Maximum Occupancy

Okay but what if I complain about how this show was not hardcore enough? If seeing Shame at the beginning of the year was a reminder that I am old and not comfortable rocking out with the young fans, then Shakey Graves Day is yet another sign that as I approach my forties I am still clinging onto the Goldilocks mentality. Same conclusion, just a different set up that gets us there.

I like his music, and just like any show that I am leading up to I make it a point to listen to the artist’s discography so I do not come off as a poser. This was my first attempt to see this local but loved musician. I just assumed the sudden pop up date at Mohawk’s was because the artist needed the cash (cause they are starving and all for the craft) but it turns out that in 2012 Austin declared a day in his honor and he takes that as a chance to give back to the community. So this, and his previous shows on the anniversary of that declaration, is just the historical context as to why I look like an ass by jumping to those conclusions.

This year was to benefit HAAM (Health Alliance for Austin Musicians) an important organization that stepped up as a safety net during the pandemic. Although most would like (and I am including myself in this) to imagine Covid as thing of the past in this shitty time line, we all should also acknowledge that it is more important then ever to make sure that all within our community are insured and have the means to use their insurance to take care of their health.

Venue was solid, the weather was better, and the reason for the show is commendable. So what could I even bitch about?

It was sold out and the crowd matched the tone of the music. Rich country roots with a modern sense of urban awareness, the crowd was one that you could imagine is awaiting the second coming of Ann Richards to save this state from its stereotypical conservative ways. They believe in this and other socially aware causes, they can also identify with the lyrical content of Shakey Graves. But more importantly the crowd seemed to match where he may be in life, growing up while his daughter grows up, settling down to give the family thing a try, and sobering up as best as you can given your past and what will be needed of you in the future.

Ugh, isn’t it boring to be reminded that time changes and music takes on new meaning as you move from young adulthood, to adulthood, to old adulthood.

He played a mixture from all his albums, with a hint to new things. His set started out solo, but as he played other songs he called up musicians that would be needed to hambone or blow into a harmonica as an accompaniment. It shows that as a musician he may be writing his songs to what his abilities are, but that his abilities may be varied as he thinks about what else is needed to flesh out the song that he is creating. A guitar here, a kick drum there, and working with others to teach them how you play it - it shows more skill than what may be needed now in the age of AI.

My impression of his music has always been that the stories follow three line of thoughts “I am womanizer looking for the one to save me from myself,” “I booze too hard,” and “they only want you when you are 17 (when you are 21 you’re no fun).” And maybe that isn’t incorrect, since he does tell little tales in between songs to encourage a connection with the audience to a meaning. “Chinatown” is about a friend’s dream apartment that allowed him to crash and dirtbag around while finding himself. Another song is about a girl helping him to settle down, but has new meaning now that he has a two year old daughter (with a cliche realization that one day horn dogs will pull some tired tricks on her).

He talks and flirts with the audience, making them feel that they are in an Austin more idealistic than it really is. You were a rascal, but now you are cool family man (or woman). You have a love worth fucking and swaying with. Cool grown up things of happiness and content.

I hated how loved he is, with so many people there to experience that. They may be able to lose themselves in the crowd but all I could think was, “this is what I get for like a popular artist.” Long lines and being forced to touch elbows with happy couples. Barf, but also good for him for being so appealing and talented. May definitely see again, but here is to hoping no one else shows.