My good friend Anna G down in Austin, along with Kim Francis have just launched a new Austin music and activism site (blog in disguise), which I set up for 'em in exchange for lodging and beer during SXSW. It's called Girlstown Productions, and it's pretty cool. If you know anyone who's into music, Austin, or activism... check it out.

The DNC is rolling into town here with a vengance, and with it, no end of parties and good times. I saw Billy Bragg at a place called the "Middle East" in Cambridge last night, fantastic show, politically charged as you might imagine. Billy was actually hilariously funny, and not at all the stoic character I expected. Check him out if you have a chance.

Finally made it to 12 Galaxies the other night and I have to recommend both the musical acts. Matt the Electrician was one of the funniest performers I've ever seen with a guitar and the Asylum Street Spankers defy description, only that you've got to see them when they come to your town.

True to it's namesake, Frank Chu himself appeared and took a seat at the bar. This was the first time I've seen Frank without his sunglasses on. He was constantly scaning the room over a burger and Budweiser. Even though it was late, Frank still had his sign with him, though he carried it hanging at his side. Even Frank has to call it a day at some point.

Anyone who's ever spent time in St. Louis has probably encountered the legendary "Beatle Bob". Probably the most devoted music fan in the world, Beatle Bob is a very odd character who appears at practically every single live music event in St. Louis every single night, often going to several shows in an evening.

He wears a suit and a "beatles" haircut. He dances manically, thrashing his arms and legs around and spontaneously spinning in place when the moment hits him. There's always a bit of a circle around him in the crowd as people back off to stay clear of his flayling limbs.

In St. Louis, if Beatle Bob shows up at your gig, it means you've made it.

Anyway, after years of mumbling obscurity, it seems Beatle Bob's ship has come in: Guided By Voices has devoted a song and video to him. Not a bad song either! Have a look!

[real audio video link here] - click on "My Kind of Soldier"

[more about the legend]

Oh yes, that was his name. (see below) Baby Gramps. I have seldom been entertained to the degree I was last Thursday night by this incredibly talented steel guitar master. I'm not a music review writer so I can hardly do justice to this man's brilliance, but I must give it a shot. His style is thetrical really, he jumps and bleats and barks and shakes while wacking the living hell out of his guitar all while completely in control of the indstrument. He dominates it like an expert dog handler shouts orders to a hyperactive yet totally submisive beagle. And he makes you laugh your ass off too, while you can't help but jump up and clap and sing along. Baby Gramps. Check him out.