To walk into the Lonesome Rose is to step into a time machine. From the eclectic decorations, such as the retro beer signs and old photos, to the low ceilings and warm lighting, this place feels like a piece of old San Antonio.
The Lonesome Rose offers live music, a fully stocked bar, a large backyard with a food truck and plenty of seating. The self-described “oldest honky tonk on the St Mary’s strip” celebrates its sixth year this week with a four-night festival of great music.
Precious Gems, a duo from Austin, kicked off this music extravaganza. This duo weaves a tapestry of sound, utilizing a plethora of instruments — such as a cello, accordion, flute and synths — to create an ambient and ethereal experience. Lulling the audience into a trance with a hypnotic performance, the band creates an otherworldly sonic experience. However, despite their undeniable talent and intensity, their connection with the audience felt distant.
Next up to the stage was Virginia Creeper, another group bridging the I-35 gap, quickly pulling the crowd closer to the stage with their fast, electric energy. Their raw and evocative blend of “pastoral sludge” feels both heavy and serene. Reminiscent of bands like Wednesday and MJ Lenderman, their music balances distorted guitar with hauntingly melodic vocals. Virginia Creeper delivers a captivating, gritty sound.
Taking the stage to a hometown crowd was Ston the Band with an infectious stage presence whipping the crowd into a frenzy. The lead singer commands attention, jumping around and screaming his lyrics into the mic with unrelenting intensity; that energy quickly transfers to the crowd as they start to move to the music. A raucous fusion of twangy vocals and math rock-like guitar seamlessly blends classic honky-tonk with a chaotic punk-inspired edge. With their dynamic energy, Ston the Band delivers a hard-to-forget performance.
Elnuh, a trio from San Antonio, wrapped the night up with a mesmerizing blend of shoegaze and dream-pop. Their hazy, almost ghostly vocals drift through layers of ethereal guitar, creating an atmosphere that envelops the listener like a warm blanket. The audience is quiet as Elnuh draws them into their swirling melodies, leaving a lasting impression with their dreamy sound.
Tonight was a testament to the Lonesome Rose’s role as a cornerstone of San Antonio’s vibrant music scene. This festival is more than a showcase of diverse musical talent; it is a celebration of the community that the Lonesome Rose cultivates. Cheers to six incredible years and many more to come.
