This poster was not created by me as a fantasy, but comes from the real Matador site. I have often lamented that most of my favorite bands skip playing Vegas shows on their tours. All is forgiven! Except for Drive-by Truckers or a Husker Du reunion, this show could be a lineup assembled from my dreams last night.

Hysterical fan thoughts: Am I really going to get to hear “Seymour Stein” at the Palms played by Belle & Sebastian? Pinch me!  And, the New Pornographers, too. If I get the right pass, maybe I can ask Neko Case for her thoughts on Bob Dylan. The possibilities are endless. These are the moments I live for here in Vegas.  Today was a typical Wednesday morning, yet I awake to discover that the most amazing concert has been booked with many of the bands who I dream of seeing here.

(personal note: Aurora Snow, Vegas needs you out here October 1-3. FYI: Your Wikipedia entry points out we have an anniversary to celebrate, too!)

I don’t think I have ever been this excited about an upcoming concert in Vegas!

Obviously, overnight Vegas resorts have not decided that the future of local entertainment is closer to Pavement than Celine Dion. This event is more akin to a Vegas convention: a special place where subcultures can cheaply gather and celebrate themselves.  According to legendary independent label Matador’s site: “Matador will be celebrating the label’s 21st anniversary this October and…there will be 3 nights of shows starting Friday October 1, and concluding Sunday October 3 at the Palms Casino & Resort In Las Vegas, NV. We’ll be dropping further hints about the amazing lineup in the days ahead.” There’s, to quote the prophets of Roxy Music, “more than this!”  Can they get the Fall, or Bevis Frond?

Vegas remains open to experiments in booking acts especially with other people’s money (as is the case here).  But if these shows bring in a lot of people, dedicated fans, that will get noticed by resorts.  Perhaps, finally, there will be a respect for the possibilities of  booking less obvious artists (who have disproportionate dedication from fans) into the  lounges and showrooms of Vegas.