Transmission Entertainment

Entries

From The Mind Of Adi: Photo Recap - Dio Tribute Night at The Mohawk [5.16.12]

All photos by Bourzhetto Crew

Next in Line

Scorpion Child

From The Mind Of Adi: Jon Loyens’ Firsts

Firsts: Shte that happened before other shte happened.

Today: Jon Loyens’s Firsts! This time, we examine what inspired Jon “The Sledge” Lyons from The Midgetmen. The local 4-piece celebrates 10 years of punk ‘n’ roll on Friday, May 18th at The Mohawk - besides a set o’ originals outside at 11:15, the band will also perform “Weird Al” Yankovic’s 1985 classic Dare To Be Stupid in its entirety inside at 12:45! Scope out the poster further below for the full line-up/

1st favorite song: “Baby Beluga” by Raffi
1st favorite musician or band: Duran Duran - my Dad, who was basically oblivious to the music I like, actually bought me a wall size Duran Duran poster... it was awesome.

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Upcoming Events

He will forever be remembered as one of the most important vocalists in the annals of metal music history. Ronnie James Dio left this world on May 16th, 2010. Two years on, we salute this legend at The Mohawk this May 16th with a special tribute night. Incarnations of local bands will play choice Dio tunes, and you’ll have a chance to prove your mettle via fun competitions such as a “high pitched vocal prowess” challenge, a “draw a rainbow in the dark” activity, “pin the horns on Ronnie’s hand” game, and Ronnie James Dio look-alike and tattoo contests. We’ll also have a Dio piñata! Don’t miss out on these RJD inspired activities! A special thanks to Scorpion Child for organizing this with me; they’ll have a backline set up for impromptu jam sessions so hit me up if you want to be a part of the magic!
Late June can only mean it’s time for Wimbledon and less importantly, my birthday. Join me for a special tennis themed birthday party at Club de Ville on June 30th. Sure it’s $5, but it’s going to the bands and you are excused from buying me a present or a shot. Well, at least the present. Dubwerth kick things off with jams like “She Drinks Too Much” and hopefully their rendition of “Somebody That I Used To Know”, Froetzel is on next with the finest German techno from South Austin, Cover Girl pays tribute to some classics following that, and the one-man party machine that is Neiliyo turns de Ville’s outdoor patio into a legit dance floor to close out the night. Hope to see you there!
The Quesoff is back! We had such a grand ol’ time last year that there really was no choice but to do it again! Email to sign up! And look for our Quesoff booth in the VIP Lounge at this year’s Pachanga Fest. The first round of Quesoff 2012 will take place on July 21st (5 – 8 p.m.) at The Mohawk. All three defending champs (Thomas Lombardi / Veggie, Frank / Meaty, and April Henshaw & Allison Morgan / Spicy) are returning to defend their crowns; other restaurants already signed up include Papi Tino’s, Kerbey Lane, and Vivo Lake Creek.

Beat Connection: Melvins live at The Mohawk [4.19.12]

When most people think of metal, there are certain stereotypical images regarding the style of music that instantly come to mind. Big hair, jagged guitars, the color black, occasionally satanic or evil undertones, and music that is ear splittingly loud, fast, and heavy. While Washington's Melvins do apply to some of these categories, they have always felt set apart from the rest of the metal scene since their early days in 1983. Melvins were one of the first bands along with Earth and Eyehategod to eschew the ridiculous make up and flashy fretwork of popular metal to pioneer the slow, thick dirge of sludge and stoner metal. The band focused on creating an unholy soup of overwhelming guitar fuzz and brutally slow and heavy drumming to create a style of metal that was unheard of before Melvins formed as a band. The band set themselves apart by creating their own style of music but also became significant due to their association with more mainstream rock bands, most notably Nirvana who cited Melvins as an influence, and experimental rockers like Sonic Youth and Slint. The playful imagery and sense of humor the band has employed throughout their lengthy career has always felt refreshing and ahead of its time, making Melvins feel like a band always looking forward to what's next even after a nearly 30 year career. The underground metal heads took the Mohawk's outside stage on Thursday April 19 to a diverse crowd consisting of sludge devotees, hardcore punks, hipsters, and indie rockers of varying ages all there to witness a performance by an extremely influential band almost singlehandedly responsible for starting a movement in heavy metal.

Weekly Mojo: Brownout at The Mohawk: 4/20

For some it’s a holiday, and for the rest it’s just another beautiful spring day, but whatever the case may be for you, Transmission has your 4/20 all squared away to be one hell of a rocking night! This Friday, one of our favorite local acts, Brownout will have everyone within hearing range of The Mohawk shakin’ what they’ve got to some irresistible Latin beats! Trust me—your hips won’t know what hit you when you end up on the dance floor with this act in front of you… If you’re like me, you’ll probably look like an idiot, but it will feel so, so right. These guys are coming in hot and fresh off a killer west coast tour, so you can bet this homecoming show will be out of control! You should also know that Brownout has got a new record called Oozy coming out on April 24, so definitely make sure to keep an ear out for it!

Blackout this Friday if you please, but make sure to Brownout!

If you’re unfamiliar with Brownout, you’ll be sure to enjoy these funky tunes if you like anything about Grupo Fantasma, and you’ll even be seeing some of the same faces. A few songs I’d recommend to get your mojo working would be: “Olvidalo,” “Aguilas & Cobras,” “The Sexican,” and “Slinky.” You can also check out the title track from the new record in the YouTube video below! The band showcases some of the most righteous horns players Austin has to offer, and you won’t be able to get enough of what the rhythm sextion (oh hell yeah I’m leaving that Freudian slip in there) brings to the table. The sounds are rife with intriguing percussive exploits, polyrhythms, and a literally unstoppable bass—Mmmm! Doors open Friday at 8pm and it definitely wouldn’t hurt to go ahead and snag your TICKETS online! The show will be outdoors and all ages, so we’ll look forward to seeing you out there, rock and rollers!

Tue Apr 17 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Upcoming Events

I’m excited to present Starlings, TN’s CD Release Show at Club de Ville on April 21st. The local outfit dropped the Heartache in 4/4 Time full-length last month on Chicken Ranch Records -- listen to the album here and read a review here. Enjoy their soothing Americana sandwiched between openers George Irwin & The Georgian Company and headliners East Cameron Folkcore this Saturday. Doors at 8 p.m. (FB Event Page.)
On April 26th, I’m back at Club de Ville to bring you San Francisco’s Al Lover & The Haters, who will be in town to perform at Austin Psych Fest the following evening. Come on down and sample their intoxicating concoctions but only after losing yourself in Horse + Donkey’s reverb laden haze. You’ll also be treated to the one of my new favorite noise-brokers in town Marriage, up first at 9 p.m. (FB Event Page.)
He will forever be remembered as one of the most important vocalists in the annals of metal music history. Ronnie James Dio left this world on May 16th, 2010. Two years on, we salute this legend at The Mohawk this May 16th with a special tribute night. Incarnations of local bands will play choice Dio tunes, and you’ll have a chance to prove your mettle via fun competitions such as a “high pitched vocal prowess” challenge, a “draw a rainbow in the dark” activity, “pin the horns on Ronnie’s hand” game, and of course, a Ronnie James Dio look-alike contest. We’ll also have a Dio piñata! Don’t miss out on these RJD inspired activities! A special thanks to Scorpion Child for organizing this with me; they’ll have a backline set up for impromptu jam sessions so hit me up if you want to be a part of the magic!
The Quesoff is back! We had such a grand ol’ time last year that there really was no choice but to do it again! Email to sign up! And look for our Quesoff booth at this year’s Pachanga Fest. Quesoff 2012 will take place later this summer at The Mohawk.

Finally, I hope to you can make it to HAAM’s Corporate Battle of the Bands and ensuing after-party this Thursday at Antone’s!

Mon Apr 16 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Beat Connection: School of Seven Bells live at The Mohawk [4.13.12]

The Mohawk was abuzz with the sound of high flying atmospheric guitars on Friday night as New York City's School of Seven Bells lit up the stage with their ethereal indie rock. Finding the common ground between bombastically driving and fragilely sweet, School of Seven Bells translated their studio heavy sound surprisingly well to the live setting with swirling guitars, liquid bass, and synthesizers and samples that rounded out the sound extremely nicely. The set felt precisely crafted and expertly paced, mixing in higher intensity guitar rock with some of the band's glitchy and more relaxed electronics for a set that had the perfect blend of mellow groove and powerful rock and roll. First up on the bill was openers Exitmusic, whose earth shattering style sounded to be coming from a band far beyond its years. Exitmusic played with an over reliance on heavy ballads as the second half of their set felt like a single long song at times. After initially starting up with some more varied numbers, the band shifted their focus towards slow burners with lead singer Aleksa Palladino taking every excuse she could to stretch her powerful pipes to the extent of their range, belting out long and sonorous notes that were certainly impressive, but gave the set an overly serious feeling, not necessarily something an audience wants from an opener. While the pacing of the set was a bit odd for a show opener, the strength of Exitmusic's songs could not be denied. Led by the howling guitar of Devon Church, Exitmusic played a powerful set displaying an impressive amount of musicianship and songwriting talent in the process from such a young group. The mood would be significantly lightened by the headliners as School of Seven Bells set up two light-up structures that featured the circular symbol that emblazons the jacket of their third LP Ghostory (2012) and played a fun and musically diverse set that sent their devoted fans home with more than satisfied smiles.

Beat Connection: Real Estate and Keep Shelly in Athens Live at The Mohawk [4.11.12]

What's the only thing better than seeing a great concert? Seeing two great concerts in the same night! It was a double header on Wednesday at the Mohawk among an intense week of fantastic shows with New Jersey's Real Estate and Greece's Keep Shelly in Athens playing headlining sets at The Mohawk's outdoor and indoor stages respectively. Playing earlier in the evening was Real Estate, whose latest album Days (2011) has become one of my favorites from last year. Opening the show was Melbourne, Australia's Twerps, a young group making a name for themselves among the year's new bands. Playing a jangling, blissed out style of indie rock, Twerps had the feel of a 1980s college rock band, a shambling folk group, and a beach pop quartet all combined into one, making use of their sense of stoicism throughout the concert. With the occasional exception of lead singer Marty Frawley, there wasn't a lot of movement or very much visible enthusiasm onstage from Twerps, but the band's conversely relaxed and driving sound provided a nice enough compliment to the set that would follow from Real Estate, who successfully combined the meticulously paced riffs of their surfy indie pop songs with a high level of energy and an ability to control the stage without looking like they were even trying.

Weekly Mojo: Hard Proof Afrobeat @ The Mohawk

Hey, Transmission friends! It’s been too long. Can someone please tell me what we did again before it was SXSW? I feel like each SX seriously cuts about a year off the average music industry worker’s lifespan. But when you come down to that last stretch in survival mode, it really makes you appreciate the beauty of the little wonders life has to offer, like watching a Denton bicycle gang mount their extra-tall bicycles—I’ve seen some ATX hipsters on those crazy things and always wondered if they look hilarious trying to get on them. Turns out, they do. I think I’ve mostly recovered, but I have to admit—there were some dark hours towards the end of that last day (day loosely translating to 60 hours SX-time) where I pretty much blacked out from sleep deprivation and just started yelling at anyone who crossed me to go back to California or Portland. In any case, I’ve been itching to get back into the swing of things and we’ve got JUST the show coming up this weekend. The band I’m most pumped to see definitely doesn’t need an introduction; it’s Hard Proof Afrobeat! Hard Proof will be hitting The Mohawk this Saturday, March 31 to warm everybody up for Nakia (who you might recall was recently a Top 8 competitor on The Voice), and Akina Adderly & The Vintage Playboys.

We’ve got a soulful night of funky beats and killer voices coming your way!

On the (extreme) off chance that you aren’t familiar with Hard Proof, suffice it to say that it’s what happens when there’s a perfect storm of jazz, African rhythm, and dirty, dirty funk passionately executed by some of the slickest rock and rollers Austin has to offer. Unleash the polyrythyms!! I love this band because it’s such a blast live—there aren’t people not grooving in some manner at Hard Proof shows. It’s science. The level of musicianship combined with how much fun these guys have performing makes it impossible not to enjoy, no matter what your musical preferences are! Well, I mean, if you’re a sad emo kid who loathes any musical testament to the fact that the world is a bright and wonderful place to be, then fine—maybe you wouldn’t love it. Personally, I will be at the front dancing my ass off. Doors are at 8pm and the show starts at 9, so make sure to come out early! You can save some bones by buying your TICKETS in advance, so get at it and we’ll see you Saturday night!

Tue Mar 27 2012 · Posted in Events

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Upcoming Events

Ready for a different taste of gravy? RajiWorld and I have teamed up to bring you a massive Soul Shakedown at The Mohawk on March 31st featuring live sets by Nakia, Akina Adderley & The Vintage Playboys, and Hard Proof Afrobeat. Threadgill’s going to have some tasty veggie options for sale on-site and the talented Whitley Stratton will be operating a soul-themed photo-booth as well. Doors at 8 p.m. for this outside show; cover is $10 or you can pre-purchase tickets for $8 via FrontGate (FB Event Page).
But that’s not until Saturday night! On Friday the 30th, I have put together a birthday show for one of my best friends. Whiskey Shivers, The Sweet Nuthin, and Little Wesley (members of Visitors, Tow The Line) are all set to perform at this special Get Down with Hashbr30wns event at Club de Ville. Cover is a measly $5 and doors open at 8 p.m. Check out this sweet, live clip of Whiskey Shivers filmed by Austin Music Weekly at a recent installment of the Chrontourage’s Paper Cuts series.
Austinist Indieroke is back! Our friends at Austinist present the 16th edition of this beloved karaoke night at The Mohawk on April 5th.
On April 21st, I’m excited to present Starlings, TN’s CD Release Show at Club de Ville. The local outfit dropped the Heartache in 4/4 Time full-length earlier this month on Chicken Ranch Records. Enjoy their soothing Americana sandwiched between openers George Irwin & The Georgian Company and headliners East Cameron Folkcore. Doors at 8 p.m. (FB Event Page.)
He will forever be remembered as one of the most important vocalists in the annals of metal music history. Ronnie James Dio left this world on May 16th, 2010. Two years on, we salute this legend at The Mohawk this May 16th with a special tribute night. Incarnations of local bands will play choice Dio tunes, and you’ll have a chance to prove your mettle via fun competitions such as a “high pitched vocal prowess” challenge, a “draw a rainbow in the dark” activity, a “pin the horns on Ronnie’s hand” game, and of course, a Ronnie James Dio look-alike contest. Don’t miss out on these Dio inspired festivities!

Mon Mar 26 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Weekly Mojo: Saul Williams at The Mohawk [3.3.12]

Transmission party people, what’s up?! We’ve got a special treat coming to The Mohawk this Saturday, March 3! Poet, writer, actor, singer, and musician (I know of triple threats, but what do you even call that?!?) Saul Williams will be gracing the outdoor stage for the evening and it’s sure to be an incredible performance! Williams has toured the world giving lectures and performing music and poetry, so I feel pretty lucky that we get to catch him right on Red River. If his name isn’t ringing a bell for some of you, you’re probably familiar with his critically acclaimed book, Said the Shotgun to the Head. When explaining his multimedia tendencies in an interview with Wired.com, he suggested, “There] is a certain type of emotion that is more easily accessible through music than poetry… Some things are meant to be written, some are meant to be sung, some things are meant to be hummed, some things are made to be yelled, and so that's just how life works.” For me, it’s just as impossible to listen to Saul Williams’ music without hearing the innate poetics as it is to ignore the musicality when listening to his poetry; that’s to say, his being a poet imbues his musical works with a fascinating structural quality, rhythm, and a thoughtfulness that that turns my head inside out in the most delightful way.

“Come, my love, we have oceans to sail!”

Saul Williams’ latest record Volcanic Sunlight was released last May and I actually got turned onto it via a sort of—well, I’ll just admit it—through my obsession with Bollywood movies; the first single on the album, “Dance,” features a sample of the song, “Disco ’82,” from Ravi Tandon’s film, Khud-Daar. In any case, you’ll find that it’s almost too easy to settle deep into the groove of this tune; good luck sitting still Saturday night! If you haven’t heard any of his music, though, I’d personally recommend “Explain My Heart” (which you can catch in the YouTube video below!) as a first encounter! Doors are Saturday at 8pm and you can save a few bones by purchasing TICKETS online, so hop to it and I’ll see you there!

Tue Feb 28 2012 · Posted in Events

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Upcoming Events

I am stoked to bring you three incredibly talented local acts inside at The Mohawk tomorrow -- Kay Leotard get this night of unadulterated garage-rock started, Lola-Cola follow at 10 p.m., and the irrepressible outfit that is A Giant Dog headlines (FB Event Page). Earlier in the evening, Rubberneck spins new releases by the likes of Bobby Jealousy and The Golden Boys at the latest installment of its Listening Party so be sure to get down to the 'hawk early!
The madness that is SX week is almost here! I have partnered up with BTR, Velvet Blue Music, and WireTap Music Presents for a day show at The Liberty on March 14th (Noon – 8 p.m.). The lineup includes Agent Ribbons, Starlight Girls, and Tim Fite, and three of my favorite Austin bands Hundred Visions, Mr. Lewis and the Funeral Five, and the aforementioned Kay Leotard. Enjoy complimentary chips from Beanitos and salsa from Tommy’s, plus Miss Austin will be on hand to interview a babe and hunk of the week so you best have your banter ready!
Ready for a different taste of gravy? RajiWorld and I have teamed up to bring you a massive Soul Shakedown at The Mohawk on March 31st featuring live sets by Nakia, Akina Adderley & The Vintage Playboys, and Hard Proof Afrobeat. Threadgill’s will have some tasty veggie options for sale on-site and we’ll have a soul-themed photo-booth as well. Doors at 8 p.m. for this outside show; cover is $10 or you can pre-purchase tickets for $8 via FrontGate (FB Event Page).
And finally, Austinist Indieroke is back! Our friends at Austinist present the 16th edition of this beloved karaoke night at The Mohawk on April 5th.

Mon Feb 27 2012 · Posted in Events

Paid To Smile: Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks at The Mohawk [2.22.12]

Editor’s Note: Today, I’m stoked to present the first installment of Paid To Smile, a new column by Neph Basedow. She’s starting off just right with a review of the Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks show at The Mohawk earlier this week. Enjoy!

I’m no stranger to Stephen Malkmus. (And these days, who is?) I’ve seen him a handful times, both with his wildly influential ‘90s alt-rock outfit Pavement, as well as with The Jicks. Most recently, I caught a couple of Pavement’s 2010 reunion shows, at Chicago’s Pitchfork Festival and at New York’s Central Park Summerstage.

Those shows... more or less sucked. They contained no heart. I could nearly see dollar-signs in Makmus’ glazed-over eyes, and envisioned the band at perpetual war backstage--if they were even speaking at all.

But such was not the case at Mohawk last night, as the Pavement/Jicks frontman stepped into a clearly more comfortable spotlight and onto the venue’s newly revamped outdoor stage.

Malkmus appeared lighthearted from the get-go-- jovial and loquacious with the crowd, as the band opened with the infectiously funny “Senator” from last year’s Beck-produced Mirror Traffic.

The Rant: Misprint 6th Annual Beard and Moustache Competition @ The Mohawk [2.25.12]

Editor’s Note: Today, I’m excited to debut The Rant, a brand new column by Rebecca Rosenberg where she’ll be sharing her views on various goings-on in town. Welcome aboard, Rebecca!

Photos by Chrontourage

While most of us are aware that the popularity of epic beards, as well as the active facial hair community, have grown to extreme proportions of late, phrases like “Ladies Beard Pageant” and “Beard Parade” just don’t roll off our tongues on a regular basis. That all changes one weekend a year, when some of Texas’ and the nation’s best come together to demonstrate that incredibly burly facial hair is more than just a trend or a conversation piece. It is also a platform for camaraderie, creativity, and the healthy spirit of competition. Yes, Competitive Bearding is alive and well, and Misprint Magazine, Austin Facial Hair Club, and Mohawk intend to prove it at the sixth annual Misprint Beard and Moustache Competition, February 24-25, 2012. There are so many things about this competition that make me smile. First, the categories: No-brainers like Gnarliest Beard, Sweetest 'Stache, and Fiercest Chops complement the more eclectic Freestyle Facial Hair (sounds artistic), Six-Month Sprint, and Ladies (!?) competitions. Buzz around this event grows every year, as more folks hop on the beard-wagon, and last year the event was expanded to include the whole weekend. Friday night begins with a Meet and Greet/Pub Crawl, ending with the Ladies competition at the ND. The main event takes place at the Mohawk on Saturday, February 25 with returning host Matt Bearden of KLBJ, music from Marriage and DJ Andy the Mouth, and enough facial hair appreciation to make you feel all warm and furry. The event winds down with the Awesome Bearded Hangover Brunch on Sunday. Finally, rumor has it that Mohawk is erecting a $100,000, solid steel, temporary stage which will be visible from Red River, just to support the weight of all those massive beards!!?!? Now that’s respect. If you’ve ever read Misprint or took a peek at last year’s Fun Fun Fun Fest program, you’ll know that this event will be entertaining, irreverent, and rife with parody. Good times shall be had by all.

Wed Feb 22 2012 · Posted in Events

Weekly Mojo: Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks @ The Mohawk [2.22.12]

Oh hello, Transmission friends! So this week’s task of selecting which show thrills me the most was pretty much easier than ever; Stephen Malkmus and The Jicks will be rocking The Mohawk tomorrow night, and I’ve basically been counting the days down for three weeks. I literally think if I could only see one show until summer, out of all the ridiculously amazing bands Transmission throws our way, this would be it. As most of you probably know, The Jicks is Stephen Malkmus’ (of Pavement, duh) other project and it is literally a dream come true for anyone who has ever loved Pavement. These guys have been around since 2000 and I seriously adore all of their records. If you only have time to listen to one album before coming out to the show, make it Real Emotional Trash. “Gardenia,” “Dragonfly Pie,” and “Hopscotch Willie” would be great starting tracks for those of you who are (tragically) unfamiliar with Malkmus and The Jicks. If you only have time to listen to one song, I’d go with the single, “Baby C’mon,” which you can check out in the YouTube link below!

Baby c’mon—make it out to The Mohawk tomorrow!

The newest record is called Mirror Traffic and the tracks I’d recommend for a first taste are “Tigers,” “Stick Figures in Love,” and “Senator.” The songs are honest and Malkmus’ classic, tongue in cheek lyricism coupled with some of the catchiest hooks I know really makes for an act that keeps you on your toes. Structurally, the songs are just teeming with delightful twists and turns, as you might expect from Malkmus, and many of the albums hold to that sort of Wowee Zowee form. Need some more guitar solos in your life? Look no further. Doors are Wednesday at 6:30pm and I’d highly recommend purchasing TICKETS beforehand!

Tue Feb 21 2012 · Posted in Events

Live Clip: King Khan & The Shrines + Jacuzzi Boys @ The Mohawk [2.4.12]

Tue Feb 14 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

From The Mind Of Adi: Mohawk Mania

The Mohawk is truly my home away from home and looks like that isn’t going to be changing anytime soon! Transmission Events and The Impossibles are mega stoked to announce that the local legends are reuniting to play the 'hawk on June 9th, roughly ten years after their last gig. It’s been a long wait, especially for fans who just wouldn’t miss a single show back in the day. In fact, if I had a penny for every time I scrambled together loose change to catch this amazing band live during my college years and beyond, I’d have a heckload of pennies! Tickets for the 9th gig are available via the brand new Impossibles site; expect a set-list spanning their entire career and containing a hearty dose of crunching rock anthems, plenty of pure powerpop and selected ska-tterings.
On February 25th and March 2nd, The Mohawk hosts a couple of events that showcase the venue’s diversity, in accord with its “All Are Welcome” mantra. The former night marks the sixth edition of the ever-burgeoning Misprint Beard and Moustache Competition while the latter date, Prototype Vintage Design’s Fashion Freakout Five, promises an evening devoted to all the clothes, jewelry, and assorted accessories that you’ll need to strut your stuff this year. Tickets for both events can be purchased via the Transmission Events website.
And that’s not all. I have a couple of quality shows coming up at The Mohawk – complete details coming soon but in the interim, feel free to keep your calendar open on February 28th (A Giant Dog, Lola-Cola, and Kay Leotard) and March 31st (Akina ~ Nakia Soul Shakedown featuring Nakia, Akina Adderley & The Vintage Playboys, and Hard Proof Afrobeat). Stay tuned!

Mon Feb 13 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Beat Connection: King Khan and the Shrines live at The Mohawk [2.4.12]

How many times can you say that a band's frontman has graced the stage in an outfit befitting that of a tribal chieftain? Excluding perhaps actual indigenous tribes, my guess would be the only time such an outfit would be the norm would be at a King Khan and the Shrines show. Luckily for the denizens of Austin, the King himself graced the stage of The Mohawk on Saturday, February 4th for a performance that will be virtually impossible to forget anytime soon. Born in the bitter cold of Montreal and honed in the cultural cross section of Berlin, Indo-Canadian King Khan has cemented a reputation as one of punk, garage, and R&B's wildest characters with his colorful costumes (usually consisting of merely a cape and some sort of shimmering undergarment), vivacious life spirit, and dirty soul punk style that transcends time barriers, pulling equally from the likes of James Brown, The Saints, The Buzzcocks, and the Stax Records family. Also known for his work with Mark Sultan in garage punk duo The King Khan and BBQ Show, Khan hit The Mohawk with The Shrines, his multi-national band of soul rock misfits, miscreants, and troublemakers. With a stacked line up of Jacuzzi Boys, American Sharks, and DJ Richard Henry in support and a sold out audience all showing their love and admiration for King Khan and The Shrines, Saturday night at The Mohawk instantly became the biggest party around as The King himself rolled into town.

Live Clip: Radio Moscow @ The Mohawk [1.31.12]

Sat Feb 4 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Live Clip: Twin Sister @ The Mohawk [1.29.12]

Fri Feb 3 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

WEEKLY MOJO: Black Taxi at The Mohawk

One of my favorite New York bands is heading towards the Promise Land as we speak, and you’ve got to know about them! (I initially meant ‘Promise Land’ to refer to Austin, but for the record, yes, it could just have easily been referring to The Mohawk.) Black Taxi will be rocking ye olde Mohawk this Friday, February 3 (doors at 9pm), and I haven’t had the pleasure of seeing them since SX ’11, so you can bet your sweet ass I’ll be there dancing mine off. Writing this is sneaky business, though, because trying to categorize and describe Black Taxi’s sound for those of you who haven’t gotten a taste of the tunes is daunting. Guitarist, Bill Mayo, perhaps explained it best when I asked the band what their music would be a good soundtrack for: “Black Taxi isn’t the soundtrack[;] it’s the movie.” The rhetoric matches the drapes, my friends. This band covers the wide terrain between pop, dance, rock, and party punk but traverses across sounds, well, frankly, in a way that’s not really like anything else. Let’s just say the only way you won’t enjoy the hell out of this show is if you hate fun.

Queue up: “Hand,” “Shoeshine,” “Up Here for Thinking, Down There for Dancing,” and “Pretty Mama” for a first sweet, sweet taste.

Black Taxi just so happens to be on tour with a new record, We Don’t Know Any Better, and it’s a live show that notoriously does not disappoint. I was fortunate enough to share the stage with these guys at in infamously ridiculous South By Co-Op show and I was blown away not merely by the musicianship, but by how much I felt a part of the performance and what a blast the band seemed to be having. Bassist, Krisana Soponpong, confirmed my suspicions when I asked what sets Black Taxi apart from their New York contemporaries: “[W]hat sets us apart from other NYC [bands] is that we’re having a good time and we show it… I have been told that we don’t have the typical NYC cynicism and that’s fine with me.” There is a triumph in this attitude and you’re going to feel it in your dancin’ pants. If you come out on Friday (i.e., if you’re wise), you’ll no doubt witness frontman, Ezra Huleatt, probably monkeying his way to the top of the highest speaker in the room, alternating between a trumpet and megaphone, and you’ll understand exactly what I mean. The music will kick off at 10pm Friday, and it’s only $6 ($8 minors) so I’ll see you there rock and rollers. Come cut a rug with me!

Thu Feb 2 2012 · Posted in

Live Clip: Graveyard @ The Mohawk [1.25.12]

Thu Feb 2 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Beat Connection: Twin Sister live at The Mohawk [1.29.12]

Sunday night at The Mohawk was something of an idyllic scene. The night was clear, there was a brisk chill in the air and to beat the cold, a sold out audience packed the Mohawk's inside room to catch the dreamy pop of Long Island's Twin Sister. The evening couldn't have been better for a performance from the band that showcased the sound they have been refining for the past three years and showed off a few different directions they could go in as well. Openers Ava Luna kicked the night off with a bang bringing some vigorous white boy soul that grabbed the crowd's attention and likely startled a few audience members in ways that few opening acts typically do. Combining funk, R&B, blues, noise, and electronica Ava Luna's set was an excellent introduction for newcomers to the young band and a display of their prowess for established fans. As the inside room began to fill up, Twin Sister took the stage and prepared themselves for an outstanding performance that was at times both thrilling and intensely intimate.

Live Clip: Starfucker @ The Mohawk [1.14.12]

Wed Feb 1 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

AudioBrad: Starfucker @ The Mohawk (1.14.12)

Weekly Mojo: Radio Moscow @ The Mohawk [1.25.12]

How are you living this fine Tuesday, Transmission friends? I’m recently returned from holiday on Holy Ship so I’m sort of in a fragile state; if I hear ONE more House beat or buildup-drop-wobble scenario right now, I might throw myself off the Congress bridge. But first world problems aside, two of my favorite bands right now will be playing The Mohawk soon, so a good dose of rock and roll should reset the ol’ operating systems in no time! The sneaky thing is, though, that both of these shows are in the same week (next week!) so I’m going to tackle one today and keep the other a surprise for my next little ditty. The first band that will come up next week is Radio Moscow, who will be playing Le Mohawk next Wednesday, January 25 for a killer outdoor set! They’ll be preparing the stage for Graveyard, who is also thrilling by the way; I’ve just had a longer affair with Radio Moscow, so they’ve got a special place in my heart, and consequently my Weekly MoJo. Radio Moscow is self-proclaimed “Psychedelic-Blues music for your soul,” and they’re right about it taking care of your soul, but I think the selected sub-genre is too narrow to encapsulate all that rocks about this band. I don’t really know quite how to put this; Parker Griggs (guitar/vox) might melt your face off.

Bring your gals, fellas—these songs will seal the deal for you.

(image from RadioMoscow.net)

Straight From The Mohawk HQ: Turquoise Jeep @ The Mohawk [12.31.11]

Mon Jan 16 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions, Daily

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Upcoming Events

Hope everyone is taking full advantage of Free Week’s boundless magic! Tonight, Austin Music Weekly and I invite you to Red 7 for a mouth-watering bill featuring some of our local favorites. Come on down and check out live sets by Hard Proof Afrobeat, Hundred Visions, Smoke and Feathers, Zlam Dunk, East Cameron Folkcore, and Kay Leotard, all for free! Music starts at 8:45 p.m.
On January 17th, I am excited to present three promising Austin bands inside at The Mohawk. Over the last year or so, NY transplant Eric Brendo (ex-Downtown) has recruited some talented musicians, including former English Teeth bassist Todd Pruner to fine tune The Asteroid Shop’s mesmerizing melodies to perfection. Enjoy the fruits of their labor at 11 p.m.; Boy + Kite and Anam Milá get things started nice ‘n’ early this Tuesday evening.
And finally, save the date! February 28th at The Mohawk! A Giant Dog! If you have not seen this band in all its glory yet, you won’t want to miss this opportunity. More details soon.

Thu Jan 5 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Straight From The Transmission Events HQ: Marijuana Deathsquads + Har Mar Superstar Residency!

Alright homies, we have a very special residency to announce – on the first three Wednesdays of February, The Mohawk (inside) will be home to bonafide dance party mayhem courtesy of the all-star team that is Marijuana Deathsquads, along with frequent collaborator, the irrepressible Har Mar Superstar. And on the final Friday of the month, they are flying in a special guest headliner Polica for a blockbuster outside show. Sure, Free Week has you covered for the early part of January, and March SX fervor has already begun, but February promises to be truly extraordinary. Get your tickets here. And feel free to take those Thursdays off, you’re going to need some taco time in the morning to recover!

Thu Jan 5 2012 · Posted in Daily

Best Shows of 2011! Mohawk and Red 7 Manager Picks!

Happy New Year! We’re already looking ahead to another stellar year of Transmission shows but let’s not forget about the year we had -- the esteemed managers at two of our venues took some time recently to look back at the finest from 2011. Each manager selected their favorite show from each month at their respective venue.

Cody Cowan, Manager, The Mohawk

January: Kool Keith & Big Freedia
February: Swans
March: TV on the Radio / Big Boi
April: Yelle (Yelawolf, a close second)
May: Melvins
June: Youth of Today / Converge
July: John Maus
August: Handsome Furs
September: Neon Indian / Les Savy Fav
October: Talib Kweli / Washed Out
November: Glass Candy
December: Big Freedia & Turquoise Jeep

Rene Stokes, Manager, The Mohawk

January: Monotonix
February: Yann Tierson
March: TV on the Radio / Big Boi
April: Lightning Bolt
May: of Montreal
June: The Bright Light Social Hour
July: Mission of Burma
August: Handsome Furs
September: Neon Indian
October: Toro y Moi
November: Glass Candy
December: Big Freedia & Turquoise Jeep

Johnny Sarkis, Manager, Red 7

January: Tweak Bird
February: No Age
March: Obits
April: Acid Mother’s Temple
May: Acrassicauda / Zeke
June: The Spits
July: Saviours
August: St. Vitus
September: Wolves in the Throne Room
October: OFF!
November: Green Day
December: Russian Circles

Wed Jan 4 2012 · Posted in Daily

Weekly Mojo: The Couch at The Mohawk [Tonight]

Transmission family, listen up! I’ll be heading up to The Mohawk tomorrow night to see one of my absolute favorite local bands, The Couch, release their first full-length! I can barely contain myself. I first got into this band when I had freshly arrived in ATX and a one Matt Mandrella tossed me their Blue Milk EP and said I could borrow it for a few days. (I still have it.) I popped that record in my car as I was cruising up Red River and when “Showdown” came on, that’s when I remember getting hooked. Tinker around on the website and check out a few tracks if you haven’t; you’ll probably experience something similar. For best results, though, I suggest taking it to the car, rolling all the windows down and cranking it; it makes me feel instantly cooler than I probably look. The Couch just makes honest, hot-blooded American rock songs that have an undeniable booty-shaking swagger you won’t be able to get enough of, trust me.

Crashing on a stranger’s couch never felt so good.

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

News & Events

On Wednesday, December 14th, I’m super stoked to present The Couch’s CD Release show at The Mohawk. You can check out their new single “The Way You Came” via BandCamp. The talented local outfit formed in San Marcos during the founding members’ time at Texas State University. Now based out of Austin, they recorded Old and Touchin’ Blue with Lars Goransson at Sounds Outrageous Studio.

They’ll be preceded on stage this evening by fellow San Marcos transplants Zlam Dunk and Little Radar. Doors at 8p.m.; cover is $6 ($8 for minors).
If love you dogs and Iggy Pop (and you should), come down to the 29th St. Ballroom on December 17th. I Wanna Be Your Dog II, a benefit for Austin Pets Alive, features a dog pageant hosted by Mike Wiebe, complimentary treats from Frank, and plenty of classic Stooges tunes as covered by a whole host of local bands. And hold off on your holiday shopping until you take a stab at the stellar items up for grabs in the silent auction. There’s also a raffle where you could win two wristbands to SXSW. Doors at 8 p.m.; chaperoned pets welcome.
Free Week is almost upon us! Austin Music Weekly and I have teamed up to put together a diverse lineup consisting of many of our local favorites -- come on down to Red 7 on Thursday, January 5th and check out Hard Proof Afrobeat, Hundred Visions, Zlam Dunk, East Cameron Folkcore, and Kay Leotard, all for free! Music starts at 9 p.m.
Finally, the latest episode of Soundboard focuses on Chico Jones at Ohm Recording Studio -- check it out here. Thanks as always to Shoot Good Media, my proficient partners on this project.

Wed Dec 7 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Weekly Mojo: The Sea and Cake at The Mohawk [12.6.11]

Transmission Events is rocking this week, but if I had to pick just one show, I’d go with The Sea and Cake. This band’s live performance is notoriously intimate and I think The Mohawk is just one of those venues that can take an intimate set like this and make it seriously mind-blowing. You don’t really see many singles coming from The Sea and Cake over the years because they enjoy the album format, and this sensibility colors the live show experience in that, well, it’s actually an experience as opposed to a mere hodge-podge of tracks. You’ll hear post-jazz and post-rock thrown around with this band, but labels don’t really do The Sea and Cake much justice. They’ve been around since ’94; let’s just sit back and let them do their thing because it’s righteous.

The Sea and Cake is coming! The Sea and Cake is coming!

Weekly Mojo: Love Inks at The Mohawk [Friday]

Greetings, weary travelers! Mojo here with Transmission Entertainment to give you my spin on what I’m most excited to see this week! I just returned from Thanksgiving in DFW with my massive Irish Catholic family, so if you’re feeling anything like me, you need to recharge. Desperately. Well, we’ve got just the thing for you this Friday at The Mohawk! Love Inks will be playing their tour kickoff show, so you know it will be a good time! The night kicks off at 9pm and we’ve been informed that there will be spankin’ new songs, a new lineup and even colored 7" pressings of “Rock On” and “Blackeye” for purchase that were previously unavailable in the US, so you definitely don’t want to miss out on this one.

Let Love Inks ease you out of your turkey coma and take your mind off of all the nasty things Grandma said over the weekend.

(Image from Love Inks’ Facebook)

AudioBrad: Phantogram & Reptar @ The Mohawk (11.09.11)

Check out the full set via AudioBrad’s Facebook.

Mark Sultan @ The Mohawk [Tonight]

Tue Nov 15 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

AudioBrad: Talib Kweli @ The Mohawk (10.21.11)

Check out the full set via AudioBrad’s Facebook.

Weekly Mojo: The Sour Notes at The Mohawk [Tonight]

Hey, rock and rollers—Mojo here with Transmission Entertainment for your weekly dose of what thrills me from our calendar! There’s a show tonight at The Mohawk that you should know about. If you’re a Mohawk frequenter (or you just roll with our homegirl, Fiesta), it’s possible that you’ve already seen this band, but if you haven’t, it’s imperative that you check out The Sour Notes right this minute. These kids are not only the delight to work with that every music industry head hauncho hopes for, they’re fresh and transformative for their genre. They’re recently back from NYC, where they performed in the (incidentally longest-named showcase EVER) KXSC/KXLU/KVRX/KTRU Official CMJ 2011 College Radio Showcase, so we’re stoked to welcome them back to ATX! The band was also a SXSW showcasing act as well, and they’ve opened up for bands like We Are Scientists, so they’ve certainly got plenty of street cred. If you need more convincing, give The Sour Notes’ ALBUMS a once over, with particular attention to their most recent record, “Last Looks,” which is their most cohesive effort, boasting thoughtfully wandering jams and delightfully unexpected changes, all held together by a driving pop sensibility.

If you woke up this morning thinking Ugghhh, Tuesdaaayyy just come to this show and feel better about the world!

Beat Connection: Washed Out - live at the Mohawk [10.17.2011]

Over what has been an admittedly brief career thus far, audiences have come to learn to expect the unexpected from Atlanta's chillwave touchstones Washed Out. Influenced by old school hip hop as much as by electronica and shoegaze, the project led by enigmatic frontman/keyboardist Ernest Greene has taken several interesting twists and turns since its inception during the chillwave boom of 2009. Washed Out began life as a reverby bedroom project from Greene that culled the Life of Leisure EP (2009), which was fueled by the popularity of the single "Feel it All Around" which was passed around, turned into a summer anthem, and caused the EP to be reissued for a larger market in 2010. Washed Out went on to work with fellow chillwavers Small Black to produce a short EP of stoned beach rock later in 2010, showing how Greene was working on expanding his sound. When Washed Out finally released their debut LP Within and Without (2011), the hazy bedroom jams was replaced by a woozy but elegant style of insular synth pop that took heavy influence from trip hop and prominently featured a batch of heavenly synth tones expertly layered to create ambiguous keyboard washes that completely enveloped the listener. The record cannot exactly be considered a thrill ride but is suited more for spending a rainy day indoors or relaxing in the late hours of the night. With this in mind, it was unlikely that many in attendance expected the set style Washed Out brought to the Mohawk on Monday, October 19. Those expecting a more atmospheric and low key performance that would seem to go along the lines of how Greene wrote the songs on his band's debut may have been thoroughly shocked as Washed Out hit the stage with only one goal in mind: to get the party started.

Weekly Mojo: Telegraph Canyon at The Mohawk Tonight! [w/ Astronautalis]

Good day, friends of Transmission Entertainment! I am exceedingly thrilled about a show tomorrow at The Mohawk that I simply have to tell you about for your Weekly Mojo! As someone who grew up in Fort Worth and spent a decent amount of time in Denton (yes, pity me), I can testify that one of the greatest local acts from up in them parts, Telegraph Canyon, will be heading down to Austin to give The Mohawk a solid rocking this Thursday, October 20! Telegraph Canyon is a charming 7-piece indie folk band with an impressive record and honest, Americana songs that will earn a place in the heart of even the most hardened and cynical among you. These kids have opened up for bands like Broken Social Scene and Old 97’s, and you can certainly expect one heck of a live show! While I’d offer up bands like Arcade Fire, Dr. Dog, and My Morning Jacket for some frame of reference for those of you who haven’t gotten a chance to hear Telegraph Canyon yet, their website will a bit more accurately tell you that the band sounds like “the redwood forest and an ocean of noise.”

Mellow out with Telegraph Canyon as your week is winding down!

Photo by Jill Johnson.

AudioBrad: Toro y Moi, Bass Drum of Death @ The Mohawk (10.8.11)

Editor’s Note: I am excited to debut our new photographer Brad Dugdale’s work today – AudioBrad will be taking pictures at various Transmission shows going forward. He kicks things off with some great shots from the Toro y Moi and Bass Drum of Death show at The Mohawk last week. Enjoy!

Check out the full set via AudioBrad’s Facebook.

Beat Connection: Zola Jesus – Conatus [Album Review]

Editor’s Note: Catch Zola Jesus live at The Mohawk on October 29th – get your tickets here.

When one is plunged into an unforgiving darkness, there will inevitably be snatches of light that poke their way through and one will likely emerge from such an experience with valuable life lessons and experience to speak of. Nika Roza Danilova's Zola Jesus project has often felt like this, her music often feeling like brooding funeral dirges devoid of humor and hope but acting more as experiences showing a black hearted or even nihilistic vision of art that are meant to show the darkness that can lurk in the far reaches of the human mind. The string of EPs Danilova released in 2010 as Zola Jesus explored this feeling down its deepest tunnels and trenches, with the EPs Stridulum (2010), Valusia (2010), and LA Vampires Meets Zola Jesus (2010). The EPs displayed a rich gothic imagery and a flair for operatic dramatics that Danilova has since made synonymous with the name Zola Jesus but at the end of last year, had seemingly run their course with the artist. Songs like "Night" from the Stridulum EP focused on utilizing thick drones and Danilova's powerful pipes to completely suck any breathing room from the arrangements, not making the songs sound cluttered but at times grossly heavy and conveying emotions that can often be difficult for the average person to bear. But on Zola Jesus' new full length LP Conatus (2011), Danilova steps away from the front and center emotional weight of her recent EPs to create a record that feels like the most human and accessible of her career, making songs that utilize dark new wave and goth rock sensibilities, skeletal industrial clatter, and at points, even danceable backbeats, all without sacrificing the emotional clarity Zola Jesus has become known to portray.

Straight From The Mohawk HQ: Oktoberfest [Saturday]

Oktoberfest @ The Mohawk – Saturday, 10/15/11

3pm-7pm. $5 cover benefiting St. Jude's. Sauerkraut eating competition and Hammerschlagen on the mezzanine. Daily Press, Best Wurst, and Coolhaus Austin will be vending in Club De Ville's parking lot.

To sign-up early for the sauerkraut eating contest, email Patrick at

Sponsored by Mohawk, Club Deville and Red River Flats:
3:00 @ CDV – TBA
4:00 @ CDV – Leatherbag
5:00-7:00 @ Mohawk - The Motts

Hammerschlagen

Mon Oct 10 2011 · Posted in Events

Bleached, The Carrots, Rayon Beach @ The Mohawk [Tonight]

Tickets

Mon Oct 10 2011 · Posted in Events

Beat Connection: Bill Callahan at The Mohawk [9.28.11]

Whether it be the overtly parodied "We are the World", the historic Live Aid concerts, or just a few friends coming together to host a charity concert in their parents garage, music has had a long and illustrious history as a way to bring people together to help those less fortunate. On Wednesday, September 28, indie rock lifer Bill Callahan partnered with Poverty Over, a non-profit organization devoted to fighting poverty in the United States and throughout the world, to raise money for one of the world's most pressing causes. And while Callahan wasn't making an appearance next to Lionel Richie or Kenny Rogers in a posh recording studio for his charitable cause, his intensely intimate and touching performance at The Mohawk surely drew increased donations from the audience that night. Openers Mother Falcon began the night with their broad and sweeping take on orchestral indie rock that noticeably wowed the audience. With a massive band that included cellos, double bass, violins, accordion, saxophone, various brass, keyboard, acoustic guitar, and life affirming group vocals. The band sounded huge with their broad arrangements and globe trotting influences, acting as a dose of restrained grandiosity before Bill Callahan came on stage for his meticulously stripped down and starkly moving performance.

Positive Negatives: Les Savy Fav, The Arm, Canoe @ The Mohawk (9.29.11)

Check out the full set via Jerry Milton’s Flickr.

The Arm

Canoe

From The Mind Of Adi: Quesoff 2011 @ The Mohawk [Photo Recap]

Quesoff 2011 was a grand success last Saturday at The Mohawk. Thomas Lombardi was victorious in the “Veggie” category with his Pronounceable Ingredients dish, April Henshaw & team placed first in the “Spicy” category with their Queso Beso entry, and Frank’s Militia Queso Guey took home the honors in the “Meaty” category. Thanks again to all the participants, our judges Addie Broyles (Austin American-Statesman), Hilah Johnson (Hilah Cooking), Rose Reyes (Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau), Tolly Moseley (Austin Eavesdropper), and Tom Thornton (Austinist.com), El Milagro, uLOVEi, and of course, The Mohawk’s staff. Check out Tolly’s awesome recap here.

All images below by Jessica Alexander (full set).

Beat Connection: Neon Indian at The Mohawk & Blazer Tag [9.24.11]

Denton by way of Brooklyn's Neon Indian are known to most fans as one of the innovators of the now infamous genre known as chillwave, a spaced out and trippy form of electronica that at its stasis emphasized relaxing on a bean bag chair and perhaps watching the entirety of the Back to the Future trilogy. However, when Neon Indian took the stage for their headlining set at The Mohawk on Friday, September 23, "chilling" was more than likely the last thing on anyone's mind. It was time to party; the band knew it, the audience knew it, and everyone was going to do everything they could to make Neon Indian's set the biggest and best bash in town. Openers Com Truise set the scene with their style of 80s inspired instrumental electronic rock, playing a surprisingly intense set that could recall vintage arcade game soundtracks being played by a punk band. Com Truise nicely whet the sold out crowd's appetite for the night's main attraction, the winking yet earnest dance rock of Neon Indian that got bodies moving and pulses racing all throughout the venue.

Between the release of Neon Indian's debut album, 2009's Psychic Chasms, and their excellent sophomore release Era Extraña (2011), bandleader Alan Palomo sounds to have done a lot of growing up. Where Palomo acted as an innovator combining sun soaked beach pop with charmingly casual techno and electronica on Psychic Chasms, he now acts as a meticulous refiner of sound and style on Era Extraña, putting more force behind the psychedelic electronics, working with traditional dance pop structure more effectively, and writing and recording music with a greater confidence than heard on his band's debut album. For Era Extraña, Palomo retreated to the tundra of Helsinki, Finland to record the album completely on his own and as a result, an increased sense of tension can be heard throughout the album, toughening up Neon Indian's sound and leading farther away from chillwave and closer to an aggressive style of dance music that incorporates elements of hardcore techno, glam rock, and shoegaze. The more active direction seen on the album can be seen in the band's live show as well with Palomo acting as a more confident frontman than he ever has in the past, showing off emotive dance moves, singing, and playing keyboards with a newfound sense of urgency.

Straight From The Mohawk HQ

THE MOHAWK HOSTS 4 DAY EVENT TO CELEBRATE ITS 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY W/ FRIENDS & FANS

FEATURING: LES SAVY FAV, LUCERO, GRUPO FANTASMA, MOONLIGHT TOWERS, THE ARM, SOUL HAPPENING DJs, CANOE AND MANY MORE

AUSTIN, TX (September 26, 2011) –: Austin’s #1 Live Music Venue will be celebrating its 5th Birthday this weekend with the likes of New York City’s indie punk veterans Les Savy Fav, the Grammy winning locals Grupo Fantasma, southern rocker alt country favorites Lucero, locals The Arm, Moonlight Towers, Canoe, Christian Bland, Golden Bear, My Education, Soul Happening DJs, Transmography, Marriage, Frank Smith, Peligrosa, and more - plus a Free Sunday bill entirely dedicated to local Austin musicians that have been with the Mohawk since its inception in 2006.

The Anniversary celebration will be a 4 day event, beginning on September 29th, and will feature live music, food, and custom ‘thank you gifts’ from the Mohawk. Tickets will be available at Front Gate tickets for each individual event and discounted 4 day passes will be available for Mohawk fans and regulars. The preliminary schedule starts by presenting 3 popular veterans of Austin’s Fun Fun Fun Fest, and is as follows:

SCHEDULE

Thursday, September 29th
LES SAVY FAV
The Arm
Canoe
Christian Bland & The Revelators
Shapes Have Fangs
The Vitamins
Johnny Hottub

Friday, September 30th
GRUPO FANTASMA
Soul Happening DJs
Master Blaster Sound System
Peligrosa All Stars

Saturday, October 1st
LUCERO
Moonlight Towers
Frank Smith
Mike & The Moonpies
East Cameron Folkcore

Sunday, October 2nd
LOCALS ONLY (FREE SHOW)
MY EDUCATION
Transmography
Marriage
Golden Bear
Lean Hounds

A series of shows will be booked for both the outside and inside stages, along with a different style of DJ for each event (see: Johnny Hottub). Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early at http://mohawk.frontgatetickets.com/. Expect the bottles to be poppin, especially the Champagne of Beers.

ABOUT THE MOHAWK AUSTIN
The Mohawk Austin booked its first set of acts in September of 2006 in the historic Red River district of downtown Austin. Since that day, the Mohawk has maintained it’s motto of “All Are Welcome”, continually featuring the best and broadest range of up and coming rock and roll, hip hop, metal, punk, indie rock, latin alternative, folk, nerdcore, electronica, alt country, freestyle, and garage rock musicians.

Now in its sixth year, The Mohawk continues to be recognized as one of the best places to discover new and independent music in the United States, ranked by Esquire Magazine as ‘One of the Best Bars in America’, the Austin Chronicle as Austin’s ‘Best Live Music Venue’ in 2011, and voted by Austin American Statesman readers as Austin’s #1 Outdoor Live Music Venue’ in 2010.

CONTACT:
Matt Mandrella / Transmission /
Adi Anand / Transmission /
Cody Cowan, GM / Mohawk /

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Mon Sep 26 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Weekly Mojo: Shapes Have Fangs at The Mohawk [9.29.11]

Friends of Transmission and our beloved Mohawk, I’ve got some yummy stuff for your ears! Selecting the band I’m most excited to see this week has been a distinct challenge… If killer bands were trashcan punch and baseless arrogance, this week would be fuller than a frat boy, but just Thursday, September 29th alone includes multiple bands that I’d love to talk about today. As a side note, I would personally recommend purchasing a 4 Day Pass HERE so you can have access to all the bands playing Mohawk’s 5th Anniversary celebrations! Just to get you salivating, a few of these bands include: Les Savy Fav, Grupo Fantasma and Lucero, and the price tag on the whole damn thing is about what I’d expect to pay for a single band. Tell me it’s not going to be a party.

Alright, alright. Weekly Mojo is here to give you the skinny without too much blibber blabber, so let me get back to business. The band I think deserves a little extra attention this week is a local favorite, Shapes Have Fangs. If you know Adi, then you’ve probably heard or even personally witnessed the glory that is Shapes Have Fangs. This isn’t the band’s first rodeo as you might imagine, having already been SXSW Showcasing Artists, and you can definitely expect a wild ride at their live performances. If you’ve been keeping up with me (and/or the garage rock and R&B sounds that light my fire), my interest in this band should come as no surprise; it’s no-nonsense rock and roll that balances bare-bones blues rhythms and gritty-yet-tasteful guitar solos with a sort of underlying Ronettes-esque sensibility and, of course, a rockabilly flair. When you give the band a listen and see Link Wray listed as an influence, “Ohh, but of course,” might come as a natural response.

Shapes Have Fangs is a perfect addition to the stellar lineup of shows coming your way for The Mohawk’s big 5th Anniversary extravaganza!

Beat Connection: Era Extraña - Neon Indian [Album Review]

Editor’s Note: Check out Neon Indian live this Friday at The Mohawk and then later that evening, catch his DJ set at the special after-party at Blazer Tag (Tickets).

When chillwave first came to prominence in the deadbeat summer of 2009, the now infamous sub-genre stood in for a physical manifestation of eternal youth and a sense of naivety with no regards to adult responsibilities. The point of listening to chillwave was to let the sun bleached synths and bloopy drum beats wash over you and effectively, chill; not to let any other worries creep into your consciousness. At this, the earliest point of its development, chillwave was in its infant stages as were the artists who worked within its confines including bands like Washed Out, Toro y Moi, Memory Tapes, and arguably the unwitting originators of chillwave, Neon Indian. Neon Indian started off as the bedroom project of Denton, TX's Alan Palomo but when Palomo's first few singles took off mining sounds that recalled both 1980s arcade machines and the blissed out vibes of a day at the beach. Neon Indian's debut Psychic Chasms (2009) garnered a hugely positive fan response as chillwave became the de facto sound of the year but now in 2011, Alan Palomo and Neon Indian have done some growing up as have Neon Indian's contemporaries and their fans have. In congruence with fellow former chillwavers Washed Out and Toro y Moi, Neon Indian has expanded to a full band set up and has greatly diversified their sound palette on their second full length release Era Extraña (2011), turning out an album of tough, moody, often experimental dance music that sounds like something that can hardly be tagged with a broad categorization like chillwave. Neon Indian moves on from a musical childhood with Era Extraña crafting an album with greater artistic and musical depth.

Passman’s Pics: Ty Segall, Mikal Cronin, & OBN III’s @ The Mohawk [9.17.11]

Check out the full set via Michael Passman’s Facebook.

Sonic Snogg: Tim Kasher @ The Mohawk [9.5.11]

Tim Kasher graces the inside stage at the Mohawk with his presence in promotion of the newly released EP, Bigamy: More Songs From the Monogamy Sessions (2011, Saddle Creek), which is currently available for sale exclusively on the current tour and on the Saddle Creek website. Following the release of his first solo LP, The Game of Monogamy (2010, Saddle Creek), Kasher toured last year, opening up for Minus the Bear , but this current tour is his first solo headlining effort to date. While technically a solo project, as Kasher explains during the show, his set is not just him with an acoustic guitar; Tim Kasher performs with a full band. Tim Kasher’s backing band includes fellow Cursive member, Patrick Newbery (trumpet/keys), Sara Bertaldo (bass/ backing vocals), and Dylan Ryan (drums).

For more than a decade, the charismatic Tim Kasher has sustained critical success and an ever-growing flock of die-hard enthusiasts while fronting two well-known indie bands: Cursive and The Good Life. Cursive has typically been Tim Kasher’s outlet for exploring the darker side of post-hardcore rock through intricate and aggressive guitar riffs counter-balancing dramatic vocals. The Good Life, which began as a solo project before evolving into a secondary project, provided Kasher with a much-needed outlet to experiment with pop tempos and earnest, minimalist vocals underlying gloomy lyrics. The debut of his first solo effort launches Kasher in yet another direction musically by opting for a delicate, stripped-down folk sound, employing various classical instruments to achieve the desired effect. Whichever musical direction Tim Kasher may be headed in at any given time, brutally honest, poetic lyrics that examine highly-relatable themes like heartache, social expectations, religion, monogamy, and aging remain unwavering constants.

Positive Negatives: Monarchs, Frank Smith, & My Golden Calf @ The Mohawk (9.15.11)

Weekly Mojo: Neon Indian at The Mohawk [9.23.11]

Hey indie rockers! I hope you’re ready to get your mojo working this week because Transmission Entertainment has outdone itself yet again… Neon Indian is coming in hot at The Mohawk this Friday, September 23! If you haven’t heard of Neon Indian, you’ve probably been living underground (literally, not just hipster hyperbole). But seriously, I recall Rolling Stone Magazine dubbing Neon Indian one of the hottest bands of 2010, and I think they’ve only gained momentum since then. This band, like many other electro/ indie acts floating around out there, will definitely appeal to anyone whose parents raised them in the 80s; there’s plenty of oscillation, synthesizers and deep, pulsing grooves. Songs like “Terminally Chill” even vaguely nod to something a little disco, but Neon Indian borrows from the past in a genuinely transformative way; nothing about the songs feels merely rehashed. It’s right challenging to compare Neon Indian to many other acts, but I think if you put Cut Copy on some crazy downers or something, you might elicit some similar sounds. As far as tone goes, Twin Shadow and Best Coast are probably also fair comparisons. Will you be able to dance at this show? Yes. Will you be able to close your eyes and travel across space and time on a luck dragon? Absolutely.

Mellow out and ease into your weekend with Neon Indian.

Passman’s Pics: O’Death @ The Mohawk [9.10.11]

Check out the full set via Michael Passman’s Facebook.

Thu Sep 15 2011 · Posted in Daily

Passman’s Pics: Bass Drum of Death & Japandroids @ The Mohawk [9.8.11]

Check out the full set via Michael Passman’s Facebook.

Monarchs (Austin Farewell) @ The Mohawk [Thursday]

Mon Sep 12 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Straight From The Mohawk HQ

THE MOHAWK ANNOUNCES 4 DAY EVENT TO CELEBRATE ITS 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY W/ FRIENDS & FANS

FEATURING: LES SAVY FAV, LUCERO, GRUPO FANTASMA, LOCALS ONLY, DJs AND MANY MORE

AUSTIN, TX (Sept 8, 2011) –: Austin’s Favorite Live Music Venue announced today that it is celebrating its 5th Birthday with the likes of New York City’s indie punk veterans Les Savy Fav, the Grammy winning locals Grupo Fantasma, southern rocker alt country favorites Lucero, a few Special Guests, and a Free Sunday bill entirely dedicated to local Austin musicians that have been with the Mohawk since its inception in 2006.

The Anniversary celebration will be a 4 day event, beginning on September 29th, and will feature live music, food, and custom ‘thank you gifts’ from the Mohawk. Tickets will be available at Front Gate tickets for each individual event and discounted 4 day passes will be available for Mohawk fans and regulars. The preliminary schedule starts by presenting 3 popular veterans of Austin’s Fun Fun Fun Fest, and is as follows:

OUTSIDE STAGE SCHEDULE

Thursday, September 29th
LES SAVY FAV
TBA
+Johnny Hottub

Friday, September 30th
GRUPO FANTASMA
TBA

Saturday, October 1st
LUCERO
TBA

Sunday, October 2nd
LOCALS ONLY (FREE)
TBA

A series of shows will be booked for both the outside and inside stages, along with a different style of DJ for each event (see: Johnny Hottub). Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early at http://mohawk.frontgatetickets.com. Expect the bottles to be poppin, especially the Champagne of Beers.

ABOUT THE MOHAWK AUSTIN
The Mohawk Austin booked its first set of acts in September of 2006 in the historic Red River district of downtown Austin. Since that day, the Mohawk has maintained it’s motto of “All Are Welcome”, continually featuring the best and broadest range of up and coming rock and roll, hip hop, metal, punk, indie rock, latin alternative, folk, nerdcore, electronica, alt country, and garage rock musicians.

Now in its sixth year, The Mohawk continues to be recognized as one of the best places to discover new and independent music in the United States, ranked by Esquire Magazine as ‘One of the Best Bars in America’, the Austin Chronicle as Austin’s ‘Best Live Music Venue’ in 2011, and voted by Austin American Statesman readers as Austin’s #1 Outdoor Live Music Venue’ in 2010.

CONTACT:
Matt Mandrella / Transmission /
Adi Anand / Transmission /
Cody Cowan, GM / Mohawk /

Thu Sep 8 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Beat Connection: Handsome Furs at The Mohawk [8.26.11]

Editor’s Note: This week, I am excited to present the first installment of Beat Connection, a new blog by Chris Nordahl. In this column, Chris will be reviewing top-notch concerts and laudable records, and more. He kicks things off with a review of the recent Handsome Furs show at The Mohawk last month.

The bass is pounding in your ears, the synthesizers are flying to unnatural heights, and the people onstage are flailing their limbs and contorting their bodies in ways that simply cannot be natural for the average human being. Is this some sort of insane asylum for the dance music inclined? Some kind of bizarre, synth rock ritual? No, it was in fact Handsome Furs' blistering set at The Mohawk on Friday, August 26. The duo of Montreal based husband and wife couple Dan Boeckner and Alexei Perry brought their anthemic dance punk rave ups to The Mohawk with a seemingly limitless amount of energy, passion, and vigor, delivering a set that was enthralling, life affirming, and could likely be heard for several miles down the street. On tour promoting their excellent latest album Sound Kapital (2011), Handsome Furs remarked a few times how excited they were to be in Austin in a setting that wasn't SXSW and Perry often expressed the notion that Austin was becoming her new favorite American city, a sentiment that easily won the audience over and increased the crowd's receptiveness as the night went on.

Weekly Mojo: Japandroids + Bass Drum of Death at The Mohawk [9.8.11]

Editor’s Note: This week, I am excited to present the first installment of the Weekly Mojo, a new blog by Morgan Johnson. In this column, Morgan will be covering some of the finest artists coming to town. She kicks things off with a preview of the upcoming Japandroids & Bass Drum Of Death show at The Mohawk this Thursday.

September is starting off with a bang at The Mohawk! I mean, let’s be honest— it’s always banging at The Mohawk, but the show I’m most stoked to see this coming week is Bass Drum of Death! They’re playing with Japandroids, so you know the entire show will rock, but if you’re an old school garage lover like myself, then you absolutely won’t want to miss this show. These guys are with Fat Possum Records so it might be tempting for some of you to assume that you’re going to catch a show similar to other duos like The Black Keys, but I’d urge you to approach without assumptions because frankly, Bass Drum of Death is just not that predictable. One thing you certainly can expect is to be rocked utterly and thoroughly. Singer and guitarist, John Barrett, comes at you like the hot mess he is with some of the raunchiest guitar tones I’ve come across this year. I hate making comparisons, but to give you a better idea of what you’re getting into, you’ll probably dig this hardest if you get into bands like The Brian Jonestown Massacre and others who tend to toward the garage or surf shop.

Positive Negatives: Mark Sultan (BBQ) @ The Mohawk (8.12.11)

Sonic Snogg: The Wooden Birds @ The Mohawk [7.20.11]

The Wooden Birds stop in at the Mohawk on a Wednesday night for the final stop on their tour promoting the recent release of their second full-length album, Two Matchsticks (Barsuk Records). The current lineup for The Wooden Birds includes bandleader, Andrew Kenny (lead vocals), Leslie Sisson (lead guitar/vocals), Sean Haskins (drums), and Matt Pond (guitar). Having collaborated on other projects- Kenny, Sisson, and Haskins on the American Analog Set and Sisson and Pond on Matt Pond PA- the members of The Wooden Birds bring to this project the collective experience on par with other indie rock collaborative groups like, The New Pornographers , Mister Heavenly , Monsters of Folk, and Broken Social Scene, who have often included Kenny as a performing guest artist .

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

News, Updates, & More

Stefanie Heminger and I have teamed up to bring a little bit of the Sunset Strip to Austin -- you’re cordially invited to Red 7 this Saturday for Glam Yo' Head. We’ll have complimentary food from Frank, a sure-to-be-memorable Miss 7 contest (in the vein of Heminger’s Miss Rainbow contest series up in L.A. ), and of course, plenty of rock 'n' roll in the form of live sets by Uzi Suicide (Guns N' Roses Tribute), Video Vamp ('70s and '80s Rock Tribute), and Yayo. Cover is $7, or $5 with a fab glam outfit; you best dress to impress as uLOVEi will be making the rounds with his trusty camera. Come on down for a different taste of gravy!
There are only a handful of spots remaining! Sign up to participate in Quesoff 2011 by emailing me your dish’s name and the category of your choice (Meaty, Veggie, or Spicy). The Queso cook-off will take place on September 24th at The Mohawk from 5 to 8 p.m.; chips galore from El Milagro included. Check out this preview on KEYE 42’s We Are Austin Live last week. The current roster includes a host of intriguingly named dishes such as “Hell’s Bells,” “Queso...queso-rah!...whatever will be, will be!,” and “Gayso.” These everyday chefs will be going up against the mighty fine recipes at establishments like Torchy’s Tacos, Paco’s Tacos, and Papi Tino’s. One can only imagine the queso queos that may result should a layman or laywoman stun a top chef!
Later that evening, I am super stoked to present The Big 4 Tribute at Red 7. Jason McMaster’s Killa Maul perform Metallica’s debut full-length in its entirety, local metal maestros Blackholicus and Bat Castle cover a variety of tracks by all four bands, and members of Mr. Lewis and the Funeral 5 and 'Til We're Blue or Destroy surface as Viva Sergio! and The Four Whoresmen respectively to pay homage to the heroes as well. Doors at 9 p.m.; $7 ($10 Minors).

Mon Aug 8 2011 · Posted in Daily

Right On Happy Hour @ The Mohawk [5-8pm / Fridays]

Thu Aug 4 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Sonic Snogg: The Coathangers @ The Mohawk [7.17.11]

Sunday night? Check. 12:45 am? Check. Badass riot grrl/garage rock? Che-eck! The Coathangers, a four-piece girl band from Atlanta, Georgia, throw down new tracks off their latest release, Larceny & Old Lace (Suicide Squeeze) as well as selected older material at the Mohawk inside stage. The ladies of the Coathangers, Julia Kugel (guitar/vocals), Stephanie Luke (drums/vocals), Candice Jones (keyboard/ vocals), and Meredith Franco (bass/vocals), formed this band five years ago, even before considering themselves musicians. Since their unwieldy beginnings, the band has continued to hone their musicianship, without compromising their signature irreverent, in-your-face, post-punk.

At first glance, someone unfamiliar with The Coathangers might see these stunning gals take the stage and expect them to casually play some sticky-sweet power-pop songs about being in love or boys breaking their hearts. Au contraire, the band begins the set by delivering rough hooks underlying fierce vocals that reveal intentionally un-romantic, brooding lyrics, like “just you wait till it gets dark/the time will soon go by/ I'll try to come so quickly lest you die,” from the song, “Johnny.” Kugel and Luke share vocal duties equally with Luke’s deep, forceful vocals providing a nice contrast to Kugel’s high-pitch scream. Throughout the set, The Coathangers thrash their instruments with intention, even as each band member switches places with another, trading drums for guitar and so on and so forth. The first single off Larceny & Old Lace, “Hurricane” gets an approving roar near the beginning of the set and warms up the already fiery crowd. The band’s feral energy completely filters through the room mid-set as Luke sings, “I stayed out all goddamn night just to get into another fight.” From that moment on, the mob sways and bumps to the beat. As the set nears the end, stand-out songs, “Nestle My Boobies,” and “Don’t Touch My Shit,” highlight the band’s humor-infused charisma, leaving the most vocal fans literally begging for “one more song.”

Passman’s Pics: Howling At The Moon (Jail Guitar Doors benefit) @ The Mohawk

Howling At The Moon … A Benefit for Jail Guitar Doors at The Mohawk (7.15.11) -- check out the full set via Michael Passman’s Facebook.

The Wooden Birds @ The Mohawk [Tomorrow]

Tickets

Tue Jul 19 2011 · Posted in Events, Music Videos, Daily

Mission of Burma @ The Mohawk [Friday]

Tickets

Mon Jul 18 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Positive Negatives: Sarah Jaffe & Centro-matic @ The Mohawk (7.10.11)

Check out the full sets via Jerry Milton’s Flickr -- Sarah Jaffe; Centro-matic.

Howling at the Moon: A Benefit for Jail Guitar Doors [July 15 / The Mohawk]

Wed Jul 6 2011 · Posted in Events

The Calm Blue Sea @ The Mohawk [Tomorrow]

Thu Jun 23 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Electric Touch @ The Mohawk [Tonight]

Tue Jun 21 2011 · Posted in Music Videos

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Quesoff Coming To The Mohawk This Fall!

The coveted space on south-east intersection of Red River and 9th underwent quite a few transformations during the early part of the last decade. In 2006, all that changed when we welcomed in the institution known as The Mohawk. The venue has consistently delivered unforgettable shows and memorable shindigs over the course of its storied history.

Later this year, we’ll be celebrating the 'hawk’s birthday with a slew of choice events. I’m super stoked to announce that we’re now accepting entries for the Five Year Anniversary Queso Cook-Off this fall. Stay tuned for complete details including the date and the list of reputable judges; in the interim, you can sign up for the Quesoff by emailing me your personal queso dish’s name.

Tue Jun 21 2011 · Posted in Daily

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Electric Touch, The Boxing Lesson, & Michelle Armstrong @ The Mohawk

As announced previously, Ultra8201 and I have put together a nice little show at The Mohawk tomorrow night – doors open at 8 p.m.; the schedule is as follows:

The Boxing Lesson replace Politics, who were forced to cancel due to a family emergency. Our prayers are with the Politics band members and their families.

Mon Jun 20 2011 · Posted in Events

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Soundboard Live & More

A few months ago, Shoot Good Media and I decided to team up to profile the various music producers in town. We’re fortunate that so many amazing bands call Austin home and we’re blessed with regular opportunities to watch them in concert. With the Soundboard series, we wanted to shift the spotlight on the producers, and learn more about their inspirations, their tricks of the trade, and their relationships with the multitude of bands they work with. Thanks to these gifted individuals and their tireless work in the recording studio, much of this town’s musical talent is shaped, refined, and preserved eternally for generations to come.

Our first episode featured Danny Reisch, producer extraordinaire at Good Danny’s -- check it out below:

On June 14th, we’ll be paying tribute to Reisch at the launch of the Soundboard Live series at The Mohawk. Doors open at 8 p.m. for this earlish show; we’ve recruited three of the finest from Reisch’s reputable roster to honor the man:

With Reisch’s birthday coming up later this month, you really have no excuse to miss out on this. Come on down and buy him a birthday shot or two; enjoy live sets by three of his prized assets to boot.

The Strange Boys @ The Mohawk [Tonight]

Tickets

Fri Jun 10 2011 · Posted in Daily

Positive Negatives: Melvins @ The Mohawk [5.27.11]

Sonic Snogg: Joan of Arc Captures the Soul at The Mohawk

Joan of Arc at The Mohawk, 5.19.11

Joan of Arc take the inside stage at The Mohawk on Thursday night promptly at midnight for their 7th show in Austin this year (counting various SXSW performances) in support of their latest album, Life Like, released earlier this year on Polyvinyl. The earnest crowd welcomes the well-known frontman, Tim Kinsella (formerly of Cap’n Jazz and Owls), guitarist Victor Villareal, bassist Bobby Berg, and drummer Theo Katsaounis to the stage with their open arms waving in the air. Joan of Arc certainly delivers poignant lyrics and acutely complex musical arrangements with ease. While gospel or R&B influences may not be apparent in their music, the Chicago four-piece are definitely are not lacking soul. Kinsella and company interrupt delicate melodies and eerie silence with sudden, eruptive bursts of forceful guitar perfectly in unison with equally potent bass and drums. To describe the resulting sound as powerful is an understatement.

Melvins @ The Mohawk [Friday & Saturday]

Friday Night Tickets

Saturday Night Tickets

Wed May 25 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

The Midgetmen’s 9th Anniversorry and Loud Enough Release Party @ The Mohawk Tonight

Fri May 20 2011 · Posted in Daily

Positive Negatives: of Montreal @ The Mohawk [5.17.11]

Check out the full set via Jerry Milton’s Flickr.

Sonic Snogg: Jon Spencer Blues Explosion Drop A-Bomb @ The Mohawk

Editor’s Note: Our new writer Christa McLintock will be sharing her sonic snoggs on the blog going forward – she kicks things off with her thoughts on the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion show at The Mohawk last Friday. (Photographs by Michael Passman.)

It’s 10 p.m. on Friday, May 6th, and the moment Jon Spencer Blues Explosion takes the outdoor stage at the Mohawk, I am ready for the “Blues Explosion!” that front man Jon Spencer has promised. As I look around, the age-diverse, mellow crowd starts to sway. I know I am not alone in my excitement to see one of the most intriguing bands of the 90s -10s. The seasoned New York rockers, Jon Spencer (lead vocals, guitar), Judah Bauer (guitar), and Russell Simins (drums), immediately seem intent on rocking Austin’s face off tonight. Even in the first three songs, they are already succeeding. Anyone within a reasonable distance to the stage could literally feel each moment the incendiary dirty, rock-blues rifts float out of Spencer’s mysteriously unidentifiable, vintage Japanese guitar and settle in eager eardrums. I have often wondered what it’s like to be thrown up on by some seriously sick guitars and thankfully, Jon Spencer Blues Explosion just answered my question- it’s awesome!

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

Austinist Indieroke (4.16.11 / The Mohawk)

Austinist Indieroke returns this Saturday! Check out my preview on Austinist; come on down to The Mohawk at 9 p.m. to sing your favorites, or to simply enjoy the spectacle that is Indieroke. Cover is a measly $3 and the bear guarantees a good time at Indieroke, so there’s really no excuse to miss out. And should you turn in a stellar performance, you may just win a sweet Indieroke shirt or tickets to future shows at the 'hawk. See you there!

Wed Apr 13 2011 · Posted in Events

British Sea Power @ The Mohawk (Wednesday)

Tickets

Tue Apr 12 2011 · Posted in Events

Passman’s Pics: Wire & TV Torso at The Mohawk

Wire and TV Torso at The Mohawk (4.8.11)

Passman’s Pics: The Residents at The Mohawk

The Residents at The Mohawk (4.6.11)

From The Mind Of Adi: Tickets! Free Ones!

I’ve been thinking I need to do more ticket giveaways on here and I reckon now is as good a time as any to get that started. So here’s your chance to win a pair of tickets to two epic TE shows -- The Residents @ The Mohawk (4/6) and Captured By Robots @ Red 7 (4/16). Just RSVP for both shows via those preceding Facebook links to enter. I’ll be picking a random name that appears in the “Attending” section of both event pages; you’ll be notified via your FB profile if you’re the lucky one.

Mon Apr 4 2011 · Posted in Events

From The Mind Of Adi: News & Stuff

Local News

The initial lineup for the 2011 edition of beloved local fest Pachanga, announced this morning, contains three of my favorites Ozomatli, The Echocentrics, and Manejo Beto -- scope out the deets here. Get your early bird tickets for $15 (or V.I.P. tickets for $45) via Front Gate; enjoy our recap of last year’s installment further below.
If you haven’t checked out Echotone yet, I highly recommend catching it at the Alamo Ritz this month (calendar). You can download the soundtrack for free via Paste Magazine’s site.
The Mohawk hosts two legendary bands this week – get your tickets for The Residents on Wednesday here and for Wire on Friday here.

Mon Apr 4 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

From The Mind Of Adi: Yes, Please

Melvins Two-Night Residency Tour hits Austin in May

The legendary Melvins will perform at The Mohawk on May 27th and May 28th as a part of their Two-Night Residency Tour (details); get your tickets for Friday here and for Saturday here.

Wed Mar 30 2011 · Posted in Events

Two Girls In Town: Wire @ The Mohawk Next Friday

Ashley Cass previews the momentous Wire show

Wire, the godfathers of post-punk art rock, make their return to Austin on Friday, April 8th at The Mohawk. The performance will mark the 2nd time they have EVER played Austin. Since their initial visit 9 years ago, they’ve broke up, reformed and put out 3 albums including the most recent Red Barked Tree.

The new album is unlike anything they’ve released before, offering an evolved sound which adds acoustic guitars into the mix. Despite lead guitarist Bruce Gilbert’s absence, Wire (Colin Newman, vocals/guitar, Graham Lewis, bass/vocals and Robert Grey, drums) manage to reinvent themselves in an extraordinary manner.

The track entitled “Clay” evokes “I Am the Fly” in part due to the bouncy synth and bass frequencies, but remains more subdued. “Adapt” recounts observations of worldly demise but encourages a hopeful outlook through personal action. Succeeding the harmonious hymn is “Two Minutes,” which is pretty much two minutes of incohesive random sentences done in a sprechstimme fashion. One sensible and agreeable decree is that “Coffee is not a replacement for food or happiness.”

Passman’s Pics: Kevin Seconds & Exene Cervenka at The Mohawk

Kevin Seconds and Exene Cervenka at The Mohawk (3.25.11)

Check out the entire set via Facebook

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

The Mohawk This Saturday

Sure The Mohawk is normally a viable option for live music on any given night but this Saturday, my favorite venue in town is home to a truly mouth-watering, not-to-be-missed bill. The Strange Boys get the night rolling outside with addictive blues-pop nuggets before Monotonix set up shop to deliver their typically frenetic live show. Expect plenty of chaotic mayhem, unconventional stage antics galore, and of course, a fair dose of belligerent garage-punk. The Israeli band is touring in support of Not Yet, due tomorrow on Drag City.

Once the smoke clears, redoubtable local collective 'Til We’re Blue Or Destroy and Retribution Gospel Choir (members of Low) entertain inside.

From The Mind Of Adi: What Next?

New Year’s Eve Picks

Passman’s Pics: Bad Brains at The Mohawk

Bad Brains at The Mohawk (10.28.10)

Check out the entire set via Facebook

Mon Nov 1 2010 · Posted in Photo Galleries

From The Mind Of Adi: Yes, Please

**Austinist Presents Local Music Is Sexy at The Mohawk (Thursday, 11.4.10)**

It’s almost time! The semi-annual Local Music Is Sexy shindig, curated by my beloved Austinist, ushers in that Fun Fest feeling next Thursday at The Mohawk. The free event starts at 6 p.m. with a happy hour hosted by my good friends at Knuckle Rumbler. Yep, a partnership made in heaven as far as I am concerned! The lineup itself is stellar as always, and includes quite a few of my current favorites like Markov, TV Torso, Dana Falconberry, Bill Baird, and Rayon Beach. Check it out in full via Austinist, RSVP on Facebook, and follow Austinist Music on Twitter (for alerts regarding upcoming contests). It should be a grand old time and a mighty fine way to commence your 2010 Fun Fest adventure.

Purchase Fun Fest tickets here.

Transmission Entertainment » Everything tagged with 'the mohawk'

Calendar

Features

Creative Events

The Signal

Reverse Reviews

Fun Fun Fun Fest

Sights

Live Sessions

Music Videos

Interviews

Photos

Sounds

Songs

Live Sessions

Words

Daily

Interviews

Reviews

Select Date

Entries

Fri May 18 2012 · Posted in Photo Galleries

Firsts: Sh*te that happened before other sh*te happened.

Thu May 10 2012 · Posted in Events, Interviews

Upcoming Events

Fri May 4 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Thu Apr 26 2012 · Posted in Daily

Tue Apr 17 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Upcoming Events

Mon Apr 16 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Sun Apr 15 2012 · Posted in Daily

Fri Apr 13 2012 · Posted in Daily

Tue Mar 27 2012 · Posted in Events

Upcoming Events

Mon Mar 26 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Feb 28 2012 · Posted in Events

Upcoming Events

Mon Feb 27 2012 · Posted in Events

Fri Feb 24 2012 · Posted in Reviews

Wed Feb 22 2012 · Posted in Events

Tue Feb 21 2012 · Posted in Events

Tue Feb 14 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Mon Feb 13 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Fri Feb 10 2012 · Posted in Daily

Sat Feb 4 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Fri Feb 3 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Thu Feb 2 2012 · Posted in

Thu Feb 2 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Wed Feb 1 2012 · Posted in Reviews

Wed Feb 1 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions

Wed Jan 25 2012 · Posted in Photo Galleries

Tue Jan 17 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Mon Jan 16 2012 · Posted in Live Sessions, Daily

Upcoming Events

Thu Jan 5 2012 · Posted in Events, Daily

Thu Jan 5 2012 · Posted in Daily

Wed Jan 4 2012 · Posted in Daily

Wed Dec 14 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

News & Events

Wed Dec 7 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Dec 6 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Nov 29 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Nov 22 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries, Daily

Tue Nov 15 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Wed Oct 26 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries

Tue Oct 25 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Fri Oct 21 2011 · Posted in Daily

Thu Oct 20 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Oct 18 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries, Daily

Mon Oct 17 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries, Daily

Mon Oct 17 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries, Daily

Thu Oct 13 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries

Tue Oct 11 2011 · Posted in Reviews

Oktoberfest @ The Mohawk – Saturday, 10/15/11

Mon Oct 10 2011 · Posted in Events

Mon Oct 10 2011 · Posted in Events

Tue Oct 4 2011 · Posted in Daily, Reviews

Mon Oct 3 2011 · Posted in Photo Galleries, Daily

Tue Sep 27 2011 · Posted in Events, Daily

Tue Sep 27 2011 · Posted in Daily, Reviews

Firsts: Shte that happened before other shte happened.