Living in a creative world

May 31-June 6

I got an interesting e-mail last week from a young woman I had not met before. She's an entertainer, and she had met some people who know me. When she told them about her project, they said, "Oh, you should tell Chris about that." So she e-mailed me and we had fun exploring each other's websites and getting to know one another electronically. I definitely plan to go to her show tonight (I've already bought tix).

Her name is Thee Lobster Girl, and she's part of a troupe called 999 Eyes, who travel with a band called THAT Damned Band. Maybe you've heard them? They do a sort of circus/gypsy jug band type thing. Anyway.... This is a troupe of 'freaks.' They entertain, vaudeville style, and educate their audiences about the history of freak shows, famous sideshow entertainers of the past, etc., while celebrating their own uniqueness and artistic accomplishments. They even have a small museum of oddities that they bring with them for your enlightenment (and to satisfy your morbid curiosity).

I am constantly, constantly, constantly amazed -- and inspired -- at the million zillion ways people express themselves artistically. So yeah, I've got my tickets for tonight's show at Antone's (details below; would love to have you join me).

And in keeping with my appreciation for the myriad ways people find to express themselves, I have decided to make an effort to embed a video each week that truly showcases the most amazing artists I can find. Last week it was the lovely Chinese dancers who just about broke my heart with their beauty. This week I'll feature a young man, Aichi, from Japan, who dances in a mostly decidedly usual and artistic way. I suggest that you click on the 'YouTube' logo rather than the 'play' button for the best, smoothest viewing experience. You definitely want a good, smooth viewing experience for this one. And be sure to watch the entire video. Though it's a little repetitive in the middle, it's definitely worth getting to the end. Enjoy. (And don't try this at home.) Then after you've seen the video, come back and plan your week(end).


Thursday, May 31

Cornell Hurd
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

Glovertango
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

DJd milonga
Copa / 217 Congress; 479-5002 / 9 pm; $5
There will be a free tango lesson at 8 so come early.

999 Eyes Freak Show; White Ghost Shivers
Antone’s / 213 W. 5^th; 478-0336 / 9 pm; $11
This is the show I was telling you about in the opening paragraphs. It looks like sooooooo much fun. Click for tix.

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 8 pm Read all about the Austin Swing Syndicate and their activities.

Damian Green Band
Cypress Grill / 4404 W. William Cannon / 6:30 pm

Chaparral
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189

Marc Devine & Denia Ridley
Reed's Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:00 pm


Friday, June 1

First Friday Contradance
Carpenter's Hall / 400 Josephine; 970-4919 / 8 pm; $8
Live music by The Flaming Kilts (now doesn't that conjure up an image?)

Albert and Gage Band
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000

Paris 49
Cactus Café / Texas Union Bldg; 23rd at Guadalupe; 475-6515 / 9 pm
It's a CD release party!

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
Reed’s Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:30 pm


Friday & Saturday, June 1 & 2

Ballet Under the Stars
Zilker Hillside Theater / 8:30 pm; free (family)
Metamorphosis Dance Ensemble will be performing two nights. Take a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy.

Texas Greek Festival
Laguna Gloria / 3809 W. 35th / 6pm-midnight; $10 (family)
Food, dancing, and live music. info@texasgreekfestival.com for more info.

Saturday, June 2

Cornell Hurd Band
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000

The Eggmen
Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-2442

Jim Stringer's AM Band
Ginny’s Little Longhorn / 5434 Burnet Road; 458-1813 / 9 pm


Sunday, June 3

Texas Swing Kings
Artz Ribhouse / 2330 S. Lamar / 6:30 pm (family)

Damian Green Band
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000 / noon; free (family)

Dale Watson
Ginny’s Little Longhorn / 5434 Burnet Rd; 458-1813

The Brew
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-2442

Heybale!
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm; $6

Monster Big Band
Ruta Maya / 3601 S. Congress; 707-9637 / 7 pm; $7


Monday, May 28

Paris 49; Dale Watson
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 6:30; 10 pm ($5)


Tuesday, May 29

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 9:45 / no cover Free dance after Four on the Floor’s classes.

Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
Flipnotics / 1601 Barton Springs; 322-9750 / 8:00 pm

Bayou Cajun Band
Evangeline Cafe / 8106 Brodie Lane / 6:30 pm
With special guest Peter Schwarz

Dr. Zog
Alligator Grill / 3003 South Lamar; 444-6117 / 6 pm
A little Tuesday evening zydeco.

Jitterbug Vipers
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm
I believe this is an every-Tuesday event, but you might want to call just to make sure.

The Lucky Strikes
Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This will be an every-Tuesday-in-May event.


Wednesday, May 23

The Brew
Speakeasy / 412 Congress; 476-8017

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
The Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This is an every Wednesday happy hour.


ROAD TRIPS

Houston, TX
Saturday, June2
Accordion Kings and Queens
Miller Outdoor Theater / Hermann Park / 7 pm; free
This always great show includes Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band, Mingo Saldívar Y Sus Tremendos Cuatro Espadas and Ginny Mac & the Road to Texas Band , plus the three finalists from The Big Squeeze, Texas Folklife Resources' first accordion contest.

Gruene, TX
Tuesday, June 5
Two Tons of Steel
Gruene Hall / 1281 Gruene; 830-606-1281 / 7:30 pm $4
Two Ton Tuesdays have returned.


COMING SOON

Friday, June 15
Norah Jones
The Backyard / 13101 Highway 71 West / 8 pm Click for tix.

Saturday, June 30
The Fabulous Polkasonics; Brave Combo
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 9 pm; $10 ($5 for members)
Mark your calendars now. Even Brave Combo has been enlisted to help save the Moose, so you know it's important!

see ya on the dance floor,
chris

The world comes to Austin this week

May 24-30

What a week it's been! I spent two hours in the dentist's chair on Tuesday, tripping on nitrous oxide (she sets it on 'rock star' for me because she knows I'm such a wuss when it comes to having her drill into the nerves she so callously exposes). Anyway, there I was, listening to KMFA on the headset, enjoying the nitrous (as much as anyone can enjoy anything when those nerves get hit -- I require industrial doses of anesthetic, too, did I mention? My knees involuntarily jerk up to my chest and the dentist says, 'oh, that's not good' and then shoots me up again). Anyway, there I was listening to some lovely classical music and I suddenly had this trippy thought: "And the Oscar for best use of a major scale goes to Ludwig van Beethoven for Symphony No. 3, first movement." And then I thought: no, that should be Tchaikovsky for the pas de deux in Nutcracker. Then I started imagining this friendly rivalry between the two of them, trading off the Oscar year after year and no one ever else getting a chance. Not even me, though I don't recall ever using a major scale in a particularly creative or artistic way.

I always feel tremendously sorry for myself after a trip to the dentist. Is it because I've been made to be vulnerable? Is it because it HURTS (even with the maximum anesthetic and the maximum laughing gas)? Or is it because I remember when I was a kid how my dentist would always prescribe an ice cream cone at the drugstore soda fountain after every appointment (thus assuring the next one, right?) and this one doesn't? At any rate, I took myself out for frozen yogurt afterwards to try to make it all better.

Then after getting home and licking my wounds (or in this case my frozen yogurt), I got an email saying that I had made it to the next round in the Balkan Beat Box remix contest, woo hoo! Life was worth living, after all! I may not be particularly clever with a major scale, but I can remix with the best of them, by gum! And this brings me one step closer to immortality, don't you know. If you haven't heard BBB, you really should get to know them. And if you haven't listened to my remix (Habibi min Zaman), you can, simply by clicking here.

But enough blather. It's shaping up to be a very memorable Memorial Day weekend: Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys at The Oaks on Friday night and Mingo Saldivar at the Moose on Sunday. Not to mention the Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival and the Cajun Food & Music event at Anhalt Hall. AND, it is an incredible weekend for world music and dance. Holy moly!
(Speaking of ethnic dance -- and just for the sheer pleasure of it -- here is an abolutely breathtaking Chinese dance video done by a troupe of 21 beautiful young women who also happen to be deaf. Prepare to be blown away!)





Thursday, May 24

Cornell Hurd
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

Glovertango
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 8 pm Read all about the Austin Swing Syndicate and their activities.

Chaparral
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189

The Brew
Copa / 217 Congress Ave. / Austin, TX / 479-5002 / 10 pm

Marc Devine & Denia Ridley
Reed's Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:00 pm

Two Hoots and a Holler
Ego’s / 510 S. Congress; 474-7091 / 11 pm


Friday, May 25

Derailers
Threadgill’s / 301 W. Riverside; 472-9304 / 10 pm; $10

Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys
The Oaks / 10206 FM 973 N, Manor; 278-8788 / 8 pm; $15
FINALLY!!!!! When's the last time this fabulous band came to town? It's been way, way, waaaaaaaaaaay too long! They will put a smile on your face for sure, for sure. Not to be missed!

Texas Swing Kings
Patsy’s Cowgirl Café / 5501 E. Ben White; 444-2020 / 7:30 pm
I have it on good authority that 91 year old Jimmy Cuviello (Bob Wills’ former drummer) and guitar virtuoso Rick McRae will be sitting in. Should be good, eh?

Polka Freak Outs; Red Elvises
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm & midnight, respectively
Oh, this should be really, really, really fun.


Friday & Saturday, May 25 & 26

Will Taylor & Strings Attached: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heartsclub Band
Friday: St. David's Church / 304 E. 7th; 866-235-0270 / 7:30 & 10 pm; $20
Saturday: Nutty Brown / 12225 Highway 290 West; 301-4648 / 7:30 pm; $20 Click for tix.

Saturday, May 26

Shimmering Sounds of Santoor: A Concert by Pandit Tarun Bhattacharya
Jones Auditorium, Ragsdale Center, St. Edward’s University, 3001 S. Congress Avenue / 8 pm; $20 (door); $15 (advance); $12 (students, seniors, artists)
And guess what – I have two spots on the guest list to give you, woo hoo! Just be the first to answer a rather simple question. Sangeet Millennium is one of the sponsors, and Amie Maciszewski is the founder of that organization. Be the first to tell me what instrument she plays, and the guest passes are yours! E-mail me at info@chrishumphrey.org. If you don't win the passes, you can click here or here for tix.

Калинка; Лєтяще Братья Балалайшники; Узори
Kalinka; The Flying Balalaika Brothers; Uzori (dance ensemble)
First Unitarian Universalist Church / 4700 Grover Ave; 459-1449 / 7:00 pm; $25 (family)
The Russian Spring Fest, presented by Russian Speakers Society, will feature three outstanding Russian groups: Kalinka, Flying Balalaika Brothers, and Russian Folk Dance Ensemble – “Uzori”. A sumptuous array of Russian cuisine will be provided by Sasha’s Gourmet Russian Market and Café.

Atash
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000 / 6:30 pm (family)
See what I mean about all the amazing world music this weekend? And this one is FREE!

The Red Elvises
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1st, 447-7825
Does this count as 'international' music? I think it sort of does.

Marshall Ford Swing Band
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
Reed’s Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:30 pm

Will Taylor & Strings Attached: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Heartsclub Band
Nutty Brown / 12225 Highway 290 West; 301-4648 / 7:30 pm; $20
Click for tix.


Sunday, May 27

Gulf Coast Playboys; Mingo Saldivar
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 6 pm; $10 ($5 for members)

IMPORTANT NEWS ABOUT THIS EVENT: Mingo Saldivar had to cancel due to being hospitalized for a back problem. The BBQ is cooked, so the Moose will proceed with the BBQ sale, and the Gulf Coast Playboys will play a free dance.

Dance Around the World
Dougherty Arts Center / 1110 Barton Springs Road; 397-1468 / noon-7 pm; $10 ($5 students)Here’s the official blurb: ‘Ethnic dancing in Austin gets a showcase with performances by 10 local groups, introductory-level workshops, live international folk music, and audience participation on the stage. Sample dancing from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and points between.’ Doesn’t that sound like fun?

The Brew
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-2442

Heybale!
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm; $6


Monday, May 28

It's a quiet Monday this week. Happy Memorial Day.


Tuesday, May 29

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 9:45 / no cover Free dance after Four on the Floor’s classes.

Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
Flipnotics / 1601 Barton Springs; 322-9750 / 8:00 pm 0

Dr. Zog
Alligator Grill / 3003 South Lamar; 444-6117 / 6 pm
A little Tuesday evening zydeco.

Jitterbug Vipers
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm
I believe this is an every-Tuesday event, but you might want to call just to make sure.

The Lucky Strikes
Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This will be an every-Tuesday-in-May event.


Wednesday, May 23

The Brew
Speakeasy / 412 Congress; 476-8017

Seth Walker
Momo’s / 618 W. 6th; 479-8848 / 9:30 pm

Combo Mahalo
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
The Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This is an every Wednesday happy hour.


ROAD TRIPS

Gruene, TX
Sunday, May 27
Stop the Truck; Gary P. Nunn
Gruene Hall / 1281 Gruene; 830-606-1281 / 7:30 pm

Gruene, TX
Tuesday, May 29
Two Tons of Steel
Gruene Hall / 1281 Gruene; 830-606-1281 / 7:30 pm' $4
Two Ton Tuesdays have returned.


COMING SOON

Friday, June 15
Norah Jones
The Backyard / 13101 Highway 71 West / 8 pm Click for tix.

Saturday, June 30
The Fabulous Polkasonics; Brave Combo
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 9 pm; $10 ($5 for members)
Mark your calendars now. Even Brave Combo has been enlisted to help save the Moose, so you know it's important!

see ya on the dance floor,
chris

Ow! Being virtuous HURTS

May 17-23

Man, I've been virtuous this week (assuming that going to the gym = being virtuous). And it hurts. I have not been this virtuous in a long, long time. Good intentions and all that, don't you know, but not really putting them into practice.

I finally, finally, finally got over that 6-weeks of crud I had and decided it was time to whip myself back into shape. After the three workouts I've given myself this week, I should be, like, totally buff, right? So why am I not? Dang, this is going to take longer than I thought!

That's OK. I'll add a little dancing to Brave Combo into the aerobics mix this weekend and that should do the trick.


Thursday, May 17

Gaelic Storm
Antone’s / 213 W. 5^th; 478-0336 / 8 pm
Click here for tickets.

Cornell Hurd
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

Paris 49
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24^th at San Gabriel / 8 pm
Read all about the Austin Swing Syndicate and their activities.

Bill Kirchen
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm

The Fabs
Guero’s / 1412 S. Congress; 447-7688 /6:30 pm (family)

Atash
Club deVille / 900 Red River; 457-0900 / 10:30 pm
Some kick-ass world music.

Cerronato
Manuel's / 10201 Jollyville Rd; 345-1042 / 6:30 pm
For all you folks who live up north and don't want to come downtown.

Chaparral
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189

Marc Devine & Denia Ridley
Reed's Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:00 pm

Two Hoots and a Holler
Ego’s / 510 S. Congress; 474-7091 / 11 pm


Friday, May 18

Little Joe y La Familia; Los Texas Wranglers
H&H Ballroom / 4404 Brandt Road; 512/282-1143 / 8 pm

Latino Women Artists Showcase
Threadgill’s / 301 W. Riverside; 472-9304 / 7:30 pm; $7
This is a fundraiser for the Mexican American Cultural Center and will feature folks like Cerronato, the Texana Dames and more.

Seth Walker
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 9:30 pm

The Lucky Strikes
Reed’s Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:30 pm

DJd Swing Dance
Go Dance / 2525 Anderson Lane (in Northcross Mall) / 9:30 pm; $4 & $6

Two Hoots & A Holler
The Parish / 214 E. 6^th; 479-6372 / 9 pm

James Hand
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189 / 9 pm

Friday-Sunday, May 18-20

Deutschenfest
Pfluger Park / 515 City Park Road / 5:30 pm (Fri); 10:30 am (Sat); 11:30 pm Sun $3 & $4
Everybody from The Eggmen to the Green Cards to The Seven Dutchmen will be playing. Click the link for full details.


Saturday, May 19

Belaharr
Ruta Maya / 3601 S. Congress; 707-9637 / 7 pm
This group is one of my newest discoveries, and they're right here in Austin. Here's their blurb: "Featuring a range of rhythms and musical sounds from around the world, the songs reflect musical influences from the middle east to afro-cuban to polynesian to indonesian." AND...my pal Fadi (who is, incidentally, a cute and TOTALLY fun drummer from Syria) is a member of the band. Check 'em out if you're needing a good healthy dose of world music. [And speaking of world music, click here to hear my entry into the Balkan Beat Box Remix Contest, "Habibi min zaman". Think I'll win?]

Brave Combo
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 9 pm (family)
The good news is -- this is AFTER the Belaharr show, so you can do both!!! Yippee!!!

Jim Stringer & The AM Band
Patsy’s Cowgirl Café / 5501 E. Ben White; 444-2020 / 8 pm

Third Saturday Contra Dance
St. Paul's Lutheran Fellowship Hall / 3501 Red River / 8 pm; $8
This smoke-free, fragrance free event will feature live music by Houston's Evil Genius. Email croth@austin.rr.com for more info.

Cornell Hurd
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189 / 9 pm

The Recliners
Donn's Depot / 1600 W. 5th; 478-0336 / 9 pm

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Jazz Babies
Treehouse Italian Grill / 2201 College; 443-4200 / 7:30 pm

The Road to Austin
Auditorium Shores / 7 pm
Everyone from Tosca String Quartet and Austin Lyric Opera to Kris Kristofferson and Delbert McClinton with a whole bunch of others in between. The concert is free, but click on the link to download your ticket, because ya gotta have one to get in.


Sunday, May 20

Djembabes
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000 / 12:30 pm (family)

Oliver Rajamani
One World Theater / 7701 Bee Caves Rd; 330-9500 / 6 & 8:30 pm
Help celebrate the release of his new CD.

Mundi
Zilker Park Hillside Theater / Zilker Park / noon
But wait! There's more! The most excellent reggae band Mr. Brown will follow. So bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the afternoon!

The Brew
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-2442

Bert Rivera & the Ramblers
Artz Ribhouse / 2230 S. Lamar; 442-8283 /6:30 pm (family)

Heybale!
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm; $6


Monday, May 21

Paris 49; Chaparral
Continental Club /1315 S. Congress;441-2444 / 6:30 pm; 10 pm ($5 for Chap)

Bayou Cajun Band
Evangeline Café / 8106 Brodie Lane; 282-2586 / 6:30 pm
Featuring the beautiful and talented Darcie Deaville.


Tuesday, May 15

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 9:45 / no cover
Free dance after Four on the Floor’s classes.

Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
Flipnotics / 1601 Barton Springs; 322-9750 / 8:00 pm

Jitterbug Vipers
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm
I believe this is an every-Tuesday event, but you might want to call just to make sure.

The Lucky Strikes
Belmont / 305 W. 6^th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This will be an every-Tuesday-in-May event.


Wednesday, May 23

The Brew
Speakeasy / 412 Congress; 476-8017

Marshall Ford Swing Band
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500/ 6:30 pm

South Austin Jug Band
Threadgill’s / 301 W. Riverside; 472-9304 / 10:15 pm
Warren Hood opens at 9:30

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
The Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This is an every Wednesday happy hour.


ROAD TRIPS

I'm sure there's a road trip out there somewhere this weekend, but I was singularly uninspired by what I found this time around.


COMING SOON

Friday, May 25
Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys
The Oaks / 10206 FM 973 N, Manor; 278-8788 / 8 pm; $15
When's the last time this fabulous band came to town? It's been way, way, waaaaaaaaaaay too long! They will put a smile on your face for sure, for sure. Not to be missed!

Sunday, May 27
Gulf Coast Playboys; Mingo Saldivar
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 6 pm; $10 ($5 for members)
Last month's party was so much fun -- and so successful -- that they're doing it again. This is a wonderful place to hang out, dance, sit on the porch, whatever. And every dollar you spend is one dollar closer to saving the lodge from urban development.

Friday, June 15
Norah Jones
The Backyard / 13101 Highway 71 West / 8 pm
Click for tix.

LATE BREAKING NEWS

Wow! "I Love My Dead Gay Son: The Musical" was just nominated for FOUR Austin Critics Table Awards, and "I Am Not Tartuffe" was nominated for one! Yellowtape Construction's other show, "We are Normal Cha Cha Cha" (which I was not in) was nominated for two as well. Keep your fingers crossed for us! Winners will be announced on June 2.

see ya on the dance floor,

chris

RIP little Pilaf

May 10-16

Our sweet little Pilaf died very suddenly last Saturday morning. Do kitties have strokes? Aneurysms? Heart attacks? Ours must have had something like that because one minute she was healthy, the next minute she was dying. Fortunately, Mr. Ben and I were both home at the time and were with her. She died purring in my arms. But man, what a shock!

There are certainly more beautiful cats in the world, and there are certainly cats with more winning personalities. But Pilaf was ours and we loved her; and in her own pissy little way, I think she loved us, too. She would bound across the house to the front door the minute she heard us arrive, and she always stuck by my side when I was sick.

For the longest time after we got her (as a tiny kitten), she had no whiskers, a bald spot at the tip of her tail, extrordinarily short legs and thin, ugly hair. We always said she was an extraterrestrial trying to disguise itself as a cat and not quite getting it right. She had a near death experience 6 or 7 years ago, and after she recovered she grew whiskers and a lovely, full coat. She was still short, though (we called her our little low-rider kitty). My favorite memory of her dates back to when we'd had her only a couple of days -- she was itty bitty tiny and cute, cute, cute with a round little tummy and big round eyes and a spiky little tail. I was sitting on the sofa with a bowl of popcorn in my lap and then suddenly there was Pilaf literally diving over the edge of the bowl to get at the popcorn herself. Yup, we miss our furry pal.

And that's my (sad) news for this week. The other (glad) news is that there's plenty of stuff coming up that will keep you busy and entertained and happy AND a rather large "coming soon" section. There is much to look forward to!


Thursday, May 10

Cornell Hurd
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

Harry Connick, Jr.
Bass Concert Hall / UT campus / 8 pm
Click for tix

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24^th at San Gabriel / 8 pm
Read all about the Austin Swing Syndicate and their activities.

Glovertango
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

Therapy Sisters
Artz Ribhouse / 2230 S. Lamar; 442-8283 / 7:30 pm
When's the last time you heard these crazy gals?

Chaparral
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189

Marc Devine & Denia Ridley
Reed's Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:00 pm

Two Hoots and a Holler
Ego’s / 510 S. Congress; 474-7091 / 11 pm


Friday, May 11

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Jazz Babies
Tree House Italian Grill / 2201 College Ave; 443-4200 / 7:30 pm

Seth Walker; UT Afropop Ensemble
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 8 pm; $12
Did you know that your dancing can make a difference? Yup. If you attend this special event, your $12 cover charge will help a group of underprivileged high school students get to West Africa this summer to do Peace Corps work. How cool is that? Click here for more info.

Hand Me Down; Twangzilla
The Parlor / 100B E. North Loop / 9; 10:30 pm

Jim Stringer's AM Band
Ginny’s Little Longhorn / 5434 Burnet Road; 458-1813 / 9 pm

Texana Dames
Evangeline Café / 8106 Brodie Lane; 282-2586 / 10 pm; $5

The Eggmen
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000 / 6:30 pm (family)

DJd Milonga
La Tazza Fresca / 519 W. 37th (at Guadalupe); 371-5383 / 9:00 pm

Derailers
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189 / 9 pm


Friday & Saturday, May 11 & 12

Classical Mystery Tour
Palmer Events Center / Riverside at S. 1st; 476-6064 / 8 pm (family)
I'm never quite sure about these orchestral Beatles tributes. Some arrangements work really well, others don't. Ya pays ya money, ya takes ya chances. Still... It is the music of the Beatles. And BTW -- the best classical treatment I've ever heard is a CD by John Bayless called 'Bach Meets the Beatles'. Check it out.


Friday-Sunday, May 11-13

Aztlan Dance Company
Santa Cruz Theater Center / 1805 E. 7th; 524-4278 / 8 pm (Fri & Sat); 2 pm Sun; $13
Take your mom out for Mother's day. She might like this.


Saturday, May 12

The Weary Boys
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

The Eggmen
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail 266-2442

Invincible Czars; Combo Mahalo; White Ghost Shivers (in that order)
Beerland / 711 Red River; 479-7625 / 10pm; 11pm; midnight (in that order)
Is that an incredible line-up, or WHAT!

The Brew
Central Market / 4001 N. Lamar; 206-1000 / 6:30 pm (family)

Albert and Gage Band
Donn's Depot / 1600 W. 5th; 478-0336 / 9 pm

Lucky Strikes
Treehouse Italian Grill / 2201 College; 443-4200 / 7:30 pm

Cerronato
El Sol y La Luna / 1224 S. Congress, 444-7770 / 7:30 pm
Aaaah, the weather is warm enough for El S & La L's famous sangria, mmmmmm.

Two Hoots and a Holler
Ego’s / 510 S. Congress; 474-7091 / 11 pm

Sunday, May 13

The Brew
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-2442

Gulf Coast Playboys
Guero's / 1412 S. Congress; 447-7688 / 3 pm (family)

Heybale!
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm; $6

Austin Symphonic Band
Zilker Hillside Theater / Zilker Park / 7 pm; free (family)
It's Mother's Day, so take your mom out for a cheap date! Buy her a sno-cone or some kettle corn and enjoy the free concert.


Monday, May 14

Paris 49; Chaparral
Continental Club /1315 S. Congress;441-2444 / 6:30 pm; 10 pm ($5 for Chap)

Bayou Cajun Band
Evangeline Café / 8106 Brodie Lane; 282-2586 / 6:30 pm
Featuring the beautiful and talented Peter Schwarz


Tuesday, May 15

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 9:45 / no cover
Free dance after Four on the Floor’s classes.

Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
Flipnotics / 1601 Barton Springs; 322-9750 / 8:00 pm

Jitterbug Vipers
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm
I believe this is an every-Tuesday event, but you might want to call just to make sure.

The Lucky Strikes
Belmont / 305 W. 6^th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This will be an every-Tuesday-in-May event.


Wednesday, May 16

The Brew
Speakeasy / 412 Congress; 476-8017

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
The Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This is an every Wednesday happy hour.


ROAD TRIPS

San Antonio, TX
Thursday-Saturday, May 10-12
Tejano Conjunto Festival
Rosedale Park / 303 Dartmouth / various hours; various prices
If you can only go one night, I would recommend Saturday: Eva Ybarra, Mingo Saldivar, Flaco Jimeniz among others. But if you can go for the whole weekend, that would be even cooler! Click the link for all the details.

Taylor, TX
Saturday, May 12
Czech Melody Masters
SPJST Lodge #29 / 5025 FM 619; (512) 352-9139 / 7:30 pm

Wimberley, TX
Saturday, May 12
Two Tons of Steel
Cypress Creek Cafe / on the square; 512-847-2515 / 7:30 pm; $10


COMING SOON

Saturday May 19
Belaharr
Ruta Maya / 3601 S. Congress; 707-9637 / 7 pm
This group is one of my newest discoveries, and they're right here in Austin. Here's their blurb: "Featuring a range of rhythms and musical sounds from around the world, the songs reflect musical influences from the middle east to afro-cuban to polynesian to indonesian." AND...my pal Fadi (who is, incidentally, a cute and TOTALLY fun drummer from Syria) is a member of the band. Check 'em out if you're needing a good healthy dose of world music. [And speaking of world music, click here to hear my entry into the Balkan Beat Box Remix Contest, "Habibi min zaman". Think I'll win?]

Saturday, May 19
Brave Combo
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 9 pm (family)
The good news is -- this is AFTER the Belaharr show, so you can do both!!! Yippee!!!

Friday, May 25
Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys
The Oaks / 10206 FM 973 N, Manor; 278-8788 / 8 pm; $15
When's the last time this fabulous band came to town? It's been way, way, waaaaaaaaaaay too long! They will put a smile on your face for sure, for sure. Not to be missed!

Sunday, May 27
Gulf Coast Playboys; Mingo Saldivar
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 6 pm; $10 ($5 for members)
Last month's party was so much fun -- and so successful -- that they're doing it again. This is a wonderful place to hang out, dance, sit on the porch, whatever. And every dollar you spend is one dollar closer to saving the lodge from urban development.


see ya on the dance floor,

chris

Being sick sucks

May 3-9

All that sleeping I was doing last week? Turns out I wasn't tired -- I was sick. Dang! Again! I had managed to stay on top of allergy related illness pretty well the past few years, but this year, man, it's got me by the short hairs! I have been absolutely no fun to be around. I sit, I read, I watch rented movies, I sleep, I cough, I blow my nose. That's about it. And I am definitely ready for a change.

I had recently been going on to anyone who would listen about how my biological clock is ticking, man -- not for babies, but for creative projects. I've got maybe 20 good years of solid productivity left, and I need to stay busy. So what have I been doing the past week? Sitting, reading, watching rented movies, sleeping, coughing, blowing my nose. Bleep that, man! That's just wrong. And my body replies, 'yeah, tell it to the thermometer, zzzzzzzz.'

So. For those of you who have survived the rains and the subsequent bumper crop of mold, here are some ways you can get out and celebrate May!


Thursday, May 3

Cerronato
Whole Foods / 6th at Lamar / 6 pm
'm assuming that this will be up on the deck. That would also assume dance space.

Cornell Hurd
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 8 pm (family)

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24^th at San Gabriel / 8 pm
Read all about the Austin Swing Syndicate and their activities.

Glovertango
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

Chaparral
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189

Marc Devine & Denia Ridley
Reed's Jazz Club / 9901 Cap of TX Hwy; 342-7977 / 8:00 pm

Seth Walker
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm

Ted Roddy
Patsy's Cowgirl Cafe / 5001 E. Ben White; 444-2020

Bereket
UT Music Recital Hall Studio / UT campus / 8 pm; free
UT's Middle Eastern Ensemble will be playing classical and urban Turkish music.

YerazArt
University Christian Church / 2007 University Ave; 345-5572 / 7:30 pm; free
This is a group of young extremely talented musicians from Armenia, and they are, apparently, not to be missed.


Thru Sunday, May 1-6

Stomp
Paramount / 713 Congress / 8 pm (T-F); 5 & 9 pm (Sat); 3 & 7 pm (Sun)

Cinco de Mayo
Fiesta Gardens / 1901 Bergman / family
This is a huge family event that starts at various times on various days, with various cover charges. So click on the link and get ALL the details.

Friday, May 4

Aunt Ruby's Sweet Jazz Babies
Tree House Italian Grill / 2201 College Ave; 443-4200 / 7:30 pm

First Friday Contra Dance
Carpenter's Hall / 400 Josephine / 8 pm;
This smoke-free, fragrance free event features live music for dancing by The Lost and Nameless Orchestra. sealantsby5@aol.com, 512-970-4919 for more info.

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
Reed's Jazz Club / 9301 Cap of Tx Hay N; 342-7977 / 8:30 pm

The Gimbles
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 /6:30
Featuring Johnny Gimble, of course.

DJd Milonga
Texas Union Quadrangle Room / 23rd at Guadalupe / 9:00 pm

Dale Watson
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189 / 9 pm


Saturday, May 5

Eggmen
Jovita’s / 1619 S. 1^st; 447-7825 / 7 pm (family)
Ouch!, the world's only Ruttles cover band, opens at 6. Come early if you expect to have a place to sit and/or eat.

Nash Hernandez Orchestra
Donn's Depot / 1600 W. 5th; 478-0336 / 9 pm


Sunday, May 6

The Brew
The Oasis / 6550 Comanche Trail; 266-442
For all you salsa dancers on the list, these summer Sunday salsa soirees have started again.

Heybale!
Continental Club / 1315 S. Congress; 441-2444 / 10 pm; $6

Texas Swing Kings
Artz Ribhouse / 2230 S. Lamar; 442-8283 / 6:30 pm (family)

Bayou Cajun Band
Central Market South / 4477 S. Lamar; 899-4300 / 6:30 pm
Peter Schwartz and his fiddle will be sitting in.

Monster Big Band
Ruta Maya / 3601 S Congress; 707-9637 / 7 pm

Monday, May 7

Paris 49; Chaparral
Continental Club /1315 S. Congress;441-2444 / 6:30 pm; 10 pm ($5 for Chap)

Bayou Cajun Band
Evangeline Café / 8106 Brodie Lane; 282-2586 / 6:30 pm

Dale Watson
Hill's Cafe / 4700 S. Congress; 851-9300
I'm not sure what time they get started, so you might want to give them a call.


Tuesday, May 8

DJd Swing Dance
The Fed / 24th at San Gabriel / 9:45 / no cover
Free dance after Four on the Floor’s classes.

Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
Flipnotics / 1601 Barton Springs; 322-9750 / 8:00 pm

Jitterbug Vipers
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm

The Lucky Strikes
Belmont / 305 W. 6^th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This will be an every-Tuesday-in-May event.


Wednesday, May 9

The Brew
Speakeasy / 412 Congress; 476-8017

Mr. Fabulous & Casino Royale
The Belmont / 305 W. 6th; 457-0300 / 6 pm
This is an every Wednesday happy hour.

Ted Roddy
Broken Spoke / 3201 S. Lamar; 442-6189 / 9 pm

Erik Hokkanen
Lambert’s / 401 W. 2^nd; 494-1500 / 6:30 pm


ROAD TRIPS

Waco, TX
Friday, May 4
Brave Combo
Indian Springs Park / downtown Waco / 7 pm; free (family)
There are two places I rarely tell you to go. One is Houston, the other is Waco. So when I do say go there, then you should really consider going there. Capiche?

Granger, TX
Saturday, May 5
Ricky Calmback
Cotton Club / 212 E. Davilla; 512-859-0700 / 9 pm

Luckenback, TX
Saturday, May 5
Two Tons of Steel
Luckenbach Dance Hall / 9 pm; $10
Click here for map. Or, as Jerry Jeff says, just drive toward Fredericksburg till you get tired, then turn left.

Coupland, TX
Saturday, May 6
Derailers
Old Coupland Dance Hall / Coupland; 512-856-2226

Gruene, TX
Sunday, May 6
Elana James & The Continental Two
Gruene Hall / 1281 Gruene; 830-606-1281 / 1-5 pm; no cover
Can you think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon in May?


COMING SOON

Friday & Saturday, May 11 & 12
Classical Mystery Tour
Palmer Events Center / Riverside at S. 1st; 476-6064 / 8 pm (family)

Sunday, May 27
Gulf Coast Playboys; Mingo Saldivar
Moose Lodge / 2103 EM Franklin / 6 pm; $10 ($5 for members)
Last weekend was so much fun -- and so successful -- that they're doing it again. This is a wonderful place to hang out, dance, sit on the porch, whatever. And every dollar you spend is one dollar closer to saving the lodge from urban development.


see ya on the dance floor,

chris