Austin City Limits’ 35th Season Coming!

Performers include Dave Matthews, Sonic Youth, Pearl Jam, Beastie Boys, Wille Nelson, M. Ward, St. Vincent, Okkervil River...

By Blurt Staff

Tired of TV reruns? ‘fraid it's almost summertime, kids. But never fear, we have something you can look forward to: the next season of Austin City Limits, which kicks off October 3 on PBS. This will mark the venerable series' 35^th anniversary.

En route: performances by Dave Matthews, reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Kenny Chesney, iconic and influential bands Pearl Jam, Beastie Boys and Sonic Youth, renowned singer and songwriter Elvis Costello, rocker Ben Harper and Relentless7, and a very special joint performance by Willie Nelson & Asleep at the Wheel. (Nelson appeared on the original pilot episode, recorded in October 1974, and Asleep at the Wheel appeared on the first episode of the first official season in 1976.)

Others slated to appear are M Ward, Andrew Bird, Madeleine Peyroux, St. Vincent, Heartless Bastards, Okkervil River and Band of Heathens. Broadcast dates will be announced soon.

"We had high hopes for our 35th anniversary, but never expected to pull together a season like this" said ACL producer Terry Lickona, in a statement. "We've scored major coups with some of the biggestnames in rock and some of the best touring bands in the world. And we're excited to continue toshowcase the best new and emerging sounds wherever they come from, including some of the hottest bands making waves in Austin and beyond. After three and a half decades it seems likeeverybody still wants to stand on that stage and be a part of ACL history."

History indeed - ACL is without a doubt one of America's most important music shows ever.