Saturday night was another eventful night in the musical city of Austin. Local bar rock heroes Whitman took the stage at 10 inside at Stubb’s, opening for The Black and White Years. Lead singer Ram brought his usual incredible energy and the whole band worked the crowd into a frenzy.

The show was made even more special because it was Ram’s birthday. Manager Ryan Ray presented him with a lovely sweater as a birthday gift. The foursome absolutely killed at Stubb’s: beer was flying, people were singing along, and everyone was pouring sweat (thanks for not turning those ceiling fans on, Stubb’s!). In fact, the set by The Black and White Years was pretty tame by comparison.

The white too-tight jeans might have been the culprit, but it felt like The Black and White Years are losing their touch. Don’t get me wrong, people were grooving and their DEVO influenced geek rock shone through. Yet, Whitman easily eclipsed them and the uber hipster chic style of The Black and White Years seemed tired in comparison. It was a good show to be sure, it just didn’t convince me that they are “the next big thing”.

I finished up my night talking to Arash, the owner of Mixx, while checking out the live sound. A band I really should know the name of took the stage for the first half of the night, throwing down bluesy beats and rhythmic hip-hop. Funkstars The Lefties closed out the night. The transition from nightclub to music venue is underway but far from over. At least the old logo is on it’s way out.

Another great night in the Live Music Capitol. Check out more pictures below the break.

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