Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is [Show Preview]

Green Is The New Red

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
Tuesday, July 12
MonkeyWrench Books (110 East North Loop Boulevard)
Free (donations suggested), 5pm-9pm
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A party put on by anarchists seems like an oxymoron (or possibly terrifying), but everyone’s favorite anarchist bookstore MonkeyWrench Books is a pretty welcoming environment. Nestled in the middle of the North Loop district, neighboring the Parlor (R.I.P.) and a lingerie store, MonkeyWrench has carved out a niche for itself with a wide assortment of literature, zines, and hosted events, from lecture series to film nights. Tonight they’re putting on a spoken word showcase called Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is, featuring a number of performers who have a lot to say.

Spoken word has a long, checkered history in the public consciousness, conjuring up images of smoky coffee shops with beat poets and bongos, or perhaps oft-serious slam poetry contests. But half of Bob Dylan’s discography is basically spoken word set to blues-rock, and Henry Rollins has made it pretty cool and badass.

Tonight’s participants are drawn from a number of local noise, experimental, punk, and hip-hop acts, and it’s fascinating to think of the different (and entertaining) possibilities given the wide assortment of genres on hand. The rules (yes, there are rules at an anarchist event) make it even better: only mics and one effect allowed. No objects to bang on, no lyrics to read, no amps, and no multi-effects pedals. It might get political, it might get personal, but it certainly will be fun. Plus, the showcase is a benefit for MonkeyWrench itself, which is feeling the pinch the Parlor felt given the sudden trendiness of North Loop. Tonight, you can help keep Austin's weird-ass punk streak alive. Donations are suggested, especially for the touring acts appearing on the bill.

For a full line-up, head over here.