Mark Rubin and Danny Barnes comprise most of the Bad Livers. They earned a reputation for marrying punk rock energy and sensibilities to bluegrass music. No, really. I feel they're at their best, however, when they forget the artsy trappings or the irreverent kookiness and just play. Sometimes their outlook gets a little bleak (high and very, very lonesome), but the Livers truly love this music. Their catalog is now complete on CD; I vouch for the first two, Dust On The Bible and Delusions Of Banjeur, especially. Numerous side projects (e.g. Rubinchik's Orkestyr) are available locally.

Learn more about the Bad Livers at MusicAustin.com