Pure X, more at Antone's [Show Preview]

Image from Motormouth Media

Pure X, Balmorhea, more at Antone\’s
Saturday, June 4
Antones (213 W 5th St)
$12, Doors at 8pm, Show at 9pm
[info] | [tickets]

For those who would rather moves their heads in a way that doesn't induce whiplash, the lineup for this Saturday show at Antone's will surely make for one of the tamer Chaos in Tejas events. Featuring three acts that are more suited for Psych Fest than a heavy metal and hardcore free for all, it should provide plenty of ambient soundscapes to serve a nice counterbalance to all the doom and gloom.

Headlining are Balmorhea, our very own classically trained post-rock outfit. The group's more orchestral approach to the genre's vast expanses has made them one of the more unique outfits to come out of Austin over the last several years, and critics and listeners alike have taken notice. Last year's Constellations was seen as a huge step forward for the band, as their sound took a more focused and patient approach. With a wealth of musical talent at their disposal, they have easily proven over the last few years that grandiosity can just as easily be achieved with the most organic of instruments, and the chance to see them on their home turf is not to be missed.

As opposed to the more earthbound sounds of Balmorhea, Pitchfork darling Oneohtrix Point Never - the project of Brooklyn based Daniel Lopatin - takes his cues from the cosmos. With many of his songs, especially on last year's exceedingly well received Returnal, sounding like they could soundtrack an intergalactic road trip, there will be plenty of opportunities for show goers to play what they believe the new Tron movie should have looked like in their heads. In the much the same vein as label mates Emeralds, Lopatin utilizes vintage synths to create his sound, giving the music a familiar and almost timeless feel. It is only a select few who can engage listeners in a genre that is intended to zone them out, and in that regard Oneohtrix Point Never is in an elite class.

Yet another reason to catch this show is Pure X, formerly known as Pure Ecstasy. While garage and psych influenced bands are a dime a dozen in Austin, Pure X's attention to songcraft, particularly on early singles "Easy" and "You're In It Now," caught the attention of many publications and marked them as a band to watch. The band have taken their time in recording their debut album Pleasure, which is slated for release July 5, as it's been over a year since they first started generating buzz. However, in an era where many bands are forced into releasing records fast to capitalize on the hype, Pure X are a group that would rather let their music create the talking points. Be sure to show up to Antone's early to put a little Pure X in your system.

- Ryan Lester

Balmorhea: [website]
Oneohtrix Point Never: [website]
Pure X: [website]
Survive: [bandcamp]