Pearl to host UNESCO Chefs for Pueblos del Maíz. Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
San Antonio has blossomed into a vibrant culinary hub, blending rich cultural influences and innovative gastronomy. Its diverse food scene, rooted in Tex-Mex and traditional Southern flavors, showcases local ingredients and culinary traditions. The city has attracted renowned chefs and restaurants, earning accolades in national food rankings. Events like the San Antonio Restaurant Week and the annual Fiesta highlight local talent and foster a strong sense of community. The city’s burgeoning food markets, food trucks, and artisan producers further enrich its culinary landscape, making San Antonio a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking unique and flavorful experiences.
The culinary scene is active throughout the year, with various locations hosting events to highlight the chefs and cuisine that makes San Antonio shine. One of these is the Pearl downtown and this week they are hosting Pueblos del Maíz events.
Pearl is proud to host Pueblos del Maíz events this week on October 10-11, 2024. This celebration highlights San Antonio’s role as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and showcases the importance of maíz (corn) in global culinary traditions. San Antonio UNESCO Chef Ambassadors, including Chef Jaime Gonzalez of Carriqui, will showcase the diverse flavors of maíz by preparing small bites inspired by UTSA’s Special Collections cookbooks. (Pearl, 2024)
Thursday, October 10, 2024 – Ticketed event at Carriqui
The event kicks off on October 10 with an exclusive ticketed dinner at Carriqui from 6p.m. to 8p.m. This reception style experience will also feature maíz inspired signature cocktails and tastings of maíz derived spirits prepared by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors. Tickets are $70 per person and available online.
Friday, October 11, 2024 – Free Event at Pearl Park
On October 11, the celebration expands to a free community event at Pearl Park from 5:30p.m. to 9:30p.m. Visitors can enjoy cooking demonstrations by UNESCO Chef Ambassadors from Bergamo, Italy; Tucson, Arizona; Merida, Mexico; and San Antonio, Texas. The event will also feature live music, art installations, and a variety of food and beverage vendors showcasing maíz-inspired creations.
311 announces their highly anticipated album Full Bloom. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
New York, NY – The platinum certified rock band 311is back with the announcement of their highly anticipated 14th studio album, Full Bloom, out October 25. In celebration, the band has released their new track and visualizer for “Need Somebody,” out now. The track speaks to avoiding isolation and staying connected with the people that love you. (Big Hassle Media, 2024)
With more than 10 million records sold in just the United States alone, 311 has never been hotter. Having just wrapped a successful headlining US run of their “Unity Tour,” one of the most successful tours of the their 34 year history, they are known to emphasize the importance of community through the lens of communication and connection.
Full Bloom is 311’s first full length project in 5 years following their album Voyager in 2019. Their first single off the album, “You’re Gonna Get It” is the band’s highest charting song in 13 years, breaking into the top 15 at Alternative Radio. The introspective track reflecting upon the realization that all actions have consequences, even if they aren’t immediate, has over 1M streams since its release this summer. Fans can now pre-saveFull Bloom.
“We hope fans can take from this album 311’s message of positivity and unity. In today’s world it’s so easy to become alienated by the pressures of everyday life. Whether it’s social media, stress at work, an illness, the list goes on.” The band shares with us, “It’s so important to stay open with your loved ones and community so we can all thrive in full bloom” shares the band.
Music has always been a unifying force, and through their lyrics and melodies, the band seeks to remind everyone that we are never truly alone. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, a family member, or even a stranger, the act of communication can bridge gaps and heal wounds. In their eyes, having someone to talk to is one of the most essential forms of support, and it’s the foundation upon which unity is built. It’s in those conversations where understanding, empathy, and connection grow.
311 was formed in 1990 in Omaha, Nebraska, featuring Nick Hexum (vocals/guitar), Chad Sexton (drums), Tim Mahoney (guitar), SA Martinez (vocals/dj), and P-Nut (bass). They mix rock, rap, reggae and funk into their own unique, hybrid sound – and 33 years later, the band is still regarded as one of the most entertaining and dynamic live bands in the U.S.
As veterans of over 2,000 shows across 27 countries, 311 is one of the longest running original lineups in rock, alongside iconic acts like U2 and Radiohead. 311’s celebrated live shows and touring schedule have earned them a vast and dedicated following nationwide. The band has released thirteen studio albums, two greatest hits albums, two live albums, three DVD’s and a boxed-set, and have sold over 9 million records in the U.S.
Ten albums have reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Top 200 Sales Chart – and nine of their singles have reached the Top 10 on Billboard’s Alternative Radio Chart – including three #1 singles: “Down,” “Love Song,” and “Don’t Tread On Me” – along with ”Amber,” “All Mixed Up,” “Come Original,” “Creatures For Awhile,” “Hey You,” and “Sunset in J.
October events you can’t miss at The Spa Plaza San Antonio at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection. Photo: Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, used with permission.
Spa days offer a rejuvenating escape, promoting wellness through a range of soothing services. From invigorating massages to calming facials, each treatment is designed to relax the mind and body. Aromatherapy enhances the experience, utilizing essential oils to elevate mood and alleviate stress. Spa services often include hydrotherapy, which uses water for therapeutic benefits, and body scrubs that exfoliate and nourish the skin. Ultimately, spa days are not just about indulgence; they are essential for self-care, promoting physical and mental well-being in our busy lives.
If you’re in the San Antonio area or plan to be, and are looking to treat yourself or a loved one to a spa day, consider Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa. Here are some of the spa specials they’re offering for the month of October.
Guests can look forward to the below activations in October:
Spa Face Mask Special: Tuesday, October 1 – Thursday, October 31
Details: Guests can add a Specialized Treatment Mask to any service, and then receive one to take home for free. The Specialized Treatment Mask is a sheet mask excellent for infusing skin with deep hydration, as well as potent ingredients like neroli, maple water, comfrey, and slow-aging ingredients, to leave skin feeling clean and glowing.
How to purchase: The Specialized Treatment Mask add-on is only $40. This special is automatically applied to anyone that adds a specialized treatment mask onto their booking through the online reservation link.
Floating Sound Bath: Tuesday, October 8 from 8p.m. – 10p.m.
Details: Immerse yourself in the ultimate zen getaway with a relaxing sound bath experience while floating on water. Guests can expect to hear the soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls and gongs while floating in Plaza San Antonio’s tranquil pool. This in-person event is the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with your inner self.
Guests 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or new to the practice, everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the healing power of sound.
Event includes all day pool and fitness center access on 10/8. Guests also receive a special discount of 25% off of any spa services booked the day of the event at the Spa at the Plaza.
How to purchase: Interested guests can purchase tickets for only $50 through the Eventbrite link.
Halloween Themed Poses at the Plaza: Sunday, October 27 at 11a.m.
Details: Poses at the Plaza is a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga session led by Alison Galvan, owner of EnergyXFitness at The Spa Plaza San Antonio’s Oasis Lawn. Guests should bring their own yoga mat to participate. A limited amount of mats are available for rent.
This month’s class is Halloween themed, so guests are encouraged to dress in costume. There will be a costume judging at the end of class, with the winner of best costume receiving a free Slow Beauty Pedicure at The Spa At The Plaza!
Event includes all day pool and fitness center access on 10/27, in addition to Zen lounge access, 12p.m. Anaqua Tree Ceremony, and guaranteed reservation to Corinne San Antonio. Guests also receive a special discount of 25% off of any spa services booked the day of the event at the Spa at the Plaza.
How to purchase: Poses at the Plaza is FREE to attend. Guests just need to RSVP through the Eventbrite link.
‘Wild: Poems’ is a stunning new poetry collection by Ben Okri. Photo: Amazon
Poetry captures fleeting moments, distills complex feelings, and offers a voice to the unspoken. Each poem is a unique exploration of life, love, loss, and beauty, inviting readers to experience the world through different lenses. With its playful use of language, poetry can provoke thought, inspire change, or simply provide solace. Whether through sonnets, haikus, or free verse, poets craft their truths, creating connections that transcend time and culture, reminding us of our shared humanity. It serves as a vital outlet for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate their innermost thoughts and emotions.
In a world that often silences voices, poetry provides a platform for authenticity and vulnerability. It helps us process experiences, whether joyful or painful, fostering healing and understanding. Through imagery and metaphor, poets can convey complex ideas and emotions in ways that resonate deeply with others. This connection can spark empathy and inspire change, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives. Ultimately, poetry empowers individuals to embrace their unique perspectives, cultivating a richer, more diverse tapestry of human experience.
For poetry fans, I’d like to highlight a poetry collection by Ben Okri, “Wild: Poems” that will be released this month.
Ben Okri is a playwright, poet, novelist, essayist, short-story writer, anthologist, and aphorist. He has also written film scripts. His works have won numerous national and international prizes, including the Booker Prize for Fiction. His books include the eco-fable “Every Leaf a Hallelujah,” the play Changing Destiny, the genre-bending climate fiction “Tiger Work,” the poetry collections “A Fire in My Head” and “Mental Fight,” and the novels “Astonishing the Gods,” “The Last Gift of the Master Artists,” and “Dangerous Love.” In 2023 he received a knighthood for services to literature. His latest book “Wild: Poems” will be released on October 22, 2024 and is available for pre-order through Other Press. (Other Press, 2024)
“Wild: Poems” – is a rich, joyful anthology of poems on living and loving from the Booker Prize–winning Ben Okri, who recently received knighthood for his services to literature.
Freedom is the most precious commodity in the world. In this powerful collection, the celebrated Okri explores the beauty contained in each one of us—the freedom of our spirit, the child within. He recalls the death of his father, the sacrifices of his mother, the hidden river of Edinburgh, falling in love. He writes about Virgil and Mozambique, about ringing the bell for freedom, the dreams of Calliope and the full moon. He enters the fifth circle, sings of the roses of spring, and aligns the pyramids to the magic stars.
Okri’s shape-shifting depth and dynamism as an artist and thinker is on full display in “Wild.” Echoing Okri’s other recent publications “Tiger Work” and “A Fire in My Head,” “Wild” continues the partnership between the poet, playwright, and novelist and Other Press and continues to cement Okri’s irreplaceable contribution to the larger cultural conversation.
Recent praise for Ben Okri
“The poems collected in ‘A Fire in My Head’ exhibit a decidedly sharpened political edge, too. There are reflections on Boko Haram, the plight of the Rohingya and the death of George Floyd.” —NEW YORK TIMES
“A master storyteller, Okri prompts readers to reflect on the mistakes of the past and consider the ways in which they are repeated. As ever, Okri channels a voice well worth listening to.” —PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
“Ben Okri is that rare thing, a literary and social visionary, a writer for whom all three—literature, culture, and vision—are profoundly interwoven.” —Ali Smith
“Ben Okri is talking about Africa . . . The collection brings together many of Okri’s most critically acclaimed and politically charged poems . . .” —THE AFRICA REPORT
‘The Good Energy Cookbook’ is a comprehensive guide to transforming your life and maximizing your metabolism. Photo: Amazon.
Cookbooks that are focused on healthy eating empower individuals to make nutritious choices without sacrificing flavor. They often feature fresh, whole ingredients, offering a variety of recipes that cater to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. These cookbooks emphasize balance, portion control, and mindful cooking techniques, making healthy meals accessible and enjoyable. With vibrant photographs and practical tips, they inspire readers to explore new ingredients and cooking methods. From wholesome breakfast options to satisfying dinners, these cookbooks not only promote better health but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for nourishing food, helping readers create delicious, guilt-free dishes every day.
Amanda Holsen is a nutrition enthusiast and dedicated researcher specializing in metabolic health and dietary science. With a background in health coaching and a deep understanding of metabolic principles, Holsen combines scientific insights with practical strategies to promote optimal well-being. In her latest book, “The Good Energy Cookbook: Achieve Lasting Weight Loss and Power Up Your Metabolism with Health-Boosting Recipes inspired by Dr. Casey Means,” Holsen offers a comprehensive exploration of metabolic diet principles, drawing on her extensive research and personal insights into effective nutrition strategies. (Amazon, 2024)
Review: “The Good Energy Cookbook” is a refreshing addition to the world of healthy cooking. This vibrant collection not only prioritizes nutritious ingredients but also emphasizes the concept of “good energy” in food choices, making it a compelling read for health enthusiasts and culinary novices alike.
In the Introduction, Holsen explains what metabolic health is and the key components, including Blood Sugar Regulation, Lipid Metabolism, Cellular Energy Production, Inflammation and Metabolic Health, and Hormonal Balance. She also explains the impact of poor metabolic health, the factors that influence it, and the 5 biomarkers that damage our health.
The author combines her passion for holistic wellness with practical cooking advice, sharing recipes that cater to a variety of dietary preferences. From energizing breakfast items like Avocado & Spinach Smoothie Bowl to wholesome dinner options like Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry with Tofu, the cookbook balances flavor and health seamlessly.
Chapters include: Introduction Power Up Your Morning: Energizing Breakfasts Midday Boost: Wholesome Lunches for Lasting Energy End the Day Right: Satisfying Dinners for Restoration Snack Smart: Guilt-Free Bites for Anytime Cravings Sweet but Smart: Metabolic-Friendly Desserts Ready, Set, Go: Meal Prep for Busy Days Meal Plan Conclusion
Highlights: Introduction: The Allies of Health where the author of defines the types of foods that “optimize bodily functions, reduce inflammation, balance blood sugar, and support overall wellness.” She explains what they are and how to add them to our daily meals. Introduction: Tune In: Trusting Your Body’s Signals because it helps explain physical vs emotional hunger and gives tips help your body understand fullness and hunger, such as slowing down while eating and practicing mindful eating, which basically means paying attention to your food without any distractions like television or phones.
I especially like Holsen’s approachable style. Her friendly, encouraging tone invites readers into the kitchen, making the preparation of wholesome meals feel accessible and enjoyable. Beautifully photographed, each page is a feast for the eyes, showcasing the colorful, nutrient-rich meals that inspire creativity. I can’t wait to make the Matcha Bites with Coconut & Chocolate.
Overall, “The Good Energy Cookbook” is more than just a recipe book; it’s a guide to fostering a positive relationship with food. Holsen’s philosophy encourages readers to nourish their bodies while enjoying the process, making it a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their culinary repertoire.
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
A mute serial killer is haunted by his victims in the new horror movie The Deserving. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
This is by far my favorite time of the year because Halloween is just around the corner and that means it’s spooky season, the perfect time to watch horror movies. Horror movies are a typical part of the Halloween experience, capturing the thrill of fear and the excitement of the unknown. As the leaves change and nights grow longer, these films offer a perfect blend of adrenaline and atmosphere.
Whether it’s the classic suspense of “Psycho” or the chilling visuals of “Hereditary,” horror movies invite viewers into eerie worlds where anything can happen. Gathering with friends, dimming the lights, and sharing screams adds to the fun. The spooky themes and haunting soundtracks heighten the holiday spirit, making every jumpscare an unforgettable part of the Halloween celebration. Embrace the thrill!
Available now on worldwide on digital download is The Deserving, a chilling new horror movie. It is available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. (Strike Media Ltd, 2024)
Directed by S. S. Arora, who makes his feature debut, The Deserving stars Venkat Sai Gunda, Simone Stadler, and Kelsey Stalter. The film has already received high praise, having won over fifteen awards including Best Feature at Athens IFF, Best Horror at Hallucinea FF, and awards at Humro Cinema, Portugal Indie Film Festival, and Rome Indie Film Fest.
Exploring themes of guilt, redemption, and the cyclical nature of abuse, The Deserving follows a tormented, mute serial killer who is haunted by the ghosts of his victims and plans to end his life. His resolve is disrupted when a desperate walk-in client arrives, needing an urgent photo shoot.
Talking about the film’s release, Producer Venkat Sai Gunda said, “As a filmmaker, I am thrilled to bring The Deserving to audiences worldwide. This film is a labor of love, exploring themes of suspense and psychological intrigue that I hope will captivate viewers. With its upcoming release, I’m excited to share this cinematic journey with everyone who enjoys a thought-provoking thriller.”
Shaked Berenson, CEO of Entertainment Squad, commented on the film’s unique protagonist: “Having a mute character in The Deserving adds a compelling layer of depth and intrigue to the story, showcasing the innovative storytelling we champion. This film perfectly aligns with The Horror Collective’s mission of giving a stage to new and underrepresented voices that push the boundaries of the genre. The Deserving is a testament to that vision.”
The Horror Collective is the genre label of Entertainment Squad — a production and distribution company founded by veteran producer Shaked Berenson (TURBO KID, TALES OF HALLOWEEN). The label’s latest releases include the Daytime Emmy nominated Limited Series DOOMSDAY, the killer-pants Shudder Original SLAXX, and the critically acclaimed horror-comedy Summoning Sylvia.
The Deserving Horror/Thriller Run Time: 76 minutes
Still from the new horror movie The Deserving. Photo: The Horror Collective, used with permission.
Events include Storytellers: Narrative Art and the West, Native American Film Series, and Día de los Muertos activities. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX – Opening a window into the rich history, culture and landscapes of the Southwest, the Briscoe Western Art Museum is proud to host Storytellers: Narrative Art and the West, an exhibition that reveals the breadth of narrative art produced in the Southwest from the early twentieth century to today. The exhibition features more than 70 remarkable works curated from the prestigious collections of the New Mexico Museum of Art, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, the Briscoe, and private lenders. Storytellers: Narrative Art and the West will be on view October 4, 2024, through January 19, 2025, and is included with museum admission. (Briscoe Western Art Museum, 2024)
“Narrative art tells a story. It can illustrate historic events or bring the imagination to life. The traditions of storytelling in the Southwest go back to ancient times and the Indigenous populations of the region. From the simple carved forms of Helen Cordero to the narrative realism of Martin Grelle and Navajo artist Ed Natiya, the exhibition celebrates the intricate tapestry of the American Southwest’s artistic heritage. We’re proud to share these works and the stories they tell.” – Liz Jackson, President and CEO of the Briscoe Western Art Museum
The exhibition explores the various ways artists have told stories about the Southwest in their work, including illustrations of historic events such as Diego Romero’s image of the Pueblo Revolt and paintings of local religious ceremonies such as William Penhallow Henderson’s “Holy Week in New Mexico” and ruminations on spiritual traditions as in Partocinio Barela’s “Last Supper,” as well as reflections on modern art and iconic images of the West inspired by pop culture, including Andy Warhol’s “Geronimo” and Billy Schenck’s “Cliff.”
The range of artists and the stylistic variation represented in Storytellers: Narrative Art and the West offer a variety of lenses, allowing audiences to engage with the region’s complex and evolving history and culture. Storytellers showcases the talents of renowned artists like Fritz Scholder, Gerald Cassidy, Alan Houser and Henry Balink, who bring diverse perspectives on cowboy, Native, and Spanish cultures, alongside works by Frederic Remington, Andy Warhol, Logan Maxwell Hagege, Martin Grelle and Mark Maggiori.
Storytellers: Narrative Art and the West was organized by the New Mexico Museum of Art. The exhibition is sponsored in part by The City of San Antonio, Jan McCaleb Elliott, Jessica Elliott Middleton and The Texas Commission on the Arts.
Storytellers: Conversation with the Curator Exhibition tour with guest curator Christian Waguespack Friday, October 4, 2p.m. – 3p.m., included with museum admission Saturday, October 5, 2p.m. – 3p.m., included with museum admission
Talk with a leading expert in the field of narrative art and enjoy a tour of the exhibition with curator Christian Waguespack as he provides unique insight into the art and discusses the special connection Storytellers has with New Mexico.
Community Ofrenda, Art and Día de los Muertos: Sharing the Stories of the Departed Ofrenda: October 3 through November 4, included with museum admission Painting with DiZurita: October 19, 6p.m. – 8p.m., $45, $25 for museum members Sugar Skull Pinatas: October 27, 1p.m. – 2:30p.m., 3p.m. – 4:30p.m., $20, $15 for museum members Calaveritas: October 27, 1:30p.m. – 4:30p.m., included with museum admission
In celebration of Día de los Muertos, the community is invited to participate in the Briscoe’s community ofrenda honoring influential figures in Western art and the American West. Everyone is welcome to add photos of lost loved ones and personal offerings to help celebrate their lives. The ofrenda will be on display in the museum lobby and free Día de los Muertos-themed crafts will be available for those who would like to participate. The Briscoe’s Hendler Family Museum Store will have Día de los Muertos items available for those who wish to add to their offerings.
Enjoy a Día de los Muertos painting session led by energetic and charismatic international artist Gio DiZurita. Based in San Antonio, DiZurita tells stories through her art, an everlasting transformation of life experiences. Create your own Catrina or sugar skull masterpiece while sipping beer, wine, or prickly pear margaritas. You’ll create an acrylic painting on an 11 x 14 canvas in a hands-on session with Gio as she guides guests through a take-home work of art. Registration for this 21+ event is per person and includes beer, wine and all supplies. Class size is limited, so register today to secure your spot.
For more Día de los Muertos celebration, join local artist Adriana Gamez as she leads guests through a sugar skull piñata class, sharing cultural insights and crafting techniques while helping everyone create a sugar skull piñata filled with Mexican candy. Light refreshments and all supplies needed to create an 11” inch piñata, as well as the candy, are included. Participants also receive admission to the museum. One ticket per person, both adults and children, is required. Two sessions are being held to accommodate everyone, but spots are limited so register now to avoid missing out.
Stop in on October 27 as artist Renée Letapi-Gamez leads everyone in painting miniature sugar skull canvases you can take home to commemorate Día de los Muertos. A student at the University of Texas at San Antonio, Renée Letapi-Gamez draws inspiration from Latin culture and is a Día de los Muertos aficionado. Her focus is on small works inspired by catrinas, calveras and alebrijes. She’ll share her passion for these traditional elements of Día de los Muertos and help everyone create their own miniatures. The drop-in activity is included with museum admission and all materials are provided.
Native American Film Series Returns
Storytelling is a vital tradition in Native American heritage, serving as a powerful way to pass down knowledge, history and cultural values from one generation to the next.
As part of the Storytellers exhibition, the Briscoe is proud to announce the reboot of its Native American Film Series, a celebration of Indigenous storytelling through the lens of contemporary cinema. This series spotlights films created by Native American filmmakers and artists, offering audiences a unique opportunity to engage with the stories, cultures and histories of Indigenous communities from the American West.
All films were directed, written, produced by and/or star Native Americans. Matthew Davila, a member of the Standing Rock Lakota Sioux Tribe, curated the series and will lead a short presentation before each film. The films are included with museum admission and are free for members. The series includes:
“Rez Ball,” Sunday, October 20, 2p.m.
“Windtalkers,” Sunday, November 17, 2p.m.
“Indian Relay,” Sunday, January 12, 2p.m.
Storytellers: Sculpture Demonstration and Conversation with Artist Ed Natiya Meet the Artist – Thursday, November 14, 6p.m. – 8p.m., included with general admission
Fast Livin’ is the latest single from Teddy and the Rough Riders’ forthcoming new album Down Home, due out October 11, 2024. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Nashville, TN – The speed and momentum Teddy and the Rough Ridersare gathering throughout Nashville’s underground country music scene is embodied in their latest single, Fast Livin.’ Music City natives, Jack Quiggins and Ryan Jennings, have been going non-stop since the late 2010s, collaborating with everyone from Margo Price to Emily Nenni to Sean Thompson’s Weird Ears, quickly becoming your favorite country band’s favorite country band. With Fast Livin,’ Teddy and the Rough Riders paints a small picture of their upbringing, leaving town to hit the road, and all of the nefarious hijinks that come along with it. But it’s not completely autobiographical. (IV PR, 2024)
Brooklyn Vegan recently premiered the track. Fans can stream or purchaseFast Livin’ check out Teddy and The Rough Riders’ previously released singles, Catfish Summer and Hippies, and pre-order or pre-saveDown Home ahead of its October 11 release via Appalachia Record Co. right here.
On their new album Down Home, the songwriting duo of Jack Quiggins and Ryan Jennings double down on all the elements that garnered praise for their previous, eponymous album produced by Margo Price. Holler Country succinctly sums them up: “Teddy and the Rough Riders are pulling apart the lost threads of country rock and weaving them back together with their own alternative take on the form.” As native Nashvillians, the pair came up through Music City’s DIY rock scene explosion of the late 00s into 2010s, eventually embracing the traditional country roots of their home city. At just 33 minutes, Down Home moves at a fast clip, with a variety of blazing rippers, traditional sounds, and alt-country styles inviting repeat listens.
Down Home tracklist: Bullet Fast Livin’ Catfish Summer Trouble Sleeping Golden Light Edna’s Song Mountain Girl Hippies Love After Life Bird Has Flown Gettin’ High
The band has recently been named “Best Honky Tonk Group” by Austin TX’s Ameripolitan Awards for 2024. They toured North America, the EU, and the UK through the summer backing and opening for Emily Nenni and will embark on their own North American tour in October.
Catch Teddy and the Rough Riders on tour: October 3 – Las Vegas, NV – Backstage Bar October 4 – Reno, NV – Off Beat October 5 – Folsom, CA – Folsom Hotel October 6 – Los Angeles, CA – Permanent Records Roadhouse October 7 – Costa Mesa, CA – The Wayfarer October 8 – Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room October 10 – Abilene, TX – Lone Star Dry Goods October 11 – San Antonio, TX – Lonesome Rose October 12 – Austin, TX – White Horse October 13 – Austin, TX – ACL Fest October 17 – Birmingham, AL – Woodlawn Theatre October 18 – Nashville, TN – Soft Junk October 19 – Thomaston, GA – Mule Days
‘Going Dark’ is George Mehok’s new novel. Photo: Amazon
Technothrillers merge high-stakes suspense with cutting-edge technology, creating narratives that captivate readers with their intricate plots and believable scenarios. These stories often revolve around themes like cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, or advanced weaponry, reflecting contemporary fears and ethical dilemmas. Authors meticulously research scientific concepts, ensuring authenticity while weaving in thrilling action and unexpected twists. The genre explores the impact of technology on society, often showcasing characters who navigate complex moral landscapes. With their blend of realism and adrenaline, technothrillers not only entertain but also provoke thought about our rapidly evolving technological landscape and its potential consequences. It’s a gripping exploration of innovation and intrigue.
There’s a new book coming out in November that mixes technothrillers, historical fiction, and terrorism storylines: “Going Dark” by George Mehok. This debut thriller spotlights the dangers of the internet and how the past shapes our future. It is recommended for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Stephen Hunter.
George Mehok is an author, technologist, and entrepreneur with a distinguished career in designing software and leading high-performing teams in the financial services, telecommunications, and aerospace industries. An avid storyteller, George weaves his real-world knowledge into gripping narratives, crafting thrilling plots that captivate readers. “Going Dark,” the first in Mehok’s Liberty Unit series, combines his extensive technology background with historical intrigue, presenting a captivating blend of modern-day suspense and revolutionary-era secrets. The release date is November 12, and it is available for pre-order on Amazon. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)
“Going Dark” – When a sinister cyber-terrorist scheme poised to plunge America into unparalleled digital darkness surfaces, Paul Knox, a seasoned cyber forensics expert, finds himself thrust into a clandestine conflict spanning generations.
As Knox examines the intricate and dangerous web of cyber intrigue, he confronts both the mission’s high stakes and his personal demons, including the unwitting involvement of his estranged daughter, Emma. Emma becomes a central figure in a game of digital manipulation, where each move carries the potential to reshape history—and change America forever.
Intertwined with this contemporary narrative is the historical origin story of the Liberty Unit. In 1781, amidst the throes of the American Revolution, John “Jack” Jouett embarks on a perilous journey to deliver crucial encoded messages that hold the power to sway the course of the war and safeguard the life of a future American president.
In an era dominated by the internet and malevolent hackers, insidious threats lurk unseen, while the keys to triumph often lie in the past. Effortlessly blending dual timelines, “Going Dark” is a propulsive deep dive into the clandestine world of hacking and terrorism, underscoring the fragility of a society reliant on technology.
SA Examiner 