With finals out of the way, it’s time to celebrate the ORANGE Music way — with a good ol’ concert.
Story by Savannah Olson
‘Tis the season of stress and overly-caffeinated bodies – aka finals season. Maybe you’re lucky and you only have one final that’s multiple choice, or maybe you’re taking a final for all of your classes with the dreaded blue books. Whichever person you may be, this semester will officially be over on December 17, releasing you for a winter break filled with nothing but time. Whether you want to rid yourself of the built-up stress from finals or just need a way to stay warm during these chilly few weeks, ORANGE Music has you covered with music events throughout the month.
December 10
Afterglow After Dark
Photo courtesy of Afterglow
Finals, who? If you need a night away from ‘studying’ at LBJ, grab some buds and hit up local dance haven Cheer Up Charlie’s for a set full of local bands including Clunis, St. Dukes and others. “Dress to impress,” says the page, giving you ample opportunity to throw off those ramen-stained sweats and put on something that glitters. Doors open at 8 p.m., with tickets priced at $5 upon entry or on Eventbrite.
December 14
The Austin Holiday Groove Presented by Heard Austin
Photo courtesy of The Austin Groove Project
Let’s be honest: many holiday songs do not slap! Instead of being forced to listen to the same five Christmas songs on Magic 95.5, head over to Empire Control Room and Garage for a heady cocktail of groove, soul, hip-hop and funk. Featuring fellow ACL artist Jackie Venson, rap group Magna Carda, and sibling trio The Bishops, the Austin Holiday Groove will make you all the merrier. General admission tickets are $15 a piece, available here.
December 21
Jazz Kween Presents: Naughty & Nice
Photo courtesy of Jazz Kween
Instead of only music, why not add in some comedy too? Hosted by Jazz Kween, Naughty & Nice focuses on showcasing the women of Austin in a collab show of comedy and jazz. Be prepared to hear some hilarious tales that are both naughty and nice. General admission is $15, with tickets available here.
December 22
Dorian Electra
Get ready to dance like Lindsay Lohan in Mykonos, with Cheer Up Charlie’s hosting an electronic-pop extravaganza. Featuring artists like Dorian Electra, p1nkstar and many other killer musicians, the night is guaranteed to thrive until the early morning. Free for those 21 and over, with $10 tickets for those 18+, available at the door.
December 28
Charlie Belle
The only thing better than coming home from a jam-packed holiday season is treating yourself to some relaxing indie-pop at the Stubbs’ indoor space. The two-piece alterna-pop group Charlie Belle has got you covered with a rousing night of mellow harmonies and guitar riffs that’ll remind you of warmer Austin days. Opening for Charlie Belle is fellow Austin synth-pop group TC Superstar and reggae musician Ben Roots. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or here.
December 31
NYE 2001
Photo courtesy of Hotel Vegas
Turn in your iPhone for that chunky Nokia this New Year’s Eve, as NYE 2001 turns back time to the early aughts. Partying the remnants of 2018 away through music from OutKast, Britney Spears and hordes of other early 2000s artists. NYE 2001 brings together the best of the past while looking towards the future. Matching denim couples outfits not included!
