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Ok, it’s official, barbershops are definitely on a comeback . . . and with a kick.

Wait till you hear this one . . . it’s great!

My favorite things are mixed up in the creation of this new hair establishment. They have used creativity, art, music and a unique concept all their own, in putting this new hair digs together.
“I’m a guy, I don’t need scented candles,” says Michael”

Owners, Michael Portman and Jayson Rapaport, are corporate business dropouts and old friends, who decided to put a little more fun in their lives. Portman, previously a writer in LA and Rapaport who worked on Wall Street, put their heads together and came up with the concept; a hair salon that’s also a music venue.

One thing Michael and Jayson wanted to bring to market was a place for the guys to go. “We want guys to feel like Norm walking into Cheers. And we’re a no-appointment establishment because we know guys don’t wanna make appointments. They just want to walk in and get it done on the way back from the Home Depot.”

So, throwing tradition to the wind,“Birds Barbershop” was created. They hired local interior design guru, Joel Mozersky, who was responsible for, “Real World : Austin,” on MTV. His artistic flair, using black walls, lighting you might see at a rock concert, and a stage where live music or a DJ sometimes performs, all add to a give it that local nightclub feel that Austin has in its blood.

Most unique to the shops charm might arguably be, a 40 foot screen printed mural, by local artist Bryan Keplesky, as you enter the shop. But, also as you are waiting for a new coif, you can play foosball, read funky comics and great magazines, use Wi-Fi, or if a band isn’t on stage, kick back and groove on some cool tunes from the custom sound system or Jukebox. Maybe that’s why so many folks like to “hang out all day.” And the no-appointment concept works for everyone.

Quality service at a decent price was a high priority for these folks. Here are some prices, as of this writing;

• Mohawk . . . . $15.00

• Rockstar . . . $25.00

• Basic Men’s . . . $ 19.00

• Straight Razor Shave . . . $19.00

• Ladybird . . . $39.00 ( shampoo, cut, style)

Birds Barbershop opened May 20, 2006 and portrays the welcoming of both genders in its name. (Bird, as slang for the feminine) They have both barbers and stylists on staff. Even though it’s not explicitly for men, it does cater more to a mans’ liking than the typical hair salon.

These folks instinctively knew Austin was the town to embrace them. “Austin inspires and rewards innovation,” says Portman.

Check out their site

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