Your hipster and/or Chad beer options just got more crowded this week with the launch of Shiner Bock in the city. To help you out in hunting the Texas brewery selection down, Shiner has set up a neat little website briefly describing the beer, its history, and - most important - a list of locations where you can find Shiner Bock. The list, which we're hoping is partial, is sort of the lowest common denominator... more ›

Ah, SXSW. Yup, it's the time of year when industry flacks, up-and-coming bands, under-the-radar hopefuls, and drunken journalists all descend upon Austin, Texas, for a few days of shmoozing, boozing, and live-music grooving. Chicago bands are being well represented this year, and a few of them are even traveling in style after Hideout's fundraiser last weekend. (We were told that the event raised over $10,000 in donations to send the sixteen bands that participated down to Austin. That's a lot of Shiner Bock!) And of course there's the great day parties thrown by local venues down there like Metro, Schuba's and Bloodshot Records. more ›

As Chicagoist walked through the cutting winds and cursed winter for overstaying its welcome, we tried to think happy thoughts about warmer climates. Since we've been listening to the torrent from South by Southwest, our minds drifted down to Texas and we imagines we were there sitting in the warm sun as we dined on BBQ and ice cold beer and listened to that sweet, sweet music. Then the dudes from ZZ Top showed up... more ›