Countdown to NX35 2010: 32 days ’til more folk come to Denton*

Denton. little d. Austin’s baby cousin. About 120,000 strong, this city is home to two universities, the north Texas I-35 split, and the Golden Triangle Mall (which has no food court, mind you). Oh, and some may argue that Denton is home to the best music scene around. When you take into account that one of the universities is home to the Grammy-nominated One o’ Clock Lab Band, the argument starts to makes sense. It’s where lots of musicians flock to in hopes of refining their art through college. Sometimes they graduate and sometimes they can’t afford tuition anymore, but either way, they take advantage of the talent that has accumulated here and learn through each other. In March, the invitation is open to all, to come visit Denton and see what all of the talk is about, or rather, listen, as the cream of Denton’s crops will be in full force at NX35 2010.

Frontier Ruckus

If there’s anything there’s not a shortage of in Denton, it’s indie folk. Acoustic guitars, banjos, Melodicas, violins, accordions, and harmonized vocals can be found in use every weekend at one show or another in this town. And you know what? I welcome them with open arms. I think the reason I love this genre so much is because it satisfies the little part in me that needs a little touch of country without the terrible twang and lyrics. So, even though there’s enough music to satisfy my music palate within a few miles of my house, it’s good to know folk rock is alive and kicking in other places of the country.

Today’s venture brings us to Michigan, home to Frontier Ruckus. Undoubtedly, what initially sets them apart from other acts is the uneasy vocal styling and lyrics of frontman, Matthew Milia. But this act is not confined to Milia’s talent as the banjo seems to effortlessly pick its way alongside the bassist’s vocal harmonies and the occasional addition of the harmonica, trumpet, and even a musical saw. Together, Frontier Ruckus paints a pictures of old memories, heartache, and of towns that could easily be our own. Come see one of Michigan’s best as they travel to join us folk in Denton at NX35.

Notable tunes to preview online: “What You Are,” “The Latter Days” / Myspace / Facebook

*Folk = people and folk = music so the verb agreement was not agreeing either way. I thought about this until the word “folk” started looking wrong so I just left it as it is. Where’s Strunk and White when you need them?

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