How many clubs are cool enough to have the governor declare that a weekend be named in their honor? For that matter, how many states have a governor cool enough to recognize how cool that club is?
This weekend, Tucson will be soaking in cool (and sweat) because it’s time again for Hotel Congress’ yearly anniversary celebration, now called the HoCo Festival. This year, the Tucson Film and Music Festival will be located across the street at the Rialto for your convenience. Should you feel too guilty about emptying your wallet on admissions and booze, salvation can be found in knowing that local homeless advocacy non-profit Primavera will reap some of the event’s monetary benefits. And this year is just as jam-packed as last year, with performances from local bands from past and present and a few tempting out-of-towners, too.
Here are my picks…
“Scott Walker: 30 Century Man” – When a film covers such a fascinating topic – a ‘50s era teen pop idol turned dark, classically influenced, oft self-indulgent songwriter who worked with Nick Cave – how could it not be fascinating? If you haven’t heard of Walker it’s because he was huge in the UK but not so much here, even though he was American-born. But if you are a true music lover, it’s time to get acquainted. Those interviewed include Radiohead, Sting and Gavin Friday.
Friday 7:30 p.m.
The Supersuckers – Though they now officially hail from Seattle, the Supersuckers formed in Tucson in 1998. Tucson roots! Albums out on SubPop! Power punkers (with a little country wanderlust) Supersuckers’ music makes one want to use a lot of exclamation points! Beware, they seem to be rather self-promo, merchandise-oriented these days! And are they really sponsored by Monster Energy Drink? Oy!
Friday 11:30 p.m.
The Weird Lovemakers – I know, don’t get me started. This Tucson punk legend reformed for the HoCo 20th anniversary, much to the delight of children of the early/mid-90s. They play the catchiest, rapid-fire punk ever heard and even invented norteno punk! The band whined at how sub par their performance was, but they were the only ones who noticed…the house went crazy. And the dance floor will be joyous mayhem yet again when they unleash their more fine tuned selves this time around.
Saturday at midnight
The BellRays – Sweaty, dirty, blues garage rock made extra sensual by singer Lisa Kekaula’s powerful, ‘60s soul-drenched vocals. Yup, she even toured with the legendary MC5/DKT, which probably didn’t help to squash all the Motor City references (they’re from Riverside, California). They are scorching live…look out!
Saturday 10:30 p.m.
Okkervil River – Right out of Tucson’s unofficial sister city Austin, a visit from Okkervil River on its own would be rather noteworthy. Their impassioned indie rock is perfect for fans of Bright Eyes and Arcade Fire. Plus Lou Reed is a fan! Lou wouldn’t steer you wrong.
Saturday 11:30 p.m.
Dusty Buskers – First get in an “O’ Brother, Where Art Thou?” frame of mind. Picture you are walking down a dusty country trail when you come upon two scrappy lookin’, foot stompin’ troubadours playing “old timey” bluegrass and vintage Celtic tunes about whiskey and ladies of easy leisure. You say, “Hey brothers! Mighty fine tunes…where y’all from?” If they answer, “Tucson!” ye can be sure that they are the Dusty Buskers.
Sunday 5:30 p.m. (also catch them between the daytime music video screenings on Saturday)
Jason Lytle – When indie darlings Grandaddy called it quits the other year, many a tear was shed. Their dreamyish, Moog-infused, fuzzy, yet melodic indie rock definitely made its mark while it was here. Dry those tears! Grandaddy front man Jason Lytle will be on the Congress stage…live and in person!
Sunday 10:30 p.m.
Lonna Kelly – Phoenician Lonna Kelly has become a Congress regular in the year since last year’s HoCo Fest performance, which a certain AZNightBuzz blogger described this way, “On top of her smoky, alt-country torch style, the main focal point is Kelly’s delicate and adept voice, which sounded just as entrancing live as it did in person.” Surely it will all be true this time around, as well.
Sunday 9:30 p.m.
Borts Minorts – Apologies for quoting myself twice in a row, but this says it all, “Borts Minorts’ act is so European it hurts. But it hurts so good. Dressed in some sort of bizarre body stocking, he writhed, thrusted, shuddered, flailed, high-kicked, jumped and generally spazzed out all over the place, adding vocals to his own pre-recorded, art-damaged spazz techno. Good stuff. Oh, and he’s not even European. Mr. Minorts resides in San Francisco.” Nuff said. But check out the photos below.
Sunday 10 p.m.
And that’s just a wee drop in a big ole bucket. There’s still the likes of Sun Trash (featuring Sean Wheeler of Throw Rag), Mr. Free & the Satellite Freakout, Mostly Bears, Chuck Wagon & the Wheels, Salvador Duran, The Pork Torta, a million juicy sounding movies…ARGH! It positively makes the head swim.
Fortunately, the damage is just $8 per day, or $20 for all three days. For more dirt, you can find the schedule here or visit hocofestival.com.
Here are some photos from last year’s event:
