Now, we're already on the third day of the five-day festival known as 10 West, but don't worry—most of the music starts now. The multi-venue event is meant to showcase the best of Tucson's entrepreneurial, technological and creative spirit with panel discussions and tours of the town's galleries and more. But what kind of celebration of Tucson would it be without a bunch of local and international music?
On Thursday, Oct. 22, you can kick things off at the Stone Ave. Block Party. Taking place between 16th and 17th streets, the free showcase offers visuals by local artists, food trucks, a beer garden and more. Musically speaking, Klezmerson is in from Mexico City to perform their fusion of Mexican and gypsy musical traditions. The block party begins at 7 p.m.
Then on Friday, Oct. 23, 10 West will be highlighting some of Tucson's top talent at Club Congress (311 E. Congress St.) for the official music showcase. Giant Sand, XIXA (formerly Chicha Dust), Katterwaul, Vox Urbana, Katie Haverly, Tom Walbank and more will all be showing off that Tucson sound in a two-stage event. Whether its cumbia, desert rock, psych, blues or folk, there's something that inexplicably ties these very different musicians together and you can try to put your finger on just what that is from 7 p.m. until about midnight. 10 West Passport holders get into the show for free, or you can pay $10 at the door the night of the event.
Finally, Phoenix's favorite Daft Punk cover band will cap off the week of festivities at the Rialto Theatre (318 E. Congress St.). After all, an hour and fifteen minutes of dancing should get those creative juices flowing after a day of art-centric tours and more. With a replica of the famous French dance band's massive light pyramid, robot helmets and more, One More Time manages to make it feel like you're really seeing Daft Punk, even if the band refuses to tour. So, suspend your disbelief and get moving. Again, if you're a passport holder, the show is free, or you can pay $20 at the door the night of the show. The final 10 West event runs from 9 until 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24.
For a full list of this and other events happening at 10 West this year, visit the festival's website at www.10west.co.
