Celebrating Austin's music with law-breaking, queer artist Mars Salazar

My Old-School, Conservative, Mexican Father Wanted a Doctor and a Lawyer, He Got a Music Journalist and a Badass ADA

The mosh pits, the dive bars, the live music scene — that's my newsroom. As a music journalist, I tell the stories of the diverse and thriving live music scene in Austin, fighting against the sterile consumerism that threatens to silence our city's cultural heartbeat.

Escaping the Suburbs, Finding My Soul in the Blues

While my parents wanted me to be safe in the suburbs, I was drawn to the heart of the city, to the east side, where the blues melodies of Soul Man Sam and Birdlegg at The Skylark Lounge spoke to my soul. I charmed my way into clubs, lying to my parents about bowling nights, and found my church in candle-lit bungalows, with wailing saxophones as my religion.

Patience and Perseverance: Navigating a Tough Industry

I started young, guided by mentors like former Austin Chronicle music editor Raoul Hernandez, who taught me to pursue my passion despite the challenges of the industry. At 19, I was already writing for the Austin Chronicle, exploring the backstreets of Austin, discovering sounds that stir the soul, and embracing the beatnik bungalows. I crowd-surfed, I partied, I wore my bruises as badges of honor, and I refined my craft.

Rock 'n' Roll Revelation: Embracing My True Self

I never thought I'd be living the rock 'n' roll life. As a kid, I ate lunch with the librarians. But music set me free, it spoke to me, and it gave me a voice. Good music is an emotional conversation, it tells you the truths you can't face alone. I'm here to celebrate the performers, to call out the fakes, and to shine a light on the magic that is Austin's music scene.

Diversity in Music: My Current Obsessions

The Point: A trio blending jazz fusion with slick guitar riffs, their latest album, "Maldito Animal" (2024), is a contemporary masterpiece.

Cazayoux: A collective of artisan musicians, their album "Echos" (2024) is an afro-funk mosaic, a brass and string-infused delight.

Nossas Novas: This multicultural sextet weaves Brazilian bossa nova melodies with 60s psychedelic rock, a true auditory trip.

Where You'll Find Me: The Best of Austin's Music Venues

Sahara Lounge: Voted one of the best bars in the country by USA TODAY, known for its vibrant Africa and Brazil nights.

C-Boy's Heart and Soul: A red refuge, serving up funk and blues with a side of intimacy in the Jade Room.

Continental Gallery: An upstairs listening room, a true sanctuary for jazz enthusiasts, nestled above the famous club.

Final Thoughts

Join me as I continue to explore and celebrate the culture and creativity that make Austin's music scene so damn special. It's a wild ride, and I'm just getting started.