Free Event of the Day: Saul Williams

Musician/poet/writer/actor Saul Williams will perform at the University of Texas Union Ballroom Thursday night. Admission is free so long as you pick up a pass beforehand at the Events & Info Desk on the 4th floor of the Union. You must be a UT student to pick up the pass although I don't believe a UT ID is required to enter. One student may obtain up to two passes.

Born in New York, Williams' life has seen him earn his masters from NYU, star in the independent film Slam, and produce music with NIN's Trent Reznor. He mixes hip-hop and poetry to create a truly unique listening experience.

Free Event of the Weekend: ACL Autographs

Alright, so it's not entirely free. The autograph signings occur under the Waterloo Records tent within the festival grounds. The tent is located near the main entrance on Barton Springs Road (to the left once you enter). Click here for the schedule.

Friday's signing schedule includes Donavon Frankenreiter, Vampire Weekend and Hot Chip. MGMT and Drive-by Truckers will be signing autographs Saturday. Blues Traveler and Neko Case highlight Sunday's signing lineup.

If there's a band you're dieing to meet on the list, schedule your festival itinerary accordingly, allowing yourself time if there is a long line. If there's a lull in your personalized ACL schedule in which there is no band you care for on stage, check out the tent and meet some real live rockstars.

Free Event of the Day: White Denim

Indie rock band White Denim, along with Belaire, Black Joe Lewis and Freshmillions, will perform live tomorrow night at the Mohawk Lounge. The show is free with RSVP or flier. The event is hosted by ATX Converge and the music starts at 9pm. I believe all ages are welcome.

White Denim and female-led Belaire are both up-and-coming Austin rock bands. Local, electro-funk outfit Freshmillions figure to provide the perfect opening act.

The most unique of the bunch might just be Black Joe Lewis. The local blues/soul singer and his band will be one tough act to follow.

Free Event of the Day: Redman

The rapper Redman will be performing live at the Parish tonight and it's totally free. All you have to do is RSVP with your name and email address. Must be 21 or older. The free show is hosted by carmaker Scion and there will be at least one opening act.

The concert is part of the Metro Austin series. I saw Bun B of UGK at the Parish for free about a month ago. The music and the venue were great. I missed out on the online signup but they were not checking names at the door.

Redman, of New Jersey, has been in the rap game since his debut album in 1992. Consider this show a preview to his non-free upcoming concert with Method Man at Stubbs Nov. 18. Let's hope it's better than their movie How High.