Mambo's Tapas Cantina is a bar and restaurant on the ground floor of the Park Central Hotel in downtown Fort Worth, just across the street from the Convention Center. It's owned by Dr. George Cravens, a neurosurgeon and harmonica player who has shown an astounding commitment to the local music and art scene.
Every Wednesday at 7 p.m., Mambo's showcases the best of local music in a webcasted variety show hosted by Texas Radio Hall of Famer John Rody and KTCU radio host Tom Urquhart.
If you haven't yet been, you're missing a wonderfully anarchic affair. Each band that plays during the show is often chosen on the fly by Rody, a first-class entertainer who is credited by many with having originated the "Morning Zoo" radio show format back in the '70s during his stint with Dallas radio station KZEW.
Between bands, Rody has been known to interview audience members on camera, or cold-call friends and family members' of the show's guests. It's an addictive, sometimes hilarious experience. Mambo's is such an intimate setting that you soon start to feel as if you've joined this circus yourself.
On Feb. 10, Fort Worth indie band Titanmoon was up first. The band has toured all over the U.S. and overseas and is involved in humanitarian efforts, including raising funds to open an orphanage and school in Karachi, Pakistan. Their sound combines the post-punk rock of U2 with a distinct David Byrne vibe, courtesy of lead vocalist and guitar player Tyler Casey. Bassist Zack Felton, drummer Trey Ware, and an unnamed laptop computer comprise the rhythm section, while Rene Floyd plays lead guitar. Titanmoon is a definite credit to the local music community.
The second act of the night was My Life on Film, which consists of vocalist Todd Walker and guitarist/harmonica player Drew Gabbert. Instrumentals were competent, though not outstanding; and the vocals were on pitch most of the time. I didn't hate it, but it ultimately lacked substance. The duo has announced that they are changing to a more electric format in the near future -- and it will be interesting to see the results.
Sally Majestic, the final act of the night, ended up stealing stole the show. Featuring Tim Cowdin on drums, P.J. Fry on bass and vocals, Scott Vernon on guitar and vocals, John Stevens on guitar, and Christopher Laskoski on keys, Sally has been a mainstay of serious rock music in Funkytown for nearly a decade. Although they have played covers in the past, Sally Majestic is now an all-originals act. Sally Majestic plays the Prophet Bar in Dallas on Feb. 19. www.myspace.com/sallymajestic
Mambo's Weekly Webcast
Feb. 10
Mambo's Tapas Cantina, Fort Worth
visit www.mambosmedia.com
