Centro-Matic Mellow Out at The Parish Room [Tonight]

We all know the Austin music scene is amazing and constantly burgeoning, but there's this little town called Denton about three hours to the north that holds a flaming candle to the talent here. The town is home to the University of North Texas where many creative types flock to learn more about music in a much more affordable town. There's dozens of little gems just waiting to be discovered there, but let's face it -- not many of us want to make that drive and give up a weekend in Austin. Luckily, one of the treasures formed in the little D is coming down for a performance at the Parish room.

Centro-matic is not newly discovered by any means. The group started as a side project for frontman Will Johnson in 1995 and they've frequented the Austin scene for awhile. After producing several albums, the ensemble spun off another side project, South San Gabriel, which includes all the Centro- band members plus a few guests. And in 2008, the projects joined forces to release Dual Hawks, a two-disc set with one disc from each group. The album is well-executed and memorable, especially when paralleled with their lengthy resume. According to the bio on their website, the band members have made nine Centro-matic albums, four EPs, five singles, two South San Gabriel albums, two Johnson solo efforts (as well as a tour-only release). Lest, don't be fooled by the amount -- each work is beautifully arranged and full of mellow lushness.

The guys are only doing one tour in 2009 and Austin is their last stop in Texas, so this isn't one of those time you can say, "Oh, I'll just wait until they come back in a few months." The melancholy yet soothing music is sure to set the tone for a soothing Friday evening. Get there early to see openers Monahans and Telegraph Canyon.

PS- The group is on Twitter and occasionally does live chats. Start following @centromatic.

Centro-matic MySpace Official
Monahans MySpace
Telegraph Canyon MySpace