‘Steel Fear’ by Brandon Webb and John David Mann will be released on July 13, 2021. Photo: amazon
Brandon Webb is a combat-decorated Navy SEAL sniper turned entrepreneur who has built two brands into an eight-figure business. As a U.S. Navy chief he was head instructor at the Navy SEAL sniper school, which produced some of America’s most legendary snipers. John David Mann is co-author of more than thirty books, including four The New York Times bestsellers and five national bestsellers. His writing has won multiple awards, including the Living Now Book Awards Evergreen Medal for its “contributions to positive global change.” Webb and Mann have been writing together for a decade, starting with their bestselling memoir “The Red Circle.” Their debut novel “Steel Fear,” is their seventh book together and the first thriller of many to come. It is the story of an aircraft carrier adrift with a crew the size of a small town, a killer in their midst, and the disgraced Navy SEAL who must track him down. Release date is Tuesday July 13, 2021. (amazon, 2021)
“Steel Fear” – The moment Navy SEAL sniper Finn sets foot on the USS Abraham Lincoln to hitch a ride home from the Persian Gulf, it is clear something is deeply wrong. Leadership is weak. Morale is low. And when crew members start disappearing one by one, what at first seems like a random string of suicides soon reveals something far more sinister: There is a serial killer on board. Suspicion falls on Finn, the newcomer to the ship. After all, he is being sent home in disgrace, recalled from the field under the dark cloud of a mission gone horribly wrong. He is also a lone wolf, haunted by gaps in his memory and the elusive sense that something he missed may have contributed to civilian deaths on his last assignment. Finding the killer offers a chance at redemption, if he can stay alive long enough to prove it is not him.
Them Coulee Boys’ Namesake will be out August 6, 2021. Photo: google
With three full-length albums and an EP behind them, including 2019’s Die Happy (produced by Trampled By Turtles’ Dave Simonett on Lo-Hi Records), Them Coulee Boys has garnered international attention and earned press in American Songwriter and The Bluegrass Situation, as well as tours with Trampled By Turtles and a spot on the songwriter’s Cayamo Cruise. In 2020, they were named Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Band to Watch and were nominated for band of the year by the Wisconsin Area Music Industry. When the world stopped in early 2020, the band holed up in their practice space and began writing. The result is their brand new effort entitled Namesake, available on August 6, 2021. (Them Coulee Boys, 2021)
Soren Staff and Beau Janke—co-founders of folk/rock/Americana outfit Them Coulee Boys—met as counselors at a bible camp in northern Wisconsin in 2011. Having both grown up amidst a stretch of glacial melt-carved river valleys in the upper Midwest, otherwise known by French fur trappers as coulees, they became fast friends. “Them coulee boys are at it again,” the other counselors would tease. Fast forward to 2021 and the only thing that warrants the phrase “Them Coulee Boys are at it again” is the announcement of a brand new album from Staff, Janke, and the three other band members who have joined since camp days—Soren’s brother, Jens Staff, on mandolin, Neil Krause on bass, and Staš Hable on drums. On August 6, Them Coulee Boys are set to release Namesake, a rollicking ten-song collection that spans from leaping, countrified rock and roll to pure and genuine ballads, all in the Boys’ signature, punched-up Americana sound. The Bluegrass Situation recently premiered the first single from Namesake, a summertime-feeling, Petty-esque strummer called “Given Up.” Under the feel-good 12-string melodic lines of “Given Up” lies an examination of failing the ones we love; a perfect example of Them Coulee Boys’ ability to repeatedly wrap tough subjects in sing-along-able tunes. Fans can hear “Given Up” now at this link and pre-order or pre-save Namesake ahead of its August 6 release right here.
Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Namesake was recorded at The Hive in the band’s hometown of Eau Claire, WI, a small Wisconsin city infamously blessed with a wealth of musical talent. The record was produced by Grammy-winner Brian Joseph who has worked with the likes of Paul Simon, Sufjan Stevens, Ani Difranco, and The Indigo Girls, and earned his Grammy producing and engineering Bon Iver’s Bon Iver. The Hive itself is an intimate room, with ceilings draped with nautical rope, and bookshelves adorned with all manner of things antiquarian, living and dead. Joseph’s fingerprints are everywhere on the record, and the warm feel of home left the band trusting further expansion of their sound. The result is a record that is equal parts bear hug, gut punch, and a steadying hand.
Namesake finds Them Coulee Boys following a new trajectory, combining their signature take on folk-grass and Americana with comfort on electric instruments playing rock and roll. The record lives and breathes. It is both intimate and bombastic. It is the sweet aunt who makes delicious pies and the wily uncle who is not afraid to hit a bit of the hooch. At the bottom is the acceptance that comes with family and old friends; none of us are perfect, but there is enough love out there to make up for it.
Namesake Track list: Namesake Given Up Phil’s Song April 1st Knuckleballer Canyon Repurposed Frowns Just Friends 1st Team All-American Hallelujah
Jeremy Pinnell finds the sweet spot between rowdy and reborn on Goodbye L.A., out October 1, 2021. Photo: google
When Jeremy Pinnell released OH/KY in the summer of 2015 to stunned acclaim, it felt like an entire career compressed into one knock-out album. Hailed as, a “Mind-blowingly good” (Greg Vandy/KEXP) “tutorial on classic country music” (Popmatters), Pinnell’s debut immediately was set apart as authentic and unflinching. Dogged touring through Europe and the States and celebrated radio sessions followed, cementing Pinnell’s position as a no-fuss master of his craft. (Jeremy Pinnell, 2021)
His 2017 album, Ties of Blood and Affection presented a canny lateral move. Instead of doubling down on the stark themes and values of his debut, the sophomore album found Pinnell finding comfort in his own skin, achieving the redemption only hinted at in his previous batch of haunted songs. Pinnell’s newest album Goodbye L.A., is set to be released on October 1, 2021.
The opening notes of Jeremy Pinnell’s new tune “Wanna Do Something” are a touch less swung and twangy—and a pinch more Laurel Canyon upbeat—than anything he has put out before. With the bass thumping on root notes and a pleasantly round-sounding slide guitar playing the intro’s hook, “Wanna Do Something” gives way to a verse that quickly reminds listeners this is still Pinnell’s wheelhouse; his perfectly-worn voice singing honestly crafted songs. Raised Rowdy recently premiered “Wanna Do Something,” the first single from Pinnell’s upcoming album Goodbye L.A., out October 1 on SofaBurn Records. Raised Rowdy noted that the song feels like the balance between soaking up the sights on tour and keeping the idea of home close in the background, saying, “‘Wanna Do Something,’ finds [Pinnell] in a familiar place – somewhere in the endless in-between, set against a backdrop of sweeping classic country influences and a hard-worn, gritty edge.” Fans can hear “Wanna Do Something” now right here and pre-order or pre-save Goodbye L.A. ahead of its release at this link.
The collective sound of Goodbye L.A. is not so much polished-up as it is intentionally steered to fit Pinnell’s goal of making a fun record. “[Production-wise] I wanted like 80s Waylon, ZZ Top. My idea was that I wanted to write a record that made people happy,” he says. “I want people to dance and have fun and love each other.” A big part of getting the desired result was bringing in Jonathan Tyler to produce Goodbye L.A., the result hitting the desired mark dead-center. Rooted in his steady acoustic guitar, Pinnell’s songs are shot through with honest and classic elements. The rhythm section, all snap and shuffle, find purpose in well-worn paths. The pedal steel and Telecaster stingers arrive perfectly on cue, winking at Pinnell’s world-wise couplets. A slippery Hammond organ insinuates gospel into the conversation. Listeners can feel the room breathe and get a sense of these musicians eyeballing each other as their performances are committed to tape.
Goodbye L.A. Track list: Big Ol’ Good Wanna Do Something Red Roses Nighttime Eagle Never Thought Of No One Doing My Best Rosalie Cryin’ Goodbye L.A. Fightin’ Man
Bier stein-holding competitions are still going on at Krause’s Café before the finals on August 21, 2021. Photo: Krause’s Café & Biergarten, used with permission.
Krause’s Café & Biergarten is hosting a variety of live music and events throughout July including the musical stylings of the Rick Cavender Band, Masskrugstemmen competitions, UEFA EURO Championship watch parties, and more. This is a sampling of upcoming events; a full list is available online. (Krause’s Café & Biergarten, 2021)
UEFA EURO Championship Watch Party, July 11: Finals Guests are encouraged to stop by Krause’s Bierhalle to catch the final “football” championship and grab a pint. Krause’s will be hosting a watch party for the UEFA EURO 2020 Championship on Sunday, July 11 at 2p.m.
Masskrugstemmen Competitions – Saturdays, July 17 and 24 There are only five more bier stein-holding competitions before the finals. On select Saturdays, guests are invited to try their hand at the traditional Bavarian contest in which contestants hold a full bier stein at arm’s length for as long as they can. Winners of the men’s and women’s competitions receive a $50 gift card and are invited back to compete in the finals on August 21. Champions will receive airfare plus a two night hotel stay in New York City. There is also a kid’s version with Root Beer for some family fun.
Rick Cavender Band – Friday, July 9 Rick Cavender is known to many as the voice and face of his family’s auto dealerships, but when the lights are off in his showroom, Rick leads one of South Texas’ favorite party bands. He has shared a stage with well-known artists Alan Jackson, Willie Nelson, Alabama, Glen Campbell, and George Strait. Guests can expect a fantastic ride through songs from all decades and genres from the Eagles to Creedence, from George Strait to Robert Earl Keen, from Lady A to Fleetwood Mac to Marty Robbins and Roy Orbison. The Rick Cavender band will start their set at Krause’s at 6:30p.m. on July 9.
Terry Cavanagh Duo & The Alpine Express – Sunday, July 11 Terry Cavanagh and the Alpine Express is one of America’s best German bands. The group energizes the stage with traditional German music stylings. The upbeat and interactive band will play at Krause’s Cafe on July 11 as a duo at 10a.m. and the entire band will perform at 2p.m.
Rochelle & The Sidewinders – Friday, July 16 Austin-based blues rock band Rochelle & The Sidewinders will take the stage at Krause’s Friday, July 16 at 7p.m. Guests can expect a quality show provided by Austin’s Number One Blues Band, according to the Austin Blues Society.
Mark Halata & Texavia – Saturday, July 17 Mark Halata began playing the accordion at an early age and has used it as a means to connect with his Czech-Moravian heritage. The band plays traditional polka music, notable for its upbeat tempo and rhythmic sounds. Mark Halata & Texavia will be playing at Krause’s Cafe Saturday, July 17 at 5:30p.m.
Das Ist Lustig – Sunday, July 25 Das Ist Lustig translates to “That’s Fun” and this German Band based in Houston, TX promises to deliver. The traditional German band performs nationally and throughout Texas year round, sharing their energetic style with all who come to listen. Das Ist Lustig will be performing at Krause’s Cafe Sunday, July 25 at 2p.m.
Krause’s Café & Biergarten is a New Braunfels historic restaurant opened in 1938 and successfully run until 1995. Today, Krause’s Café honors the previous traditions of the restaurant with the addition of a ‘biergarten,’ live music, and more. The menu reflects New Braunfels’ German heritage as well as South Texas flavors. Over 100 beers are available on tap with local, regional, and international options. The restaurant also features cocktails and wines on tap. Krause’s Café is located at 186 S Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, next to the popular New Braunfels Farmers Market.
For the first annual Taco Rumble, 19 celebrated San Antonio and Austin restaurants will bring their boldest flavors to the competition. Photo: google
An acclaimed crew of San Antonio and Austin restaurants will battle for the championship belt during the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance’s (SAFWA) first annual Taco Rumble on Thursday, July 15, from 7:30-10 pm, presented by H-E-B. Limited tickets for the sure-to-sell-out event are available online for $65. (San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, 2021)
The electric competition, the first in-person event for the recently formed nonprofit, will be held at The Espee, located east of Downtown San Antonio. Formerly known as Sunset Station, this historic spot offers a convenient rideshare location.
The menu for Taco Rumble promises to be a true taco lovers delight. Guests can indulge in a dizzying array of styles and flavors, ranging from traditional to new school. Competing to be the taco supreme will be:
Asador, Austin (Chef Joe Becerra) — Grilled Mushroom Taco with Mole Amarillo
¡Bucho! Tejano Street Fare, San Antonio (Chefs Gino Vidal & Jerry Moreno) — Chino Latino Poke Taco with a Tejano Furikake-Dusted Crispy Wonton Shell, Avocado, House Tuna Tartare, Habanero-Mezcal Aioli, & Micro Cilantro
Carnitas El Guero, Austin (Chef Gustavo Reyes) — Traditional Carnitas Taco
Carnitas Lonja, San Antonio (Chef Alex Paredes) — Michoacán- Style Carnitas Taco with Fresh Corn Tortillas
Eldorado Café, Austin (Chef Joel Fried) — Thunderosa Taco with Sirloin, Bacon, Roasted Jalapenos, Sautéed Green Chile and Onion Rajas, & Melted Jack Cheese.
La Fonda de Jaime 2.0, San Antonio (Chefs Jaime Hernandez & Pedro Rebollo) — Birria 2.0 Taco
La Generala, San Antonio (Chef Blanca Márquez ) — Costilla Taco with Pork Ribs Cooked in Signature Blend of Spices & Chiles
Jason Dady Catering, San Antonio (Chef Esteban Valdez) — Smoked Beef Short Rib Taco with Sikil Pak (Mayan Pepita Dip), Avocado, Oaxaca Cheese, & Salsa Macha
Lala’s Gorditas, San Antonio(Chef Steven Anthony Pizzini) — Puffy Tacos Norteño with Shredded Chicken, House Adobo Sauce Curtido, Crema, & Salsa Verde
Milpa (Chef Jesse Kirk), San Antonio — Taco Arabe with Shawarma-Style Pork, Crema Mexicana, Cucumbers, Cilantro, & Chile Arbol Salsa; Flor de Jamaica Taco with Hibiscus Flower con Sazon, Avocado Spread, Cilantro, Queso Fresco, & Salsa Habanero
Naco Mexican Eatery, San Antonio (Chefs Francisco Estrada & Liz Estrada) — “Mexican Grandmother” Dry Fideo Taco with Cream, Avocado, & Chicatanas (Mexican Flying Ants) Roasted Salsa on Heirloom Blue Corn Tortillas.
Paprika, Austin (Chef Margarito Pérez) — Taco de Suadero with Brisket Confit, Cilantro, Onion, and Salsa de Arbol
R19 Taqueria, Austin (Chef Christopher Haydostian) — Báhn Mì Tacos with Twice Cooked Pork Belly, Pickled Jicama Tortilla, Traditional Vegetables, Herbs, & Hanoi Vinaigrette
Trill Foods, Austin (Chef Nick Belloni) — Charred Broccoli Taco with Lime, Queso Oaxaca, Smoked Scallop XO Sauce, & Lobster Tortilla
Austin Taco Mafia (Chef Luis “Beto” Robledo of Cuantos Tacos, Chef Anthony Pratto of Discada, Chef Edgar Rico of Nixta Taqueria, & Chef Gerardo Guerrero of La Tunita 512) — Campechana Taco with Arrachera (Skirt Steak) & Longaniza Confit, Salsa Verde, Habanero Pickled Onions, Cilantro, and Epazote Marbled Tortilla
Tempering the spice will be a delectable variety of sweet treats from San Antonio favorites, including:
Bakery Lorraine (Chefs Anne Ng & Jeremy Mandrell) — Assortment of Mexican Chocolate, Churro, & Piña Colada Macarons
Paletería San Antonio (Chef José Rodriguez) — Assorted Artisan Paletas
In addition to showcasing the best intaco craftsmanship, Taco Rumble will feature an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and premium spirits tastings including Chawar Andean Agave, Bribón Tequila, Dandy Rosé, Dahlia Tequila, Doña Vega Mezcal, Lone Star Rio Jade, Lone Star Seltzer, Mijenta Tequila, Milagro Tequila, Pearl, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and more.
The unique VIP experience includes early entry from 6:30p.m. to 7:30 p.m., a stainless-steel YETI wine tumbler, and access to an exclusive agave spirits lounge with a tour of Mexican street fare from celebrated San Antonio restaurant Cuishe Cocina Mexicana and tastings of fine spirits from Chacolo, Gusto Histórico, Patrón, Real Minero, Rey Campero, Sotoleros, and Uruapan. The Taco Rumble VIP experience is $150, and only 100 passes are available.
An esteemed crew of celebrity judges including Texas Monthly Food Editor Pat Sharpe, San Antonio Express-News Food Critic Mike Sutter, Latin Grammy Award-nominated musician Gina Chavez, San Antonio-based blogger and influencer Stephanie Guerra, and Texas Eats host David Elder of San Antonio’s KSAT. Event attendees also will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite taco as part of the final score.
Taco Rumble is a fundraiser for the San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance, the culinary nonprofit dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the South Texas food and beverage community. SAFWA is the culmination of 34 years of pride, innovation, and talent that reflects the unique culinary landscape of the great state of Texas. Beginning with the Texas Hill Country Wine & Food Festival — one of the nation’s longest-running food fests with 26 years —the organization transitioned to the Austin Food & Wine Alliance in 2011 to be the sole beneficiary of the Austin Food + Wine Festival. In 2020, the nonprofit formed a statewide organization and expanded throughout Texas’ major cities including San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston.
Proceeds from the signature tasting event will help SAFWA give back to the local culinary community through a vibrant grant program for chefs, farmers, artisan producers, and nonprofits by funding projects focused on culinary innovation that support the community.
SAFWA hosts engaging culinary events throughout the year to raise funds for grants that will be awarded specifically to the San Antonio culinary community. The unique grant program that started with the Austin organization has now extended to Texas’ top cities and is the nation’s first based on culinary innovation and community giveback. Since 2012, the Austin Food & Wine Alliance has awarded $367,500 in grants to fund local culinary projects.
The Alliance continues to win tremendous community support with H-E-B as presenting sponsor and other key supporters, including American Lamb Board, Bribón Tequila, Chawar, Canopy by Hilton, Doña Vega Mezcal, El Silencio Mezcal, The Espee, Fever-Tree, FreshPoint, Giant Noise, Heavy Métl Premium Imports, Mijenta Tequila, Milagro Tequila, Mountain Valley Spring Water, Pabst, Patrón Tequila, Sage & Honey, Siete Foods, Sysco, Tender Belly, Texas Beef Council, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Twang, Unifresh, and US Foods.
The San Antonio Food & Wine Alliance is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering awareness, support, and innovation in the Central Texas culinary community through grants, educational programming, and events. Guided by an all-volunteer board of directors and committees made up of culinary- and community-minded professionals, the Alliance’s commitment is to support, inspire, and showcase Texas and beyond through the power of our diverse culinary communities.
Michelada buckets are available online. Photo: Twang, used with permission.
As National Michelada Day approaches on July 12, Twang, a Texas based manufacturer of salts, seasonings, and michelada mixes is celebrating with giveaways and new merchandise. (Twang, 2021)
The michelada is a popular beer drink that is native to Mexico, popular in Texas, and quickly gaining notoriety throughout the United States. The prepared mix works best with Mexican beers and domestic lagers and is commonly referred to as a milder version of its American cousin, the Bloody Mary. Twang currently offers three types of michelada mixes: regular, spicy, and pickle. The mixes are made up of 85% juice-based and uses all natural ingredients including a seven-vegetable blend, organic Worcestershire sauce, ancho chilies, real lime juice, and no preservatives or corn syrup.
Given Twang’s love of all things Michelada, Twang is planning to celebrate National Michelada Day all month long. To appropriately commemorate the Michelada, Twang is hosting a free giveaway online where people can send a Twang Mini Michelada Kit to their best friend, family member, or person of their choosing. Twang will share the kits free of charge as long as supplies last. The kits include two 2.5 oz. Classica Michelada Cocktail mixes, Pickle Beer Salt, Twang-A-Rita Sunrise Spice, a koozie, and a bandana. All the recipient has to do is add beer.
Twang is also selling a limited quantity of Michelada Buckets for $29.99 on the company’s website. The bucket includes two michelada pint glasses, two 2.5 oz. bottles of Classica Michelada Cocktail mixes, two michelada koozies, a michelada bandana, Twang Reserve Michelada Rimming Salt, and a 16 oz. bottle of Twang’s Michelada Mix in the customer’s choice of Classic, Pickle, or Spicy.
Based in San Antonio, Texas, Twang Partners Ltd. is a family-owned and operated creator and manufacturer of premium-flavored salts, sugars, and seasonings and credited as being “The original beer salt.” Since 1986, Twang Partners has produced the highest quality products designed to enhance the taste, appearance and enjoyment of food and beverages. Brands include Beer Salt, Michelada Mix, Twangerz, Twang-A- Rita, Clamato Salt, ZAS! Super Seasoning, and Cafe Zuca. Find Twang products in grocery, convenience, liquor and specialty store shelves across the country or order online. Twang Partners has successfully collaborated with some of the top food and beverage companies around the world to create innovative custom blends.
Here For It All will be out September 3, 2021. First single ‘Here For It All’ out now. Photo: google
Montana musician Sean Devine brings together the rugged landscape of the West, nine original songs, and a lifetime of personal experience in his fourth album, Here for It All. Devine first met the album’s producer Josh Thompson (Cody Jinks) at a concert hall in Missoula through a mutual friend, singer-songwriter Ward Davis, who introduced Devine as “the Bob Dylan of Montana.” That off-the-cuff comment compelled Thompson to request some demos and eventually to record Here For It All with Jinks’ band at Sonic Ranch Studios in Tornillo, Texas. Based in Paradise Valley, Devine is a fifth-generation Montanan. Devine’s reckoning with roadblocks and backsteps has manifested itself not in pessimism, but in a beautiful outlook on how to take it all on, as is very apparent on his brand new album Here For It All—out September 3, 2021. (Sean Devine, 2021)
“Here for It All means being here for the inevitable heartbreaks and the sorrow that will come with life, no matter what. You’re not going to avoid it and you’re not going to hide from it. You have to be in this with your whole heart, right? It’s that feeling of staying open and taking the risks that really matter.”
Sean Devine
Produced by Josh Thompson (Cody Jinks), the eloquent project provides a firsthand account of second chances, showing up, and seeing it through. Cowboy Lifestyle Network recently premiered the album’s title track, “Here For It All,” noting, “Sean brings an easy listening country sound to the music scene that makes you feel.” “This song is about how it feels after you’ve been blind-sided, knocked on your ass hard, humiliated, and you reach your hand up and someone is there,” says Devine. “What happens next could be the transfiguration you didn’t know you were looking for.” Fans can hear “Here For It All” now at this link and pre-order or pre-save Here For It All ahead of its September release right here.
Although Devine sequenced the nine songs on Here for It All himself, its cohesive narrative may be partially credited to the album’s producer, Josh Thompson (Cody Jinks), who mined a folder of twenty six unrecorded—and sometimes completely forgotten—compositions to make the record. “I’d never hired a producer before and I didn’t want to get it wrong,” Devine admits. “I figured maybe my best approach would be to turn it all over to him.” When Thompson offered to produce a studio album using Jinks’ band, Devine agreed on the spot. That spontaneity and collaborative spirit resulted in songs that would feel equally at home in a listening room or a country bar’s jukebox.
From the two-step feel of “Crazy Too” and “I’m Free,” to the half-time grooves of “Clay Bluffs,” “Feelin’ Like An Old Piece Of Wood,” and “Texas and Tennessee,” the work of Jink’s band, known as the Tone Deaf Hippies, is that of stellar accompaniment. “They didn’t try to force anything. They didn’t try to turn it into some new thing,” Devine recalls. “They came to where the song started, with me and my acoustic guitar. They brought out what was sweet about it – and they’ve got hooks.” But it is Devine’s tunes and the way he plays and sings them that are the stars of the show. Through his lyrics, Devine guides a listener through troubled times—some autobiographical and others fictional—without losing sight of the glimmer of hope in the distance.
Here For It All Track list: Here For It All Crazy Too I’m Free Feelin’ Like An Old Piece Of Wood Clay Bluffs Texas And Tennessee The Palomino Mustang You Ain’t Coming Home Can I Get A Witness?
Levitt Pavilion announces concert schedule for 2021 summer concert series in MacArthur Park. Photo: google
After a spring filled with local pop-up concerts, Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles (Levitt LA) is thrilled to celebrate the return of live music by gathering this summer in MacArthur Park for a booming season of free concerts beginning July 30. The in-person concert series will be followed by the online premier of Barrio Fino, a 5 part docu-series diving into the vibrant and distinct communities in and around MacArthur Park, Levitt LA’s home of 14 years. (Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles, 2021)
Levitt LA’s in person concerts will once again transform MacArthur Park into a sonically charged urban oasis presenting free, live music under the stars with established and emerging artists. The electrifying 2021 lineup features international greats as well as LA’s own superstar talents who perform a wide variety of genres including cumbia, rock, soul, ska, mariachi, electronic dance music, folkloric music from Mexico and Central America, Tejano, reggae, and many more. Levitt LA’s high-caliber free music programming offers all Angelenos access to the arts, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds in a bilingual (English/Spanish) setting. Levitt LA is also pleased to announce the concerts will be live-streamed online, expanding the accessibility of free high quality music programs for all.
Barrio Fino is a five-episode docu-series premiering on Levitt LA’s YouTube channel beginning August 30, 2021. Developed during the pandemic as a collective love letter to the near-and-dear communities surrounding MacArthur Park, each 60-minute episode dives into the music and cultural diversity of Westlake, Koreatown, Historic Filipinotown, the North American Indigenous populations of Los Angeles, and the legacy of Youth & Hip-Hop in the park. Live-streamed and screened at sundown from the rooftop of Walter J. Towers, Barrio Fino features popular live musical performances and creative video segments highlighting the food, fashion, art, and history of these communities with dynamic interviews by community leaders, culture bearers, and artists. Levitt LA co-curated each episode with longstanding collaborators United American Indian Involvement Inc., Asian American eXchange Media, FilAm Arts, Carmelo Alvarez, and Sunset Ecléctico. Full episode details, artists and musical act line up announcements to follow.
In Person 2021 Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles schedule is as follows: (July 30) La Banda Elastica Presents – Flor Amargo & DJ set by La Banda Elastica (July 31) Office of Councilmember Gil Cedillo Presents – Selenamos (August 1) Little Ethiopia Cultural & Resource Center Presents – Ras Michael and The Sons & Daughters of Negus, King Malik, and Guade (August 6) Evoekore Media Presents – The Paranoias + Friends (August 7) IMG Records Presents – Mariah Avila & Angel City Soul Band with DJ set by Ruben Molina (August 8) Mundo Mayan Foundation Presents – 4th Annual Mundo Maya Day featuring Lucas Critchfield, La Flor de Yucatan, Freddy Ucan & Juli Dzul, California Mesoamerican Ballgame, Kalpulli Teotlalli Tepeyollotl, Hermano Jose Ajpu Munoz, Tata Guillermo Hernandez, Abuela Sara Z Mijares & a Mayan Fire Ceremony (August 13) Lethal Amounts Presents – DJ set by Lethal Amounts (August 14) Subsuelo & Late Night Laggers Present – Son Rompe Pera with Djs Subsuelo & Late Night Laggers (August 15) Organización Regional de Oaxaca Presents – Banda Filarmónica Herencia Zoochileña, Grupo Folklorico Huaxyacac, Grupo Folklorico Princesa Donaji, Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera (August 20) Globalista Presents – With Love from LA – Rashaan Ahmad & Mark de Clive-Lowe (August 21) Goethe Institute, La Junta, & Pacifica Music Group Present – Isaac Torres y Su Alianza, Maxi Pontigratz – DJ set by La Junta (August 22) Mi Linda Nicaragua Presents – Gustavo Bucardo
The 2021 Levitt LA concerts are presented free of charge, and an RSVP is recommended for event updates. Audience members are welcome to bring their own picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs. All concerts will be live streamed on Levitt LA’s YouTube Channel. As public health measures from the County of Los Angeles are rapidly changing, information on social distancing and/or mask requirements will be clarified closer to the beginning of the series. Two parking lots located less than two blocks away from the venue stay open late every night during the concert season. The MacArthur Park venue is also fully accessible by Metro rail and bus lines. To RSVP and for the full 2021 series lineup, live stream instructions, and safety guidelines, please visit Levitt Pavilion online.
In person concerts begin at 7p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 4p.m. Sundays. Concerts will also be live streamed on Levitt LA’s YouTube Channel. Episodes of the docu-series Barrio Fino begin at 7p.m. on Levitt LA’s YouTube Channel.
Marking its 14th season in 2021, Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles makes live music accessible to all, creating stronger and more connected communities while celebrating the diversity of our city and beyond. Every summer, a full season of concerts is presented at the Levitt Pavilion, featuring acclaimed, emerging talent to seasoned, award-winning performers in a broad range of music genres. Since 2007, over 500,000 people have gathered in MacArthur Park to enjoy the free concerts, cultural celebrations, and multigenerational atmosphere offered at the Levitt Pavilion.
“We are thrilled to come together with these extraordinary performing arts nonprofits to empower the arts in our community,” said Dr. Emily Sano, Co-Interim Director, Coates-Cowden-Brown Senior Advisor for Asian Art. “We have much to celebrate after this past year. We hope people will join us in supporting the arts in San Antonio.”
Throughout the evening, gala attendees can enjoy performances by participating organizations in the Tobin’s H-E-B Performance Hall, as well as a live auction, catered dinner, and a live performance by renowned 10-piece band, Professor D., at the conclusion of the evening in the Carlos Alvarez Theater overlooking the Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza. Tickets are on sale now including individual and VIP options, as well as sponsorship options. Purchase tiers are available below:
Individual Ticket – $300
Includes audience seating in the H-E-B Performance Hall for the arts showcase
Cocktails and a buffet in the Red and Charline McCombs Lobby
VIP Tickets for Two – $1,000
Includes cabaret seating, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails during the artists showcase
Cocktails, buffet, and a reserved cocktail table in the Red and Charline McCombs Lobby
Tiered Sponsorship Packages
Sponsorship levels are available ranging from $2,500 to $10,000
More information on each sponsorship tier is available online.
The “Celebration” gala is chaired by Kristin and Dick Tips. Funds raised during the gala will support the missions of the San Antonio Museum of Art, Ballet San Antonio, The Public Theater of San Antonio, San Antonio Chamber Choir and YOSA.
The San Antonio Museum of Art serves as a forum to explore and connect with art that spans the world’s geographies, artistic periods, genres, and cultures. Its collection contains nearly 30,000 works representing 5,000 years of history. Housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery on the Museum Reach of San Antonio’s River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is committed to promoting the rich cultural heritage and life of the city. The Museum hosts hundreds of events and public programs each year, including concerts, performances, tours, lectures, symposia, and interactive experiences. As an active civic leader, the Museum is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the city and the region, and to supporting its creative community.
Another Friday night meant another chance to venture out into the city and find a new and interesting place for dinner. This time it was Main Street Deli in downtown Brownsville. We had noticed this restaurant the last few times we were in the area and decided to throw caution to the wind and give it a chance. As usual, the parking in the area is challenging but we managed to quickly find a spot. It is located on Market Square in the area that has become the focus for downtown revitalization.
The inside has a charming deli atmosphere and as soon as we walked in, to the right, there is a bright pink neon sign that reads “this must be the place” – so obviously I knew then that we were in the right place. I was impressed by how neat, clean, and tidy everything looks which is always a good sign. There are more than enough seating options so we chose a table right next to the window. The walls are mostly glass and it is on a corner lot, so customers can see traffic go by as they are enjoying their meal.
Menu options, as with other delis, include salads (Caesar, Market Square, and Main Street), wraps (turkey, chicken, and veggie), and pasta (fettucine Alfredo, Cheesy Fettucine, and Spaghetti and Meatballs). I ordered the Veggie Wrap and the Market Square Salad and my husband ordered the Cuban Sandwich and since the salad is big enough, we ended up sharing it. I am usually hesitant about ordering salads because more often than not, the greens are not fresh but in this case every ingredient was fresh: the greens, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes and cucumbers and it comes with a side of cilantro sauce. Wanting to save room for the salad, I ended up taking half of the veggie wrap to go. The Cuban Sandwich is delicious too, and it comes with a cup of lentil soup. It would have been nice to have a separate dipping sauce for it, but overall it was good.
As a deli/sandwich shop, it was a pleasant experience. In business for a couple of years, owners Hector Zavala and Diana Medina should be proud of what they are offering downtown patrons. It is a nice place to sit, slow down for a bit, and have a tasty meal. Service was fast and the staff is friendly and helpful. We went in early in the afternoon so it was not too crowded and by the time we left, at around 6p.m., it was starting to get busy. Next time you are in the area, stop by Main Street Deli for lunch or dinner; the lemonade looks so refreshing for these coming hot months. Remember: shop small, shop local, and support your community.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Price range: $ – $$ Main Street Deli 1157 E. Washington St. Brownsville, TX 78520 (956) 551-9498
Business hours: Monday through Saturday 11a.m. to 8:30p.m. Closed Sundays
SA Examiner 