concrete Shoes is certainly a band to listen to this weekend.
July 13 | 9:30 p.m. | Swan Dive | 615 Red River
Jackie Venson
Long considered one of Austin’s best guitarists, Jackie Venson can shred and wail with the best of them. She’s always putting on an energetic and passionate performance, — Venson is not to be missed if you haven’t seen her live. Blues fans in particular will love Venson as she can truly make a guitar talk.
July 13 | 8 p.m. | Shady Grove | 1624 Barton Springs Road
Friday, July 14
Carson McHone
Local singer-songwriter Carson McHone is performing at 3Ten ACL Live on Friday to play calming acoustic tracks while keeping with Austin’s love of folk and country music. Songs such as “Dram Shop Girl” not only show off McHone’s musical talents but also her vocal skills, perfect for winding down your Friday night.
July 14 | 6 p.m. | 3Ten ACL Live | 310 Willie Nelson Blvd
Saturday, July 15
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit
Alabama musician Jason Isbell will be rolling into Austin with his band The 400 Unit this Saturday to perform their folk inspired songs that will get you thinking and feeling. With songs such as “If We Were Vampires,” Isbell is a relaxing and reflective musician.
July 15 | 8 p.m. | 3Ten ACL Live | 310 Willie Nelson Blvd
Big Jesus
Known for their fuzz rock songs, upcoming Atlanta band Big Jesus will be playing the Sidewinder this weekend to promote their latest release, Oneiric, that came out last year. With a big sound and plenty of feeling, Big Jesus is the right band to see if you are looking to watch upcoming talent.
July 15 | 8 p.m. | Sidewinder | 715 Red River
Sunday, July 16
Hartley Hall
Texas based songwriter Hartley Hall will be performing at Austin Beer Garden and Brewery as part of the brewery’s Sunday Best series beginning at 4 p.m. With an authentic country sound that seems influenced by Loretta Lynn, you’ll be dancing to Hall’s music in no time, adding another layer of talent to Austin’s music scene.
July 16 | 4 p.m. | Austin Beer Garden and Brewery | 1305 West Oltorf
Looking to the future: Halsey
Named after the Halsey subway station in New York City, Halsey’s music is as big as the Big Apple. Tying together pop and electronic music, Halsey provides fans with a rich musical pallet that has made her an international star. They’re coming to the Frank Erwin Center this October, get your tickets fast as the show may sell out.
October 27 | 7 p.m. | Frank Erwin Center | 1701 Red River
Featured photo: Jackie Venson, Jindrich Opt
If you would like to read more of Lauren Gribble’s features, you can head to her website Listen Here Reviews.