Sade Meets Chick Correa?

When The “Accidental Tourist” Discovered The Austin Music Scene

Have you ever had that moment when you start off doing one thing, then end up on the other side of town doing something completely unplanned? The other night, I’m over at the Oasis on Lake Travis shooting sunset photography. If you’ve ever been to this cool place just outside of Austin, you could fall, break your leg, bend your tripod and still get good shots. It’s just that visually impressive. After that shoot, I headed over to Lucy’s for a quick bite before heading back to the house for the night. Lucy’s has an eclectic crowd and you never know who you’ll end up talking to.

South Congress

Leaving Lucy’s, I look north on South Congress and decide to take a left back into town instead of right towards a comfy slumber. I remembered seeing the old Paramount Theater and felt inspired to capture a few shots before calling it a night. Photographers are often described as professional (or amateur) observers. We are usually taking in the surroundings between shots. While capturing one long open aperture moment, I noticed several couples walking into an establishment behind me called “The Townsend.” My photography continued for a while longer, seeking the perfect shot. Winding down this shoot, I looked inside and noticed the place appeared empty, minus 4 people at the bar. Where in the heck did those people go? Was I having an “old man” moment?

The Townsend

With my camera bag on my shoulder, I stepped inside, wandered past the bar area and could remotely hear music. A the end of the long corridor were two doors with no markings. Opening those doors, was probably the best choice of the day as the music was amazing. Looking around, it had been a CD release party for one group and the group in front of me, “Chief Perch” was closing for the evening. Not sure whether to take pictures or just listen, I decided to do both. Of course, I looked up this group on my phone. “Do512” describes them as: An Austin band endorsing the future of music. Their robust horn section, intoxicating male and female vocalists, tight rhythm section, and unique blend of classic funk rhythms and modern electronic sounds present a never-before-heard genre of music. As a slightly older guy, my first thought was Sade meets Chick Correa or The Rippingtons. They have this raw energy, while polishing their craft to become a soultry musical juggernaut. My most interesting observation, they were having fun at the same time. Young talented adults, doing what they loved. And it showed. I’ve heard this about Austin’s music scene during my short time here. On this night, the harmony flowed and the instruments were rhythmic like they’d been playing together since they were in diapers. Just an awesome musical set.

After the show ended, the group mingled with fans. Apparently the family of the female lead was there, so hugs and kisses were the order of the night as they wandered up the street to a parked car and likely a celebration late night meal at one of Austin’s amazing restaurants. Magnolia’s maybe? This Accidental Tourist will never know. As I pen this, Austin City Limits is just hours away. After stumbling upon this musical moment, I can’t wait to see what Austin based musicians have to offer.

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful day. Not all of my blogs are long reads. Some are just moments in time worth a few scribbled notes. Don’t forget to tell someone you love them. You might make their day!