While a lingering cold prevented me from staying for more than a few hours at today’s Free Press Houston Block Party–which was well-attended while I was there–I saw several bands that deserve some praise. The first of which was The Gold Sounds, a band I had never seen before (and one which I checked out thanks to local writer Adam P. Newton). You’ll definitely be hearing more from me on these guys in the near future.

Another band was the tried-and-true instrumental rock band Co-Pilot. I stood center-stage, closed my eyes, and just swayed to their spacey sounds. It was a stellar set.

I also saw Hell City Kings, whose in-your-face blend of punk and garage I wrote about for the Houston Press after catching their set at this year’s Music Awards. They are only getting better and I can’t wait to see them again. Seriously good rock.

Indie popsters The Wild Mocassins and the wanna-hate-them-but-I-can’t World’s Most Dangerous also played well-attended and energetic sets.

While Chase Hamblin‘s acoustic set was cut short by sound issues, he definitely gave the crowd at AvantGarden an impressive taste of songs from his upcoming album. Keep an eye out for his shows.

Thanks to the Free Press for putting this show on. Great job.