Out the Other's ACL Previews: Stars, Guster, Aimee Mann and More
Time for another look at some of the artists playing the Austin City Limits Festival in September. There are only 49 days left and I have oh... just about a ton of artists left to preview on my ACL Artist Previews Page. But rainy weekends are made for writing, so if the lousy weather in Nashville holds up, I'll have a more than a few for you next Friday. Here's what I've covered since I last checked in:
Stars - This Canadian band has mastered their particular brand of indie pop - sweet boy/girl vocals with an electronic-ish swirl. While they didn't really impress me the last time I caught the band live, I think the festival setting holds much more promise. (full preview)
The Subdudes - "The Dudes" hail from New Orleans, and their amazing blend of funk, soul, blues and gospel will take you right back to Crescent City. (full preview)
Guster - One of your best bets for a great show at this year's ACL - after 10+ years, Guster is still going strong and putting on fantastic live performances peppered with catchy songs and entertaining banter. My vote for "most likely to put a smile on your face." (full preview)
Rocky Votolato - This Seattle singer/songwriter just released his debut on Barsuk records, although he has been floating around the Pacific Northwest for years. Makers is marked by intimate vocals, an acoustic guitar and harmonica, and I'm sure his live show will be as well. (full preview)
The Palm Elementary School Choir - Only in Austin will you find an elementary school choir backed by a few local rock musicians. And as a girl living in Nashville, I say that with the utmost respect. They even cover The Flaming Lips! (full preview)
Aimee Mann - According to guest-previewer Jeff, Mann's sparse, haunting pop combined with a nerd-girl persona and self-deprecating stage persona make for an endearing package. Throw in a top-notch band and a few boxing references, and this singer/songwriter might just kick your ass (musically speaking, of course). (full preview)
