Your humble Austin Music Minute is able to say, with some of authority, that producer Frenchie Smith recognizes the art of killer guitar work. No bones about it. Being a superb guitarist himself, he can spot mad guitar skills right away. That being said, you can expect guitarist Brandon Kennedy of The Venus Illuminato to be a standout on the band’s forthcoming album.
The Venus Illuminato spent about eight months at Smith’s studio, The Bubble, working on new tracks, a few of which they recently shared on Soundcloud: “Animal Child,” “Other Side of Gold” and “The Shake” (featured on today’s AMM). Sure enough, there’s Kennedy’s fiery guitar searing through, while front man Rob Franco is killing it on vocals, truly a loud and proud gypsy psych/folk rock spectacle to behold.
Don’t miss The Venus Illuminato at their show tonight at the Mohawk, 912 Red River on the inside stage, with power pop-rockers American Werewolf Academy and dance-rock quartet Nation States. Doors open at 9 p.m. And…don’t leave the earplugs at home. Very recommended.
