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Houston

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Khruangbin

Inspired by cultural sounds from across the world, with even their name translating to "Airplane" in Thai, a guide to Houston from the Texan trio, Khruangbin was a no brainer.

Donald “DJ” Johnson, drummer in the instrumental trio, as been living in Houston, Texas for much of his life. Though the band takes influences from Thailand, Mexico City and west Africa, Houston is perhaps the place that is of most personal significance to Khruangbin. Leading their guide to their hometown, Donald shares all the spots that make Houston, 

 and some of the places that helped bring the band together.


"Houston has its own thing going on. The pace here is slower than many other places, which is probably an adjustment for an outsider."


Donald suggests kicking it back at the record shop when you're there, experiencing the cultural hybridity of Tex-Mex food and munching on some authentic Texas BBQ: 

"It's hard to find bad BBQ here, because if you're not up to par, you'll get smoked (pun intended)."

The vibe is great here. There's a functioning reel to reel tape machine providing the soundscape that greets you at the entrance. The entire menu is fire, but don't leave without trying the "Nancy Cakes.

Lots of records, cassettes, CDs and band swag here. There's also a small stage there as well that Khruangbin played many years ago.

Affectionately called "Rudz". Mark, Laura & I hung out here practically every Tuesday night before starting Khruangbin. Burger with cheddar & fresh jalapeños with a side of tots...and a side of mayo for dipping the tots.

Coolest late night hang in town, and if you can catch DJ Sun spinning while you're there, you're in for a treat.

Best BBQ spot on the Nawfside of the H. Can't go wrong with a chopped beef sandwich.

Hats fitted and made to order, perched above a barber shop in Downtown Houston.

A quirky gift shop filled with fun trinkets located in Rice Village.

Authentic Tex-Mex. An order of queso for the table, and chicken & beef combination fajitas. Corn or Flour tortillas is a big debate, but it's totally your call (I dig flour)

There's always interesting, well curated exhibits on display here throughout the year. James Turrell's "The Light Inside" installation lives there.

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