Last week, we held the first of three Westword Music Showcase social hours. Times were had. I've spent the week listening to new music I discovered there, and I hope to find a bunch more at round two, which we'll hold tonight. You're welcome to join us from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., again at Stoney's on 11th.

We've talked about this before, but the biggest goal of both our Showcase and Music Awards is to offer a gathering place for Denver music fans and hopefully draw new people to the vibrant scene here. These pre-parties are designed to be a place where musicians, music industry members, fans and the Westword music staff can meet and exchange ideas.

Last week, we also had photographer Danielle Lirette on hand to shoot some portraits, mostly of bands (and parts of bands) nominated for Westword Music Awards. A couple highlights are below, but you can see them all in our slideshow.

The actual Westword Music Showcase is on June 21. Over one hundred bands on the lineup have already been announced, and we'll have more to add to that in the coming days.

See you tonight. There's plenty to talk about.

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• Westword Music Showcase