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The Asylum Street Spankers, Sounding Off
The Asylum Street Spankers, with Wammo and Christina Marrs at lower left.
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The Asylum Street Spankers are named for a street in Austin, Texas, that once led to the State Asylum. They've been called a postmodern jug band and "Hee-Haw for hipsters," among other things. They use fiddles, resonator guitars and even a saw, one of five instruments key contributor Christina Marrs has taught herself.
Their music is drawn mostly from the early 20th century, yet many of the lyrics aren't suitable for NPR -- they're a bit too naughty. But as Jacki Lyden notes, the act is witty and wacky, a bit reminiscent of the late, great Spike Jones and his orchestra.
Marrs and lead singer Wammo tell Lyden about their music.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
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