Last Sunday’s AMP UnGala 2013: UnWind was organized by and also benefited local non-profit Austin Music People. AMP’s self-described mission is “advocating for the brands, bands and fans that make Austin the Live Music Capital of the World.” The concert showcased a variety of local musicians representing genres ranging from orchestral rock to alternative country.

The evening was hosted by KUT radio personality, Laurie Gallardo, at the ACL-Live Moody Theater. Various AMP awards were presented to local “behind-the-scenes” supporters of live music in our city, including City Council member Mike Martinez, popular eatery Magnolia Cafe, and Joel Laviolette and the Rattletree School of Marimba.

When Bill and I arrived at the theater, we were told that the balcony was closed and our reserved seats were moved to the main floor instead. Much to our surprise, we were led to front row seats. Although I was worried that the noise might be too loud, our reassigned seats were perfect for taking photos and for watching one of our favorite groups, Mother Falcon.

Erica Wennerstrom and members of Heartless Bastards played a set, as did Shakey Graves—a one-man dynamo who simultaneously sang, strummed guitar, and played a stomp box (drum) and a tambourine with his feet.

Bill reminded me that I didn’t really care for The Bright Light Social Hour at last year’s AMP concert, but I enjoyed them more this year, probably due to our close-up seats. Their wild-man drummer was fun to watch. BLSH definitely attracted the largest and most enthusiastic crowd of the evening.

Headliner Alejandro Escovedo was the final act of the evening. Bill and I have seen Alejandro many times now, most recently at his birthday celebration in this same venue. Even though the crowd had thinned out, Alejandro and his band still kept the energy level high and played a great set.