Sonic shapeshifter Vlad Holiday announces debut record with release of new single Closer. Photo: Kate Lamendola, used with permission.
Romania-born, Nashville-based melancholy romantic Vlad Holiday recently announced that his debut record, My Favorite Drug, will be released on November 15 via ONErpm. Along with this news comes the second single Closer. Feeling like a covert mission, or a secret known only between two lovers, the deeply layered song seems to endlessly build before it is quickly punctuated. (Big Hassle, 2024)
The most recent release features guest vocals from Cage The Elephant’s Matt Shultz, who is also a co-writer on the track. For careful listeners, Shultz’s voice can be heard singing the “ah ah ah ah” hook and some repeated “closers” in the outro.
On the single, Holiday shares, “This is a love song. It introduces the romantic element of the album. It’s about going with the flow and letting the universe do its thing, rather than forcing things into existence.”
Kacey Musgraves joined Holiday for the bender-ender, genre-fusing track I Don’t Wanna Party Anymore. The sultry, mischievous track arrived right on time for his tour dates alongside Cage The Elephant, Young the Giant and Bakar. See all upcoming dates here and below.
UPCOMING TOUR DATES November 6 – Grand Rapids, MI – Pyramid Scheme November 7 – Indianapolis, IN – LO-FI Lounge
On his upcoming debut album Holiday said, “I’ve been releasing music for years, and a full-length album never really seemed like a thing I wanted to do. But as these songs were being written, I was noticing a pattern. Fragments of a story I had to tell. More for myself than for anyone else. It’s definitely one of those, ‘listen to it in order’ albums.”
Vlad Holiday has made a career of romanticizing the past, the human condition, and looking at love and relationships through dark-tinted lenses. With downtempo crooner tracks all tinged with melancholy, Holiday has built a sonic world of his own that tries to find comfort in accepting the darker moments in life. Having gained over 40 million streams as a completely independent artist, it seems as if he’s resonating with a subculture of people that are also trying to do the same.
Born in Bucharest, Romania, later having to flee to New York, and now based in Nashville, Holiday’s sound is heavily shaped by the weight of feeling like an outsider always on the move. Building the foundation of his music career with a downtown NYC lo-fi sound, he’s deeply indebted to his love for vintage microphones, tape machines and other old recording equipment; key elements of his signature sound and production style.
Now in Nashville, there’s an optimism to Holiday’s current chapter as he builds out his next body of work while collaborating with other artists in Music City. Most recently, he co-wrote Cage The Elephant’s “Neon Pill,” “Metaverse” and “Over Your Shoulder” before being joined by Kacey Musgraves on “I Don’t Wanna Party Anymore. However bright the current moment may be, flecks of Holiday’s past always steep his music in a darkness that shows that he is a human in the middle of his journey.
trauma ray’s Chameleon will be released on October 25, 2024. Photo: Will McCarthy, used with permission.
The powerful new single Bardo from the North Texas rock band trauma ray is eerie, deviating between noisy one string bends and surging headbang, mapping a middle ground between Unwound and nu-metal. (another/side, 2024)
“Bardo is the in-between. Whether that’s life or death, or a purgatory. It’s about being stuck in between one phase and the next. When you can feel the past fading and yet you can’t quite see the path to the future either.” –Jonathan Perez, trauma ray guitarist
The Texas five is set to release their highly anticipated debut album Chameleonon October 25 via Dais Records which has already seen early acclaim from The FADER, Stereogum, Consequence (Heavy Song of the Week), Brooklyn Vegan, New Noise and more. Since first making waves with a S/T EP in 2018, trauma ray has been honing their live set across increasingly adventurous American tours – stacking amps and turning heads show by show, justly earning them a massive following in no time. The band’s three guitar attack is a force to behold, alternately surging, savage and spectral, drenched in precision distortion.
The core songwriting duo of Uriel Avila and Jonathan Perez has expanded and refined the project’s vision and craft, culminating throughout Chameleon. Rounded out by bassist Darren Baun, drummer Nicholas Bobotas, and guitarist Coleman Pruitt, the album both synthesizes and transcends its influences, a stormy fusion of downer hooks, apocalyptic beauty, and bulldozer riffs.
The name trauma ray was inspired by the German word for ‘daydream, or ‘dream state,’ in classic shoegaze fashion. Avila’s background in a devout Pentecostal community gives his lyrics about guilt, purgatory, and passing to the other side to an emotional authenticity that cuts through the music’s majestic volume.
Chameleon is a masterpiece of craft, balance, melody, lyricism, and gravity, flexing a fresh vision of loud-quiet-loud architectures and the vertigo depths of blasted harmonics. From Slowdive to Deftones to Hum and beyond, trauma ray absorb and expand on their influences into a rare and dedicated alchemy. trauma ray’s cinematic tempest is a gathering storm only just taking flight.
Just after a U.K. run, trauma ray will perform across their home state including dates at Levitation and with Panchiko. Other highlights include two release shows: one headlining The Roxy in LA and San Diego’s Voodoo Room. See all dates below and grab tickets here.
Trauma Ray Live Dates: Oct 26: Birmingham, UK – XOYO * Oct 27: Manchester, UK – B.E.C. Arena (Outbreak Autumn) Oct 28: London, UK – New Cross Oct 31: Rubber Gloves – Denton, TX Nov 01: Levitation – Austin, TX Nov 03: Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre ~ Nov 04: Little Rock, AR – EJ’s Nov 06: Kansas City, MO – The Truman ~ Nov 07: Chicago, IL – Sleeping Village # Nov 08: Indianapolis, IN – Deluxe ~ Nov 09: Grand Rapids, MI – Elevation ~ Nov 10: Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theatre ~ Nov 12: Philadelphia, PA – Union Transfer ~ Nov 13: Boston, MA – 4th Wall Nov 14: New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place Nov 15: New York, NY – TV Eye # Nov 16: Washington, D.C. – Comet Ping Pong ! Nov 17: Richmond, VA – Cobra Cabana ! Nov 18: Raleigh, NC – Kings ! Nov 19: Atlanta, GA – Altar # Nov 20: Birmingham, AL – Saturn # Nov 21: New Orleans, LA – Siberia # Nov 22: Houston, TX – TBD # Nov 23: San Antonio, TX – Paper Tiger # Nov 29: Los Angeles – The Roxy (Record Release) ^ Nov 30: San Diego – Voodoo Room (Record Release) $
* w/ Citizen ~ w/ Panchiko # w/ Leaving Time ! w/ Leaving Time and Full Body ^ w/ Toner, Lvster, Slumped $ w/ Toner, Slumped, Sparkler
Celebrate life and remembrance with La Panadería’s authentic Pan de Muerto. Photo: La Panadería, used with permission.
With the fall season upon us, festive pastries inspired by Halloween and Day of the Dead are rising in popularity, delighting the senses. Halloween treats often feature spooky designs, like ghostly meringues, pumpkin-shaped cookies, and rich chocolate cupcakes topped with eerie fondant decorations. In contrast, Day of the Dead pastries celebrate life and remembrance, showcasing vibrant sugar skulls, pan de muerto (a sweet bread adorned with bone-like decorations), and colorful marigold-infused treats. Both themes bring warmth and creativity to the season, inviting friends and families to gather and indulge in these delectable delights, merging tradition with the joy of celebrating life and the spirit of the season.
San Antonio area businesses are offering specialized themed treats and specials/events. More details on each below. (Bakery Lorraine, Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Twang, La Panadería, 2024)
Bakery Lorraine – October 26 to 31 From October 26 to 31, Bakery Lorraine will feature a selection of Halloween-themed pastries, including the Ghost Tart (salted caramel and dark chocolate ganache with a white chocolate ghost), Mummy Tart (buttery lemon curd in a crisp shell with torched meringue), Voodoo Doll (gingerbread cookie dipped in dark chocolate), Candy Corn Macaron (orange and yellow macaron filled with vanilla honey buttercream), and Black Cat Tart (dark chocolate mousse with strawberry gelee, available only on October 30 & 31).
Bakery Lorraine’s Candy Corn Macaron. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa – October 1 – October 31 Enjoy a variety of Spooky October treats at Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, including a Spa Face Mask Special available from October 1 to October 31. Guests can add a Specialized Treatment Mask to any service and receive an additional mask to take home for free. The add-on is only $40 and automatically applies when booking online.
Halloween-Themed Yoga Session – Sunday October 27 Celebrate the Fall spirit with a Halloween-themed yoga session on Sunday, October 27, at 11a.m. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in costume for a chance to win a complimentary Slow Beauty Pedicure. Participants will receive all-day access to the pool and fitness center, along with a guaranteed reservation at Corinne San Antonio. Admission is free, but RSVP is required via Eventbrite.
Twang Celebrate Halloween with a Tex-Mex twist by enjoying Twang’s themed cocktail, the Bruja’s Brew, made with Twang’s Chile Lime Rimming Salt. The single serving of this drink includes 2 oz cinnamon liqueur, 3/4 oz pomegranate syrup, 3 oz apple cider, and is topped with champagne. For a group, try the punch recipe, which serves 16 oz cinnamon liqueur, 6 oz pomegranate syrup, 24 oz apple cider, plus one 750ml bottle of champagne. To finish it off right, rim each guest’s drink in Twang’s Chile Lime Rimming Salt for the ultimate touch to this spooky special. Recipe by Aaron Peña, Owner of Amor Eterno in San Antonio.
Bruja’s Brew. Photo: Twang, used with permission.
La Panadería James Beard Nominated bakery and café, La Panadería, hailed for its authentic pan dulce, tortas and more, is thrilled to announce that the pre-orders for Pan de Muerto at all locations are now available online. Guests can honor the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos with La Panadería’s handcrafted Pan de Muerto, available to pick up between October 31 to November 3.
This year, there is a new pink rendition of the bread available in both family sized and mini options. Baby sized versions of both pink and regular Pan de Muerto will be available in-store at all locations – pre-ordering is not required.
Pan de Muerto Pre-order Details: • Items/Cost: Family size Regular Pan de Muerto – $25.00 Family size Pink Pan de Muerto – $27.50 Mini 6-pack Regular Pan de Muerto – $24.00 Mini 6-pack Pink Pan de Muerto – $26.00
• Pick-up Date(s): Thursday, October 31 Friday, November 1 Saturday, November 2 Sunday, November 3
This beloved Mexican pastry symbolizes the connection between the living and the deceased, making it a meaningful addition to upcoming celebrations. Guests can also purchase the Pan de Muerto at San Antonio’s upcoming Muertos Fest at the end of the month (October 26 & 27).
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.
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
Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta is currently in view until November 9 at the San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum.
Freddy Fender was a celebrated American singer and songwriter known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Tejano music. Born on June 4, 1937 in San Benito, Texas, he gained fame in the 1970s with hits like “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” Fender’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with a diverse audience, bridging cultural gaps. He was a key figure in the Chicano music movement, showcasing the rich heritage of Mexican-American artists. Despite personal struggles, his legacy endures, influencing generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on American music.
The San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum is proud to present the first ever Freddy Fender Estate-sanctioned exhibit that spotlights musical trailblazer Freddy Fender, the stage name of Mexican American icon Baldemar Huerta, and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the recording of the album “Before The Next Teardrop Falls.” (San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum, 2024)
Freddy Fender: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Baldemar Huerta will be on exhibit from now until November 9, 2024. It is part of the ongoing collaboration between Veronique Medrano, a local archivist and musician, and the San Benito Department of Cultural Arts.
The opening reception took place on Thursday September 26 and began with speeches from co-curators Veronique Medrano and Aleida Garcia, San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra, and City Manager Fred Sandoval. At the well-attended event, guests were able to enjoy DJ-provided music and light snacks while browsing the exhibit hall and mingling with fellow fans of Freddy Fender and community members alike. It’s always enlightening to learn new and/or lesser known facts about musicians and whether you’re a fan or not, Fender’s influence in music is undeniable. This exhibit is the first of its kind in San Benito and the Rio Grande Valley, so if you’re a music fan, a fan of Freddy Fender, or music history in general, I encourage you to stop by see it for yourself. The pictures and displays bring his story to life.
The exhibition walks visitors through the history of San Benito’s hometown hero and Fender’s impact on pop, Tejano, country, and rock music worldwide. Guests to the museum can view this once in a lifetime collection of objects and memorabilia as well as a selection of private collection artifacts including a commemorative plaque of Fender’s star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame, wardrobe worn during the filming of videos and movies, like The Milagro Beanfield War, and concert posters.
Some of the categories in the exhibit include:
“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” Fame Interrupted Fender Beyond Music Los Supergroups
Guided tours and in-person access are available. Virtual programming, such as video presentations, interviews, and virtual tours will be available through the museum’s social media platforms.
Museum hours: Monday through Thursday 10a.m. – 4p.m. Fridays 10a.m. – 1p.m.
San Benito Cultural Heritage Museum 250 East Heywood San Benito, TX 78586
Sandra Cruz and Aleida GarciaCo-curators Aleida Garcia and Veronique MedranoFreddy Fender’s star on the Hollywood Walk of FameExhibit informationGuests to the exhibit
Empire State is available now. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Los Angeles – Singer-songwriter Greg Copeland is a Southern California native whose depth of feeling for music—and natural ability to conjure it up with spare, graceful melodies and lyrics that are plain spoken poetry—has been in inverse proportion to his body of work. His comfortable, yet candid, way with words make his new EP a welcome addition to his catalog of music. He has a natural ability to conjure up spare, graceful melodies and evocative lyrics that are plain spoken poetry. His genuine sentiments and strength of character, together with the intricate nuances of these musical compositions, create a vividly illustrative sound that allows him to shed light on difficult circumstances. His latest EP, Empire State was released on September 6, 2024. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)
The collection of songs exudes a sense of urgency and presence. Empire State takes place right this minute. Copeland’s characters and narratives “volunteer” themselves to be bared to the world through song and often recur throughout his catalog of music. Like a sentinel keeping watch, his songs are a report back to the listener, as inspiration for writing seems to bubble up from within. Copeland says, “When the odometer clicked over to 2000, I somehow started writing again. Don’t know why, just had to, and the three subsequent recordings are what matter to me most at this point.”
After a 26 year hiatus since his 1982 debut Revenge Will Come, Copeland went back into the studio and reemerged with his second release, Diana and James (Released 2008 on Browne’s label Inside Recordings). This triggered new writing towards a collection of songs that led to his third album, The Tango Bar, in 2020.
Empire State is out now on Copeland’s own independent label, Franklin & Highland Recordings, and internationally with Hemifrån/Paraply Records (Non-U.S. Territories).
Tyler Chester produced both Empire State and The Tango Bar and feature longtime comrade and producer of Copeland’s 2008 release Greg Leisz on pedal steel and mandocello, among other instruments. Chester, a multiple Grammy-nominated producer, session musician, multi-instrumentalist, and composer, also plays keys throughout Empire State as well as bass on the first track. Returning from previous albums to join them are longtime Jackson Browne sideman Val McCallum on electric and rubber bridge slide guitar; Jay Bellerose on drums and percussion; and Jennifer Condos on bass. Sara Watkins joins on fiddle for a track.
Empire State tracklist: 1. Boon Time 2. We the Gathered 3. 4:59:59 4. Coyotes 5. Empire State
Greg Copeland. Photo: Chris Schmitt, used with permission.
SA Examiner 