Lydia’s Brain Zine Release @ Friendly Rio Market

Lydias Brain Teaser

Only in Austin do you end up in a convenience store, shoulder to shoulder with artists, writers and punks, watching bands tear it up next to a rack of Doritos.

That’s exactly where I was on May 25th for the Lydia’s Brain Magazine release show at Friendly Rio Market – a celebration of a brand-new local zine that’s shining a light on Austin’s underground music, art, and writing scene.

The show kicked off with Wannabe Canadians - some crunchy kick ass tunes reminiscent of the punk rock of the olden days.

'Wannabe Canadians'

The Scene

Bright fluorescent lights, coolers humming, and a crowd of misfits buzzing with excitement. It felt DIY in the best possible way - it was like being in on a secret, being apart of something being born.

Bands of every flavor hit the center floor of that little convenience store. One after another, they brought their chaos and their beauty to a place that’s usually just about snacks and lotto tickets.

Next to the floor was Bruised Sinatra, who brought a unique acoustic sound that'll really got the crowd moving.

'Bruised Sinatra'

Shooting in a Store

Such a unique experience. Shooting in a market was awesome. There’s no stage lighting, no haze machine - just raw fluorescent overheads. So I leaned into it, and caught the moments between the shelves. The show was intimate and alive.

Next up was Pumpkin in Love, Naraindyals band, with a grungy feel and some sweet surprises, including a badass System of a Down cover.

'Pumpkin in Love'

Why Lydia’s Brain Matters

Lydia’s Brain is trying to give a voice to the artists who make this city beat. This wasn’t just a show - it was a loud “we’re here” from a crew of people who really care about music, art, and literature in Austin.

Huge respect to Naraindyal, the brain behind the mag for throwing something this fun and full of heart.

Speaking of - next we had Heart Shaped Rocks, Naraindyal's other band - who hit everyone with some true classic rock.

'Heart Shaped Rocks'

And last but certainly not least - Tears of Ra hit the floor with full power, mind-shredding chaos and bold theatrics. Felt like the store was gonna break. What a finisher.

'Tears of Ra'

Final Word

Nights like this are why I love Austin. No rules, just people coming together to make and share art wherever they can.

If you haven’t already, check out Lydia’s Brain at lydiasbrain.com

or on Instagram at @lydias_brain_mag_ 

- and keep an eye out for the next issue!