Every year at this time, one of Houston’s most venerable music places, the Mucky Duck, hosts a fundraiser for the US Marine Corp’ Toys for Tots Program. It’s an evening of music by various artists, the admission for which is an unwrapped toy for a child between the ages of 1 and 12.

The Duck’s subdued, Irish pub-like interior is extra-cozy when done-up for Christmas, and a great way to kick-off the season. Music begins at 6pm. Order a shepherd’s pie, fish & chips, and a fine wine or stout draft and enjoy performances by local/Texas musicians at this great casual venue.

Kimberly M’Carver
Purist Country Songwriting, Brilliant Voice … Houston songwriter Kimberly M’Carver has a voice that will very gently knock you out. It’s sort of a cross between Emmylou Harris and vintage Dolly Parton, with all the nuance of the former and the sweetness of the latter. M’Carver can sing clear and pure as a country spring, or turn up the vibrato at the end of a phrase for an especially heartbroken edge … (full article)
– New York Music DaEgan’s guitar style includes, in effect, playing bass, lead, and percussion, all at the same time. He says, “the rarefied air where Lightnin’ Hopkins met Townes Van Zandt serves as an inspiration and an ideal.”

Lisa Morales
She Ought to Be King maintains the high standard of emotional forthrightness that Morales established on her earlier solo efforts Beautiful Mistake and Luna Negra & the Daughter of the Sun. Her solo albums won universally ecstatic reviews. Lone Star Music called Beautiful Mistake “one of the most beautiful records that will be released all year…an absolutely flat-out devastating and stunning work of art.” Rolling Stone called her,”… one of the most multifaceted artists to watch.” The later album revealed her Mexican heritage, both in poetic and lyrical rhythm, weaving Spanglish which sets her apart stylistically.

Pat Byrne
“The results — Irish Americana, by turns rollicking and resonating, that’s driven by his gruff growl of a voice — suggest that he’s one to keep an eye on.” – Stuart Munro — The Boston Globe

John Egan

Egan’s guitar style includes, in effect, playing bass, lead, and percussion, all at the same time. He says, “the rarefied air where Lightnin’ Hopkins met Townes Van Zandt serves as an inspiration and an ideal.”

Anna Alessandra
Anna Alessandra grew up working for Santa’s workshop when she was but a wee elf in the throes of youth. Upon accidentally falling into Santa’s sled one day, she found herself lost in the world of very very tall (and handsome) men. Forlorn and very hungry for milk and cookies, she stumbled into an Irish bar and music venue that was playing Christmas Carols. They suggested she might perhaps try a Guinness and Irish whiskey, which she obliged as the courteous guest she was. After a while, a voice came to her. It was one of joy and laughter and seemed to grow stronger with each round. Now, having spent 195 years making kazoos and earplugs for those who were almost on the naughty list, she was aware of the musical prowess of the guitar (having seen plenty made and tested down the line) but had never been allowed to play one on the North Pole. That all changed that day when one was put into her hands, and she now sits here to grace you with her songs of her homeland. She thinketh that there is no better night to sing these songs than on the night of Toys for Tots. Slainté.

 Market Junction
The last couple of years, the founding members Matt Parrish, Justin Lofton and Taylor Hilyard have been honing their craft of songwriting and stirring up a buzz on the scene. Joining the trio for full band shows is drummer Michael Blattel. This group has opened for such acts as Randy Rogers, Cory Morrow, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and Little Texas.

Alex Coba
Alex is proof that an ambitious path paired with strong roots is the exact recipe for a poignant songwriter to emerge with imaginings as boundless as the musical landscape he was raised in. The Rio Grande Valley native based in Houston, TX is a songwriter who creatively crafts moving songs and captivating stories driven by heart and soulful vocals.