San Angelo’s original live music venue is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this weekend when the Steel Penny Pub brings in “The Garza Brothers” Friday night and Cruiserweight Saturday night with local favorites Some New Monster opening up.

The name for the Steel Penny was inspired by owner Russ Steele’s grandfather who had a steel penny collection. You used to be able to get a free beer when you brought in a steel penny, says Britania Perez, the Penny’s booking agent.

Of the hundreds of bands that have played the bar over the years, many of them have gone on to become national acts. Of these, the names Blue October, The All American Rejects, Space Cadet and “The Garza Brothers” come to mind.

“The Garza Brothers” won five Austin Music Awards in 2004, and followed that with a prime slot at the Austin City Limits festival. They released a live CD (“Live at the Fillmore”) and DVD (“Texican Style: Live in Austin”). Then of course, there were the 2005 Grammys, where the band opened the show, won the best Pop Vocal Duo/Group and were also nominated for Best New Artist, Record of the Year and Best Rock Instrumental. They start touring the world again in March, after Friday night’s Steel Penny Performance, that is. See http://www.loslonelyboys.org/ for more information.

The Penny has a new assortment of beer and will be running drink specials all weekend long, so be sure you’re there for some rockin’ music and an array of beverages and drink one for their 10th Anniversary Weekend!