When Toni Price ended her wildly popular 15-year run at Austin’s legendary Continental Club in April 2007, the probable question on fans’ minds was “Who would replace Toni and still be able to move fans with the same soulful music?” Enter Casper Rawls. During his 11-year stint with Toni, Casper conjured up musical magic with his guitar playing, singing and personality—and became a cornerstone in the Tuesday night festivities. So, how did it all come down to Planet Casper? Maybe it’s because he’s in such a league of his own. That his intense and focused playing takes him to his own planet. Or maybe it’s because of the orbit of A-list musicians that regularly share the stage with Casper. Casper is a musician’s musician—the kind that will challenge other musicians onstage on a moment’s notice and answer with ease when they throw their own solo right back at him. For Casper, it’s not just about the music. Every musician worth his or her salt will tell you it’s a lifelong search for more knowledge. It’s a never-ending quest to becoming a better player, even when others consider you the best. It’s someone showing you a lick you never knew, even after playing for 30 years. It’s about uncovering that juicy tidbit of trivia you never knew about one of your favorite artists. And it goes without saying, it truly is a labor of love. No wonder other musicians love to hook up on Tuesdays with Casper. They all seem to understand that the reward for playing music is just that—playing music. And the audience revels in the impromptu meeting of the musical minds that stays true to its front porch vibe. So, if you haven’t heard of Planet Casper, strap yourself in. Liftoff is every Tuesday evening at the Continental Club from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. And you never know who might share the planet with Casper that night. “For many years Casper Rawls has been one of my favorite guitarists and people. Picking up where country/rock visionaries like James Burton and Clarence White left off, Casper can bend, twist and coax some powerful, abstract soulful beauty out of a six-string guitar. Hell, he could probably do the same thing with a one-string guitar. If I practiced 12 hours a day for the rest of my life I’d still not be in his league. He’s true guitar hero who plays with intelligence as well as passion. And also a really, really good guy.” -- Dave Alvin 2007