Dear Waterloo, Thanks. Signed, Austin

The palm trees on 6th and Lamar couldn't provide enough shade out in the parking lot of Waterloo Records on Sunday, but with breezes consistently blowing 60 degree winds and plenty of beer and music on hand, Austinites helped celebrate the twenty-fifth birthday of everyone's favorite record shop. Six hours of a Texas-packed lineup included Ruthie Foster, Grupo Fantasma, Brothers & Sister, and Eisley (pictured above); the party was headlined by Austin-based blues veterans Omar & The Howlers.

The event doubled as a benefit for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a local organization that seeks to provide access to affordable health care (primary health, dental care and mental health counseling) for the 8,000-plus musicians currently residing in Austin, many uninsured or with low incomes. Visit their website here.

Standing in that crowd on Sunday afternoon, it was obvious what record store owns this town. And you know, Waterloo, we were a little upset to see the listening booths go and we find ourselves going to End of an Ear a little more every Tuesday, but we wish you a happy birthday and do hope you stick around for another 25 years.