TCB

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Trophy's may be the most improbable, but it's hardly the only venue to up Austin's live-music ante in recent months. Up by UT, popular cafe Spider House has been booking local and out-of-town talent for its periodic Saturday unplugged series, and offers a surprise DJ every Thursday this month. Roots lovers should investigate Fridays at the Red Fez for Houston imports like the John Evans Band and Southern Backtones (pictured), while the Mean Eyed Cat, a former chainsaw shop turned Johnny Cash tribute bar on West Fifth, hosts occasional shows the Man in Black would approve. Downtown, the Karma Lounge is rapidly turning Eighth and Colorado into Williamsburg south, especially Thursdays with bands like the Chapters and Black Angels. Even Sixth Street is in on the act, with Honky, Tia Carrera, and Scott H. Biram recently tearing up Darwin's Pub. It's getting where you can't throw a rock without hitting someone plugging in an effects pedal.