Choir of Young Believers

SXSW has already put out two lists of bands coming in 2012 but it still seems so far away that I can't get going on the previews. I'll start researching later but one band immediately got me excited so I had to share. They came to SXSW in 2010 but there were always conflicts and I never saw them. They were supposed to come last year but for some reason they never made it. They better make it this time. I won't be having conflicts, either. They're from Copenhagen and don't make it over here very often so catch them while you can.

Hollow Talk

Other Lives (pt. 2)

So by now you know Radiohead is coming to Austin. This is the opening band. I posted a song earlier that you should go hear. Here's another song that I have had on repeat all morning. Incredible album. As if there weren't enough reasons to be excited about that show.

Folk Songs

Keep Shelly in Athens

Mini-FFF fest preview here. If we end up going Saturday it may be worth it to get there by 12:45 to see this band. I think they are actually from Greece (unlike Architecture in Helsinki who are from Australia, I think). Very cool sound. Gorilla vs. Bear is hyping them up. This will be their first ever live appearance in the U.S.

Here are three songs to check out:

Lazy Noon

DIY


Our Own Dream

Sunday summary

My Sunday ACL lineup

My Sunday picks, designed for minimal walking/wheelchair pushing:

Yellow Ostrich: Indie pop.

little hurricane: blues/rock duo.

Graffiti 6: Soul/pop.

The Head and the Heart: KGSR friendly folk/pop harmonies.

Suzanna Choffel: local chanteuse makes it big

Nick 13: Americana/country

Broken Social Scene: indie pop/rock supergroup.

Elbow: UK rock/pop awesomeness. Highly recommended.

Fleet Foxes: folk

Empire of the Sun: MGMT/Phoenix dance band. Looks like it could be a cool show.

Arcade Fire: In my top 10 of best live shows ever, maybe top 5, and I've seen a lot of live shows. Don't miss a single minute.

Saturday summary

Had a little blip the other day so didn't get this out. I'll do two in a row.

My Saturday ACL lineup:

Here are Saturday's picks:

Telekinesis: Indie pop

The Antlers: mellow. Highly recommended.

Belle Brigade: Fleetwood Mac style 70s harmonies. Another highly recommended show.

Phosphorescent: Gram Parson's style Americana

Black Dub: Daniel Lanois' latest project. Funk/dubstep

Abigail Washburn: country/pop w/banjo.

The Moondoggies: Fleet Foxes style folk w/a country rock bent.

Fitz and the Tantrums: it's that or Skrillex.

Cut Copy: awesome live act. Highly recommended.

Chromeo: 80s style funk/synth. Really fun.

Stevie Wonder: For once in your life, you have to see him.

Losers

I said I wanted this song to be experienced live but I just saw this video. Belle Brigade plays Saturday. Watch this. You're welcome:

Friday summary

I was told it's too hard to scroll through to find the bands so I'll finish up this project with a daily summary. Today is Friday. You can see my custom schedule here.

Here are my picks for Friday. Click to read more about them and listen to a song.

Cults: Good start to the day. Retro/dreamy indie pop.

An Horse: Indie pop from Australia. Reminds me of Teagan and Sara.

Ha Ha Tonka: Americana. KGSR friendly.

Secret Sisters: More Americana. If that's not your thing go check out Wild Beasts, who are mellow a la the National.

Francisca Valenzuela: Chilean pop.

The Cave Singers: Folk/Americana. Cross between Fleet Foxes and Head and the Heart.

Kurt Vile: mellow rock/singer-songwriter.

Charles Bradley: old school soul. Think James Brown/Al Green.

I didn't preview Gary Clark, Jr. or Santigold but you should know them. See Gary Clark, Jr. now before he goes big-time.

Mavis Staples: KGSR friendly.

Kanye West: not KGSR friendly. The anti-Coldplay.

Futurebirds

It looks like MONA cancelled their 2:30 Sunday slot. In their place is Suzanna Choffel. Good for her! Maybe we should lend our support. The other options are Airborne Toxic Event and The Walkmen.

Another band I skipped the first time around the schedule: Futurebirds. Psychedelic Folk-rock from Athens, GA. They are playing opposite Cults at 11:45 on Friday so probably won't see them this time. This song reminds me a little of the Billy Bragg and Wilco collaboration.

Johnny Utah

Telekinesis

I've finished up the schedule by timeslot so I'll try to go back and see if I missed anyone we should try to check out. Telekinesis is playing at 11:45 on Saturday, before the Antlers. The band is basically a solo project by Michael Benjamin Lerner. He's in Seattle and signed to Merge Records, home of Spoon and Arcade Fire. Straight-up indie-pop, this song reminds me of Generationals or Cloud Control. If we can get up and going early it may be worth it to see these guys.

Car Crash

Graffiti6

They found a replacement for the Vaccines at 12:30 on Sunday: Graffiti6. A duo from the UK, they have a couple hits there and were recently signed to Capitol Records in the U.S. I listened to one of the popular songs, "Annie You Save Me", and thought it was kinda saccharine pop. But then I read this review from KCRW and decided to listen to another song, "Stare into the Sun". I like this one. Based on the KCRW review it may be worth checking them out.

Stare into the Sun

Empire of the Sun

I'm going to skip ahead to 7:30pm on Sunday. We've got Hayes Carll and Randy Newman for all the traditionalists. I already waxed poetic about Randy Newman. The thing is, I plan to get up close for Arcade Fire so I won't get to see anyone's set to the end. Given that, the band facing the Arcade Fire stage is Empire of the Sun. An Australian duo, their debut album has been a huge success. I hear lots of MGMT with a little Phoenix, Cut Copy, and Temper Trap mixed in. I like it. Check out their video below to see their stage show. Quite outrageous. Should be a good opener for Arcade Fire.

We Are the People

We Are Augustines

We are now up to Sunday at 6:30. The choices are Fleet Foxes, Manu Chao, Gomez, and We Are Augustines. I may post something from the other bands but figured I'd start with the new band. They are playing the BMI stage which is typically for local Austin acts or small unknown bands. It's not typically for the buzz bands. The buzz bands usually get the early slots. So this is unusual.

We Are Augustines just came out with their first album. They are compared to Bruce Springsteen with a little Arcade Fire. I hear some Hold Steady. Very earnest and cathartic, the album was recorded after some major tragedies in the lead singer's life. Like "Funeral", it's getting great reviews and helped the band land a prime-time slot on Sunday at ACL before Arcade Fire. I'm not a big Hold Steady fan so this music isn't right up my alley but I figure if this is going to be the future headliner it may be worth seeing them on a small stage.

Chapel Song

little hurricane

Since the Vaccines cancelled their tour we now have an opening at 12:30 on Sunday. The alternative is a duo that plays blues-rock with a male guitarist and female drummer. Not the White Stripes. It's a band called little hurricane. Not a bad sound. Listen to the attached song or watch the video of another song.

Crocodile Tears

Elbow

There's no decision to make at 5:30 on Sunday: I'm seeing Elbow. Hugely popular in England thanks to their 2008 Mercury Prize winning album "The Seldom Seen Kid", it's a treat to have them playing in the U.S. They site their influences as old Genesis, Talk Talk, and Radiohead. I definitely hear the vintage Peter Gabriel influence, especially in their latest album. It has some 6-8 minute songs that are pretty mellow so not sure how they'll be live. I have heard they're a great live band, though. We'll see.

The attached song is an older one.

The video below is their hit. It's a great song: lyrics and music. It's from Glastonbury in 2008. I read a quote from NME.com that there were "grown men weeping buckets during this." A wonderful communal bonding experience. One day like this a year'd see me right.

Grounds for Divorce

Ryan Bingham

The other 4:30 act is a staple on KGSR with "Weary Kind" and "Hallelujah". Most of what I knew of his was slow ballads. I'll share something different. This was the first song he played at Stubb's and it got the crowd hootin' and hollerin'. He can redneck with the best of them. This song reminds me of "Guitar Town" era Steve Earle, right down to the anti-establishment lyrics.

Dollar a Day

Broken Social Scene

ACL books average acts from 2:30-4:30 on Sunday and then puts two good acts at 4:30. So we have another decision to make. Fortunately we saw both of them just recently: Ryan Bingham at Stubb's on May 21st and Broken Social Scene at LZR on February 18th. Both were great shows. I'll play something from both since I can't decide.

Broken Social Scene is a Canadian "collective" from Toronto, but its core is 2 guys. Feist used to be with them but she's gone on to bigger things. Their songs vary from peppy to mellow but their show is mostly upbeat. Can't go wrong seeing them. This is my favorite song of theirs.

Texico Bitches

Nick 13

Playing next to AWOLNATION on the Austin Ventures stage at 3:45 on Sunday is Nick 13. He's a solo musician that plays old country/Americana in the tradition of Buck Owens or Roy Orbison. This is my bet for worst bleed-over from another stage. His music is going to be inaudible with the bass beats from next door. Still may be a good alternative to the hip-hop of Chiddy Bang.

Carry My Body Down

AWOLNATION

There are two bands in the 3:30-4:40 slot on Sunday that may be worth checking out. Two very different bands. Both are solo projects. I'll start with AWOLNATION since it's Friday and this is most definitely a Friday kind of song. Even if we don't go see them I have a feeling we'll be able to hear them everywhere. LOUD bass. Electronica/rock. He was at SXSW and also played LZR back in April to a packed house. This will be a rave scene. Check the video from LZR below, too.

Sail

The Walkmen

2:30 to 4:30 on Sunday is a dead zone for me. Nothing really sticks out at this point. At 2:30 you've got MONA (U2 wannabes), Airborne Toxic Event (generic rock) and The Walkmen. I'll flip a coin...

The Walkmen have been around awhile and I think they even played ACL a few years ago. Originally from D.C., they met at St. Albans Prep School (Al Gore, Neil Bush, John D. Rockefeller V, etc. You get the picture) but now are in NYC. Their sound is similar to other Northeast bands (Strokes, Real Estate, Interpol, White Rabbits). I listened to "You & Me", one of their recent albums, and liked this song the best.

Canadian Girl

The Head and the Heart

You shouldn't vote until you've heard all the options. I said there were 3 bands in this 1:30 scheduling dilemma. The third is Seattle's The Head and the Heart. We saw them at SXSW and they were great. They're riding a wave of popularity that includes an ACL taping while they're here.

Lost in my Mind

Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr

Sunday at 1:30 is another scheduling dilemma. There's not really anything I want to see between 2:30 and 4:30 yet there are 3 bands I want to see at 1:30. The Greencards are originally from Australia but got popular while living in Austin a couple years ago. They moved on to Nashville to make it big and are back playing ACL. Good bluegrass sound. They play at 1:20 on the Austin Ventures stage.

The 2nd band I'd like to see is Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr. Two guys from Detroit who play endearing pop. We saw them at SXSW and they were great. Quite a show to see. They dress up in NASCAR outfits and have a great time on stage. The music is good, too. This song is straight-up Paul McCartney pop.

Simple Girl

The Vaccines

We have a new sponsor at ACL. The Zilker stage (originally the Heineken stage) is now the Google+ stage. My suggestion for basecamp on Sunday is between the Google+ stage and the Bud Light stage.

Assuming we get there by 12:30 on Sunday, my vote is The Vaccines. I'm not a big fan of their style but they could be good live. They just formed last year but exploded in the U.K. and are now touring the U.S. They were at SXSW, too. They're compared to the Ramones and the Jesus and Mary Chain but I hear some Strokes influence, too. At least in this song.

Post Break-Up Sex

Yellow Ostrich

On to Sunday. I'm not sure about this band. They're playing in the "hip indie band" slot of early Sunday morning so ACL must like them. 11:45 may be too early for me. They were the buzz at SXSW. Barsuk just re-released their first album so expect more buzz.

When I first heard them I thought they sounded too much like other experimental indie bands out there like Dirty Projectors or Animal Collective. Now that I've listened again I think there's more to it. They've got a romantic quirkiness like the Modern Lovers, and good pop sensibilities, too.

Whale

My Morning Jacket

Now we arrive at the dilemma of the festival: MMJ or Stevie Wonder?

Arguments for Stevie:
1. He's a legend
2. He never tours
3. Great songs (Setlist from Bonnaroo last year)
Arguments against:
1. It's going to be beyond packed
2. Unless you're up close the sound will be bad
3. Radio has overplayed his music and it's not as enjoyable now. Plus, RHCP's versions of "Higher Ground" and "Superstition" have ruined those songs for me.

Arguments for MMJ:
1. I've never seen them live
2. Supposed to be incredible live
3. It's by the basecamp
4. Will not be crowded
5. Jim James
6. Get to hear "Smokin from Shootin" (attached). He played this with Monsters of Folk at ACL last year and I think it was the highlight of the festival for me. Just incredible.

Arguments against:
1. Will miss Stevie Wonder

Smokin from Shootin

Chromeo

Saturday at 6pm is Cut Copy of course. One of the best live dance acts I've ever seen. Just a great time. We'll have to get up close for them.

That brings us to 7pm. TV on the Radio is great. However, I've seen them a lot, including at ACL. Plus, they're playing on the other side of the park from Cut Copy. I've also seen Court Yard Hounds. The Preservation Hall Jazz Band with Del McCoury is going to be overflowing with old-timers waiting to see Stevie Wonder.

Chromeo is playing on the stage next to Cut Copy (which is also my proposed spot for basecamp). They're a duo from Montreal that plays retro 80s synth/funk. I like it. Totally 80s MTV. Should be a fun follow-up to Cut Copy.

Needy Girl

Wanda Jackson

After the deluge at 4pm there's not much at 5pm on Saturday. Skrillex is a DJ like Girl Talk that plays electronic stuff. (They hate being called DJs though.) Fitz and the Tantrums are all over the radio. I'll check them out but have a feeling I'll have heard enough after 3 songs. Gillian Welch plays at 5:30 so maybe check her out.

I'm looking forward to seeing Wanda Jackson at 5:45. Known as the "Queen of Rockabilly", she was one of the pioneers of rock-n-roll. After rockabilly faded in the 60s she moved onto country and gospel but thanks to Jack White her career is rejuvenated and she is reviving her old sound. I hope she sticks to the old stuff. Love this song.

I Gotta Know

The Moondoggies

As if there weren't enough conflicts at 4pm on Saturday, The Moondoggies play the Austin Ventures stage at 4:30. Another Seattle band mining the popularity of the retro sound of Fleet Foxes. They're closer to America and CSNY, though. I like what I hear. May have to catch a little of their set.

It's a Shame

Abigail Washburn

On the tent stage at 4pm on Saturday is Abigail Washburn. A banjo player originally, she now heads her own band. Bluegrass/folk but her latest album puts her closer to the mainstream. It was produced by Tucker Martine who has also produced Spoon, My Morning Jacket, and the Decemberists, among others. Her album even has appearances from members of some of those bands. If you want to avoid the crowds and see someone that will be playing the big stages someday, check her out.

City of Refuge

Iron and Wine

On the other big stage at 4:00 on Saturday is Iron and Wine. Now calls Austin home but he never plays here. Mellow like Bon Iver, folky like Fleet Foxes. Huge with the young ladies apparently: songs featured on Garden State, the O.C., Grey's Anatomy, Ugly Betty, and Twilight, to name a few. This will be packed with teens and tweens.

Tree by the River

Alison Krauss and Union Station

Saturday at 4pm has 3 bands that all should be good so I'm going to post all of them and decide who to see that day. First up is already a legend in the bluegrass/country genre and she's not even that old. From her songs on the "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou" soundtrack to her collaboration with Robert Plant last year, she hasn't slowed down. Should be a very good show. With Gillian Welch playing later and then Del McCoury after that, us old-timers can't complain about ACL selling out for the young demographic this year.


The Lucky One

Black Dub

Saturday at 3pm is all mellow stuff. City and Colour is singer-songwriter that gets repetitive in my opinion. Alexander is Alexander Ebert from Edwarde Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes. His solo music is essentially the same as the band but without the good singles. It didn't do much for me.

I think I'll check out Black Dub, which is Daniel Lanois' latest side-project. (Produced U2, Peter Gabriel, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, etc.) This is a bluesy/funky style of music with a female lead singer. Supposed to be really good live. Lanois is a great guitarist so worth checking out at least for that.

I Believe in You

Phosphorescent

Saturday at 2pm has 3 bands playing the main stages. Young the Giant is generic, radio-friendly rock. All the young party people will be there. J. Roddy Walston and the Business is Southern Rock. All the older party people will be there. I think I'll be with the boring music snobs watching Phosphorescent. Originally from Alabama, he now makes his home in Brooklyn and sings Gram Parsons inspired country folk. He's touring with My Morning Jacket, has made a cover album of Willie Nelson songs, and also covers Townes Van Zandt and Neil Young. He also sounds a little like M. Ward.

The Mermaid Parade

The Belle Brigade

Saturday at 1:15 has two good bands opposite each other. I wish Twin Shadow was playing at 2pm. We saw the final song of their set at SXSW and it looked like the crowd enjoyed the show. Oh well. I am not missing The Belle Brigade. They were one of the top shows I saw at SXSW and I'm really looking forward to seeing them again. This is a good song but the song that blew me away was "Losers" which is their show-ender. It's something you need to experience live so I'll make you wait.

Sweet Louise

The Antlers

Moving on to Saturday. My choice for basecamp is the hill between the AMD and Honda stages. Almost all the bands I want to see are on those two stages. The first one is at 12:30 on the Honda stage: The Antlers. A Brooklyn band, they are a perfect way to start a Saturday festival day. Mellow mood music. And damn good. I just listened to their latest album and really like it. This is the last song on it and I hear it's their closing song. It's supposed to be even better live. We can sleep late on Sunday but need to make this one.

Putting the Dog to Sleep

Kanye West

I know, you've heard of Kanye West. No need to preview a headliner. Well I'd like to reacquaint you with Kanye the musician. I for one am guilty of letting his antics, out-sized personality, and media reports overshadow my opinion of him in the negative. His grandstanding at SXSW turned me off. So when I heard he was coming to ACL I was underwhelmed. But as part of this project I decided to do some listening to his music.

Wow. Did you realize that he has put out 5 albums and 3 of them have been voted #1 in the annual Pazz and Jop poll? That is unprecedented for any musician. Plus, along with the critical acclaim he is hugely successful commercially. Live? His Coachella show this year has been called one of the greatest sets in the history of the festival. He is in a class by himself.

Enough hype? Well listen to this song. Sample lyrics:

"Lost in translation with a whole fuckin' nation
They say I was the abomination of Obama's nation
Well that's a pretty bad way to start a conversation
At the end of the day goddamn it I'm killin' this shit
I know damn well ya'll feelin' this shit"

Damn straight I'm feelin' it. Pure adrenaline rush. He kills it.

Power

Mavis Staples

The well-known bands/songwriters are playing Friday before the headliners so I won't bother discussing them. Instead I'll touch on two playing the smaller stages that are worth checking out. Gary Clark, Jr. is well regarded in Austin and still plays often but the Dallas reader should go watch him play. Amazing guitar player. Great blues artist. He plays at 6:30 on the BMI stage.

My pick for Friday base-camp closes out with Mavis Staples. She's a legend in the gospel/R&B world and has sung with practically all the bands in the Rock Hall-of-Fame: The Band, Dylan, Ray Charles, you name it. Her latest album was produced by Jeff Tweedy and takes her sound back to the roots of Americana. She just did a duet with Patty Griffin so maybe we'll get a surprise guest. She covers Randy Newman and Allen Toussaint, too. What more could you want? Should be a good show.

You are Not Alone

Charles Bradley

After that brief intermission, previews are back. We're up to Friday at 5:30pm. Cold War Kids and Foster the People are playing opposite each other. Since this blog is meant to share music and not for criticism I'll stop there.

Charles Bradley is a feel-good story that NPR is going to love. He grew up on the streets of Brooklyn (probably not Park Slope or Prospect Heights, though!) In the spirit of other soul revival bands like Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, he's following in the footsteps of people like James Brown, Otis Redding, and Al Green. Read his Wikipedia page for the background. He and his band play the tent stage at 6pm. His album is already on some of the Top-10 lists for 2011 so you'll be hearing more about him soon.

No Time for Dreaming

The Cave Singers

Friday at 4:30 has Ray LaMontagne, Big Boi, and The Cave Singers. If you don't know the first two musicians you need more help than this blog can provide. I'll focus on the last band: we saw them play a couple songs when they opened for Fleet Foxes and I liked them. Folk but with energy. They are playing the tent stage. Since we're talking about moving base camp each day I think Friday's base camp should be under the trees next to the tent stage. Lots of good acts there all day.

Dancing on our Graves

Kurt Vile

The 3:30 slot on Friday has James Blake (downtempo dub) and Smith Westerns (indie pop). I'm not a fan of either of them. But at 3:45 is Kurt Vile. As I said on the SXSW preview, he reminds me a little of Freedy Johnston. His latest album is pretty mellow but really good. I assume the show on the Austin Ventures stage is going to be laid back.

In My Time

Francisca Valenzuela

Friday at 2:30 has two good bands playing that need no introduction so pick which you like. We saw Old Crow Medicine Show recently and they put on a great show. Bluegrass, punk-folk, mountain music, whatever you want to call it.

Delta Spirit is well-known. The other band playing is an LA group called Fool's Gold. Very jam-band oriented, they kind of remind me of Talking Heads during their Remain in Light years. But not as good. KCRW likes them so maybe I'm wrong.

My choice at 3:00 at the small tent stage is Francisca Valenzuela from Santiago, Chile. Born in San Francisco to Chilean parents, she moved back at age 12. She was at SXSW but we didn't get to see her. Luckily for us, she's back. I'll be there.

Quiero Verte Mas

The Secret Sisters

The other 1:30 slot on Friday I want to see is The Secret Sisters. They play traditional country with a modern feel. Their debut album was produced by T-Bone Burnett. Not bad to get a legend to produce your FIRST album. I'm leaning towards seeing them.

Tennessee Me

Wild Beasts

I'm not sure which band I want to see at 1:30 on Friday: Wild Beasts or Secret Sisters. Both are good, mellow, laid-back mid-afternoon shows. I'll start with Wild Beasts from the UK. Despite the name, they're very relaxing. They remind me of The National if Jimmy Somerville was the lead singer. I like the falsetto voice.

Loop the Loop

Ha Ha Tonka

12:45 at the BMI stage on Friday is a Bloodshot Records band from Missouri. According to Wikipedia: Their music has been described as a mixing of bluegrass and southern rock and a "marrying of influences as diverse as The Replacements, The Band, and Kings of Leon."

That's quite a mix. Definitely worth checking out.

Usual Suspects

An Horse

Another buzz band from SXSW that gets to play early on Friday. I guess ACL decided to change their typical format of booking the buzz bands for early Sunday and moved them to Friday. Probably a good idea since there's nobody there on Sunday mornings.

This is a duo originally from Brisbane but now they live in Vancouver and other parts in-between. Remind me of Teagan and Sarah. Leana didn't like this song but I'd still like to check them out.

Camp Out

Cults

The schedule is out so here we go: Friday's first act to see is a buzz band from SXSW. We missed them so hopefully we can get out there at 11:45 on Friday.

Go Outside

Asleep at the Wheel

Slowly starting up the ACL previews so I might as well start with the ACL tradition. They've opened up every one of them. Good old Texas swing. This song covers a few bases as it was written by Allen Toussaint, who we saw at an ACL taping. Great show. Sweet lyrics, too.

Nothing Takes the Place of You

An Horse

Thanks to Rachel for this show alert. Playing tonight at Emo's inside so probably a little late for a Tuesday. However, they are also going to be at ACL so here's a preview. They're from Brisbane and were at SXSW. Of all the Australian bands I previewed I missed this one. Nice peppy sound.

Camp Out

Caveman

This is one of the bands opening for Here We Go Magic tomorrow night. Apparently a Brooklyn supergroup of members from other Indie bands. A quote I read: " this start-up band is becoming New York’s indie rock juggernaut at a rapid pace." May be worth checking them out. By the way, Here We Go Magic has a new EP out that's supposed to be good, too.

December 28th

Randy Newman

The lineup came out today so the postings begin. I'll start with a songwriting legend. He's famous for "Short People" and "I Love LA" but did you know he also wrote "You can Leave Your Hat on" and "Mama Told me not to Come"? Lots more. A real treat to have him play ACL. Here's a song that Citizen Cope covered when we saw him 3 weeks ago. Great lyrics.

A Wedding in Cherokee County

Ivan & Alyosha

Sticking with the Seattle folk scene, these guys are playing the Mohawk Saturday night with Dana Falconberry. Should be a mellow evening. Also, inside so it will be late. They're also getting lots of NPR love. BTW: no one is named Ivan or Alyosha.

Glorify

Other Lives

Had to share this one as their new album is being released today. These guys are from Stillwater, Ok. They were here for SXSW and also just came through town opening for Decemberists. After that show they impressed a local blogger enough that he posted this song. I like it. Doesn't look like they'll be through town again soon. This song reminds me of The National:

Tamer Animals

The Cave Singers

Here's the band opening for Fleet Foxes tonight. Also from Seattle and also folkish. They seem to be gathering fans. It could be worth it to arrive early to see them. This song is apparently their show-closer:

Dancing on Our Graves

Bill Callahan

Also known as Smog, he now makes Austin his home. He plays Mohawk May 2nd. Pretty mellow stuff. He had a song on the "High Fidelity" soundtrack and his songs have been covered by others. His new album comes out April 19th. May be worth checking out.

Baby's Breath

Still Corners

We saw this London band at the French Legation Museum right after the free Lone Star and PBR ran out and before heading to Uncorked for some delicious Chicken Pot Pie and Stash IPA. It was a beautiful day on the lawn and not too crowded: we got to stretch out on the grass and take in the dreamy pop. Whoever says SXSW is chaotic wasn't with us that day.

Endless Summer

The War on Drugs

Moving on from SXSW, this band is opening for Destroyer tomorrow (Friday) at Mohawk. Sounds like a good mellow show. These guys are from Philadelphia and count Kurt Vile as a collaborator. They're on Secretly Canadian.

Comin' Through

Recap Part 2

I could go on for paragraphs on why SXSW is so great but you don't want to hear me get all mushy. I'll just stick to the standard boilerplate of my top bands, even though it's hard to leave the other bands out. When you think that these bands mostly paid their own way here to play for free it's hard to knock them. They have to play in front of an audience tweeting on their iphones yet I found the bands still had a great time just sharing their music and hoping that someone in the audience enjoyed it.

I'll break down the bands into 4 groups of 3 for my top 12:

1. ACL Bound
Head and the Heart
Oh Land
Jessica Lea Mayfield

These three were polished, professional, and had a full catalog. Not one-hit wonders, I expect them all to be making the talk-show/festival/Grammy circuit. They'll be getting lots of press soon so Michael Corcoran should discover them and write about it in the Statesman about two years from now.

2. Adult contemporary/Americana sounds
Still Corners
Zoe Muth and the Lost High Rollers
Storyhill

Three unknowns for me that had a great mellow sound. They would easily fit on KUT or KGSR playlists. I'll post some songs soon.

3. Indie/pop sounds
Harrys Gym
Chapel Club
Jezabels

Probably my favorite shows among all the indie bands I saw. I wished I'd seen a whole Jezabels set but I was impressed by what I heard. The others had strong sets throughout. I previewed them earlier.


4. Surprises
The Belle Brigade
Yuck
Leslie Stevens and the Badgers

I'll cover each of these individually:
a. The Belle Brigade: I figured they got the KCRW showcase because of their connections to the LA music scene and not for their musical catalog. I was wrong. This band was excellent. Their energy and enthusiasm was contagious. Plus, their music was really good. I'm hoping to see them again.
b. Yuck: I heard a couple of their songs on XMU that were straight 90s alt. rock fuzz/distortion and read the comparisons to Sonic Youth and My Bloody Valentine so I blew them off. Thanks to Leana and Casey I was talked into checking them out. I'm glad I did. Their music is much mellower than they let on, with good pop sounds. I've listened to their album now and it's really good. I'm a convert.
c. Leslie Stevens: didn't know anything about her but I'm glad she played. She won my sister over and proved once again that you can find your new favorite bands at SXSW if you just get out and listen.

SXSW Recap Part 1

Please excuse a couple of rants.

First rant: I'd like to comment on the negative spin coming out about crowds, barriers, traffic, etc. It reminds me of those letters to the editor after a marathon race where people complain that they can't believe the streets are closed for 6 hours on Sunday morning. This despite the fact that the race happens every year, there are news reports, signs posted on street closures, diagrams in the newspaper, etc. If people don't understand that SXSW is in a VERY concentrated area (basically a 1 mile radius around 6th and Red River) and plan accordingly it's their own fault, not SXSW. Don't drive into that area! AT ALL. IDIOTS.

Second Rant is regarding massive crowding/people. To understand what got us here, my opinion is that SXSW Music has evolved over time to encompass 4 categories of bands/people.
1. First there are the bands that just love to play music and the fans who come to hear them. They have dreams of success to help pay the bills but most likely they'll never be successful. But they don't care. That's still the majority (80%) of the bands that play SXSW today. You'll see them play house parties for locals and have a blast. You could have a great SXSW just by watching these guys play.
2. Next up is the bands with raw talent learning to master their craft, or bands that are one break away from national exposure. They don't have a PR team, a label, or anything. These are the bands that put SXSW on the map for the music industry as it's a perfect place for labels, bookers, promoters, and press to see new bands and nurture them to reach the next level. There's no buzz for these bands yet but they all hope to get discovered at SXSW. Us regular folk have a tough time researching these bands in advance as they look just like the bands in group 1 at first.
3. The success of SXSW has made it a perfect place for the latest category of bands: those with indie label or major label backing looking to get exposure to the crowds of bloggers and press that have come to dominate attendees. These are the buzz bands. These include bands with success overseas trying to break into the US market or new bands about to kick off a tour that want the exposure that SXSW brings. I tend to focus on these bands as they're the one's with songs posted on blogs and with information online that helps me plan my week. With luck I'll get to see some of the bands in group 2 during the day parties or showcases with the bands in group 3.
4. The last group of bands/people are the already multi-platinum artists that for some reason come to SXSW. I call this group the attention whores and their sycophants. They come to town in a blaze of glory and get all the headlines by the adoring press. Every year there are 5-10 parties that dominate all the attention and the crowds, which leads to the bad press about congestion. The Strokes just headlined ACL to a massive crowd that paid over $180 to get in. You think they'll draw a crowd to a free show in a venue that holds a fraction of that? Who would go to that show thinking it wouldn't be crowded? IDIOTS. Why do Kanye and Foo Fighters need to play SXSW? Do they really need more exposure? Attention whores.

So, do I think the Rachel Ray's and the Perez Hilton's and the headliners they invite should stay away? No chance. They deflect attention and press away from the bands I want to see. (Proof? Look at the Statesman's music critics' choices of top shows at SXSW. They get paid for that shit?) If they weren't here all the douchebags and trend-followers would be going to the day parties and showcases I want to attend. That would be horrible.

Rants over. The gist of my argument is that SXSW doesn't need to change at all. The great thing about the chaos is that it rewards those willing to make the effort to find the truly great music. To use a baseball analogy, music discovery is similar to spotting undervalued "Moneyball" players: avoid overvalued players and focus on the players currently undervalued that have the potential to be great.

Numbers

Still processing the week so nothing enlightening about what I saw at this point. Here's the data dump:

Saw 54 bands in 5 days.
Saw 24 of the 81 bands previewed here with the SXSW2011 tag.
So 30 of the bands we saw were not posted. I'll post songs from some of those soon.

The daily tally in the order that we saw them:

Tuesday

Dan Dyer
Sahara Smith

Wednesday

Head and the Heart
Kids of 88
Operator Please
Jezabels
Fierce Creatures
Generationals
Caitlin Rose
Thousands
Marques Toliver
Still Corners
Tristen
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr.
The Belle Brigade
Chapel Club

Thursday

Lord Huron
Lower Dens
Das Racist
Oh Land
Mother Mother
Twin Shadow
Janka Nabay
Sharon Van Etten
Lia Ices
Low
Wye Oak
Zoe Muth and the Lost High Rollers
Cobirds Unite
Or, the Whale

Friday

Class Actress (Leana)
Cloud Nothings
Colin Stetson
Diamond Rings
Gold Panda
Baths
The Soft Moon
Yuck
Dirty Beaches
Edwyn Collins
Sun Airway
Harrys Gym
Jonny Gray (at 6 rooftop)
Birds and Batteries
Leslie Stevens and the Badgers
Gabby Young and Other Animals
Talking to Turtles

Saturday

The Lonely Forest
If By Yes
Jessica Lea Mayfield
Shinyribs
Kevin Welch
Storyhill
Middle Brother

Starfucker

Since I probably won't post anything tomorrow I'll hit one band playing Saturday at ND at 2:30pm. That ND day party is really good: Starfucker, John McCauley and Ian O'Neil of Deer Tick, Baths, Thao...and more. Hmm.

This is an indie/electro/pop band out of Portland. Most of their SXSW shows are late night rave appearances that I won't be attending so this is probably the only chance for us to see them (if you like and the schedule works...)

Julius

Rural Alberta Advantage

While we're in Canada I guess it's time to post this band. We saw them at Mohawk during SXSW last year (?) and I really liked them. This year they're coming in with a lot more hype off what is supposed to be a great new album that just came out. I need to check it out. They're playing the Phoenix at 3:30 pm and Home Slice at 6:25 on Friday. They also play the Paste Party at 5:00pm on Thursday. Hopefully they'll be coming to town again with a full show soon.

North Star

City and Colour

Now Friday. Speakeasy is having an interesting day party, with singer-songwriters mixed in with dancy/pop bands. City and Colour is a side project of Dallas Green, a Canadian singer-songwriter from the band Alexisonfire. This is a sweet song.

The Girl

Edwyn Collins

Closing out Thursday at the French Legation is Edwyn Collins. From Scottland, formerly in Nu-Sonics and Orange Juice in the 70s, he's still cranking out music. His latest album was recorded with the help of members of Franz Ferdinand, Aztec Camera, the Drums, and even Johnny Marr. That's some serious backing.

This song has been in lots of movies.

Girl Like You

Low

To continue the trend, today is Thursday day show options. The French Legation has quite the mellow lineup. Low is a band from Minnesota that has been around awhile (1994) but never has had mainstream success. Pretty mellow, the French Legation would be a good place to see them. Robert Plant covered two of their songs on his recent Band of Joy album: "Monkey" and "Silver Rider". That's enough of a recommendation for me.

Try to Sleep

Violens

Okay, last post of the day. This band is playing the Lipstick24 party on Wednesday. That's my first choice. I'd like to see Jezabels at Mohawk which is my only big conflict. We'll have plenty of time to see Grouplove and The Head and the Heart. If not, they'll be through town again shortly I'm sure.

This band is from New York. Interesting mix of styles. They describe themselves as a mix of "60s psychopop, thrash metal, and Miami freestyle." We'll have to see.

Violent Sensation Descends

Kids of 88

This is a duo from New Zealand. Very dance-able. They're playing the MTV Garage day party between Friendly Fires and Matt & Kim. Not a bad gig. Like Cloud Control, it doesn't appear their album has been released in the US yet. The only thing available on Amazon is an import.

Just a Little Bit

Esben and the Witch

These guys are playing quite a few day shows. They're from Brighton. Signed to Matador. Their sound is compared to Siouxie and the Banshees but I hear a little Kills, too. Good old-fashioned goth.

Marching Song

Cloud Control

Since there are only a few days left until the Best Week of the Year I figured I'd focus on each day and the showcases we may hit. I'll cover some of the other bands playing showcases we may want to check out. First up is Wednesday. Cloud Control is playing a few day shows so there's a good chance we'll get to see them.

Another Australian band! Poppy harmonies. They won the Australian Music Prize, which I guess is a big thing. They've toured with Local Natives and Temper Trap, which is a good barometer for their style.

There's Nothing in the Water We Can't Fight

Agnes Obel

Another Danish singer/songwriter. Much mellower than Oh Land. This song was featured on "Grey's Anatomy" and KCRW has been praising her latest album. She's making her US debut at SXSW so see her before it's too late! It looks like the best time for us to see her is Friday at 1:20pm at Speakeasy, before Mother Mother at 2pm.

Riverside

Vandaveer

Mark Charles Heidinger goes by Vandaveer. He's from Lexington, Kentucky and has been playing awhile but success in the U.S. has not been quick. Apparently he's very popular in Europe, especially France. So most of his touring is over there. Maybe this year he'll break out here.

He plays at Fado at 1:30pm on Saturday.


Concerning Past and Future Conquests

Eilen Jewell

A little country/Americana music today. Eilen Jewell is based in Boston. She sounds a bit like Lucinda Williams in this song. She's been around for a few years and has toured extensively but this is the first time I've heard her. I gotta get out more.

It looks like the best opportunity to check her out is 5:30pm Saturday at Zax. Maybe grab dinner before walking over to Auditorium Shores?

Rain Roll In

Alessi's Ark

Alessi Laurent-Marke is a singer-songwriter from Hammersmith, London. She sounds a little like Kathleen Edwards. Good stuff. She plays at 11:10 am Wednesday at Threadgill's and at the French Legation Museum later that day.

The Horse

Kurt Vile

He's not exactly unknown but he's not a big name yet. From Philadelphia, this song reminds me a little of Freedy. He and his band are playing Auditorium Shores Saturday night along with Middle Brother and Bright Eyes. Should be a good fit.

In My Time

Oh Land

Nanna Øland Fabricius goes by Oh Land. She's from Denmark so I'm sold. Her first album comes out March 15th and she's getting major label promotion. She's playing a lot of day parties all over town, including Friday at 4pm at Waterloo Records.

People compare her to Robyn but I think there's a little Lykke Li in there, too.

Son of a Gun

James Vincent McMorrow

From Dublin. He's being compared to Bon Iver. This song is really good. Another mellow songwriter. I'll post faster-paced stuff tomorrow.

I think the best opportunity to see him is Wednesday at the Day Stage in the Convention Center. He's not playing many day shows.

If I Had A Boat

Sharon Van Etten

Currently residing in Brooklyn, she has been very busy touring the world. She opened for Junip at the Mohawk in November but the line to get in was so slow we only caught her last song. I think this was it. Her music is pretty mellow so the best place to see her is a quiet venue, not a loud bar. Probably why one of her showcases is at Central Presbyterian Church.

Buzz is big for her. She's playing Bonnaroo and getting a lot of the big showcases. I think the best opportunity to see her is Thursday at 4pm at the French Legation Museum, right before Lia Ices.

One Day

Richard Barone

From New York/New Jersey. Originally with the 80s band the Bongos. This reminds me of Johnny Goudie. He plays Continental Club Friday with the Mother Truckers but his more interesting set is Friday. Check out the lineup. A lot of Athens, GA bands. Peter Buck in The Baseball Project. Michael Stipe's sister closing out. Michael Stipe is in town for SXSW Film. REM has a new album out. Hmm.... If that doesn't pique your interest, this is sponsored by Dogfish Head. I now have major conflicts on Friday.

Getting back to Richard Barone, his style is described as glam/power-pop. He plays a T.Rex cover on his new album. Could be worth checking him out.

Glow

Tristen

This week I'll be posting singer/songwriters. There are tons at every SXSW so I'm going to post the ones getting a lot of buzz. I'm skipping the local acts and the ones already getting airplay on KGSR (Sahara Smith, Sarah Jaffe, Dan Dyer, Suzanna, etc.) and will try to post people you may not have heard.

First up is Tristen. Originally from Chicago, she's now in Nashville. She's on the KCRW showcase Wednesday and the A.V. Club's day show at the Mohawk Friday. Two very high-profile performances. I don't think she'll be unknown for long.

Baby Drugs

Lanterns on the Lake

Okay, I have 1 or 2 more I may post. This may not be retro. If I had to make a retro comparison I'd say it sounds like something from Air's "Moon Safari", released in 1998. They're from Newcastle, signed to Bella Union, have already played Glastonbury. I'd say they're on the way to big things.

They play Wednesday at 1pm at the French Legation Museum. That's a perfect place for them. Could be amazing.

Lungs Quicken

Grouplove

I think this is my last retro music choice. Grouplove's sound is compared to early 90s alt rock/pop. Reminds me a little of Cracker. They're on KEXP's day recording schedule so they're poised to get lots of attention. Now in LA but their backstory is quite interesting. Their European sojourn reminds me of a quite famous Cracker song. Check out more here if you're interested.

Naked Kids

Dry the River

On to the 90s. This London band is getting lots of buzz thanks to the success of Mumford and Sons. They are playing a day show Thursday at the Jo's parking lot on South Congress and a couple showcases. This song reminds me of early Radiohead mixed with The Call. I miss The Call. RIP Michael Been.

New Ceremony

Ear Test

Okay, this won't be up long. Just want some corroboration. There is a band coming to SXSW that is getting a lot of buzz. I think they're blatantly copying other artists' songs. Not Skyrocket covering. Not even Pearl Jam riding the grunge fad led by Nirvana. I'm talking completely taking parts of another song and pretending they're original.

With that, I'll present my two cases.

Exhibit 1:

This band's "hit"

Eerily similar hit from a couple years ago.

Exhibit 2:

This band's "hit"

Eerily similar hit from a couple years ago.

Class Actress

Here's a Brooklyn trio that mixes a little Yaz with Human League. They're among the privileged few playing the Pitchfork show at the East Side Drive-In Friday. Good for them.

Journal of Ardency

Geographer

Here's a band started by a guy from New Jersey now in San Francisco. They play two showcases, one on Wednesday at ND and one Thursday at Maggie Mae's. (That Wednesday ND showcase is pretty solid.) They also have one day show on Wednesday at Emo's Annex. Decisions, decisions...

This song reminds me of A-ha.

Kites

The Holidays

Finally at 80s day! No impartiality here: I love 80s music. First up is a band from Australia (another one!?). Their debut album came out in Australia in September to rave reviews. I don't think it has even been released in the US. This song reminds me of a mix of O.M.D. and Tears for Fears. They play their showcase Saturday at ND. They also play the Austinist day party at Mohawk on Wednesday. Good thing you took that vacation day!

Broken Bones

Chapel Club

This London band is coming in with a lot of buzz. Their music is influenced by the late 70s post-punk movement led by Joy Division and Echo and the Bunnymen. I think the singer sometimes sounds like Morrissey. They're playing the KCRW showcase on Wednesday which is by far the best showcase of the week to me. They better let us in.

Surfacing

Belleruche

A pseudo-disco song from a London trio. They're mainly dance/trip-hop but this song has a Donna Summer/Chaka Khan feel to it to me. They only have one show scheduled so far.

Clockwatching

AM

Today is 70s day. First up is a singer-songwriter from Louisiana but now in LA. This song is perfect 70s pop that could be straight from the Laurel Canyon scene in LA. It would fit right in on KEOM or in a Skyrocket set. This isn't his only style, though. It looks like he is playing with Shawn Lee at SXSW as part of an electro soul album they're making. Could be interesting.

It's Been So Long

The Bees

Pure late 60s psychedelic folk on this one from a UK band originally from the Isle of Wight. The Band of Bees (as they're known in the US) have been around awhile and have a good following overseas. The SXSW website has a story about how they're coming to the festival but there are no showcases listed yet. Maybe they cancelled and the website never pulled the story. Anyway, here's the song:

I Really Need Love

Cults

This is one of the big buzz bands this year. They're getting lots of play on XMU. Not much is known about them other than it's a boy/girl duo from New York. This song is a blend of 60s girl group mixed with mid-60s Pet Sounds/Revolver psychedelic. Really good.

Go Outside

Generationals

This song reminds me of the Beach Party movies of the 60s with Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon. We saw this New Orleans band at SXSW last year at the Mohawk inside and they were great. I'm looking forward to seeing them again. They are playing Waterloo Thursday.

Trust

Hunx and His Punx

Here's a take on the girl groups of the 50s from a Bay Area band. They still sing about boyfriends and young love but this time the singer is male, too. They are getting lots of press for their over-the-top shows so may be worth checking out. Waterloo has them playing one day. It looks like they'll be back in April at Emo's with Shannon and the Clams. A double-bill of camp I'm sure.

Too Young to Fall in Love

Brent Amaker and the Rodeo

This week is retro week. The term is debatable but I'm describing music that is influenced by a certain style at a certain time. First up is the 50s from a Seattle band that plays country. This song is straight up Johnny Cash/Jimmy Dean country with a modern twist of New Age lyrics about an intervention for a friend.

Man in Charge

Boy & Bear

The Statesman beat me to a band! He's right, these guys are completely derivative, of Fleet Foxes. Still, not a bad sound.

This is the final Australia post and final for International week. Next week is retro week.

Mexican Mavis

Operator Please

This band and The Jezebels couldn't be more different. Interestingly, they both formed within an hour of each other: The Jezabel's in Byron Bay and Operator Please in Gold Coast. That seems fitting since Byron Bay is a mini-Austin/SF and Gold Coast is a mini Dallas/Vegas. Their music fits their hometowns.

I've listened to their first album and really like it. I have to say this year is the year of Australia. Last year it was Brooklyn.

Back and Forth

The Jezabels

Australia ends the week. This band is in my top 5 Must See list, if not top 1. I've listened to their last EP repeatedly and it just grows on you. None of the songs are perfect but they all are great. This may not be their best song but it demonstrates a little of everything I like. The voice is obviously the main draw. Neko Case? Bat for Lashes? Siouxie? Karen O? Doesn't matter, it's amazing. Very cool. Since they hardly tour the US and don't have many shows at SXSW so far, we'll need to work hard to catch them.

Mace Spray

Pedropiedra

One more Chilean. Another singer-songwriter. There are 2 Chilean showcases but maybe there will be a day party, too.

Inteligencia Dormida

Francisca Valenzuela

Another singer-songwriter from Santiago. Apparently pretty popular. Her first album went Gold in Chile. Her second album is coming out March 11th.

Quiero Verte Mas

Gepe

Today is music from Chile. First up is a singer-songwriter from Santiago. Mellow folk/pop sound.

Por la Ventana

Russian Red

Another name to confuse the populace. This band is not Russian. It's also not a band. It's a singer-songwriter from Spain. Wikipedia calls her the Spanish Feist. She has a new album coming out in the Spring. I'll post more singer-songwriters soon but figured she would fit into the international category, too.

Cigarettes

Baskery

Meet this year's Katzenjammer. Baskery is three Swedish sisters that play bluegrass/country punk. They play Saxon Pub the weekend before SXSW and I'm sure they'll get lots of press given that their style of music fits right in with Austin. Their looks probably don't hurt, either.

Here to Pay My Dues

FM Belfast

Contrary to what you would expect, this band is from Iceland. This song reminds me of my high school days. It probably describes any kid raised in the suburbs, actually. The ennui and disaffection in the lyrics meld perfectly with the mechanized, robotic vocals and synths. Plus, it's got a good beat you can dance to. I mentioned that the last song I posted wasn't my typical cup of tea. Well, this song is just right.

Underwear

My Little Pony

Another Norway band. Not an easy name to Google. This guy's voice is similar to Ben Gibbard's, or maybe Lightning Seeds. Their sound is more cheery/sweet than I normally like but they could put on a nice afternoon show. Their new album comes out in March.

Hard to Be Good

Harrys Gym

Moving on to Norway. This reminds me of Blonde Redhead. Right now they're only playing Filter's Thursday day party at Cedar Street which is going to be packed. Noon set, though. May be able to get in and out before the crowds.

Old Man

WhoMadeWho

Here's another band from Denmark. They've been around awhile and apparently put on a great show. There are no day party listings for them yet, though. This song sounds a bit like Fujiya and Miyagi.

Keep Me In My Plane

The Rumour Said Fire

This week is a celebration of what makes SXSW so special: bands from all over the world coming to our little town to play music. We'll start with a country near and dear to me: Denmark. These guys have a blend of Fleet Foxes, Mamas and the Papas, and Simon and Garfunkel. Nice mellow start to the week.

The Balcony

Dale Earnhardt Jr Jr

Sr. died 10 years ago today. Jr. races in the Daytona 500 Sunday. It's only fitting to end the week with these guys. Despite the name they are actually considered a Next Big Thing. Why? They're from Detroit. They wear NASCAR uniforms on stage. Imagine what they'll sound like. Now listen.

Nothing But Our Love

That ends Next Big Thing week. Next week is International Bands.

Lower Dens

I loved this song so I grabbed the whole album and I can't believe I missed it when it came out. Mix Cowboy Junkies with Joy Division. Very mellow but still edgy. They're from Baltimore and the main singer is from Houston but they could be from 70s Manchester. A new album is supposed to be coming out soon. Maybe with the success of the XX these guys will get more publicity.


Hospice Gates

Eliza Doolittle

Another budding pop star in the UK making an appearance at SXSW. This is a fun song and an even funnier video. I had to post it.

Skinny Genes

The Joy Formidable

2011 is likely to be a big year for this trio from Wales. They've had success in the UK and even opened for Paul McCartney at Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. Their new album drops March 15th in the US on Atlantic Records and Rolling Stone is calling them a band to watch in 2011. These guys rock and I'd really like to see them. It may be tough, though. They aren't playing any open day parties so far and their showcase could be badges only. Fingers crossed...

Whirring

Jessica Lea Mayfield

Another prediction for ACL Festival. She's getting praise for her songwriting skills and she's only 21 years old. Album produced by Dan Auerbach. Invited to Bonnaroo. Next Big Thing in Rolling Stone. Dollars to doughnuts, she's a lock.

Kiss Me Again

The Head and the Heart

Here's a prediction: these guys will be playing ACL Festival this year. They are exploding right now, probably due to the success of similar artists like Mumford and Sons and Avett Brothers. Formed in Seattle, Subpop is re-releasing their debut album nationally. Oh, and it appears they are playing Moody Theater on the Monday before SXSW begins. ACL taping? Hmm.


Down in the Valley

Ellie Goulding

Pop success in Europe doesn't necessarily crossover to the US. We'll see how Ellie Goulding does. A breakout success in the UK and Europe, her album is being released in the US in March by a major label subsidiary. She'll have lots of buzz. The video for this song has over 13M views on Youtube.

Starry Eyed

Suuns

I don't know if these guys will break into the mainstream but this song is great. It's the kind of song that drives audiences to a frenzy. Montreal based and signed to Secretly Canadian, they've toured with the Black Angels and are readying a new album. Definitely worth watching.

Arena

Alex Winston

Young, pretty, talented. This Detroit native has some serious backing and is being called the Next Big Thing for 2011. Probably going to be hard to get into any events where she's performing as she's landing all the big parties/showcases. Worth a try.

Sister Wife

The Naked and Famous

In tribute to the Arcade Fire at the Grammys last night, this week I'll post bands Most Likely to Appear on the Grammys someday. That or most likely to be at ACL. First up has blown up in their home country of New Zealand. Their album is being released in the US by Universal Music on March 15th so expect lots of promotion soon. They're opening for Foals at La Zona Rosa in April. I guess it's the movie studio strategy of playing Academy Award movies in limited release before saturating the country.

Here's the closest to a Valentine's Day song I could find:

Young Blood

Hundreds

One more duo to end the week. Here's a brother and sister from Hamburg, Germany. Nice pop sound.

Happy Virus

Eternal Summers

The final duo post is from Roanoke, VA. While this song is straightforward 3-chord retro punk/pop, that's not their sole style. I'd like to check them out.

Pogo

Tennis

Another duo! Tennis is a Denver husband/wife. They are getting lots of airplay on XMU so I'm sure the crowds will be big. More retro stuff.

Marathon

Summer Camp

Here's a London duo with a retro sound. These guys are getting lots of hype. With song titles like Veronica Sawyer (Heathers) and Jakey Ryan (16 Candles), they could be a fun band to watch. This song reminds me of Bird and the Bee.

Ghost Train

Phantogram

So my theme this week was male-female duos in tribute to the demise of the White Stripes. As it turns out there are a lot of these duos at SXSW. I'm forgoing my typical daily post in order to share my favorites. First up is a band from Upstate NY. This song sneaks up on you. You think it's going one way but changes direction. Very pleasing.

Mouthful of Diamonds

Tamaryn

This duo(!) from San Francisco (by way of New Zealand) is touring with Raveonettes. Totally fitting. Their songs go from dreamy to goth to upbeat, with a nod to Lindsay Buckingham in parts. Unlike some SXSW bands that have just one single, their whole album is pretty good. Worth checking out.

Mild Confusion

The Belle Brigade

Here's an LA band with quite the connections to the LA music scene. They even snagged a plum spot on the KCRW showcase. That's some good exposure.

Sweet Louise

The Civil Wars

An acoustic choice today from a Nashville group. This week follows a theme based on a big story from last week. See if you can figure it out.

Barton Hollow

Wye Oak

Baltimore. Merge Records. Hammond Organ. Can't get more indie cred than that. This song delivers, too. Expect big things.

Civilian

Noah and the Whale

How about a sweet song of love and fun in the sun on this snowy day? A London band that also has quite a following and history. I'm so out of touch. Any good music blogs out there that can keep me up to date on new bands?

5 Years Time

Great Lake Swimmers

These Canadians have been around for awhile and have built a good following but for some reason they just crossed my radar. Nice folk country sound. I'd like to check them out.

Pulling on a Line

Silje Nes

A mellow tune from a Norwegian on a cold day. Stay warm.

The Grass Harp

Talking to Turtles

Don't know much about these guys but I like this song. I think it's two members: one from Leipzig, Germany and the other from Rostock (near where Ted's wife Jessi is from). Funny band name, interesting song title.

Beam Me Up Scotty

Amanda Shires

We'll slow things down this week. First up is a Texan. Already a well-regarded backing fiddle player, she's moving into the spotlight. Expect big things from her.

Swimmer, Dreams Don't Keep

Who is this?

Who is this band that is blatantly copying M.I.A?

Straight to Hell

Mother Mother

A wonderful Friday dance song from some Vancouver Canadians. Never has misogyny, misanthropy, and defeatism been so much fun. I may have to check these guys out. Turn up the headphones to 11 for this one.

The Stand

Sun Airway

I liked this song so much I went and bought the album. Pretty good. Not what I expected. More mellow than this song but in a good way. This song has a Strokes feel at the beginning but the rest of the album is all original. Pennsylvania band I'd like to check out when they get here. The bloggers say they're going to explode in 2011. We'll see.

Put the Days Away

Kisses

I know, another dance song. I'll get to other genres soon enough. This LA band is playing ND on Saturday but will also be at SXSW. This song will put a smile on your face. I can see Molly Ringwald dancing to this in some 80s John Hughes movie.

Bermuda

Baths

This band is coming to SXSW but will also be at Mohawk on Sat. Feb. 5th with Braids. 21 year-old from LA. Not sure if he has a backing band. Ambient downtempo stuff you'd hear on Groove Salad. I listened to 4 songs and they're all pretty good. Pretty mellow, though. This song is a little more uptempo:

Animals

Evan Voytas

I'm breaking my schedule by posting again today but I had to share this song. Love at first listen. He's from PA but now in LA.

Tomorrow Night We'll Go Anywhere

Austra

Since I was called out for not updating I guess I'll get going on the SXSW previews. I already listed 3 so check the label SXSW2011 to listen to those. Lia Ices and Cloud Nothings are gaining notice and will be big draws.

Next up is Austra, a Canadian band. Retro IDM sound. Brings me back to DJ Stereotype days at KNON. Probably better at 4am on a Saturday than a Monday morning.

Beat and the Pulse