Colorado-based producer Derek Vincent Smith, aka Pretty Lights, made his second ’09 tour stop in Austin on November 11.  This time around, unlike his April 30 show at Light Bar (which Roxwel filmed), Derek was accompanied by drummer Corey Eberhard, bringing the beats for a straight-up dance party at La Zona Rosa.

Gramatik and Alex B. (of Pnuma Trio) opened the show, and by the time Pretty Lights took the stage, the energy was high and the sweat was beginning to flow.  The venue was packed, and the fans were ready for the throw-down that was about to come their way. 

The lights were stellar, making for a fantastic visual experience.  And if you’re wondering about the origin of the stage name Pretty Lights, don’t assume it’s all about the lighting.  Yes, there are “pretty lights,” but the name is “supposed to touch on the concept of beauty,” which Derek explained during my April interview with him. 

As he said, “We as humans experience the world through light, and the whole idea of Pretty Lights – to me when the name was chosen – was meant to grab onto the little moments we all experience in our lives.” 

Pretty Lights’ album titles also connect to this concept – from Taking Up Your Precious Time and Filling Up The City Skies to his new album, Passing By Behind Your Eyes.

Only on their second tour around the country, Pretty Lights has been filling up venues and selling most shows out – much of this success attributed to the fact that fans can download their albums for free at www.prettylightsmusic.com.

Pretty Lights has shows scheduled through November 22 and will also be boarding Jam Cruise 8 on January 3, 2010.