Concentration

House Party:Sharks!

 

Jared Schlimgen
1,276 points
Seen since Nov 2009

 

Who's Got Next?

submitted on Apr 30, 2010

Whether it is sports, politics, or music, we are always looking for the next big thing.  Who will be the next Michael Jordan, the next Jimi, the next Tiger...er, well maybe not so much anymore.  Regardless, we are always seeking out who the next talent is, the flavor of the moment, so that we can stay one step of our cohorts and always be ready for trivial conversations at lame parties your significant other drags you to.  To help you out in your next such occasion, here are five young, ready to breakthrough bands in Austin.  

Bright Light Social Hour has already opened eyes by winning the Austin play-in for ACL Fest 2009.  I was at the show at Antone's for the vote and had planned to vote for another band...they changed my mind.  Jack O' Brien is a beast on drums.  Stylistically they are a modernistic take on seventies rock with dashes of funk and soul sprinkled in liberally.  

Harlem is ubiquitous by now as it seems as though there isn't a date they won't pass up.  Though they are currently on a US tour and it will be a while before we see them in Austin again, you can bet your sense of fashion they'll be back soon.  They are a group that doesn't seem to take themselves seriously, but it works for them.  Simple lyrics, intriguing song titles, and eventful shows.  You could do worse.  Far worse.   

Speak, the Austin Chronicle Best New Band Award winner 09-10, is the most unique of all these Austin upstarts.  Simply mix David Bowie, electronica, George Clinton, and the eighties in a pot and stir in a magical way.  The result: Speak.    

The Bubbles are a psychedelic pop rock quartet that also participated in the play-in for ACL 2009.  From their modest start-up in 2007 by front man, William Glossup, they have been busy recording and playing all over Austin.  Their sophomore effort, "Daydreaming in Technicolor" will be released in 2010.  These kids like to have fun and that is apparent in their lyrics and melodies.  If you are in need of sunshine, puppies, and ice cream go see the Bubbles they will give you that same fuzzy feeling.  

Sharks! is one project of singer/songwriter Nike.  In his words Sharks! is, "The Shins meets Elliot Smith meets The Islands."  Recently placing an emphasis on his songwriting and solo career, he has grown as an artist and beautifully blends his acoustic guitar with his unique voice.  Though Sharks! is a solo project, he is often backed up by other musicians and this makes every show is a once-in-an-opportunity show.  Nike's side project is the band, Diamonds.  Very new to the scene they are starting to make a splash.  Catchy lyrics    fast-tempo power-pop rock    a smidgen of punk influence for good measure = get your booty on the dance floor!       

These kids are young, they're hungry, and they have seemingly endless amounts of potential.  They will play anywhere from the regulars in the Red River District to house parties set up by friends to co-ops around UT.  Look for them out there; they won't be hard to find.  Know who's next and be the envy of your friends.