Chad Rafferty
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Articles by Chad Rafferty
Paramount Theatre's Summer Programming
Film Join the legendary Austin theatre for its Summer Classic Film Series, the Majestic Ball, and much more By Chad Rafferty May 22, 2024 During Austin’s summer season, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to take advantage of. However, everyone has their limit when it comes to triple-digit heat, and sometimes, you just need a little break.
25 Under-Sung Music Venues in Austin to Visit for Great Shows
Austin Lifestyle City Maps Presented By See musicians both local and global perform in Austin’s most iconic music venues. Presented By Hotel Vegas | Photo by Isabella MartinezHotel Vegas | Photo by Isabella Martinez Austin has long been regarded as the Live Music Capital of the Known Universe, and the city has earned it, with more live venues per capita than any other city, despite the influx of transplants bumping the population up over a million.
60 of Our Favorite Discoveries on Amazon
We scout, review, and otherwise profile hundreds of products a month. Some we like, some we don't, and some we love. These are the ones we love - the products that truly stick out to us as special. Whether that's their inventiveness, bang-for-your-buck, or just overall wow that's good factor, these 60 things found their way into our hearts - and in many cases, our carts - this month. Some of these we own and can vouch for: You want the best pillows on Amazon?
Paramount Theatre's Summer Programming Will Keep You Cool - Tribeza
During Austin’s summer season, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to take advantage of. However, everyone has their limit when it comes to triple-digit heat, and sometimes, you just need a little break. Thankfully, the Paramount Theatre is back to save the day with its annual Summer Classic Film Series, and this year’s lineup provides the perfect reprieve on those days when you’ve had enough of the Texas sun.
Indigo De Souza - "All Of This Will End" | Album Review — POST-TRASH
by Chad Rafferty (@chadrafferty) In general, Indigo De Souza doesn’t mince words. The appeal of her music, along with a pop star’s knack for melody and a grungy edge, has always been a rare earnestness, a seemingly innate tendency to bare her soul through raw poetry exploring the everydayness of being young and alive.
Dougie Poole - "The Rainbow Wheel of Death" | Album Review — POST-TRASH
by Chad Rafferty (@chadrafferty) When describing any new album, there’s an ever-increasing tendency to flatten artists, particularly those of the indie or underground variety, by describing their music via comparison to one or more other artists, usually those of classic or cult status, to the point where anyone finding success in minor key guitar is almost inevitably likened to Elliott Smith.
Jordan Holtz - "Not Close For Comfort" | Album Review — POST-TRASH
by Chad Rafferty (@chadrafferty) Growing up in a place like New Hampshire, which is to say somewhere small, cold, rural, and often overlooked, you tend to find yourself often in art born there. Maybe this is true for anyone growing up anywhere, yet as a true swing state of interests, aesthetic and affiliation, New Hampshire feels particularly positioned as the sort of place that’ll seep into its inhabitants' expression.
Florry - "Sweet Guitar Solos" | Album Review — POST-TRASH
by Chad Rafferty (@chadrafferty) There’s a certain sweet spot where a song manages to feel both familiar and brand new at the same time. It’s something you’ve heard before without triggering any derivative alarms, yet it’s undeniably fresh without completely alienating. With “Cowgirl in a Ditch,” the lead single off their Sweet Guitar Solos EP, Philly-based Florry finds that balance in full force.
Disheveled Cuss - "Into The Couch" | Album Review — POST-TRASH
by Chad Rafferty (@chadrafferty) Disheveled Cuss was born as Nick Reinhart’s effort to create more “normal songs”. As a result, the project's 2020 debut served up a collection of songs featuring some more accessible structures, while retaining the heart of an outsider. On Into the Couch, the self-released second LP under the Disheveled Cuss moniker, he continues to stay weird in all the right ways.
10 Gifts the Plant Lover in Your Life Absolutely Needs
Got a plant person to shop for this holiday season? Perhaps it's your mom who has beds of award-winning blooms. Or maybe a friend of yours started a pandemic garden. Could be a colleague who's got a lively collection of pothos and ferns at their desk. Whether they're into houseplants or vegetable terraces, there is a veritable bounty of gift options for the green thumb you love. I, like many others, became an avid horticulturalist during lockdown a few years ago.
17 Gifts That Are Totally Splurge-Worthy
We all know that gifts are best when they come from the heart. Things aren't really what the holiday is really about. It's the time you get to spend with your loved ones that makes the season merry and bright. But! Let's be real here: spoiling people rotten is also kind of fun, too, isn't it? Why not treat the folks on your gifting list to a little (or big) treat? Here are some absolutely splurge-worthy gifts to consider this holiday season.
The Last Gift Guide You'll Need This Season
Odds are you're reading gift-guides left and right this shopping season. Fortunately, we pore through thousands of products every month to find the best things you can buy on the internet that make great gifts. Whether it's a pair of pillows that'll change their lives, or the world's best backscracther, you're going to find at least a handful of add-to-cart items that'll knock out your shopping list right quick.
17 Gifts for Book Lovers - That Aren't ALL More Books
Book lovers are such a special breed of people. A hobby like reading tends to attract folks who are imaginative and empathetic, curious and thoughtful. They are not, however, always easy to shop for! Although it would seem that a book would be the right answer every time, that's not necessarily the case.
The Best Winter Gloves To Help You Stay Outside Longer
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. As the temperature drops, you'll need a pair of winter gloves to keep your hands from freezing and to help keep you outside for as long as you need to be.
Best Camping Gifts on Amazon to Buy This Holiday Season 2022
Even when the temperatures dip below freezing, camping enthusiasts love any excuse to stock up on new gear. Published on 11/7/2022 at 9:33 AM We independently source all of the awesome products and experiences that we feature on Thrillist. If you buy or book from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission — which in turn supports our work.
The Best Waterproof Socks for Wet & Snowy Weather
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. When you think of purchasing waterproof gear for rainy or snowy conditions, your first thoughts probably lean towards the basics like rain jackets or duck boots.
The Best Small Hiking Bag for A Day Hike
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Most hikers and campers have a well-loved backpack they strategically stuff full of survival supplies for a multi-day trek, but sometimes, you don't need 60 liters worth of supplies.
Take Your Kayak Anywhere With The Best Kayak Racks For Cars
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. There are few things more serene than gliding along a river or lake in a kayak -- and whether you're fishing or just taking in the scenery, it's a pretty special way to experience nature.
5 Best 6-Person Tents for Large Camping Groups {2023}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Camping is often a family affair, and depending on how prepared you come, that can lead to a great bonding experience or a total nightmare. No one wants to feel cramped while they camp, and with a big ole 6-person capacity tent, you can make sure everyone has the space they need to enjoy themselves.
7 of Our Favorite Sherpa Jackets for Women
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. A good sherpa fleece jacket will very quickly become a go-to for you in the colder months. Whether you're interested in a coat with sherpa fleece lining or a cozy all-sherpa pullover, you're in line for a soft, warm, and stylish jacket for all occasions.
Hiking With Kids: 5 Toddler Carriers for Family Camping Trips
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Little kids bring so much joy to your life, but it's no secret that they also have the tendency to distract new parents from their hobbies and interests and, well, basically everything other than their toddler.
The Best Camping Hammocks for a Relaxing Fall Getaway
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. For a relaxing day by the campground or the lake, many campers are opting to wind down between a couple of trees in a comfortable camping hammock -- and it definitely beats laying on the ground.
5 Best Bear Sprays for Range, Practice & Best Overall {2023}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Bear attacks: The greatest fear of every new hiker. While seeing wildlife out there can be a magical experience, it can also be pretty jarring, especially if you aren't prepared. The reality is that when you head out for a hike, you're heading right into the home of all types of animals.
Dry Bags: 5 of Our Favorites to Keep Items Safe & Dry
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Whether you're camping, kayaking or headed out on the boat, a quality dry bag is a must-have. Despite all the advances that smartphones have made in waterproofing, it's always a good call to have a dedicated place for all the stuff that you'd rather not get soaked.
5 Best Fishing Rods for Kids of 2023 {Toddlers, Teens & More}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. There are few things better in life than sharing your passions with your kids. Fortunately, if you're a fisherman, there's a good chance your kids will be ready to get out there with you as soon as they can.
Lightweight & Affordable {2023}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Hikes can be hard, and there's no shame whatsoever in seeking out a bit of support. A well-made hiking stick or set of poles can spare your knees from the abuse of rocky terrains, and they'll also help you get up and down more efficiently.
Camping Toilets: Luxury, Minimalist Toilets & More
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. When I talk to people who have never camped or backpacked before, it usually goes a certain way. The picturesque vision of sleeping under the stars, wearing a flannel by the fire and trudging along breathtaking trails is almost always appealing. But of course, the inevitable bathroom question eventually comes up...
5 Camping Air Mattresses We Love
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. There are many different approaches you can take at the campground. While some campers prefer a rugged, minimal experience to get in touch with nature, others are more comfortable with the idea of glamping. There's no right or wrong way to do it, and camping is all about getting outside in a way that you can enjoy.
6 Camping Lanterns With Rave Reviews on Amazon
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. At the campsite, nothing beats the natural flicker and glow of a well-built fire. However, before you get that fire up-and-running, it's fairly helpful to bring some light along with you that isn't quite so labor intensive.
5 of the Best Camping Pillows for Backpacking & More {2023}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. There's no way around it -- camping can be downright uncomfortable. Between infuriating mosquitos, sore feet after a long day on the trail, and the uneven ground that you set your tent on, these discomforts can add up. This is why investing in a comfy camping pillow will be one of the best choices you can make.
6 Best Men's Hiking Pants for Wind, Rain & More {2023}
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. If you're new to hiking, you might not think that you need a ton of specific gear to get out there. After all, we're just talking about a walk in the woods, right? Now, the level of truth here of course depends on the intensity of your hike.
The 5 Best Waterproof Matches for Your Emergency Kit
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Emergency preparedness is an essential part of planning outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, or hunting. While the trail and the campsite are great places to unwind and explore, there's no need to take unnecessary risks, and it's important to have the right products on hand for things that can and do go wrong.
The 5 Best GPS Devices for A More Successful Hunting Season
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Long gone are the days of heading out into the woods to hunt, relying on nothing but your wits. And thank goodness for that: Technology has come a long way, and you can make sure you're covering all the new ground you can while keeping yourself from getting lost with a a quality GPS.
6 of the Best Fire Pits For The Campground Or Your Backyard
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Nothing says summertime quite like sitting around a roaring fire in your backyard or at the campsite. Whether you're roasting marshmallows and hot dogs, singing campfire songs, or just chatting over a few drinks, there's a certain undeniable element that a fire pit adds to any get-together.
50 Amazon Picks That Will Change Your Life
To own an Amazon account is to obsessively browse the website and constantly place orders of random products you're convinced will change your life. Amazon is truly the cure-all haven that holds endless options for every type of shopper. Of course, with great variety can come great stress. Lucky for you, we've done the grunt work for you. Scouring reviews and ratings, we've hand-selected 50 Amazon finds that are simply must-haves.
50 Amazing Things on Amazon You Need to Add to Your Cart
Oh, Amazon. Always there with simple solutions to our daily tasks, yet most of us overlook these helpful tools and gadgets. But not anymore! We've put our (slightly) obsessive brains together to search through Amazon to find you amazing products that you'll need to add to your cart, NOW.
The 6 Best Beach Towels To Dry Off Or Lounge On
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Of all the critical needs for a well-planned beach day, the beach towel you lounge on or dry off with might not seem like the most pressing one. After all, how different can one towel be from another? The answer, you might be surprised to learn, is very.
Take Your Bike Anywhere & Everywhere With These Sturdy Car Mounts
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. The perfect bike ride isn't always right around the corner, so sometimes it's necessary to pack up your gear and set out on the road in search of one. Of course, most vehicles lack the space or capacity to fit a bike or two, so a reliable bike mount for your car is a must-have.
The Best Small 2 Person Tents For Your Next Camping Trip
Editor's Note: Products featured on Wide Open Spaces are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. There are few things in life more enjoyable than pitching your tent and drifting to sleep in the great outdoors. And, like most good things, it's even better if you have someone to share it with.
45 Unbelievably Cool Products on Amazon You Never Knew You Needed
We all know by now that Amazon is bursting at the seams with both everyday items and unusual finds, but sometimes it's hard to sort through it all to find the best products. From household items, beauty products, pet essentials, and more, there's a good chance you'll find it on Amazon. But what about those products you never knew existed but absolutely need?
40 Products Under $30 That Should Already Be In Your Cart
Amazon really does have it all. It's a one-stop shop, from kitchen gadgets and tech to beauty products and the latest fashions. But with more than 350 million products to choose from, it can be hard to know what will become a new favorite and what will end up in the return pile. If you're not sure what to buy and what to skip, we've got you covered. We've rounded up 40 highly rated products that you won't regret adding to your cart.
Your Guide to Getting the Most Out of Prime Day
Prime Day is Amazon's massive yearly sale when you can scoop up a Kindle for an absolute steal and trick out your home with all of your favorite smart home devices. Everything from robot vacuums to smart TVs to headphones is ready for you to grab at a steep discount - what could be better? Did you know, though, that Amazon isn't the only retailer that spends months gearing up for Prime Day?
Our Ultimate Favorite Deals from Prime Day 2022
It's here! Amazon's Prime Day has officially arrived, and we're so excited to bring you all things home, beauty, fashion, and tech at incredible discounts and deals. Running from July 12th through 13th, this year's Prime Day has all of the usual suspects: Kindles, Echo Dots, Fire Sticks, and more.
40 Cool & Unique Products You Have To Check Out This Month
Some products just make you think, "now that's what I need!" From simple solutions such as slicing multiple small vegetables at once to collapsible travel bottles, we kept your daily needs in mind as we found those brilliant products. Perhaps you want budget-friendly products to have at a social gathering. We've found everything from floating light-up pool balls to a travel-ready ice tray and dispenser.
38 Incredible Amazon Products We're Totally Obsessed With
You know those times when there's something you need to buy, but just don't know what it is? That's the beauty of online shopping - the world is at your fingertips! When you have so many options, though, sometimes it's tough to pick the best items that will give you what you're truly looking for.
54 of Our Favorite Discoveries on Amazon This Month
We love an Amazon find that helps with lifestyle needs and complements the home. We're all for affordable tools that can make a huge difference - and spare a lot of stress! So we've done the research and found a ton of products to help you.
How to Clean Doors (Wood, Metal, Glass and Screen) | LoveToKnow
Doors might not be something you think about cleaning often. It's not like a kitchen or bathroom, which is on top of your list. But doors get dirty since you use them daily. Learn how to clean different types of doors and how often you should be cleaning them. How to Clean Metal Front Door Let's start with the best door you have in your house--your front door! Cleaning your front door is essential to ensuring your house looks sharp inside and out. Cleaning your front door is actually pretty simple.
8 Pool Toys That Will Keep Grown-Ups Entertained All Summer
From inflatable beer pong tables to floating bluetooth speakers, these products guarantee a fun day at the pool. Published on 6/3/2022 at 11:35 AM We independently source all of the awesome products and experiences that we feature on Thrillist. If you buy or book from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission — which in turn supports our work. Pool season is rapidly approaching—or it might even be here already, depending on your spatial relationship with the equator.
What I Love: An Editor's Favorite Products
As LoveToKnow's Commerce Editor, I spend a TON of time looking for awesome products, and while there have definitely been some downers, there are quite a few that have pleasantly surprised me. From bread baskets to upcycled robes to my most treasured face wash, some of these favorites have come into my life in unexpected ways, but geez, I'm awfully glad they did. I have a crazy-busy schedule on any given week.
What to Pack for a National Park Trek, According to a Backpacking Expert
The best backpacks, hiking boots, tents, and headlamps for your next outdoor adventure. Published on 5/10/2022 at 3:55 PM We independently source all of the awesome products and experiences that we feature on Thrillist. If you buy or book from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission — which in turn supports our work. Our country is a complicated place. It’s no secret that, as a nation, we have plenty to work on.
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