On one hand I wonder why the good ones leave so early. On the other, I am grateful they have been in my life, and so close. My broken heart knows her good fortune. 

My first show during SXSW is on Tuesday at 29th Street Ballroom at the Fourth Annual International Psychout.  I play at 3. I might have to borrow some effects pedals for this one!

First day of Girls Rock Camp. Ms. Scarlett, lead howler, Ms Esme, badass.

I lost a dear friend early Sunday morning. I was able to piece together a few sentences about her yesterday but today I’m totally numb and I fear if I try to write more I’ll fall apart again. So, from my facebook post:

“I look ridiculous” was the last text I received from Esme, on her way out the door to the big NYE bash. She didn’t look ridiculous of course, I spotted her across the packed room donning a cute dress, standing against the stage by Max, singing along to Surrender at the top of her lungs. “Mommy’s alright, daddy’s alright they just seem a little weird surrender surrender but don’t give yourself away.” This is what I loved the most about Esme - her ability to capitulate completely to the moment. To put on a strappy dress and think she looks ridiculous and go out anyway. To stand in the front of the front and belt it. To listen to a song and embrace its power. To own the dance floor. Esme loved so hard. She had challenges and she faced them full on. Who is going to send me pictures of Ted Leo with hearts drawn on it? Who is going to chat me “Yo! I wish it was my job just to have fun!” I love her so much and I’m going to remember all of these things and use them to make myself a better person and the world a brighter place. I hope you’ll do the same. 

I started writing a long sappy adios to Emo’s - the first live music crapitorium I set foot in when I arrived in Austin nineteen year ago - but I didn’t finish and as the end is nigh, it seems only fitting. Sure there were lots of great shows by better known artists on those stages but the thing that made the place so special - especially 90s Emo’s - were the bands that never made it - the imploders and the quitters and the freaks and the couldn’t-get-their-shit-togetherers. Thanks to Eric, Dave and everyone - surly staff, cute bartenders, smelly regulars and all of you, who made Emo’s a place for the rest of us. Rest in peace Handsome Joel. 

I’m excited to play the first Jealous Monday this Monday, September 12,  with Rocky & Wildcat and my new favorites, Bobby Jealousy at 29th Street Ballroom (2906 Fruth Street). We’ll be collecting non-perishable food for the Capital Area Food Band to help the central Texas fire relief efforts. Their requests: 

Water and enhanced water such as Gatorade; ready to eat meals preferably with pull-up, pop tops or foil packets such as chili, stew, canned pasta w/sauce; single serving snacks such as protein or granola bars; single serving foods that do not require refrigeration such as Lunchables; diapers and baby formula.

Also, I’ll have t-shirts!! Proceeds from sales will benefit the Women’s Media Center. 

Hi. I’ve been off duty, and I’ve had sooo much to say. Back with my graffiti, etc. series. I’m up to #17 - a mural on 30th by folk artist, musician and friend from back-in-the day Ethan Azarian. When I met Ethan in the 90s he had a cool band called the Orange Mothers (watch him sing their hit song Kids (Don’t Know) here). It’s been fun watching Ethan’s art gain in popularity (and price!) over the years. 

Lots to report, coming soon!

graffiti, etc. day 16

Austin band Bottle Service decorated the 51st Street I-35 overpass.