Tonight || January 17, 2007

Denton's Mom impressed at Good Records last weekend, layering guitar, violin and other strings over a mix of pre-recorded melodies and improvised ambient noise. The total effect of the live performance was really enjoyable, which is a great change of pace from most local instrumental groups we've seen over the years. Sure, more live hands would certainly bolster the duo, but their current lineup is still enough to earn a rare "must-see" decree from the picky Dd. Any Dentonites who missed last week's Dallas show should make the shorter drive to Rubber Gloves tonight, where Mom opens for three other Denton acts we've never seen, ranging from noise to metal to singer-songwriter fare.

Sadly, we won't be there tonight, because the Dd company car just doesn't do well on wet roads (let alone slick/icy ones). Thanks to a promise made a few months ago, we'll be at the Barley House instead, judging a karaoke competition in the place of that slacker Zac Crain. How're you gonna be mayor if you can't even fulfill your karaoke judging obligations, dude?

Yes, Rock Star Karaoke is infinitely more tolerable than the kind done with a jukebox, but out natural distaste for all things karaoke makes it hard for us to promote it. Then again, folks from local bands have been turning out and competing at RSK, so perhaps those performances tonight will make up for every time we've seen some drunk schmoe sing "Creep." Will report if it's good. Will be silent about it if it's not. And if you've ever wanted to heckle Sam, tonight's your chance. -SM