The new series titled The Hole Story, hosted by KUTX, debuted with a captivating performance by Kevin Russell of Shinyribs at the legendary Hole in the Wall in Austin, Texas. This initiative aims to not only showcase live music but also delve into the narratives behind the songs, enriching the audience’s experience with personal stories from the artists.
Established in 1974, Hole in the Wall is renowned as one of Austin’s most iconic dive bars, serving as a platform for numerous Texas songwriters, including notable names like Blaze Foley, Lucinda Williams, Spoon, Shakey Graves, and Gary Clark Jr.. The venue’s history is steeped in musical tradition and vibrant culture, making it a fitting location to launch this new series.
Kevin Russell’s history with the venue dates back to the 1990s when he performed regularly with his band, The Gourds. Their popularity led to a memorable incident where the cover charge was increased from $5 to $7 due to overwhelming crowds. This move sparked accusations of price gouging from some patrons, highlighting the bar’s lively and sometimes contentious atmosphere.
At the recent event, Russell celebrated the release of his ninth studio album, Leaving Time, which is set to be available on April 25, 2025, through Nine Mile Records. During the performance, he shared new songs along with anecdotes from his childhood and teenage years, offering insights into his journey to Austin.
The set list for the evening included a mix of tracks that showcased Russell’s unique sound and storytelling ability: “One of These Days,” “That and $20,” “Leaving Louisiana Blues,” and the title track “Leaving Time.”
Russell was joined on stage by a talented group of musicians, including Keith Langford on drums, Mason Hankamer on bass, Marty Muse on pedal steel and bongos, and Jon Grossman on keys.
The production team behind The Hole Story included producer Deidre Gott, audio engineer Mark Creaney, and camera operators Deborah Cannon, Michael Minasi, Isak Kotecki, and Patricia Lim. The editing was also handled by Cannon, ensuring a polished final presentation.
The event not only highlighted Russell’s musical talents but also reaffirmed Hole in the Wall’s status as a cultural landmark in Austin. As KUTX continues to bring artists and audiences closer together, they encourage support for their mission.
To learn more about the series and contribute, interested parties can visit KUTX’s website to make a donation.
