The H & H Tavern is another example of a historic venue in East Austin forced to confront the changing realities of the neighborhood. Traditionally a African-American community bar, this year the H & H chose to sponsor its first official SXSW showcase, comprised of mostly white rock bands from out-of-town. But the owners and managers seemed to be having a good time with it, and the bands seemed to like the venue, with its soulful ambiance and neighborhood vibe. The young man who manages the space is a drummer (his large drum set is kept against the wall toward the front), and he told me a lot about what goes on in the H & H when it isn’t SXSW. Apparently one can occasionally catch live soul and R & B bands in the space on weekends, but the man also told me that his vision is to make people of all backgrounds feel welcome at the H & H, and to book all different kinds of music.
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