Although it's merely coincidental that the Austin-based group Damnations added an X to the end of its name (the band used its home state's postal abbreviation to avoid temptation with soundalike bands), it's certainly appropriate; this quartet's tunes pay homage to the cowpunk pioneers named for the letter that marks the spot. The "T" could easily stand for talent. Fronted by a harmonic sister act (Amy Boone and Deborah Kelly), Damnations TX proves equally proficient with traditional country numbers and high-energy hybrid concoctions. Its alternately boisterous and bittersweet tunes, rendered in breathtaking fashion during emotionally charged concerts, landed the band on Sire Records, where it released its major-label debut last spring. Although it's perhaps the most downbeat track on that record, "Kansas" should bring a smile to all Jayhawks (and the Missourians who love them) when Damnations TX unveils this regionally themed tune at some point in its soulful setlist. Honky-tonkers Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers will warm up the stage for the headliners with scorching sounds spawned in the Arizona desert.
