Words by Sandy Castoro
Austin, TX — Spontaneity can be a great thing. Surprising your parents in the heat of the moment: not great. Stumbling into the Parish (Austin, TX) last spring to check out an album release party for a band I had never heard of and discovering The Bright Light Social Hour: Amazing.
These Texas boys took the room by storm with an energetic opening set reminiscent of the best 90’s classic rock with a fresh, indie twist. Highlights included a raucous sing-a-long in their song “Back and Forth”, a dirty down-home rendition of the Muddy Waters song “Hoochie Coochie Man” and some daring aerial acrobatics by Jack O’Brien (bass, vocals, mustache) as he jumped from the speakers in his signature cut-off jean shorts. I was hooked.
www.brightlightsocialhour.com
Since then, this group of 20-something rockers has finally finished their first full-length, self-titled album to high acclaim and to celebrate, a few hundred of their closest friends gathered at legendary Antone’s on September 17th for their record release party.
A little bit bluesy, a little bit jammy and, according to their website, “pairing southern rock with hard disco” this dynamic group will rock your socks off from note number one. After hearing boot-stomping songs like “Bare Hands Bare Feet”, “Shanty” and “Back and Forth” for the first time, don’t be surprised they are on constant rotation in your head for at least the next week. One of my favorite songs of the night, “Detroit” showcased Curtis Roush’s (guitar, vocals) soulful crooning and guitar skills, O’Briens funky bass and A.J. Vincent’s bold keyboard, providing an almost-mellow contrast to the constant head rush of energy. Just how much does Texas love BLSH? September 23rd is now officially Bright Light Social Hour day in Austin.
Intrigued but don’t live in Texas? Don’t worry –the nationwide tour begins soon!
www.brightlightsocialhour.com
TheWaster.com | Austin
09.17.10
