On this week’s Stronger Than Dirt (Saturday, February 21, 8-10pm) host Scott Gardner celebrates the Party Sounds of Austin by featuring some of his favorite tunes from his longtime hometown. Some featured artists include the 13th Floor Elevators, Wig (Rusty Weir), Delinquents, Big Boys, Rank and File, Pork, Ugly Beats, Golden Boys, Shipshape and more. This will be the first of two spring membership drive Stronger Than Dirt shows, so please consider showing your support for KOOP 91.7, Austin’s community radio, by making a donation. And thanks!
COVER ART OF THE WEEK: Longtime Austin music fans need no introduction to Pork, an all-female garage band that entertained with simple, catchy tunes and fun live shows, many at the Hole in the Wall. They were active from the early to mid 90s and released two albums and a few singles. “Grand Slam Baby,” an infectious tune with a driving beat and excellent use of baseball metaphor, was released in 1993 as a single on the No. 6 record label. It featured cover art by their guitarist Dana Lee Smith, who was inspired for the piece by pro baseball player Otis Nixon. (Click on image to enlarge)
DUSTY DIAMOND OF THE WEEK (a vintage gem from the STD vaults): The Nomads are a Swedish band that has been a major influence on many garage rock bands, especially in the 90s. Formed in 1981 they play a gritty style of rock that blends 60s garage with 70s punk and roll. They have a lengthy discography and are still playing live. “Rockin’ All Through the Night” is a frisky up-tempo rock and roller with amp melting guitar breaks. I think I could mosh to this; except I hate mosh pits. It appeared in 1983 on the “Where the Wolf Bane Blooms” mini LP on Amigo records. Listen to it here:
Promo art from the 13th Floor Elevators’ 1967 “Easter Everywhere” album on International Artists. Original design by Flash Graphics.