“Last Known Surroundings,” directed by Ptarmak, from Explosions in the Sky’s new record, Take Care, Take Care, Take Care, out on Temporary Residence Limited.

Big news: Explosions in the Sky is playing for us on September 15. Twilight show. Free.

!!!!!!!

I first saw Explosions in the Sky at SXSW in 2003, and it ACTUALLY blew my mind. Legend has it that their label, Temporary Residence Limited, signed the band on the strength of their demo after only half a listen — “the demo was submitted by fellow Austin band The American Analog Set with a brief note saying, ‘This totally fucking destroys.'” Which basically sums it up.

The quartet originally hails from Texas (three of the members are from Midland, three hours away from Marfa), and you can feel the influence of the West Texas landscape on their music — huge, spacious, emotional, epic. (Also of note: They did the music for the Texas high school football movie, Friday Night Lights.)

The show is the night before Austin City Limits in Austin, so drive to Marfa, see Explosions, have heart ripped out of chest, contemplate the stars, contemplate life, watch the sunrise, drive to Austin, pray for Stevie Wonder/Kanye West duet. Boom. For real. –NICKI

Explosions in the Sky plays a free show for Ballroom Marfa on 15 September 2011 at Vizcaino Park. Twin Sister opens. Doors at 7 pm.