Austin: The Allergy Capitol of the U.S.

Unfair title, I know. Austin is so much more than just the allergy capitol of the country, but for some of us - namely Louisa and Ian - allergies and athsma were a significant part of our experience of Texas' capitol. Rad people, pitbulls and accomodations were fabulous though, and did a good job of tempering the allergic crises.

It shouldn't go unmentioned that the bill we were a part of at Red River's delightful Beerland was dominanted by women, queers and trannies, which is always a plus. Dreadful Sorry, The Quicks and The Tuna Helpers were all on board and in high form. Dreadful Sorry even featured a cello, making it an evening of queers AND strings. All too rare.

After waiting for *two years* to see the Tunas' delivery my childhood favorite: "The Phantom of the Opera" with their uncanny gothic perfection, I was disappointed when Adrienne announced their last song and no "Phantom" had been heard. Thankfully her sister Bethany was there to advocate for me. Adrienne, even without her very necessary stobe light, was convinced and made my night with an impromptu performance, including her spinning ghost helmet. If you haven't seen these guys live, you better make a point to do so asap.