Join the Woodson Research Center for a semester-long series highlighting the audio gems in the Joe Specht collection. Starting September 2nd, every Wednesday at 4pm, we'll listen to an LP in the reading room (1st floor of Fondren Library next to the Brochstein entrance/exit). There will also be related archival materials, when available. There might even be a special guest to talk about the album or the people involved.
Check out the album information.
Upcoming Listening Parties
09-02 Lightnin' Hopkins - Blues Underground
Listen to a Houston Blues rarity recorded at D Records, an early predecessor to Sugar Hill Studios.
09-09 Frummox - From Here to There
Listen to a rarity that set the stage for Austin's progressive country scene in 1969.
09-16 Clifton Chenier - Bogalusa Boogie
Listen to 5th Ward's Clifton Chenier showcase Houston's unique musical genre, Zydeco.
09-23 The Soul of Texas Blues Women
Listen to a compilation album highlighting the various sounds of Texas Blues women from the sweet to the funky.
09-30 Richard Dobson - In Texas Last December
Listen to a rare DIY album showing the early songwriting of Richard Dobson, a protege of Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark.
10-07 Juke Boy Bonner - The Struggle
Listen to the classic Houston Blues album that highlights the good and bad of our great city.
10-14 Buckwheat Zydeco - 100% Fortified Zydeco
Listen to Buckwheat Zydeco, who studied under Clifton Chenier, play his signature meld of Zydeco and soul.
10-21 Big Mama Thornton - Stronger Than Dirt
Listen to Houston's rock n' roll pioneer Big Mama Thornton's first full length studio album.
10-28 13th Floor Elevators - The Psychedelic Sounds Of The 13th Floor Elevators
Listen to the Texas psychedelic band's first album recorded in Houston.
11-04 Lyle Lovett - Self-titled
Listen to the alt-country sounds of Lyle Lovett when his pompadour defied gravity.
11-11 Katie Webster - Whooee Sweet Daddy
Listen to the swamp boogie queen of Houston, Katie Webster.
11-18 The Bubble Puppy - A Gathering of Promises
Listen to a San Antonio psychedelic band that recorded its masterwork in Houston.
12-02 Townes Van Zandt - Self-titled
Listen and think deeply about Townes Van Zandt's moody folk.
12-09 Nanci Griffith - There's a Light Beyond These Woods
Finals week is stressful. Chill out with Nanci Griffith's delicate folk songs.