Ask a Local: Laurie Gallardo

This winter, Austinist wanted to take some time to check in with some of our favorite local performers, artists and musicians to see what they enjoyed in 2008. Our request was simple: give us a few things that you enjoyed listening to this year, and feel free to include releases that might not have been released in 2008, but that found their way onto your turntable anyhow. We'll be sharing our own list too, but be patient and hear what some of our favorite folks thought was worthwhile in '08.

Today we check in with Laurie Gallardo, who besides being the badass host of many a show on KUT 90.5 FM, also puts in shifts as an Assistant Producer at the station. Gallardo is a staple at all the top concerts in town and she emcee’s a plethora of must-attend events throughout the year. On occasion, she finds time to deliver powerpop melodies with her cohorts in The Platforms. Gallardo has contributed quite a bit to the Austinist over the years. Most recently, she was on hand to conduct an interview with Graham Reynolds at Fun Fest 2008.

Here are her favorites:

5. The Lovely Sparrows – Bury the Cynics. I’m especially proud of, and touched by, this album. I’ve seen the Sparrows grow and evolve into something wonderful, and from the very beginning, Shawn Jones’ songwriting deeply inspired me. Very personal, very insightful.

4. My Morning Jacket – Evil Urges. Yes, I’m well aware that several MMJ fans were appalled by this one, but I appreciate bands that aren’t afraid to take that leap and head in a different direction. Kudos to Jim James for some great writing.

3. The Rosebuds – Life Like. Again, another example of a band that makes a different-sounding album each time. This one in particular is one of my all-time yummy, new wave-influenced indie-poppy favorites, but there’s a haunted, mysterious quality to it, too. I definitely had this one on repeat in my car CD player. Something you listen to as you drive off into the twilight.

2. The Raveonettes – Lust, Lust, Lust. Oh, how I dig the fuzz, and these kids do it oh so right. It’s great rock ‘n’ roll that’s dark and moody, chock full o’ fuzzed out goodness. Mmm. Sune Rose Wagner and Sharin Foo keep the vocal harmonies cool and sexy. Purr…

1. The Black Angels – Directions To See A Ghost. Far out, man. Drone, fuzz, and all the heaviness I could ever want. This is something I can move to, or just sit with my headphones and listen as I’m swept up by the vibe. Again, this is a band I was lucky to see grow over the years. Absolutely stunning.