KUTX has unveiled a new series titled The Hole Story, which invites songwriters to share the stories behind their music during live performances. The series debuted at the iconic Hole in the Wall, a dive bar in Austin, Texas, known for its rich musical history since opening in 1974.
The inaugural episode featured Kevin Russell, frontman of the band Shinyribs and former member of The Gourds. Russell’s connection to Hole in the Wall is deep-rooted; he and his fellow musicians were instrumental in shaping the venue’s musical landscape during the 1990s. His band’s popularity once led to a controversial increase in cover charges, raising the fee from $5 to $7 due to overwhelming crowds. This decision sparked backlash from local patrons who accused them of price gouging.
Russell returned to the venue to celebrate the release of his latest album, Leaving Time, which is set to launch on April 25, 2025, under Nine Mile Records. During the performance, he shared not only new songs but also anecdotes from his childhood, teenage years, and his journey to Austin, providing an intimate look into his life as an artist.
Live Performance and Set List
The live performance featured a selection of songs from the upcoming album, with a set list that included “One of These Days,” “That and $20,” “Leaving Louisiana Blues,” and the title track “Leaving Time.” Russell was accompanied by an ensemble of talented musicians: Keith Langford (drums), Mason Hankamer (bass), Marty Muse (pedal steel and bongos), and Jon Grossman (keys).
The production was led by Deidre Gott, with audio engineering by Mark Creaney, and contributions from several other skilled professionals. The event highlighted the strong community ties that continue to exist at Hole in the Wall, a venue that has supported generations of Texas songwriters, including legends like Blaze Foley and Lucinda Williams.
A Legacy of Music
The Hole in the Wall has served as a launchpad for many musicians over the decades. Its walls have witnessed countless performances and cultural shifts within the Austin music scene. Russell’s performance not only marks a return to a beloved venue but also reflects the ongoing legacy of storytelling through music.
As KUTX continues to produce content that brings audiences closer to the artists and their narratives, fans are encouraged to support the station’s mission. Donations can be made to help sustain the initiative, ensuring that stories like Russell’s remain accessible to music lovers everywhere.
This new series promises to deepen the connection between artists and audiences, revealing the personal journeys that shape the music we cherish.
