The weekend is coming, y’all! Ready to see some shows? We are. Here’s 10 picks from our music critic, Lauren Gribble.

If you love discovering new local bands as much as we do, sign up at the bottom of this article to get these recommendations delivered to your email every week.

–The Editor
——

Friday, August 28th

Maddie and Tae in store performance at Waterloo Records

Several years ago, country duo Maddie and Tae wrote a track called “Girl In A Country Song” as they wanted to vent their discontent over the lack of women in country music. While the two friends weren’t intending to write a hit, it took off like wildfire, and outlets such as NPR and late night host David Letterman could not get enough of this hot new country act. While they are still relatively new, Maddie and Tae will be stopping by Waterloo Records this Friday to sign copies of their new album Start Here and perform a few songs from the record. Later that evening, they will serve as the opening act for country superstar Dierks Bentley. If you don’t want to miss out on these spunky and talented country singers, head on down to Waterloo or make your way to Austin 360 for a fun performance.

Float Fest at Cool River Ranch

While Austin has plenty of music festivals throughout the year, Float Fest is one that will certainly keep you cooler than most. Taking place at Cool River Ranch outside of Austin, fans can check out local acts such as Ghostland Observatory and nationally known bands such as Local Natives, Dr. Dog, Mute Math, and Phantogram. Certainly not a festival to miss, it is not sold out, but we encourage you to get your tickets early so you don’t miss out on all that Float Fest has to offer.

Tickets: VIP ($150, single day, $349 for three day)

Single day pass: $150 (same price as VIP)

Single day regular tickets: $65

Roger Wallace at Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company

Roger Wallace is one of Austin’s most distinctive country voices, as he plays with a vigor and passion that cannot be matched. Treating fans to an acoustic guitar and true country twang, we would would love for you to dust off your cowboy boots and get down to down to the Austin Beer Garden and Brewery for a fun evening while you dance to one of Austin’s most popular and well loved genres.

Failure Anthem at Dirty Dog Bar

This weekend, North Carolina metal band Failure Anthem will be making an appearance at The Dirty Dog Bar as part of the Smokin’ Hot Tour where they are supporting Texas Hippie Coalition. Sounding similar to Seether, Failure Anthem is not a band to skip, due to their high energy live performances and passionate musical delivery. Bold and striking, Failure Anthem draws you into their songs from the moment they hit the stage, all while keeping their audience hooked to the very end.

Tickets: $20

Dierks Bentley at Austin360

Dierks Bentley will be taking over Austin 360 this Friday with Maddie and Tae, who we mentioned above, as his opening act. After releasing his debut self-titled album in 2003, Bentley has made a name for himself performing hits such as “What Was I Thinkin,” “Settle For A Slowdown,” and “I Wanna Make You Close Your Eyes.” Putting on a show that demonstrates his love for his fans and music, it should no surprise to anyone attending why Bentley has become one of the genre’s brightest stars, as his talent is a rare find.

Tickets: $25-$54.75

Belle and Sebastian at ACL Live

Belle and Sebastian are one of those bands that you can’t help but love. Performing dreamy pop songs such as “Piazza, New York Catcher” and “Dear Catastrophe, Waitress” Belle and Sebastian will make you look forward to Saturday night as their live show and music is well worth the money due to their outstanding musicianship and live show, allowing fans to sing along and have a good time.

Tickets: $40-49

Saturday, August 29th

Kelly Clarkson at Austin360

Winning the first season of American Idol (or any season of the competition) is no easy feat, though staying relevant thirteen years after winning is a much harder mountain to climb, and one that Kelly Clarkson probably never dreamed of when she won Idol back in 2002. While other Idol contestants have come and gone, Clarkson has managed to put out strong records that not only show her talent but her staying power. Austinites will get a taste of her relevancy this weekend, as she sings the doors off of Austin 360.

Tickets: $25.00-$99.00

David Ramirez at The Parish

David Ramirez will be treating fans to a performance this weekend at The Parish and his haunting voice and live show are not to be missed. While he has spent years opening for bands and touring completely by himself, he is now releasing his new album Fables, and songs such as “How Do You Get ‘Em Back” are haunting, beautiful, and just plain good.

Tickets: $16-20

Sunday, August 30th

The Cornell Hurd Band at Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company

A fun loving country band from the Live Music Capitol, The Cornell Hurd Band is one that everyone can enjoy regardless of your musical preferences. When you watch the group perform it is clear that they are on stage because of a love of playing music and nothing else. With an easygoing and laidback playing style, Cornell Hurd and his band are a gem to stumble upon.

Brent Best in store at Waterloo Records

This Sunday, Texas singer-songwriter Brent Best is having an in store performance to celebrate the release of his new debut solo album Your Dog, Champ. With a soothing voice, Best will be a relaxing treat for your ears as you close out the weekend. Due to Waterloo’s small space, we encourage you to get to the store early so that you won’t miss out.

——

Check out more of Lauren Gribble’s reviews at her website…

Featured photo: Flickr user victoria harjadi, creative commons licensed.