Oklahoma | Down Home Traveler

Last Saturday, a few of us headed to Dallas to see the Turnpike Troubadours. I’ve never been to the Granada Theatre – I’m glad that I finally got the chance. Completely authentic, the perfect size, seats and standing area. I’m convinced that any seat has a great view (we were in the last seated row). The venue was easy to find and parking was convenient. I look forward to going back – I already have a show in mind!

Evan (the lead singer of Turnpike Troubadours) has a HUGE fan (my current roommate) so we were bound to go. We caught the second opener for the band – Two Tons of Steel out of San Antonio. The best way to describe these guys would be Texas Country meets Country Swing. The lead singer had some Dwight Yoakam / Elvis mannerisms. They were pretty good. The stand up bassist was phenomenal. There’s not enough good stand up bassists in this world!

The Turnpike Troubadours are out of Oklahoma but its evident that Texans are forgiving them. They’re pretty great (we’ve seen them numerous times). Evan – you do seem to get a little more drunk on stage every time I see you play though. Just sayin’.

The two bands (we missed the first) complimented themselves very well. The crowd loved them. The sound was great in the theatre. If you’re looking for some good ole Texas / Texas Country bands – these are two you should definitely check out either live or just pick up their cd for your Sunday drive!

A couple weekends ago, it was UT vs. OU here in Dallas. It’s known as the Red River Rivalry and draws a big crowd, especially considering the Texas State Fair is going on. The game is on Saturday but there is always a huge crowd in the West End in Dallas on Friday night. I’ve wanted to check it out every year since I’ve been here and this year we finally went.

The street is blocked off, the businesses are open and accepting all customers. The street is filled with sober and completely drunk folks. Some who are strictly serious about the game and others who are just out to have fun. The people watching was pretty amusing. It never fails that some girls will wear the highest of all high heels and then not be able to walk for half the night. Comfort is key folks!

I will say that my expectations were set a little high. I expected more of a 6th Street in Austin feel (bar, bar, bar vs. restaurant) and beer tubs set out on the street. There were only one or two areas to buy beer without having to pay a cover at a restaurant / bar or to get into (and stay) in a gated area. There were also a lot more OU fans than Texas fans. But in the end the people watching is still golden and it was a good time!