Travel
Bluesy native supergroup Grackles time travels to mystical Outdated Austin on debut LP
Love them or hate them, there’s few issues extra authentically Austin than our mates the grackles. These gutsy little birds are our fixed companions, unfazed by every new sushi restaurant or civic scandal. They’re additionally the inspiration for “Austin’s 234th finest blues, rock rhythm and soul band,” to make use of a phrase from Grackles’ personal Bandcamp bio.
Though the band has been taking part in collectively since 2022, a self-titled new launch March 29 marks Grackles’ official album-length debut. They’re celebrating with a launch present the subsequent night time, March 30, on the Continental Membership. For Austinites entrenched in Austin’s music and meals scene, this would be the place to be on Saturday; Band members Jimmy Paxson (drums, touring with The Chicks), Jason Mozersky (guitar, bandmates with Ben Harper), and Noah Lit (guitar/vocals) are merging each worlds, and mates are positive to cease by.
Noah Lit, the challenge’s essential songwriter, is finest identified in music for his function in native group Megafauna, and in meals for the bakery Batch Craft Beer & Kolaches, which he owns along with his spouse, Laura Lit. The 2 reached a milestone simply weeks in the past opening a brand-new enterprise that’s larger profile than something they’ve pulled off earlier than: reviving the beloved previous Contigo house as Redbud Ice Home, with the unique Contigo homeowners and native super-chef Michael Fojtasek of Olamaie.
“Effectively, we get to play right here if I am unable to discover one other gig, in order that’s good,” joked Lit in an interview with CultureMap in January. The musician-impresario hybrid says it has been simpler to get Austin publications to jot down about meals and beer; This editor says, we’ll take all of it.
Album cowl courtesy of Grackles
This deeply referential blues and Western album has tons of Southern appeal that does not cease at “nation,” though that is the style Lit has been utilizing to explain it thus far. The opening monitor, “It is Coming to Ya,” opens with a darkish, moody, and even barely mystical tone. Lit sings in a Nick Cave-like low growl, Paxson lays down a cool clanging groove, and Mozersky will get additional soulful on guitar. All that could possibly be fairly hokey, however underneath the professional manufacturing of Kyle Crusham (Paul Simon), it rides easily right into a Chihuahan Desert night time.
“San Antone,” the subsequent track up and the primary single the group launched (additionally that includes Charlie Musselwhite and Lauren Harris), is equally well-suited for a up to date spaghetti Western. However this Texan fantasy comes not from a clueless Italian film producer, however Lit’s precise childhood rising up in San Antonio.
“I wished to inform a mystical noir story a few San Antonio that solely existed in my highschool creativeness,” he mentioned in a press launch asserting the only. “San Antonio is concerning the nicest metropolis one may ever hope to go to, however maybe there’s a darkish witchy undertone; Robert Johnson offered his soul to file within the Gunter Lodge downtown off the Riverwalk, [so] what else could possibly be hiding in its candle lit cobblestone alleys? Having Charlie Musselwhite play harmonica on the monitor can also be a dream come true.”
Other than the Robert Johnson mythology, Lit references legendary singer Roy Orbison, poetic songwriter Leonard Coen, and blues guitarist Alan Wolf. Certainly, others would pop up in any dialog with the self-proclaimed “music geek,” who actually backs up the declare. Though San Antonio impressed the only, the album as an entire nods to Austin’s music scene 30 years in the past.
“Even [in] ‘San Antonio,’ you are going down to San Antonio. So you are still coming from Austin,” Lit muses. “My unique thought was to attempt to make this a bizarre idea file about dwelling in Austin in [that] time interval… I moved right here in 95, and folks have been complaining that Outdated Austin is useless. I feel it is a type of a nationwide pastime right here to complain about it, however over the previous, say, 5 years, it has actually hit a fevered pitch of change.”
The monitor “Close to Or Too Far,” a less complicated blues ballad with extra romance and fewer mysticism, feels more true to the Austin many can relate to now. “Prime Of The World,” the opposite single on the file, feels straight out of Willie Nelson’s catalog with a lazy vocal duet, languorous pedal metal, and nice piano accompaniment. “Grackles Barn Burner” is as described within the title, with additional gasoline on the fireplace because of well-known guitarist David Grissom, who lent his Austin-bred abilities to Joe Ely, the Allman Brothers Band, and Buddy Man.
There’s far more to speak about, from the hopeful, shuffling “Far Away From Nothing” to the odd monitor out, the surprisingly glam rock-flavored “After I’m Gone”; However frankly, with all these genres and sonic references going by, this album is one Texans must hearken to themselves — perhaps with a pal, to match notes. And the Continental Membership present will probably be an excellent place to start out.
“I actually wished it to be one thing [as if] you walked into the Continental otherwise you walked in to C-Boy’s, and this band was taking part in. In case you in the event you paid consideration, you’d assume, ‘Oh, these are fairly cool songs.’ However you could possibly additionally simply sit there and drink your beer and speak to mates,” says Lit. “Not that it is background music, but it surely’s bar music, and that is by design. It is nearly going out and having an excellent time, and taking part in with my mates.”
Grackles are taking part in at Continental Membership on March 30 with Pudge Zeppelin and Passiflora. No advance tickets will probably be made accessible for the 21+ present, which begins with Grackles at 10 pm. Extra info is on the market at continentalclub.com.
Pre-order Grackles on Bandcamp. Discover streaming hyperlinks by way of DistroKid, and vinyl data at Waterloo Data once they’re accessible.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
Travel
How the federal government shutdown impacts journey – ABC Information – Breaking Information, Newest Information and Movies
Celebrities1 year agoBen Shephard’s relationship ‘settlement’ with spouse Annie as he points her warning
Entertainment3 years agoAny person Get Snowboarder Brin Alexander an Invite to the Pure Choice Tour
Celebrities1 year agoBeloved Gogglebox couple reveal ‘axe’ from Channel 4 sequence
Travel3 years agoBelize on a finances – Lonely Planet
Travel3 years ago8 of the very best locations to go to within the Bahamas
Celebrities2 years agoDemi Moore & Her Daughters Might Be Quadruplets at Oscars After-Social gathering
Travel3 years agoThe 8 finest international locations for digital nomads and distant working
Recepies2 years agoTake heed to The Nation on-line with Jamie Mackay: Zanda McDonald winners and hard occasions for sheep and beef