Ep 5. Gary Clark Jr. / Courtney Barnett

In the fifth episode of season 41 of Austin City Limits, viewers are treated to an electric performance by two of the most talented and charismatic musicians of our time – Gary Clark Jr. and Courtney Barnett. The show, recorded live at Austin City Limits' Moody Theater, captures the energy, passion, and raw talent of these two musicians as they play some of their biggest hits and fan-favorite tracks.

Gary Clark Jr., a blues-rock guitar virtuoso hailing from Austin, opens the show with a high-octane performance of "Bright Lights," an electrifying track that showcases his impressive guitar skills and soulful vocals. The audience is instantly captivated by his undeniable stage presence, and Clark Jr. wows them with other hits like "When My Train Pulls In," "Don't Owe You a Thang," and "Church." His blues-rock sound is a perfect fit for the Austin City Limits stage, and his performance is a testament to the rich musical heritage of the city.

Following Clark Jr.'s set, Courtney Barnett takes the stage and immediately commands the audience's attention with her signature blend of indie rock and witty lyrics. The Australian singer-songwriter dazzles with her opening track "Elevator Operator," a song that tells the story of a restless young man looking for his place in the world. Barnett's dry wit and observational humor are on full display throughout her set, as she effortlessly switches between guitar and vocals, and delivers crowd-pleasers like "Pedestrian at Best" and "Depreston." Her acoustic rendition of "Small Poppies" is a particularly impressive moment, showcasing her musical range and emotional depth.

Throughout the show, both Clark Jr. and Barnett are backed by a talented band that helps elevate their performances to the next level. The interplay between the musicians is seamless and tight, and it's clear that Clark Jr. and Barnett have surrounded themselves with the best of the best. The show also features impressive lighting and stage effects that add a sense of drama and enhance the overall experience for viewers.

One of the highlights of the show is the collaborative performance of "Don't Wanna Fight," a track off Alabama Shakes' Grammy-nominated album Sound & Color, which Clark Jr. and Barnett cover in their own unique styles. The song starts off slow and moody, with Barnett's haunting vocals and Clark Jr.'s soulful guitar setting the tone, before building to an explosive, rock-heavy climax. It's a powerful moment that highlights the versatility of both musicians and the magic that can happen when two great artists come together.

Overall, season 41 episode 5 of Austin City Limits is a must-watch for fans of blues-rock, indie rock, and live music in general. The show captures the raw energy and talent of Gary Clark Jr. and Courtney Barnett in a way that few other performances can, and it's a testament to the power of music to bring people together. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to these musicians, this episode is sure to leave you wanting more.