The Wild Detectives & Deep Vellum Anniversary Party

Another year, another reason to gather. The Wild Detectives and Deep Vellum have spent years building a space where literature, music, and conversation create something larger than the sum of their parts. This anniversary, we’re doing what we love most -bringing together the voices, sounds, and people who have shaped this place.

We begin the celebration with "Bolaño, Come Back Home", a site-specific literary performance by Marc Caellas and Esteban Feune de Colombi—a poetic walk through the streets of Oak Cliff, where literature meets the city in motion. Inspired by an underground zine created by Roberto Bolaño and Bruno Montané in Barcelona, this performance imagines what it might have been like if Bolaño and his poetic squad had roamed these very streets, weaving their words into the landscape. Through poems, anecdotes, and fragments of his novels, the city becomes a stage, and the audience, part of the journey. This event is made possible thanks to the support of Southwest Review.

Saturday brings an extraordinary lineup: a conversation with renowned authors Eileen Myles and Carmen Boullosa, the U.S. premiere of El Gran Otro, the band led by Eduardo Rabasa—founder of Sexto Piso and an author published by Deep Vellum—and the much-anticipated Afro Perreo reunion with DJ Elkin & El Nick, closing the night Boiler Room-style. The day also includes performances by The South African Heritage Ensemble and Los Gran Reyes, filling the space with rhythm and movement.

Sunday is about homegrown magic. We celebrate our local programming with special one-time editions of Talking Dirty After Dark, Inner Moonlight, Loose Sounds, and Velada Vinilo—a day dedicated to the voices, music, and stories that make this community what it is.

Also special edition t-shirts, literary-inspired tattoos by Gino Dal Cin and much more!

You can free RSVP for the party >>>HERE<<<

Saturday Lineup

"Bolaño, Come Back Home" – A literary performance by Marc Caellas and Esteban Feune de Colombi, imagining a poetic route through Oak Cliff inspired by Roberto Bolaño’s work. Two performances: noon and evening. This function requires a special RSVP, visit this page to secure your ticket ($5).

El Gran Otro (U.S. Premiere) – A Mexican electrorock band that blends rock, experimental sounds, and electronic textures into a dynamic and immersive experience. Their music fuses intricate melodies with pulsing beats, creating a sound that is both hypnotic and high-energy. With their latest album, Sonidos del Monolito, they continue to push sonic boundaries, delivering performances that are atmospheric and electrifying.

The South African Heritage Ensemble – A vibrant project led by drummer André Swartz, blending jazz and South African musical traditions. Their performances are rooted in storytelling through rhythm and movement, creating a deeply engaging live experience.

Eileen Myles & Carmen Boullosa – Two essential literary voices come together to discuss history, literature, and the present moment. Boullosa’s Texas: The Great Theft celebrates its 10th anniversary, while Myles’ work continues to define contemporary poetry and prose.

Los Gran Reyes – An explosive cumbia ensemble blending influences from Colombia, Argentina, and beyond. Their high-energy set will get bodies moving with deep basslines, horns, and hypnotic rhythms.

AfroPerreo Reunion – A long-awaited return. DJ Elkin & El Nick reunite to close the night with a Boiler Room-style set, surrounding the crowd with sound and unleashing the full energy of Afro Perreo. Expect deep bass, relentless beats, and an atmosphere that builds until the last track drops.

DJ Tempranillo – Throughout the day, music will be curated by our special anniversary guest, DJ Tempranillo, straight from Madrid. Known for his eclectic style that seamlessly blends electronic, house, and various genres, DJ Tempranillo has been a significant figure in Madrid's vibrant nightlife scene.

Sunday Lineup

Talking Dirty After Dark & Inner Moonlight – A special night where storytelling and poetry collide, featuring performances and an open mic.

Loose Sounds – An open jam session where musicians and listeners create music in real-time.

Velada Vinilo – A vinyl-sharing night dedicated to the warmth of analog sound and personal music histories.

Host or Publisher The Wild Detectives