I think it’s safe to say that our Summer is filling up with plenty of options of to do’s while we all attempt to beat the heat.  This last week saw plenty of  choice, while this coming week has big name artists like J. Cole pictured above rolling through town.  Here’s how you should spend your free time this week.

Wednesday you can kick things off out at Woodlands Pavilion when a band I forgot existed, Incubus performs.  In the late nineties and early 2024’s, these guys were huge; then, I actually don’t really care.  Something about radio friendly tunes that permeate the musical landscape like a virus, until it’s so crammed down our throats that we end up hating the music.  They kept  making albums and I actually had to sit through one of their shows once with my now ex-wife.  While they are talented, it’s never been my thing, though they have new tunes with “Trust fall (Side A).”  Deftones are also on the bill, and while I’m also not a fan; their FPSF performance in 2024 at least proved that they can still go hard, actually getting  me to watch the bulk of their set.  Their latest was 2024’s “Koi No Yokan,”  and they are entertaining live.  Why mention the show, because the real draw to this show starts with the insanely entertaining sounds of Death From Above 1979 who will also be there to prove how out of date the other two bands are.  Last year the duo dropped the beautiful and thick sounding “The Physical World,” and you need to see them live cause’ they’re really intense.  Another band that should blow you away, is opener The Bots. The two brothers dropped their first album when they were 15 & 12, and they breathe LA with every craed tune they craft.  Their latest was last year’s “Pink Palms” which blends early LA punk, hip hop, and everything inbetween.  The all ages show has gates at 6:15 which seems a little silly.  This is definitely one of those “go for the openers” shows.  The tickets are between $25.00 and $99.50.

Doeman                                                                                                       Photo: Too Dope

Over at House of Blues, you might want to gear up for when Houston’s Doeman brings his H-Town hip hop to life.  This guy is starting to pop off and is proving that the Screw era is long gone.  He drops high energy sets, he goes hard & stays true, and his latest album, this year’s “Stereo Types” is fire.  The all ages show doesn’t mention an opener, but that won’t likely be the case.  The doors are at 7:00 and the tickets are $19.33.

If you’d rather get your punk on, then you should be at Fitzgerald’s when punk legends Reagan Youth come to town.  The NYC punks who formed in 1980 have been dropping their blend of early hardcore meets seventies inspired punk for 35 years.  These guys influenced everyone who’s done punk since they started, and they performed with Beastie Boys and Misfits back in the day.  This isn’t the original lineup, especially due to Dave Insurgent’s suicide in 1993, but this is a show not to miss if you dig punk.  Their 1984 album, “Punk Rock New York” is one of the best punk albums ever.  Austin skate punks, Sober Daze will be there as direct support.  Blending the sounds of NOFX and early era Rancid, their 2024 album, “No Brainz No Headache” is pretty good.  Houston punk band, Commie Hilfiger will also be on the bill, while the high energy of Talk Sick Brats will open the all ages show with doors at 7:00 and tickets between $10.00 and $13.00.

Walters will be having a show that is a mishmash of acts to be closed out by Stephen of Featherface’s solo project, Birthday Club.  I have no idea what this sounds like, and there’s very little info on the band that could be great, but I have no idea.  Joining the show, Kenny from Featherface’s new project, Yay High.  The death funk dream psych of Houston’s Mojave Red will be there to drop jams, while a BLSHS DJ set will open the all ages show.  Extra details are available here with doors at 8:00 and a measly $2.00 cover.

At Midtown Bar & Grill, you can see another edition of The High Bar comedy show.  This time they’ll feature the knockdown and hilarious talent of Houston’s Victor Tran.  At such a young age, Tran is one of Houston’s better comics, with jokes that range from politics to childhood, and a rhythm like you’ve never seen from someone barely old enough to drink.  He’ll have Mycal Dede on prior as well as four funny as hell comics with Kazeem Rahman, Ashton Womack, James Frank & Ryan McGhee.  of course as always, Bob Morrissey and Nick Meriwether will host the entire show.  The 21 & up event has doors at 9:00 and a measly $5.00 cover.  

Thursday, you can start off over at House of Blues, when the country twang of The Broken Spokes will be performing.  Happening over in the crossroads room, you can catch the Houston four piece perform songs from their 2024 album, “Raw Deal,” as well as standards and new tunes as well.  Things start around  6:00, and as far as I know, it’s 100% FREE.

Kinky Friedman                                                                            Photo: Brian Kanoff

Of course everyone’s favorite Jewish cowboy, Kinky Friedman will be appearing over at Mucky Duck.  I’m not really sure what Friedman has planned other than tales of his travels, but I’d hope that some of his tunes like “We Reserve The Right To refuse Service To You,” and “They Ain’t Makin Jews Like Jesus Anymore.”  The doors are at 7:00 and tickets are between $30.00 and $33.00.

Improv will be bringing the always funny antics of John Witherspoon in for the weekend.  You would remember him from movies like “Friday,” but you might not know that he’s a very strong comic.  Making the show even better will be Houston comedy legend, Andy Huggins as the feature act.  Huggins recently dropped his debut album called, “Inspired By True Events” that feels like it’s been a long time coming.  As always, one of Houston’s better comics will serve as host  on the weekend with one show Thursday with 7:15 doors, two Friday with 7:15 doors and 9:30 doors, two Saturday with 6:15 and 8:30 doors, as well as one Sunday with 6:45 doors.  All have tickets between $22.00 to $35.00.

Over at Joke Joint Comedy Showcase, the hilarious jokes of Austin’s JR Brow will be in town.  Brow has opened for a slew of heavy hitting comics, he’s had appearances on Comedy Central and the Late Late show.  His latest album, “Dumber By The Decade” from 2024, is a good gauge of what you’re in for when he appears.  He’ll have Craig Bush as his feature act, as well as one of Houston’s better up and comers as the show’s host.  There’s one show Thursday at 8:00, and two on Friday and Saturday at 8:00 and 10:30, all with $16.00 tickets.

Big Top will host the Americana meets Tex Mex sounds of Nick Gaitan & The Umbrella Man.  There’s something magical about the way these guys mix originals and standards together to drop that Gulf Coast flava’ we’ve all grown up on.  I don’t think I’ve ever seen a bad performance from these guys as they sashay through Spanish and English tunes with ease, while keeping the slow songs romantic and the quicker tunes rockin’.  The 21 & up show has doors at 10:00 & it’s 100% FREE.

On Friday, you have more options than usual  starting off over at Woodlands Pavilion when the massively popular sounds of J Cole performs.  Cole has been blowing up since he dropped 2024’s “Cole World: The Sideline Story.”  Since then he’s kept things coming hard, and last year he gave the world the masterful album, “2014 Forest Hills Drive.”  Known for a high energy live set, Cole should bring fire to the outdoor venue.  He has the immensely popular jams of Detroit’s Big Sean on as direct support.  Though his 2024 album “Finally Famous” had pop, his latest release “Dark Sky Paradise” from this year has all the hits.  Climbing the charts like a young Kanye, this guy is supposed to be a force to catch live.  On prior, LA’s YG will be there to bring his latest jam, “Twist My Fingaz” to life, as well as tunes from last year’s “Blame It On The Streets.”  The different hip hop of Queens’ Bas will also be on the bill, as well as west coast rapper Cozz.  Bigger name producer Omen opens the all ages show with gates at 6:00, and tickets between $34.75 and $70.75.  This show will more than likely  sell out with this stacked lineup, FYI.

You could check out art from a ton of local talent at Catacomb HTX, for the Food Doodz show.  The food and junk based show will feature a slew of local talents like Eric Castorena, Blake Jones, Michael C. Rodriguez, Darcy Rosenberger, Shelby Hohl, and many many more.  There’s free eats and drinks while they last on the all ages show that gets going around 7:00, and is 100% FREE.

At Walter’s you can catch the Gulf Coast swag of Houston’s Deep Cuts.  These guys have been on a feverish pace of releases since dropping last year’s EP, “Love Grows.”  They dropped a holiday release, then this year they gave us the single, “While The House Fills Up.”  They always have a great live show, and this should be no different.  Austin blues rock four piece Lowin will be there as direct support.  These guys sound like a mix of the Nashville garage scene with a female singer.  NOLA three piece, Bantam Foxes will also be on hand to bring their indie rock to life.  This year they put out the single/EP “Give Us A Raise,” that sounds like they’re a fun band live.  The bluesy rock of Houston’s Fox Parlor will be there to open the all ages show with doors at 8:00 and tickets for $7.00.

House of Blues will be bringing the hilarious comedy of Jim Norton to town.  Norton has made quite the name for himself between acting, co-hosting the Opie and Anthony show, and bringing an abrasive humor  to audiences all over.  He’s here in support of his latest, an EP from this year called, “American Degenerate.”  There’s no word of an opener or host, but that will probably change.  The doors are at 7:00, the show is all ages, and tickets are $48.62.

Tera Melos                                                        Photo: Courtesy of Artist

Warehouse Live will have the prog meets mathy goodness of Tera Melos over in the studio.  So, these guys are like watching a band have a heart attack on stage with their disjointed rhythm changes and intense energy.  Aside from the fact that they made a split album once with Alvin’s By The End of Tonight, they’ve always brought their entertaining sound to town.  They’re here in support of 2024’s “X’ed Out,” which was more direct yet still just as engaging.  The always fun sounds of Houston two piece, Lisa’s Sons will be there as direct support.  Last year they put out their album, “Bummed Out,”  that’s one of the most fun sounding things you might ever hear.  Houston bass and drum duo, Mannequin Mishap will be there to bring their math rock sounds to life as openers.  Their 2024 release “Hypnic Jerk II” is insane, and better to see live.  The all ages show has doors at 8:00 and tickets between $13.00 and $17.00.

Fitzgerald’s will host the Houston formed and now Austin based psych sounds of The Human Circuit.  The band will be downstairs in support  of their latest, the trippy and eclectic sounding “Frequent Seas” from earlier in this year.  There are pop undertones to this band, that make me think they’ll be pretty entertaining to catch live.  To me they sound like a mix of Modest Mouse & Hector’s Pets.  Austin synth pop duo, Technicolor Hearts will be there as direct support.  This year they dropped their pop heavy and synthy  debut with “Now We’re Here.”  The Austin based harp duo of Seven Pedals will also be on hand, while Casinos opens the all ages show with doors at 8:00 and tickets between $6.00 and $8.00.

Beta Theater will host another hilarious edition of the Stalk Show.  The first time I met Hoja Lopez, I thought she was pretty funny; but when I heard the concept behind this show; I realized she could be a genius.  Taking the attributes of a stalker to ask creepy questions to a guest, this time comic Zahid Dewji; is brilliant.  These shows are always a little awkward in the fun way, while also hilarious.  The all ages show is BYOB, it starts at 9:00, and the cover is a measly $6.00.

Black Barbie will be celebrating their one year anniversary, on the 1 Year Show. It’s hard to believe that this little DIY venue is already one year older.  To celebrate, they’ll have a bunch of bands come by and perform.  The show, which will feature sets from The Cutters(Members of Talk Sick Brats), Street Sects, Ak’ chamel, Auto-Felatio Dreams, Millenial Grave, Funeral Parlor, and Pleather(featuring members of Cop Warmth & Stress 33) should be a whole bunch of fun.  There’s also a DJ set from Franki Franki & DJ Lazerdust.  There’s a bunch more in store with doors at 9:00 and a $5.00 cover.

Rudyard’s will host the post punk sounds of Houston’s 500 Megatons of Boogie.  These guys sound like what would happen if Lux Interior of The Cramps sang for the Melvins.  You can check out their music here before seeing them do their thing live. The indie rock of Houston’s Jealous Creatures will be on prior as direct support.  If for some strange reason you missed their rockin’ new album, “The Night Goes On For Days,” then this is your chance to pick up a physical copy & to hear the songs from it live.  The psyched out sounds of Houston’s Silver Blueberry will be there to open things up.  Like a mix of seventies Brit punk and eighties new wave, these guys are worth checking out.  The21 & up show has doors at 9:00 and tickets for $8.00.

You could find yourself wanting to know,who’s gonna’ win the $3,000.00 that Beta Theater is giving away at this year’s Beta Bracket Comedy Competition at MKT Bar.  This week Brian Zeolla will host as another group of comics battle it out in an attempt to win the largest amount of money ever given away in a comedy contest in Texas.  Of course, there’s FREE parking in the garage, it’s audience vote so you could decide someone’s fate, and the all ages event that gets started at 10:00 is 100% FREE.

Boondocks will have another edition of Blackout, this time featuring the intense sounds of Ape Drums.  So, if you’ve never seen this guy before, you’re missing out.  He goes off, he goes hard, and he’s getting bigger by the minute outside of Houston.  He’ll have the residents of the Blackout crew on prior with sets from Hyro, Act Badd, and Leckie; and it should make for a dope evening.  The 21 & up show has doors at 10:00 that’s FREE with RSVP before 11:00, and $3.00 after.

The Suffers                                                                                      Photo: Daniel Jackson

Saturday, over at House of Blues, the ever popular Gulf Coast soul revue swag of The Suffers will be back in town.  It’s not hard to believe that everyone’s favorite band has performed on a ton of festivals, performed on Letterman, and is gaining traction so fast across the country.  The amount of energy this group puts into one liveshow is more than that of about ten, and their latest EP, “Make Some Room” is just a prelude of what’s to come from them.  The high powered and old school dancehall ska of Austin’s The Bandulus will be there as direct support.  Their most recent release, “The Times We Had,” from 2024 is insanely good, even if you don’t like ska.  The intense energy and ever popular sounds of Houston’s Gio Chamba will hit the stage prior, and make it hard for everyone else to follow him.  Though his latest EP is available through this show, his songs on a recording are only a part of the magic to this guy’s digital cumbia universe.  Houston’s Guilla will open the all ages show as only he can.  Guilla gave Houston the “Rap, Trap, & Drums” EP last year, and has been delighting fans since with his high energy performances.  The doors are at 7:00 and the show is SOLD OUT.

Of course, since that one is sold out, you could head over to Fitzgerald’s to catch a bunch of your favorite local bands drop coversets for Gender Infinity.  Pegstar hopes to raise $10,000.00 or more for the cause, and will utilize both the upstairs and downstairs of the venue to do so.  The show will feature Another Run as Foo Fighters, Get A Life as David Bazan/Pedro The Lion, King Finn as Daft Punk, thelastplaceyoulook as Taylor Swift, The Wheel Workers as REM; and many many more.  The all ages affair has doors at 7:00 and a $10.00 cover, with more details here.

Wyatt Cenac                                                                                  Photo: Bryan Bedder

Warehouse Live was supposed to have the hilarious comedy of The Daily Show’s Wyatt Cenac, after rescheduling from an earlier date.  However, the show has again been cancelled by Cenac alongside the rest of his Southern dates.  Since he can’t seem to catch a break at the NYC airports, I suggest looking at his pic above while listening to his Netflix special, “Brooklyn,”and dream of a day where he isn’t hampered by air travel. 

If comedy isn’t your  deal, then you could make it over to the greenroom at Warehouse Live, for an intimate acoustic show from Houston black metal band, Oceans of Slumber.  Earlier this year, the five piece dropped a five song EP called “Blue” that really showcases their talent, while seeing them acoustically should only magnify it.  Opening things up will be the prog rock of Houston’s Anova Skyway.  The all ages show has doors at 8:00 and tickets for $15.00.

Rudyard’s will be hosting the hard edged rock of Houston three piece, Project Grimm.  These guys have been around right at 20 years, and as I recall, they go hard when they perform.  To my knowledge, their last record was 2024’s “Huge Beings.”  They’ll have one of Houston’s tightest bands on prior, when Brand New Hearts performs.  It’s not hard to believe that these guys are as tight as they are when you consider the time each has in the music industry.  But, time in doesn’t mean that they’re stale, and their recently dropped album, “Brand New Hearts” is a tour de force.  Complete with squealing guitars, solos, and all that makes your heart beat faster when a band brings half stacks to play live, it’s one of my favorite releases so far this year.  Opening things up, will be the alt indie rock of Houston’s My Twilight Pilot.  The five piece crafts songs that are as beautiful as something from Owen, yet as melodic as something from REM.  The 21 & up show has doors at 9:00 and an $8.00 cover.

Kicking off Sunday, you could head to The Summit for a fundraiser for the venue called Paradise Lost At Sea.  Hopefully they’ll hire someone to organize their stuff better, as it feels like I only hear about half of their shows  two days prior.   The all day affair will host a slew of Houston talent like Get A Life, FLCON FCKER, Children of Pop, Biz Vicious, Matsu Mixu, and a whole bunch more.  As far as I know it’s an all ages show that includes a DJ set from Here Come The Girls, and the cover is TBA…hence, suggesting an organizer.

Screaming Females                                                                  Photo: Jacqueline Bonn

Later on, Fitzgerald’s will have New Jersey three piece, Screaming Females in town.  Their bio calls them punk, but at almost a decade I’d say they’re closer to a more melodic Dinosaur JR with a crazier lead guitarist.  Their latest, this year’s “Rose Mountain” is pretty stellar, and if you missed them when they were here earlier in the year, then I suggest attending this show.  Ohio’s Vacation will go on prior, and bring their high energy to things.  Get there early for this four piece, as their latest release, “Non-Person” is punk, and it’s great.  Like if Red Aunts and Ramones had a baby good.  Houston’s Since Always will be there to win over new fans with their shoegaze meets first wave emo sound.  Their debut, “Consequences” is still my jam, and they pull it off effortlessly live.  The all ages show has doors at 7:00 and tickets between $11.00 and $15.00.

Austin’s Alpha Rev will be performing an acoustic set over in the studio at Warehouse Live.  The alt rock seven piece will be bringing fan favorites to life, with newer tunes including their recently released single, “Names.”  Arizona based six piece folk act, Jared & The Mill will be there as support.  These guys are pretty magical, and their latest, “Life We Chose” is really impressive.  Magnolia’s Americana meets country twang of Folk Family Revival will open  things up.  They dropped a new album this year with, “Water Walker” that  proves  that Texas can do folk music better.  The all ages show has doors at 7:00 and tickets are between $13.00 & $15.00.

Dosey Doe Big Barn will be bringing in the country twang of Shooter Jennings backed by the infamous Waymore’s Outlaws.  Shooter has always done his own thing, and 2024’s “The Other Life” cemented that.  I’ve seen him before and he’s pretty damn great.  The doors are at 5:00 for dinner served until 6:30, while Jennings goes on at 7:30.  Tickets include dinner between $68.00 & $108.00.

Tuesday, you can drop acid and go to the Woodlands Pavilion to see Yes.  The band that pretty much put Roger Dean on the map while defining progressive rock will be here to play their hits.  I say that because that’s what they’ve been doing lately.  “I’ve Seen All Good People,” “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” and “Roundabout” will all be played, while someone’s parents explain why this music is important to someone’s kids.  Joining them will be hit makers Toto.  They have a new album, but no one cares.  I’m sure they’ll drop hits like “Hold The Line,” “Africa,” and “Rosanna.”  Scientifically speaking, this could be your last chance to  see either act live.  The gates are at 6:30 and tickets are between $39.50 and $79.50.

At Mucky Duck, you could go catch the gorgeous voice of Spring’s Bettysoo.  Her latest album, last year’s “When We’re Gone” is pretty amazing, and she’s supposed to be ten times better live.  The singer songwriter tunes of Curtis McMurtry will also be on the bill.  McMurtry is pretty strong for being so young, and last year’s “Respectable Enemy” proves it.  The double billed show has doors at 7:30, and cover between $20.00 & $22.00.

That’s about it this week, yet still quite strong.  No matter what you do or where you go, please do so in the most responsible way possible.

The electronica world in Houston is an always growing community.  In the past year we’ve seen it add at least five new acts, and the bulk of those could probably tour tomorrow.  Some have already toured, but still; that’s an impressive number.  Sure, there are plenty of other genres that have added much more than that amount; but if you were unaware, Houston has a very strong electronic scene.  When John from New York City Queens told me that he had started a side project called Promenade with Andres Soler, I wasn’t surprised.  When I actually heard how strong of a project it is, I also wasn’t surprised.  The synth pop duo makes the kind of tunes that remind you of that time in the late eighties when everything with analog synths coming out of Europe was pure gold.  The funny thing is, this EP is pretty much just that, pure gold.  From start to finish you find yourself wanting more while getting into the pop overtones and the hook filled notes with each second that each song plays.

Things kick off on “Falling,” with a basic drum beat that gets met with a synthy guitar and a secondary beat that’s as catchy as it gets.  Thumpy bass glides along on the track while Stephens vocals come in with a distorted effect that reminds me of early songs from The Strokes.  The melody on the song is hard to turn away from while it grabs your attention like love at first sight.  The chorus plays with a breathy vocal track before guitars come in and create a lush and powerfully catchy tune.  Sometimes a secondary spoken vocal track comes in while the vocals also get doubled, further taking you into this hook heavy world before the electronics take over and add depth and shape.  This is followed up by a dual beat heavy and moody synth sound on “Everything At Once.”  Stephens has these ultra pop dance vocals that make you want to get out under a mirrorball as fast as possible.  Though the synths in the background are a little dark, the beat and the vocals tell a different story.  Straight vocal tracks from Soler come in with effect heavy vocals from Stephens to craft a perfect mix.

Around the third song, another pop heavy gem, “Windowsill;” the band puts emotion in the lyrics while keeping things on the dancey level.  There’s a key sound that immediately takes you to the dance floor, while there are synths in the background that keep the song on track.  The duo mixes the rhythm while adding multiple vocal tracks with ease, and set themselves apart from  what you’re used to hearing in the genre.  There’s a craftsmanship and depth here that doesn’t come off as fraudulent or needy; but rather something that pumps through these two’s veins.  The way in which the vocals are swapped in and out like a four year old swaps out LEGO pieces is impressive without deterring from the intent of the song.  The final song, “aneasyexplanation,” is the most catchy of the four.  Stephens comes in with a sweetly voiced vocal that has an echo effect on it that makes the notes stick in your head like first grade math.  The synths have an upwards inflection that you can’t forget, while the backing beats are like claps of approval.  By the time that Kam Franklin comes in behind a guitar that sounds like it was plucked from a song by the Cure; you should be invested in the tune.  Franklin adds a breathy vocal track while going loud and proud astray from what you’re probably used to in songs from The Suffers.  The two together create a magic that’s unmistakable, and leave you with the desire to continuously hit the repeat button.

Though just four songs, Promenade has done something here that’s almost implausible for most acts…they craft a near perfect album.  When you look across the crowded landscape of dance pop songs, it seems almost as if that task is impossible.  But put in the hands of these two, it’s not only possible, but they set the bar high enough that almost anyone else in the genre would be foolish to attempt to top them.  You can get your hands on the cassette version of these songs when Promenade plays their EP release show at Fitzgerald’s on Friday July 31st.   The all ages show will also feature performances from Bang Bangz and Josiah Gabriel, with doors at 8:00 and a $5.00 cover.

I keep telling my friends in other cities that Houston has an intense mix of electronic music talent coalescing at the moment.  Then they come to visit and realize that the electronic scene here is on a whole other level from other places.

One of the best factors in the Houston music scene are collaborations between artists.  When John Allen Stephens from New York City Queens and Get A Life told me he had an electro pop side project called Promenade, it made sense.  Over the years, I’ve realized that creative people usually can’t be bottled into just one project, and I think we all know that the producer and engineer has a pretty good ear for music as well as music making.  However,  I should’ve known that Promenade would be better than most electro pop acts going nowadays. While I could go on and on about their soon to be released EP, I think once you check out this single alone, you’ll be forced to grab that EP to see what else the duo is capable of doing.

Originally started as just a fun project, Stephens and Andres Soler quickly realized that they had a strong chemistry together.  What would transpire is some feverish songwriting and recording in 2024, leading us to where we are today, with the track, “An Easy Explanation.”

The single, which features The Suffers’ Kam Franklin on vocals, is an exploration in dance pop.  The way that Stephens’ sweet vocal hooks trade verses with Franklin is one of pure magic.  While most fans might be used to Franklin belting out notes to fill a festival-sized area, here she’s light on the gas while still retaining that umph we’ve all come to know and love.  The song has hints of eighties synth-heavy notes, while Stephens masterfully drops these soft-voiced vocals that often double and get effects placed on them.  There’s a super hook-heavy new wave sounding guitar that comes in before Franklin drops her smoky vocals that makes the song have a true pop hit feel from start to finish.  The track, available only here, will be a part of the band’s upcoming EP release.

If you like what you hear, then you can get your own copy of the song, alongside others, when Promenade holds an EP release party at Fitzgerald’s on Friday July 31st.  The downstairs show will also feature a set from the band, as well as a return to playing live set from Houston’s Bang Bangz prior.  Josiah Gabriel will open things up as only he can on the all-ages show with doors at 8:00 and tickets for a measly $5.00.

It came and went so fast this year, Free Press Summer Fest.  The festival was over before I realized how many acts I saw in just two short days.  Though it was hot, though I had to reach out to photographer Trish Badger for some pics, and though the festival grounds felt huge; when it was all over, I was glad that I went.  Here’s what I saw.

So, to start things off I took the rail, and by judging who was on the train with me; I was one of the few who had actually done this festival before.  I transferred to a bus that dropped me off right across from the festival grounds, thus proving that planning ahead is always key.  I used this route both days actually and it was a great way to get to the festival and away from it.

I started things off by watching The Suffers murder with a killer set on the Saturn stage. If this band isn’t the biggest thing to come outta’ Houston since that lil old band from Texas, ZZ Top; I’ll definitely be shocked. They even dropped a Selena cover complete with Kam singing in Spanish.  I followed that with The Sword, who played hard enough to set off car alarms. They were super enthusiastic with the crowd, which is always nice. I went to catch Dpat drop his deep grooves, as well as put on new material. Complete with a drummer & guitarist, the producer quickly proved why he gets so much praise.  The Welcome To Houston crew was who I gave attention to next, and they didn’t disappoint. Backed by The Suffers, the collective felt more prepared than last year, and each rapper topped the next.  One of my day’s highlights was hearing no less than fifty people talk about the crazy set from Gio Chamba, thus proving that he found a way to go harder than he usually does.

Gio Chamba                                                                 Photo: Courtesy of Artist

I got lucky enough to grab a close spot for Tears For Fears, who dropped all their hits. They played a bunch of covers too, which was odd; but overall they were definitely pros. I was also impressed with the crowd they drew, as I thought they would go unnoticed by much of the younger crowd. I watched Chance The Rapper really bring his a game to the fest. He was a million times better than the last time I caught him, and he really put on a great show. Of course, one of the bigger highlights was a beautiful performance from St. Vincent. Though I already knew that she would be impressive, it felt like she really wanted to be here when she played, and continuously engaged the crowd while she performed.

As the evening got closer to ending, I made my way over to watch Charles Bradley. I said early on that he was a sleeper in this fest, as I knew he was a performer first and foremost. One of my day one highlights, Bradley performed a top notch set and kept the audience on their toes with each blisteringly passionate song. I then got to get side stage for Mastodon, who quickly made it apparent why they were on the bill. Their set was truly amazing, and they played a mix of deep cuts and hits; that felt like they called fans to ask them what to play. I closed day one with a crazed set from Steve Angello, who was definitely worth waiting for. Complete with smoke, streamers, and a crazed light show; Angello was definitely the best way to close out day one.

FPSF Crowd                                                                                  Photo: Trish Badger

On day two, my body wasn’t down to get to the grounds early, so the first act I saw was Diarrhea Planet. As usual, they didn’t let me down while they burned through their hits and their newer material with ease.  I caught a bit of Future Islands which was nice, before watching The Mountain Goats go crazy. They played a true set for fans, by bringing classics and fan faves out for their set. In fact, it felt like one of the best times I’ve seen the band. I then got to watch Flume drop jams like they were in a dance club. I was seriously impressed with how much energy they brought while getting one of the bigger crowds of the day to actually dance.

Moji                                                                                   Photo: Jonathan Beitler

I caught a handful of songs from Flogging Molly, who as always put on a great show. Then I heard people talking about killer sets from George West, Moji, and Guilla which was nice to hear. I got over to the other side of the grounds as quick as possible to catch the tail end of the GTA set, and I was really glad I did. They were one of the few bands that I knew little about. Watching them go off was definitely a surprise, thus proving that a fest is still great for music exploration. I decided to stick around for G-Eazy, who I was also glad I saw. Because a friend begged me to go see him, I lucked out & caught a really great set.

FPSF Crowd                                                                                  Photo: Trish Badger

Of course, then it was time for Major Lazer, who didn’t disappoint in the slightest. The whole production of visuals and intense beats really came to life, while the trio continuously invited the crowd to participate. This set from the group however, was much more intense and energetic than the last time they played the fest.   For everyone who felt like they could miss out on this performance, I hate to tell you that you missed an amazing set.  I had decided early on in this to take the time out to watch Belle And Sebastian, and I was pleased with my decision to trek the festival grounds to see them play.  Their set was more than I was expecting, in that they really seemed to pull out the stops.  Playing fan favorites both new and old, they were definitely a stand out set that I hope everyone got to catch.  I found myself trucking back across the grounds to watch Tycho, who as usual, didn’t disappoint.  Like every other time I’ve watch the producer, he brought great visuals and great jams that made his performance another stand out.  It was also really cool to see that he drew a good crowd, and especially a crowd that came to dance.  I think I saw more people dancing on his set than I did for the bulk of the two days.  This brings us to the biggest divide on the festival, Skrillex at 8:40 and Weezer at 8:50.  I watched Skrillex for twenty minutes before I decided to catch a bit of Weezer.  But, in those twenty minutes, I had my mind blown by not only the intense visuals that Skrillex displayed, but also his insane energy level.  It helped that he had cameras all over him covering his every move, which there was plenty of.  He bounced around, bopped his head, and seemed to be having the time of his life while he rolled through favorites and remixes with ease.  I walked over to catch one song from Weezer.  I love Weezer, and it was cool to see Rivers don a beard, but in all honesty; it was hard to walk away from Skrillex’ amazing set.  And, that’s where I ended the festival; watching Skrillex bounce around and play like he was happy to be there.

All and all it was a great FPSF this year.  Of course it was hot, my phone’s network was shot, and did I mention the heat?  But, that’s to be expected at an event with the word, Summer in the title.  I was lucky enough to get my hands on more than enough water to keep me hydrated, as well as eating hookups from friends old and new.  As far as next year goes, I feel like the organizers have a tough act to follow as this was one of the more diverse lineups in the event’s history; but also one of the best they’ve produced so far.

If you were unaware, Houston affectionately gets called Hustletown on the regular.  Many people come here and are just a little amazed at how hard we will work to see something come to fruition if it involves our dreams.  As it’s always been, that ideal applies heavily to the music industry, especially in today’s overcrowded marketplace.  I think that most people would agree that Houston’s soulful ten piece, The Suffers embody that hustle more than pretty much anyone else in town.  Early this year, Mark from The Convoy Group, the band’s management, whispered to me the biggest coup I had heard in a long time, about the band possibly performing on national television.  That’s right, when The Suffers appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman, I think pretty much every A&R rep in the country was left scratching their heads.  With the recently released “Make Some Room” EP and two appearances at this year’s Free Press Summer Festival, The Suffers are ready to win your hearts and show you how they hustle.  FPH caught up with the band to chat about what they have planned for the fest, and that amazing performance on television that saw our city collectively cheering at their TV screens.

FPH:  I would think after the last 30 days, most of Houston would know who The Suffers are.  But, for the miniscule amount who might be unfamiliar, please tell us in your own words who you are and what kind of music you make?

THE SUFFERS:  We are a ten piece band from Houston, TX. We mix all the sounds of our great city into a style we call Gulf Coast Soul.

FPH:  You guys just released an EP that’s getting plenty of traction, can you tell me where you recorded it, and will we see a full length in the near future?

THE SUFFERS:  Our EP was recorded at Wire Road Studios in Houston and Church House Studios in Austin. Both are excellent facilities and we had a lot of fun making it. We are planning a full length album and some songs have already been recorded.

FPH:  When the band breaks, you know that everyone will say you’re an “overnight success.”  But those of us in the know realize that it’s not that way at all.  Can you describe the amount of work it takes just to get on a festival, much less on national television?

THE SUFFERS:  Each member of the band has over 15 years of playing around Texas and some members have toured the US and other countries. As a band, we’ve been steadily grinding for almost 4 years. We tend to be perfectionists; practicing and rehearsing relentlessly. Any success would be built on a pile of small victories we’ve earned over the years one gig at a time.

FPH:  The band recently performed on The Late Show with David Letterman, and rooms all over the city were filled with people cheering and screaming at televisions in excitement.  How surreal was that whole experience and please don’t leave out any details?

THE SUFFERS:  It’s still hard to accept that it happened. Playing Letterman was an absolute dream. That show and that stage have so much history. The show staff was so helpful and didn’t mind us gushing around the Ed Sullivan Theater taking photos. The entire day, and especially the performance, are still a bit of a blur. It happens so fast. The encouragement we were getting before the taping was amazing but later that night, after the show aired, we were all rendered speechless by the amount of love that poured out of Houston.

FPH:  Letterman said, “If you can’t do this, get out of the business,” which might be the most complimentary thing I’ve heard him ever say.  How long did it take to sink in that you’d just been given one of the greatest compliments from a broadcasting legend?

THE SUFFERS:  Because of the way Dave’s mic is fed to TV, most of the band didn’t know what Dave said until we saw the show air later that night. I don’t think it really hit any of us until the next day when our phones stopped ringing and we were able to just breathe and think. It feels so good to have years of hard work and sacrifice recognized on national tv by an entertainment icon.

FPH:  This year, the band is performing two sets, one as The Suffers and one with the Welcome To Houston crew.  How did the Welcome to Houston thing come about and how many numbers will you be performing on?

THE SUFFERS:  Last year we collaborated with Bun B for the Premium Goods anniversary party at 8th Wonder brewery. It was a lot of fun and really meant to us as musicians and fans of Houston rap. We were ecstatic when we found out we would be onstage with so many Houston rap icons. We are all huge fans of each of the MC’s individually, but collectively they are the best representation of Houston’s contribution to rap music. It’s hard to include everyone’s favorite song and each rapper has a huge catalog of songs to choose from. We have received a great list favorites that won’t disappoint anyone.

FPH:  The band is no stranger to the festival circuit, and you’ve done FPSF before.  What tricks up your sleeve do you have planned for the hometown crowd?

THE SUFFERS:  We love playing festivals, especially in Houston. We’ve grown a lot and had a chance to sharpen our skills since the last time we played FPSF. This will be our first show in Houston since playing Letterman and doing some pretty extensive touring. We won’t ruin the surprise but we know we have to bring something special for the city.

I’m sure that the surprise will be worth the wait.  With the amount of raw energy that The Suffers bring to a live performance, I feel like you’re not doing the festival correctly if you miss them perform.  With the Letterman appearance, a hefty touring schedule, and the new EP, I’m sure if you miss them at the festival, you’ll be kicking yourself when they become the next big thing.

Well, we had a great week that saw Kiki Maroon sell out her festival, and saw some of us getting to catch a Grammy winning DJ at an intimate setting.  It really proved that you have no idea what can happen in this great city.  This week there are just as many to do’s that should entertain you more than you would think.  A whole host of comedy, a festival, and plenty of local talent make this one for the books.  Here’s where you’ll have to decide which option to choose, so choose wisely.

Wednesday

Wednesday you can make it over to House of Blues to catch comedian John Mulaney.  You more than likely know Mulaney from his mediocre at best show, “Mulaney.”  However, you should know that show isn’t a great representation of his comedy.  He made an album in 2024 that represents him better, called “New In Town.”  The show doesn’t seem to have an opener, but that may change.  The doors are at 6:30 and the tickets are between $25.00 and $27.00.

You could also head to MKT Bar to catch Rick and Chris from BLSHS drop a DJ set.  I say DJ set, but it’s really just Vinyl Night over there.  So, if you think it’s gonna’ be some mix mad crazy thing, you might not be disappointed.  That being said, I know that these two have very different and eclectic tastes that range from hardcore punk to current electronic acts.  Things start 7:00, it’s all ages, and 100% FREE.

Thursday

On Thursday, you can make it out to Conroe to catch the insanely talented acoustic sounds of Mason Jennings at the Dosey Doe Cafe.  Jennings has the type of sound that you can’t deny the power of.  It’s the type of stuff that makes you think of dancing in your kitchen with a loved one to.  His latest album, 2024’s “Always Been” just continues the happy go lucky meets heartfelt tradition of tunes he’s become known for.  Austin’s folky singer songwriter Dana Falconberry will open things up with her eclectic sound.  Her 2024 album “Leelanau” is one you that should convince you to show up early.  The doors are at 7:30 and the tickets are $25.00.

Over at Stereo Live, they have a pretty cool gathering of artists and musicians for the Visionary show presented by RAW.  If you’re an artists who is on this show, then it’s a really big deal.  There’s a film screening, a fashion show, and a multitude of various artists.  One of those artists is Houston’s own, Kabuloglu.  Originally born in Mexico City, she’s seriously one of the most creative people I’ve ever met.  She does everything from crafting little creatures to album cover art.  She is just one of the amazing names that will also feature DJ Athenz, and photography from names like Amaceying, Mike The Truth, and more than I can name.  The event has doors at 7:30, and the tickets are $15.00 for the night that recommends “cocktail attire.”

At Joke Joint Comedy Showcase, they will have the talents of comedian Dave Williamson.  Williamson has been at a host of comedy festivals, he’s had a spot on Nick Mom, and he won the best comic in Miami award.  His brand of humor covers what it’s like to have a family, and he’s a funny guy with universal themes.  His 2024 album, “Thicker Than Water” should give you a good idea of what his humor is like.  The feature act this week will be Houston’s Judd Jones.  Judd is a great comic who can make any room laugh, and he’s a great feature for this show.  Ashton Womack will host the Thursday and Friday night shows, while the hilarious and rapid fire humor of Houston’s Kazeem Rahman will host the Saturday night show.  There is one show on Thursday at 8:00, two shows on Friday at 8:00 and 10:30, and two on Saturday also at 8:00 and 10:30.  All have a cover of $16.00.

Friday 

On Friday you can kick off the weekend over at Discovery Green, for the screening of the classic film, “Edward Scissorhands.”  One of the better films made with Johnny Depp and director Tim Burton, the film teaches all who watch it that it’s okay to be different.  It’s a family and dog friendly affair that asks you to bring a blanket & grab some turf to watch the film.  Things get started at 7:30 and it’s 100% FREE.

Since you’ll be in the area, you could also venture over to Phoenicia’s MKT Bar for a night of comedy presented by those at Beta Theater.  This week, it’s an Un-Official Pre-Party” for the Come and Take It Comedy Festival.  The show will feature some great comics like Rich Williams, Jaffer Khan, Matt Han, Zach Dickson, and Zahid Dewji.  The comics will also have NO FEE tickets for the festival on hand to be sold for cash, and a lucky person might even win a pair of tickets as well.  There’s always a killer special on 8th Wonder Beer, it’s a “TV Friendly” style of comedy, it starts at 9:00, and it’s 100% FREE.

Downstairs at Fitzgerald’s, you can catch some speedy rock from Austin’s American Sharks.  This fuzz rock trio originally got their start here in Houston before heading to the overcrowded landscape of our state’s capitol.  They released an album in 2024 called “American Sharks” that represents what you’ll see if you go to the show.  To me, they’ve always sounded like Electric Frankenstein.  The doom of Houston’s From Beyond will also be on hand to cause some headaches.  These guys dropped a pretty good album in 2024 called “The Color Out Of Space” that sounds like The Sword meets Soundgarden.  The stoned out drone of College Station’s The Tron Sack will also be there, while Moonrazor opens things up.  The show is all ages, the doors are at 8:00, and the show is FREE if you’re 21 & up, and it’s $10.00 if you’re under 21.

Rudyard’s has a mixed show that has the Americana Punk of Houston’s The Grizzly Band headlining.  These guys sound like if you took Mike Ness’ solo work and mixed it with a fuzzier version of Lucero.  The Americana meets folky wanderer of Jason Bancroft & The Wealthy Beggars will also be on the bill.  The Houston trio has that Chuck Ragan kind of vibe, and they’re known to put on a pretty great live show.  The mixed part of the show comes from the fact that two Austin comics will open the show.  JT Habersaat will be here, though I feel like he’s been here a bunch lately.  He’s part of the Altercation Comedy Tour.  He’ll have Mike Wiebe of Riverboat Gamblers fame opening things up, also doing comedy.  The show is 21 & up, the doors are at 9:00, and the cover is TBA.

Bayou Music Center will have one of the funniest comics going right now, when they have Brian Regan in town.  Regan is a force to be reckoned with, he has amazing comedic timing, and his clean material makes this a show that’s okay for your fifteen year old to see.  Regan’s most recent album, 2024’s “All By Myself” is a pretty heavy load of comedy, and proves why he’s so strong.  There doesn’t appear to be an opener, but that may change.  The doors are at 8:00 and the tickets are between $39.75 and $49.75.

Over at Warehouse Live in the studio, The Willy Collins Band will have their album release party.  If you haven’t heard these guys, they mix no less than three genres into their sound.  Imagine if Tom Petty played guitar in a band that sounded like Warren Zevon, with a singer who echoed the vibe of Zevon and Tom Waits…that’s them in a nutshell.  Houston’s Adam Bricks will also be there to drop some of his old soul in a young body songs.  Bricks has this ability to remind you of the past, while not sounding dated.  His 2024 album, “City Songs” should let you in on his sound.                 He’ll have the Americana meets alt country of Houston’s Second Lovers perform prior.  I heard a demo recently from their latest recordings that tells me their new album is going to be amazing.  The experimental dream pop of Australia’s Naked Maja will open things up.  They dropped an album last year called, “The Vagrant” that proves why you should get there early.  The show is all ages, the doors are at 8:00, and the tickets are $10.00.

If you were a big fan of the TV show, “Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper,” then you should head over to Improv.  That show’s star, Mark Curry will be headlining at the iconic club this weekend.  Curry is a triple threat in entertainment, and his stand-up is pretty funny to catch live.  As per all of these shows at Improv, two of Houston’s better up and coming comics will perform the feature and host duties for the show.  There are two shows on Friday at 8:00 and 10:30, two shows on Saturday at 7:00 and 9:30, and a 7:30 show on Sunday.  All carry a ticket price between $20.00 to $30.00.

Continental Club will have the Buck Owens type of honky tonk of Austin’s The Derailers.  I used to catch these guys all the time when I lived in the capital city, and I can attest to their prowess as a live band.  They’re like going back in time when country acts had showmanship away from fancy stage rigs.  Just the music here can make anyone a fan of country music.  Their last album of originals came out in 2024, but “Guaranteed To Satisfy” truly lives up to its’ name.  The show is 21 & up, the tickets are $12.00, and the doors should be around 9:00.

Saturday

You should start this Saturday at the biggest thing happening this weekend, the Come and Take It Comedy Festival.  Utilizing the grounds of Warehouse Live, the two day event will feature some of the biggest names in comedy under one umbrella.  The Saturday show will start off with the mesmerizing beauty and talents of Houston Burlesque troupe, Dem Damn Dames over in the ballroom, while newcomer and Houston native Anthony Colicci will start off the stand-up in the studio at 4:20(don’t giggle).  You can catch the popular Moth performance at 5:00 or the stand-up of Duncan Trussel.  The day zigzags like this pretty much nonstop.  The highlights of Saturday will be Brooks Wheelan, The Whiskey Brothers podcast, Maria Bamford, Whitest Kids You Know, and Todd Barry.  There’s much more than I’m mentioning here, and when you scroll to Sunday, you’ll see what’s happening then as well.  The all ages event is great for the Houston comedy scene, the doors are at 3:00, and the single day tickets are $35.00, while the two day pass is $55.00.

Upstairs at Fitzgerald’s, The Suffers will be performing their album release party.  The four song release is one that many have been on the edge of their seats for, and anyone who has seen them live knows that they bring it in full force.  They’ll have to bring it, as the electronica and smooth sounds of Ishi will be on prior to their performance.  So, Ishi dropped an album in 2024 called “Digital Wounds” that has a dancey vibe, but is also pretty beautiful.  Houston’s Rai P will be there as well, while Austin’s trippy vocal electronic trio Keeper will get the show started.  The doors are at 8:00, the show is all ages, and the tickets are between $12.00 and $17.00.

If you’re in the mood for some metal, then there’s a doozy of a show over at Mango’s when Project Armageddon headlines the Summoning The Ancient Ones event.  So, Project has been working hard on a new album that will be the follow up to the doom heavy “Tides Of Doom” from 2024.  What you have to dig about any show that this band puts on, is that the bands they bring in are almost always top notch.  Couple that with Project Armageddon’s intense live set, and you have a great event.  They’re bringing the heavy drone meets sludge metal of San Antonio’s CURSUS to town to play prior to them.  CURSUS dropped a song in 2024 called “Hex Offender” that should let you know real quick how hard they are.  One of my favorite newer bands from Houston, Funeral Horse will be there to open up the show.  These guys dropped a really great album last year called “Sinister Rites Of The Master” that showcases their riff heavy sound.  They remind me of early eighties metal before someone handed them all a can of Aqua Net.  The all ages show has doors at 9:00 and cover is $7.00 for 21 & up and $10.00 for under 21.

You might be up for some twang, and if you are then Notsuoh is where you should head.  They’ll have the twangy country blues of Fox Parlour.  The group will be playing tunes from their loud and ferocious 2024 album, “Hell Or High Water.”  The country swagger and multi-instrumental sounds of Quiet Morning & the Calamity will also be on hand.  If you’ve never caught this group, then I beg you to go see them.  They might be one of the tightest bands going with more happening in one bar of music than anyone else in town.  Grand Old Grizzly will also be there to drop their mix of Creedence meets Glen Campbell.  It’s time for a follow up to their 2024 album, “Grand Old Grizzly,” so maybe you’ll hear some new stuff.  San Antonio’s Cactus Cats will open things up with doors at 8:00.  It’s an all ages show that’s $5.00 for 21 & up, and $10.00 for under 21.

Over at Last Concert Cafe, they’ll be judging some stache heavy contestants that would make Nick Offerman proud with the Texas Showdown Beard & Mustache Competition.  Everything will be up for judging from zero to six inch beards, to a contest for women.  Those over at The Houston Facial Hair Club would love to see you come out and support their scene, that a guy like me who has trouble growing a mustache; had no idea existed.  DJ Damon Allen of Numbers will be providing the tunes.  Things get started at 6:00, and the entry is $20.00 for competitors, and $15.00 for everyone else.  If you want to compete, you can register here; and may the best beard win.

Walters will have the tripped out dreamy pop of Houston’s Mojave Red.  These guys kind of have this psych sound that reminds me of early nineties stuff from across the pond.  It’s great music to watch the tracers to.  The indie pop rock of Houston’s Belvoir will also be on hand, as will a band called Gallion.  The garage rock of Houston’s A Tribute To The Sun will open things up with doors at 8:00, and $8.00 for under 21, FREE for 21 & up; on the all ages show.

Sunday

Sunday, you can start things off with day two of the Come And Take It Comedy Festival.  The second day gets going with Punk Rock Circus in the ballroom, while Al B. will lead the stand-up in the studio.  The studio room has Austin’s Chris Cubas, while the ballroom will host the four piece hilarity known as The Whiskey Brothers podcast.  The bearded humor of Mike Lawrence will be in the studio and so will the Todd Barry podcast, as this is how it will go all day with plenty of great national and touring acts.  The day is highlighted with a set from Kids In The Hall co-founder Kevin McDonald, while SNL alum Norm Macdonald will finish things off.  The doors are at 3:00, things start promptly at 4:00, and tickets for single days are $35.00 while two day passes are $55.00.

Downstairs at Fitzgerald’s, you can get your rock on when Masked Intruder performs.  The four piece pop punkers from Wisconsin live up to their sound as part of the Fat Wreck Chords family.  Last year, these guys dropped a great pop punk album called “M.I.” where they have fast guitar and sing song vocals.  The pop punk of Illinois’ The Copyrights will also be on the bill.  After years of dropping 7 inches, these guys dropped a proper album with plenty of intensity called, “Report.”  The garage rock goodness of Houston’s Modfag will be there to impress with their impressive live show.  Currently working on the follow up to their debut, “Paradisio,” Modfag is definitely worth making it out for.  The pop punk that reminds me of Lookout records era Green Day, Houston’s The Turnaways will be there to open the show up.  Last year, these guys dropped a four song release called “Came Quick” that has the feel of when pop punk was virgining.  The all ages show has doors at 8:00 and tickets between $10.00 and $11.00.

Monday

Monday at Natachee’s showroom, Seattle’s Dylan Jakobsen will bring his brand of country music to town.  More than much of what I’ve heard, Jakobsen reps the Seattle country scene pretty well.  A hint of twang in his voice, the singer songwriter put out “Dylan Jakobsen” last year which feels like current Nashville mixed with Nashville of the past.  The Kingwood brothers known as The Powell Brothers will also be on the show.  These guys have toured and can drop some pretty good sounds with their multi-instrumentation.  The Alvin duo of Rose and Ben will open things up with doors at 8:00 and cover at $5.00.

Tuesday

On Tuesday, Fitzgerald’s will host Cleveland’s pop songstress, Kate Voegele.  Voegele has been making music since the age of fifteen, and due to her popularity as an actress, this show might sell out.  Her latest, last year’s “The Wild Card,” EP showed a deeper side to her music.  Not to be outdone, the acoustic pop of Leroy Sanchez will be on hand to open things up.  The downstairs show has doors at 7:00, it’s all ages, and tickets are between $10.00 and $13.00.

No matter how you see it, that’s a pretty hefty week this early in the year.  Whether you choose to attend any one thing, or nothing; please be responsible and watch out for your fellow Houstonians.  The only way this city stays cool is if you do your part to make sure we all get home safely.