Issue 131: Austin Music Issue

The 27th annual Oxford American Southern Music Issue is devoted to another fascinating and complex American city: Austin, Texas. The magazine explores the historical context that gave rise to the city’s reputation as “the live music capital of the world,” paying special attention to the spaces—nightclubs, saloons, festival stages—which allowed that culture to flourish. But the magazine also investigates the factors that threaten Austin’s vibrancy, and honor the folks who work to keep the sounds fresh and the venues packed through so many seasons of change. From music halls where punk and country mingled to Segregation-era juke joints that fostered pioneering talent—the Texas capital (and its surrounding region) has hosted performances from groundbreaking music-makers both homegrown and world-renowned. Featuring reported essays, profiles, photography, personal criticism, poetry, and more, from a remarkable lineup of contributors, the Austin Music Issue brings to life these spaces and the eclectic sounds that fill them.  Featuring a curated collection of songs that showcase the emotion and electricity of Austin music across time and genre, the limited-edition vinyl LP is available for a small shipping and handling charge; all issues include a digital download code, as well as liner notes so you can read while you listen. Cover image by Sam Jones. Vinyl cover art Glimmer by Heather Sundquist Hall.