Opening Bell Coffee in South Side on Lamar is known for their comfortable atmosphere and delicious coffee, but music also hits a high note in this South Side indie haven. A few months ago, prompted by an email subscription to one of my favorite bands, The Damnwells, I learned that the man behind the band’s notable vocals and powerful lyrics, Alex Dezen, would be performing solo at the coffee shop. No way could I pass this up! I grabbed one of my girlfriends, and we arrived a couple of hours early to score some tea and a great seat. Good thing we arrived when we did, because the venue quickly became packed as music lovers casually filtered in until the place was full to the brim.
As the opening acts played, Alex casually walked around the shop, saying hello, and engaging all of the employees and fans in conversation. You gotta love an artist who is down to earth enough to be seen before he goes onstage. He stood in the audience and listened to the multiple opening acts perform before taking the stage and playing through a great set of songs from his One Last Century album. It was such a personal experience sitting so close to a talented and grateful artist. Leave it to Mr. Dezen to tell it Like It Is.
Rockers, emo kids, and 80’s enthusiasts, it’s time to bust out your favorite ripped jeans, flat irons, and parachute pants, and rock out at the Palladium Ballroom on South Lamar. This summer’s line-up boasts a wicked cool array of artists that are best seen in the Palladium’s lax atmosphere. Artists such as The Silversun Pickups, Against Me!, Shwayze, Vampire Weekend, and even Billy Idol will grace the stage in the months to come. So throw on your checkered Vans and race over to hear the sweet sounds of summer.
