Tag: news

Get Ready for School Discovery Day at The DoSeum: What to Expect

San Antonio’s largest charter-choice school fair brings together representatives from more than 40 campuses and organizations for one extraordinary day of family fun. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX — San Antonio Charter Moms is pleased to host the upcoming School Discovery Day at The DoSeum on Saturday January 25, 2025, held in conjunction with National School Choice Week (January 26–February 1) and the flagship event in San Antonio Charter Moms’ annual, free School Discovery Days series. (San Antonio Charter Moms, 2025)

The weeklong, national celebration highlights the diverse educational options available via schools of choice and the many benefits they may provide. Considered the leading local school search authority, San Antonio Charter Moms (SACM) provides easy access to extensive, unbiased school resources such as online discussion groups, articles, live videos, enrollment guides, podcasts, and a school finder app. Perhaps the most anticipated and impactful of all, their in-person School Discovery Days bring dozens of local schools of choice together in kid-friendly locations throughout the city so families can easily learn more about their educational options. Guests attending 2025’s flagship event will not only be able to meet with over 40 schools and organizations but will also have exclusive access to The DoSeum’s 68,000 square feet of wow-worthy, interactive galleries designed to cultivate curiosity, ignite learning, and discover the power of play. 

The entire DoSeum will be reserved for School Discovery Day attendees from 9a.m. until noon. Upon checking in, each family will receive a free tote bag (while supplies last) with goodies and information and have the opportunity to participate in a scavenger hunt. SACM team members will be on hand to answer questions about the event and general school search topics. Representatives from participating schools will be present throughout the DoSeum to meet interested parents and prospective students, provide enrollment information, and answer questions. School models at the event will include public charter schools, in-district charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, preschools, and homeschooling. Families will also be able to investigate many learning models represented by various participating schools, including child-centered learning, classical education, STEM, dual language, college and career readiness, culturally responsive schools, functional needs schools, and credit recovery schools. AIM Educate, a San Antonio-based company providing special education therapies and evaluations, will be onsite help families understand the private evaluation process and diagnostic options. Futuro San Antonio will connect with families to help them become strong education advocates. 

Of course, at a setting like the DoSeum, play goes hand-in-hand with education, and there will be plenty of fun to be had for School Discovery Day attendees of all ages. Guests who participate in the scavenger hunt and interact with schools can enter a raffle to win a prize. In addition to up to three hours of exploring the DoSeum, other entertainment options include live sets by the young DJs from The AM Project, a mobile petting zoo from Once in a Wild, and demonstrations by FIRST in Texas robotics teams. 

Attending families MUST pre-register for this free, limited-capacity event by signing up every attendee over the age of one, unregistered guests will not be admitted. This popular event typically sees high demand, so prompt pre-registration is advised — once 1,000 guests have signed up, registration will be closed. Guests should plan to arrive on the early side, as SACM will stop admitting guests at 11:30a.m. and all School Discovery Day Attendees must leave the DoSeum by 12p.m. The raffle drawing will be held at 11:40a.m.

The DoSeum
2800 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209

And stay tuned for this upcoming event:

SCHOOL DISCOVERY DAY AT HEMISFAIR

When: Saturday, March 1, 2025, 11a.m. – 2p.m.
Where: Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair, 434 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205
What: Families visiting School Discovery Day at Hemisfair can meet with more than 20 top schools as they enjoy the fantastic amenities of Yanaguana Garden, including a splash pad, sand play area, table games, swings, climbing structures, picnic area, restaurants, and more. Guests are encouraged to register online.

San Antonio Charter Moms (SACM) began as a blog in 2012 when Founder Inga Cotton was inspired to help San Antonio families more easily learn about high-quality school options. The blog has evolved into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that shares fair information about all types of schools, be they charter, private, or public.

Skeleten Unleashes His Boldest Sound Yet with ‘Let It Grow’—A Glimpse into Mentalized

Skeleten shares ‘Let It Grow’ single from new album Mentalized, out on February 7, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Eora/Sydney-based artist Skeleten (aka Russell Fitzgibbon) unveils his final single “Let It Grow” from his forthcoming second album, Mentalized, out February 7 via 2MR / Astral People Recordings. (another side, 2025)

Amidst a record absorbed in the ways we’re disconnected from ourselves every day – “mentalized for better or worse” – “Let It Grow” immerses in a dissociative surrender. Over a sensual synth line, Skeleten breathes life into the inexplicable weight of intimate connection. It’s a submission to that feeling of an “it” that cannot be denied. The song hangs heavy in the air, unmoving like the heat of an overpacked club, and the only way out is up.

“‘Let It Grow’ was so natural it just kinda started existing without me even realising it. Which I guess is the whole vibe of the song. Surrender and acceptance??”- Skeleten

“Let It Grow” completes a lineup of adored singles “Deep Scene”, “Love Enemy”, “Viagra,” and “Bodys Chorus” alongside respective remixes by Axel Boman and Spray, in laying the foundations for Mentalized. The releases have earned tastemaker nods from Pitchfork, Stereogum, Paste, Brooklyn Vegan, KEXP, KCRW, BBC 6Music, FBi Radio, Apple Music’s ‘Best of 2024’ playlists, and more.

This month Skeleten will complete a 3-month residency at Sydney’s Pleasure Club, spotlighting local talent across the city’s different scenes, alongside Skeleten and his full live band. Having already united acts like Hugh B and the Modern Pop Ensemble, Dylan Atlantis, Scruffs. and Killian, stay tuned via Skeleten’s socials for the final surprise announcement. Skeleten will also perform at Golden Plains Festival in March, alongside esteemed artists PJ Harvey, Fontaines D.C, Kneecap and more.

Mentalized tracklist:
1 – These People
2 – Love Enemy
3 – Bodys Chorus
4 – Crack In The Shell
5 – Deep Scene
6 – Raw
7 – Let It Grow
8 – Viagra
9 – Ravers Dream
10 – Mindreader

Skeleten Live Dates:
Mar 8 – 10, 2025: Golden Plains Festival, Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre, VIC

1738920786

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

Mentalized release date

Honoring John Hartford: Tribute Album Brings Classic Fiddle Tunes to Life in Volume 2

Julia Belle: The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Vol 2 features the most beloved female artists in the Hartford-inspired bluegrass scene. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Nashville, TN – In the twenty-three years since Bluegrass and Americana titan John Hartford’s passing, the witty, vibrant tunes of the Grammy-winning, river and steamboat-obsessed, flatfoot dancing legend have taken on a life of their own, creating an entire sub-genre of the American music canon. That’s thanks to not only Hartford’s pure, funny, and virtuosic catalog, but also to the family and friends attending to the late banjo and fiddle player’s legacy. In the past few years alone, Hartford’s daughter, Katie Harford Hogue, and modern-day fiddle great Matt Combs compiled a never-before-seen collection of unrecorded music in a book entitled “John Hartford’s Mammoth Collection of Fiddle Tunes” which quickly turned into a star-studded album, The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Vol 1. (IV PR, 2024)

Today, Hartford’s legacy takes another step into the future with the announcement of Julia Belle: The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Volume 2. Again co-produced by Hogue, along with Sharon Gilchrist and Megan Lynch Chowning, Volume 2 celebrates some of the most beloved female artists in the Hartford-inspired bluegrass scene: Rachel Baiman, Phoebe Hunt, Ginger Boatwright, Brittany Haas, Deanie Richardson, Allison de Groot, Della Mae, The Price Sisters, Uncle Earl, and many more.

“The feeling of working on an all-female project is unparalleled. It felt powerful and developed a real sense of togetherness and community.” – Della Mae’s IBMA Award-winning bassist and vocalist, Vickie Vaughn

Volume 2 contains thirteen new Hartford instrumental fiddle tunes and five “legacy” covers of beloved John Hartford songs, all of which take on new life under the hands—and voices—of some of the finest musicians around today. “What is so incredible is that you hear these tunes played in so many different ways, and Dad comes through on every one of them,” says Hogue. “It’s like his DNA is in the songs.” Today, with the announcement of Volume 2, one of Hartford’s most beloved songs, “Steam Powered Aereo Plane,” was released, much to the pleasure of the Goodle Family, the official-ish collective of Hartford fans worldwide. 

Fronted by legendary country vocalist Kathy Mattea, the cast behind “Steam Powered Aereo Plane” delivers a mellow, true-to-the-original version of the song originally released on Hartford’s 1971 album of a slightly altered name, Aereo-Plain. Alison Brown, who produced the single, leads into the first verse on banjo accompanied by none other than Sierra Hull on guitar. Gradually Missy Raines brings in the bass and Larkin Poe’s Megan Lovell and the latest Punch Brothers band member Brittany Haas add their dobro and fiddle flourishments, respectively. The result is four straight minutes of pure John Hartford ethos, brought into the present day by a lineup of some of the most respected and accomplished musicians of their time—all of whom credit Hartford as an iconic influence in their musical lives. 

Fans can stream or purchase “Steam Powered Aereo Plane” and pre-order or pre-save Julia Belle: The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Vol 2 ahead of its February 28 release. 

For fans who can’t get enough Hartford, the Hartford family has rallied their efforts around the Goodle Family Patreon page: a subscription-driven home base for all things John Hartford. Whether it be archival releases, updates on the Fiddle Tune Project, orin-person/livestream fan meetups—like the upcoming installment of Mammoth Marathon Mondays.

Julia Belle: The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Vol 2 tracklist:
Irish Familiarity
The Julia Belle Swain
Grant Marsh & Joseph La Barge/Little Pig/Entertainment Tonight (medley)
Spirit of the South
Availability
I’m Still Here
Kenny and Mac
Merry Christmas
Learning To Smile All Over Again
Royal Box Waltz
Takes Her Clothes Off
Gasoline Alley No. 1
No End of Love
Living Up Stairs
Not Soft Enough
Don’t Throw Her Down
Steam Powered Aereo Plane
Champagne Blues

One of the most respected musicians in Nashville history, John Hartford is considered a cornerstone of the newgrass movement due to his 1971 masterpiece, ​Aereo-Plain​. He won a career four Grammy Awards, including two for his 1967 recording of “Gentle on My Mind,” a third for his 1976 album Mark Twang, and a fourth for his contributions to the O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack in 2000. He was posthumously inducted into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2010, was awarded the Americana Music Association President’s Award in 2005, and the Folk Alliance “Spirit of Folk” award in 2011.

1740737970

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

Julia Belle: The John Hartford Fiddle Tune Project Vol 2 release date

The Ultimate Guide to New Year’s Eve Festivities in San Antonio

Tenfold Rooftop rings in the new year with savory bites, vibrant cocktails, and the best views in the city. Photo: Garrett Smith, used with permission.

New Year’s Eve celebrations are a global tradition, marked by diverse customs and festivities. In cities worldwide, crowds gather for fireworks displays, like those in Sydney and New York. Many people enjoy family gatherings with food, drinks, and games, while others attend elaborate parties or live concerts. In Spain, it’s customary to eat 12 grapes at midnight, symbolizing good luck for each month of the year. In Japan, people visit temples for prayers and reflection. Whether through fireworks, quiet reflections, or festive parties, New Year’s Eve offers a unique blend of joy, hope, and cultural significance.

One of the biggest ways to celebrate the new year in San Antonio is going downtown for the big fireworks display. As someone who has attended once or twice, I can tell you that it’s one of the city’s biggest parties, besides Fiesta, that is. If you’re still looking for ways to ring in the new year, consider the following events. (Kimpton Santo, Hotel Emma, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, 2024)

** Kimpton Santo **

Kimpton Santo in San Antonio, TX has announced its New Year’s Eve Celebration (12/31). The new downtown hotel, which opened in August 2024, is throwing a lavish bash at its Rooftop bar, Tenfold, with limited tickets available for the celebration.

Tenfold Rooftop rings in the new year with savory bites, vibrant cocktails, and the best views in the city. Don’t miss the first ever Black & White Party at Tenfold Rooftop. Interested guests can choose between a NYE Pre-Party and Midnight Party, with ticket options of General Admission or reserving a VIP table for four. Price varies between $100 to $1800 based on the chosen party and ticket option. The Pre-Party is from 3p.m. – 7:30p.m. and the Midnight Party goes from 8p.m. to 1a.m. on December 31.

General admission tickets include globally-inspired small plates from the signature 10x Tour Menu,  complimentary coat check and a live DJ set. The VIP table option adds on tickets for up to four guests at a reserved table, cocktail service, and a complimentary bottle of bubbles for the table. Choose how you want to experience the most elevated New Year’s Eve party in San Antonio.

Dean’s Steak & Seafood is celebrating New Year’s Eve early with more brunch. Make the most of time with friends and family as the holidays wrap up. The classic brunch is extended through Wednesday, January 1.

Kimpton Santo Hotel
431 S. Alamo St.
San Antonio, TX 78205

** Hotel Emma **

Hotel Emma, Texas’ only AAA Five Diamond Hotel nestled in San Antonio’s Pearl District, is ringing in its 10th anniversary year in 2025 with a full schedule of events this winter and it all begins with a New Year’s Eve Cellar Select 7-Course Dinner.

December 31 | New Years Eve Cellar Select 7-Course Dinner 

Newly appointed Executive Chef Geronimo Lopez is putting on a seven-course show in the Hotel’s Elephant Cellar which faces the exhibition wine cellar and was built in 1938 – a space as historic as it is grand. Cocktail hour begins at 7p.m.

The experience is underlined by exquisite spirit pairings with each course, kicking off with 2015 Dom Pérignon Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Blend brut Champagne coupled with potato blinis and sturgeon caviar. Other highlights include a fitting 7 Fishes Risotto for the second course, alongside a Double Eagle Very Rare 20-year Bourbon.

There are Two Ways to Take Part in the Exclusive Experience: 

December 31 | New Year’s Eve at Sternewirth 

At Sternewirth, limited tickets are available to hear Diego Martinez & Band from 8:30p.m. to 2a.m. Reservation-only mezzanine booths are available amidst the space’s signature refurbished cast iron fermentation tanks. Complete with complimentary Champagne and oysters, the event gives first priority to hotel guests – so it’s best to book a room and make it a staycation. Tickets are $25pp. 

Hotel Emma
136 E Grayson St.
San Antonio, TX 78215

** Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk **

This holiday season, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites both local guests and travelers to experience a festive lineup of seasonal feasts, activities, and events bringing the spirit of the holidays to life with memorable celebrations. Highlights include the Moon’s Daughters’ infamous NYE Rooftop party.

Thompson San Antonio’s New Year’s Eve celebration at The Moon’s Daughters promises to be the most anticipated event of the year. Guests can enjoy breathtaking panoramic city views from the 20th-floor rooftop terrace, live entertainment from DJ Catwalk, champagne toasts, and more at Downtown San Antonio’s premier NYE celebration. Catwalk is a dynamic DJ, producer, and creator from San Antonio, known for high-energy sets and a unique blend of genres. An “open-format” artist, she seamlessly mixes old and new sounds, delivering fresh, surprising performances every time. Her two singles, “Here We Go” and “Faster (feat. Nick Mery),” are available on all major platforms.

From these special events and dazzling décor to its full-service spa and luxurious accommodations, Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk invites travelers and the local community to rejoice with loved ones this holiday season.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at The Moon’s Daughters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Max Wareham’s Daggomit!: The Story Behind His Debut Album

Banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham announces debut, Peter Rowan-produced album Daggomit! Photo: Sasha Pedro, used with permission.

Whether on archaeological digs or translating medieval poetry, the past has always been a north star for banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham. His commitment to early innovators of the banjo shines on Daggomit!, his debut album of soulful original songs, highlighted by the hard-driving chemistry of Nashville’s preeminent bluegrass stars. Wareham tours nationally with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, bringing his creativity to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Ryman Auditorium, Merlefest, Green Mountain Bluegrass Festival, IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, and many more, as well as with his own band, Max Wareham and the National Bluegrass Team. (IV PR, 2024)

“It brings me back to my childhood,” says Max Wareham of his new single “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home,” “camping in the woods of New York state and longing for a simpler time.” Forever a student of bluegrass tradition, Wareham has tapped into a very real feeling that can be found all the way back before the genre had its name; part nostalgia, part yearning. 

“I wrote this one a while back,” says Wareham. “Then I took it to Peter Rowan, who proceeded to disassemble it completely and put it back together in a way that made more sense.” The tutelage of his bandleader boss Rowan helped to hone Wareham’s arrangement into a beautifully simple melody with ample room for instrumental embellishment and crystalline harmonies by former members of the Grammy-nominated band, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Laura Orshaw and Josh Rinkel. 

MAGNET Magazine shared an early premiere of “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home.” Fans can stream or purchase “Lonesome Blues” at this link.

“Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home” is the latest single from Wareham’s upcoming debut album, Daggomit!, which was produced by Rowan and is due out on February 21. Fans are encouraged to check out Wareham’s previously released single “Hard Times Are Far Behind” at this link and pre-order or pre-save Daggomit! ahead of its February release right here.

Wareham is currently touring with Max Wareham & the National Bluegrass Team, featuring international mandolin prodigy Jean Baptiste Cardineau, singer and guitarist Walker Russell, and Boston bass stalwart Emma Turoff. Tour dates for Warham & the National Bluegrass Team as well as Wareham’s appearances with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band can be found online.

Produced by legendary grasser Peter Rowan and recorded by multi-Grammy-winning engineer Sean Sullivan, Daggomit! features Chris Eldridge and David Grier on guitar, Laura Orshaw on fiddle, Chris Henry on mandolin, Mike Bub on bass, and Larry Atamanuik on snare drum; a group of stars making the initial listen of the album worth the price of admission, alone. But fans will undoubtedly stick around for the stories Wareham tells throughout the 13-song collection. Stories from a lifetime of experiences and feelings that together tell the story of exactly what makes Max Max. 

Daggomit! tracklist:
Walking In Jerusalem
Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home
The Black & Gold
That’s Just Part Of It
Heartaches
Rexford Falls
Gone, Baby, Gone
I Remember
Hard Times Are Far Behind
Cattails
Bar Blues
Drifting Too Far From The Shore
Miles

1740127957

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

Daggomit! release date

PechaKucha San Antonio: A Vibrant Celebration of Art, Culture, and Creativity

The last PechaKucha of 2024 will take place at the historic Scottish Rite. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – PechaKucha San Antonio – the global arts and culture series that hosts speakers who share their passions in a unique format – is excited to announce its Volume 45 as the final event in the 2024 series. The event is scheduled for Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in downtown San Antonio (308 Ave E, San Antonio, TX 78205). The night begins with a welcome reception at 6:30p.m., followed by presentations starting at 7:30 p.m. (PechaKucha San Antonio, 2024)

The historic Scottish Rite building was completed in 1924 and serves as the headquarters and meeting place for the Scottish Rite Masonry in San Antonio and for the South Texas region, as well as frequently used for performing arts and other cultural events.

Volume 45 will feature a talented group of local speakers. The seven presenters include:

• Brenda L. Burmeister, Artist and Educator
• Chris Hernandez, Record Hoarder
• Curtis Hunt III, Stone Mason
• Attie Jonker, Master Craftsman
• Andrea “Andi” Rodriguez, Cultural Placemaker
• Emily Royall, Public Interest Technology Expert
• Roberto Treviño, Executive Director

The evening’s emcee will be poet and author Jenny Browne – she has served as the Poet Laureate of both the City of San Antonio and State of Texas, and is a Professor of English and Creative Writing at Trinity University. The welcome reception will feature live music by musicians from the San Antonio Philharmonic. The San Antonio Philharmonic musicians are not only professionals, they are friends and neighbors, working to cultivate the vibrant arts culture that represents the community we all love.

The welcome reception will also include complimentary bites by San Antonio chefs and restaurants including in-kind sponsors Tandem, Naco Mexican Grayson, Beacon Hill Deli, and Olla Express. Additionally the event will feature cocktails available for purchase curated by local bar Amor Eterno.

Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased online.

A note on venue accessibility: The historic Scottish Rite has stairs leading up to the event space; for an accessibility option from the street level, there will be a livestream watch room available on the ground floor ballroom.

Pronounced “PEH-chuh KOO-chuh,” PechaKucha is a 20 image x 20 second arts and cultures series. We host speakers who share their passions in a unique format: Each presenter gets exactly 20 images, and each slide advances automatically every 20 seconds (for a total time of 6:40).

San Antonio’s first quarterly PechaKucha Night was held in February 2011 and now attracts hundreds of attendees to venues throughout San Antonio. It showcases a broad range of individuals, including architects, artists, makers, academics, community leaders and more. PechaKucha (Japanese for “chit chat”) is an event format developed by Tokyo’s Klein Dytham Architecture to encourage creative professionals to share projects and ideas that they are passionate about. Since it began in 2003, PechaKucha has expanded to more than 1200 cities around the world.

Previous PechaKucha event. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

CineSol Film Festival: Bringing Cutting-Edge Indie Films to Brownsville’s Silver Screen

CineSol Film Festival is taking place in Brownsville this weekend. Photo: CineSol Film Festival.

Film festivals are significant events in the cinematic world, offering a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work to a wider audience, gain recognition, and connect with industry professionals. For filmmakers, festivals provide opportunities for networking, distribution deals, and career advancement. They also allow for creative expression in an environment that celebrates diverse storytelling. For film enthusiasts, festivals offer the chance to experience unique, often experimental films that may not reach mainstream theaters. The appeal lies in the ability to discover new talent, engage in discussions, and immerse oneself in the rich cultural and artistic diversity that films represent.

This weekend is the 31st Annual CineSol Film Festival; it will be held at eBridge Center in Brownsville on December 6, 7, and 8.

CineSol Film Festival is a showcase festival, celebrating achievement in the art of filmmaking. It is dedicated to furthering the art, craft and business of screenwriters and filmmakers, and recognizing their artistic contributions. By enhancing public awareness of their artistic endeavors and by encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community alliances, it supports the work of aspiring and established filmmakers. (CineSol Film Festival, 2024)

CineSol made its historic debut in September 1993 in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. It provided the Texas Border Region with its first film festival ever, including cultural art events in the Mexican cities of Matamoros and Reynosa, Tamaulipas. CineSol has traveled throughout the region, bringing voice and vision through film and video directly to border communities.

They will be screening 43 independent films over two days. The independent films are from all over the world including 1 from France, Bulgaria, Canada, Indonesia, Poland, Indonesia, Sweden, the UK, and 7 from Spain. Sixteen films have Rio Grande Valley connections, such as filmed in the RGV or an actor is from the RGV. The complete schedule is available here.

Ticket information:

Every event is $6 except for Saturday and Sunday evening screenings, which are $10. Saturday passes are $25, Sunday passes are $20, and weekend passes are $40.

If you are coming from out of town to attend the film festival, their sponsor hotel Courtyard by Marriott Brownsville has discounted rooms for festival attendees. Call 956-350-6500 and ask for the annual CineSol rooms.

Special guest is Brownsville’s Bradley Freeman Jr. – Bradley is the official performer of The Pigeon with Mo Willems Workshop. He is a principal performer on the Emmy-Award-Winning program Sesame Street, where he plays Tamir, Wes, Timmy Twiddlebug, and many others. Additionally, he is a supporting performer with the Disney Muppets. His work has been featured on shows including Sesame Street, The Muppets Mayhem, Helpsters, The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Michael Bublé’s Christmas in the City, The Today Show, Good Morning America, The View, Sesame Street: 50 Years of Sunny Days, Elmo’s Mindfulness Spectacular, Tamir on the Street, The Pigeon Explains, and more.

Festival highlights include:

Saturday December 7

1p.m. – 3p.m. Bradley Freeman Jr & Puppeteering. In his presentation, Bradley takes you on a journey from growing up as a Muppet fan in Brownsville, to becoming one of Sesame Street’s principal performers. Not only will there be a live demonstration of the art of television puppetry, there will be an interactive portion, where you may get to perform a character. In addition, there will be a Q&A and signing after the presentation. Room 142 Hidalgo.

3p.m. – 4:22p.m. The Forest Hills directed by Scott Goldberg. Rico descends in the Catskill Mountains after being haunted by nightmares. Starring Chiko Mendez, Edward Furlong, Dee Wallace, and Shelley Duvall. Theater.

Sunday December 8

2:30p.m. – 4:06p.m. Plastic People directed by Ben Addelman and Ziya Tong. Documentary. 90 minutes. Canada. Almost every bit of plastic ends up ground down into “microplastics.”  These microscopic particles drift in the air, float in the water and sit in the soil. And now, leading scientists are finding them in our bodies, our organs, our blood, and even the placentas of new mothers. What is the impact of these invisible invaders on our health? Plastic People – The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics. Room 135. Hidalgo.

The eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization
1304 E Adams St
Brownsville, TX 78520

Gus Baldwin & The Sketch Drops New Single Ahead of The Sketch Album Release

Slacker’s Prom is Gus Baldwin & The Sketch’s new single from forthcoming album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Austin band Gus Baldwin & The Sketch shares a new single from their forthcoming debut album The Sketch via PunkNews. – Slacker’s Prom. Available on DSPs and Bandcamp. (US/THEM group, 2024)

Gus Baldwin is a singer/songwriter/ex-hippie/part-time punk hailing from Austin, TX. After a stint holding down drums for Dallas surf punk legends Sealion in high school, Baldwin went on to form the Psych Pop combo Acid Carousel, which he led for 6 years and 20 something releases before departing the band on Halloween night 2021.

Since leaving Acid Carousel, Gus has made a name for himself as a solo artist in Austin, constantly performing as a singer/songwriter, one man garage band, or with his band The Sketch. Quickly releasing a string of titles on his own GetWithIt! Records imprint, including the EPs THRILLER II, and Live Bugs, as well as a slew of singles, Gus established himself firmly as the godson of Texas rock ‘n roll. Splitting his time as a frequent collaborator with The Black Angels, Baldwin also works with the likes of Christian Bland & The Revelators as well as The UFO Club with Night Beats frontman, Danny Lee Blackwell.

The Sketch is the full length debut of Gus’ partnership with The Sketch. The album was recorded in one day at Studio 22 in Los Angeles by engineer Joey Oaxaca (White Reaper, Starcrawler).

The Sketch will be available on LP, cassette and digital on January 31, 2025. Pre-orders are available.

Gus Baldwin & The Sketch‘s tour of Western U.S. states continues this month. Current dates below are below. Midwest & Eastern shows to follow in early 2025.

GUS BALDWIN & THE SKETCH LIVE 2024:
12/04 Reno, NV – Lo Bar Social
12/07 San Francisco, CA – Kilowatt
12/09 Palmdale, CA – Transplants Brewing
12/10 Las Vegas, NV – The Griffin
12/11 Visalia, CA – Cellar Door 101
12/12 Long Beach, CA – Alex’s Bar
12/13 San Diego, CA – The Tower Bar
12/14 Los Angeles, CA – The Redwood Bar
12/20 Austin, TX – Hotel Vegas

Artist: Gus Baldwin & The Sketch
Album: The Sketch
Label: Permanent Teeth Records
Release Date: January 31, 2025

01. Part I

02. Part II

03. Part III

04. Itch

05. Steady on It

06. Luxury Television

07. Slacker’s Prom

08. (She’s Gone) Arigato

09. Beautiful Delilah

10. What the Freaks Say

11. Sympathy for Sunday

Just goes to show you can still be catchy as hell while playing really fucking loud… I’m not entirely sure there’s a single that can capture the live energy the drips from the stage when Gus Baldwin & The Sketch are up there, but this brand new single is pretty damn close.” — Austin Town Hall

“Kick ass to bombastic levels.” — Cosmic Clash

“Noisy, fuzzy punk with a distinct pop sensibility… Full of energy and anger while also managing to be a lot of fun.”— New Noise Magazine

1738316678

  days

  hours  minutes  seconds

until

The Sketch release date

Blood Incantation’s Absolute Elsewhere: A Mind-Bending Exploration of Death Metal’s Boundaries

Blood Incantation is: L-R Paul Riedl (Guitars, Vocals), Morris Kolontyrsky (Guitars), Jeff Barrett (Fretless Bass), Isaac Faulk (Drums). Photo: Julian Weigand, used with permission

Death metal is a subgenre of extreme metal characterized by its aggressive, fast-paced sound, often featuring growled or screamed vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and complex drumming. Its appeal lies in its raw energy and cathartic nature, offering a way for listeners to release pent-up emotions. Fans are drawn to the technical skill required to play the intricate rhythms and fast tempos, as well as the intensity of the performances. The dark themes, often exploring death, decay, and existential questions, provide a sense of escapism for some, while the sheer heaviness of the music creates an adrenaline-fueled experience.

If you’re a fan of the genre, there’s a new album out by Blood Incantation worth noting.

Blood Incantation is an American death metal band from Denver, Colorado formed in 2011. Their new album Absolute Elsewhere is the sound of a star being born. (another side, 2024)

“The Stargate” Side One: A violent storm invokes the familiar before a grand cosmic key turn for a hint of sweeping scope to come with spiritual acknowledgement and accompaniment by Tangerine Dream’s Thorsten Quaeschning on synths on the song’s second tablet. Musically as violent as it is mediative, with subtle spoken passages flitting between Nicklas Malmqvist’s (Hällas) busy synthesizer keys and Mellotron strings invoking both the modern and ancient, and it is all given sharp focus by Arthur Rizk’s powerfully dynamic and enveloping mix. Blood Incantation depart Extreme Metal’s traditionally antiquated waystation, warping their way towards “Genre of One” stature, as “The Stargate” intones the disembodiment of consciousness itself, careening through the stargate towards Samsara-like reincarnation, punctuated by the occasional growl from Sijjin/ex-Necros Christos main man, Malte Gericke.

“The Message” Side Two: A step through doorways of unearthly beauty, playfulness, quirk and horror. As if David Gilmour jams beside Chick Corea and Trey Azagthoth melting together through psychedelic hyperspace, eliciting mystical vibes and a tangible metaphysical transcendence. Dalos briefly reengages with this track in his native language, alongside star-riding Malmqvist, whose iconic synth/keys work throughout the album adds to the unearthly atmospherics that with Absolute Elsewhere defines a new musical epoch for Blood Incantation, as much as 21st century Metal itself. 

In total the piece hovers at nearly 45 minutes, their longest full length recording yet, the album’s two movements are as confounding as they are engaging, exponentially expanding upon the formulas laid down by their scene-shattering debut Starspawn (2016) and landmark follow up Hidden History of the Human Race (2019).

For inspiration, the group looked to the mid-70s progressive rock collective, Absolute Elsewhere as the album’s namesake. For the uninitiated, Absolute Elsewhere’s obscure 1976 album, In Search of Ancient Gods, was constructed as a musical accompaniment to the works of Chariots of the Gods author, Erich Von Daniken, and his theories of non-terrestrial humanoid prompts towards mankind’s evolution. The subject matter of which should serve as no surprise to anyone familiar with Blood Incantation’s cosmically philosophical leanings. But make no mistake, the four musicians working under the Blood Incantation banner for the past decade – guitarist and vocalist Paul Riedl, drummer Isaac Faulk, guitarist Morris Kolontyrsky and bassist Jeff Barrett – have successfully left the microgravity of genre behind and are re-writing the Rosetta Stone of extreme music with a new language entirely. 

Absolute Elsewhere is available from Century Media. Its physical version features a 73 minute feature film All Gates Open: In Search Of Absolute Elsewhere which tells the story of their time in Berlin during the summer of 2023, while recording at the legendary Hansa Studios. It is available on Blu-Ray with the album’s deluxe media book package and includes the documentary’s original soundtrack, All Gates Open (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) which includes 60 minutes of exclusive new music distinct from the new album.

This special edition will also include Blood Incantation’s 2023 maxi-single, “Luminescent Bridge” for the first time ever on CD, and of course, Absolute Elsewhere in both standard and Dolby Atmos / 5.1 mixes, alongside exclusive liner notes, exclusive interviews, behind the scenes photos and a forward by Ross Dolan of Immolation. Underscoring the classic Progressive Rock vibe, the album is adorned with contemporary visionary paintings by the iconic and reclusive 70s Sci-Fi artist Steve R. Dodd.

Blood Incantation sets out on an extensive North American tour crossing both coasts and more with support from Midwife. All tickets are on sale now here. A full list of dates is available online.

Blood Incantation Absolute Elsetour Dates:

Nov 27: Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall ~
Nov 29: Montreal, QC – Fairmount ~
Nov 30: Toronto, ON – Lee’s Palace ~
Dec 01: Detroit, MI – Magic Stick ~
Dec 03: Chicago, IL – Metro ~
Dec 04: Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line ~
Dec 05: Omaha, NE – Bourbon Theater ~

~ w/ Midwife

Early Praise For Absolute Elsewhere:

“the metal album of the year” NPR 

“an amazing, proggy, thrilling death metal epic” The Needle Drop

“This album is the work of a band who have proven themselves capable of anything. It belongs on the shelf alongside Pestilence’s ‘Testimony Of The Ancients and Spheres’, The Orb’s ‘UFOrb’ and Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’. It’s a goddamn masterpiece.”  The Wire

“the ultimate Blood Incantation album” Brooklyn Vegan

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Step Into a Winter Wonderland: Classic Christmas San Antonio Opens This Week

Classic Christmas San Antonio: All-New Experience at Toyota Field this Holiday Season. Photo: Enchant Christmas, used with permission.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – Step into a world of real holiday magic at Coca-Cola’s Classic Christmas San Antonio from November 22 – December 29, 2024. This season, cherished holiday traditions come to life in San Antonio at the Toyota Field amid a spectacle of dazzling lights. Crafted by the creators of the renowned World’s Largest Christmas Light Maze, Enchant Christmas, this immersive holiday celebration promises to create unforgettable moments of togetherness and joy at this beloved time of year. This nostalgic celebration is packed with dazzling lights, festive activities, and unforgettable memories. Tickets start at $21 and are available online. (Classic Christmas San Antonio, 2024)

On November 24, Classic Christmas will make 2,500 kids tickets available at no charge. In the spirit of the holidays, Classic Christmas hopes to spread some joy and have as many families as possible to experience the dazzling lights. Guests can claim up to two free kid tickets per order, but each order must include at least one paid adult ticket.

Details for reserving available free tickets can be found online.

Holiday revelers can look forward to an array of joyful activities and cherished experiences, ensuring a season full of happiness and wonder, including:

  • Larger-Than-Life Light Displays – Delight in 55,000 square feet of dazzling light sculptures, featuring exciting custom and interactive Coca-Cola-inspired displays.
  • Market Square – Taste seasonal delights and shop for holiday gifts from a local assortment of vendors showcasing their wares.
  • Ice Skating – Skate amidst the lights with those you love – this is a unique ice skating experience.
  • Snow Slide – Hop on an inner tube and glide down the thrilling Classic Christmas Snow Slide.
  • Live Entertainment – Guests will get into the spirit with nightly caroling throughout the venue and more local, seasonal artist features.
  • Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus – Santa and Mrs. Claus will take photos in his workshop – your holiday photo dream come true!

THEME NIGHT CALENDAR: 

Adding to the excitement, Classic Christmas will host unique theme nights, each offering a distinct way to celebrate the holiday season:

  • NOVEMBER 24 – Kids Light Up The Night: 2,500 young guests to experience the sparkle of Classic Christmas San Antonio with complimentary tickets while supplies last.
  • DECEMBER 1 – Paws & Claus: Bring your furry friends for a pet-friendly evening where they can meet Santa and join in on the festive fun. Dog ticket add-ons will be limited—get your tickets now!
  • DECEMBER 6 – Country Christmas (presented by San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo): Dust off your cowboy boots for a night of country music, line dancing, and holiday cheer with a Southern twist.
  • DECEMBER 7 – Spurs & San Antonio FC at Classic Christmas: Join the Spurs and San Antonio FC at Classic Christmas! Wear your favorite Spurs or SAFC gear, meet & greet with players and the Spurs Hype Squad, and take photos with the Spurs NBA Championship trophies. 
  • DECEMBER 8 – Military Appreciation Night: A night dedicated to honoring the brave men and women of our military, with special activities and tributes throughout the evening. 
  • DECEMBER 13 – Fiesta Navideña: Celebrate the rich culture and traditions of Latin heritage with vibrant music, dance, and holiday festivities. This unique celebration features local talent, vendors, and organizations. 
  • DECEMBER 15 – Ugly Holiday Sweater Night: Bring your family and friends for a matching opportunity that could steal the show and win the grand prize! Guests will be honored with the best—or rather, ugliest—sweater prizes, and one grand prize winner will take the crown on our holiday stage. 

Note: Closed November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)

Toyota Field
5106 David Edwards Drive
San Antonio, TX 78233

Classic Christmas San Antonio. Photo: Enchant Christmas, used with permission.