Overenders Weekend 2012 recap

A great weekend! Thanks to everyone for pitching in.  When everyone helps out with cooking/cleaning/organizing it makes it pretty easy.  Special thanks to the chili cooks, Rae/Kimberly/Rachel/Kim for the charcouteri/wine spread, Karen and Clark for the Bergman turkey/Gingerbread cake, and Pete for the kick-ass washers scoreboards.  And, of course, all the musicians.  So great to see everyone, especially the people that came from far away places like New Mexico, Saskatchewan, Kansas, Dallas, and even Houston!

We need some way to consolidate all the pictures onto one site so everyone can upload/view them.  Any suggestions? Email me or comment below.

Update: Ken forwarded some great pictures.  Check them out.

Here are the final details for posterity, if I recall correctly.  Let me know if I got something wrong:

Chili judges winner: Molly and Charles
Chili judges runners/up: Karen and Clark

Chili voters poll winner: Molly and Charles
Chili voters poll runners-up: Jenna/Joni

Honorable mentions: Rae/Scott cornbread/Posole, Rachel/Tami chili.

Coed-double elimination main tournament 8-team winners: Jim/Betsy
Runners-up: Pete/Juliette
View full bracket here

Coed late tournament 4-team bracket winners: Brett/Rachel
Runners-up: Mark/Kyle
View full bracket here

Open tournament single-elimination winners: Mark/Scott
Runners-up: Rob/Leana
View full bracket here

Rookie of the Year- Jim

Final collections/expenditures are still being calculated but it looks like we collected close to $1,860 and spent roughly $1,400 so we should have close to $460 to carry over for next year.

Crystal Castles

I'll end this project with the last band we'll probably see on Sunday.  I'll skip the previews for the 6:15 bands as we all know the Avett Brothers and the Stooges.  I'm leaning towards seeing the Old 97s just for nostalgia purposes.  The fact that their show will be the most fun of the three is just a bonus.

There are 4 acts scheduled to play the slot before the final headliners: Randy Rogers (country), Childish Gambino (alternative hip-hop), Crystal Castles (dance), and Barrington Levy (reggae).  The latter occupies the C3 Legends slot previously occupied by Richard Thompson and Randy Newman at the Zilker tent.  He's a headliner in his native Jamaica and well known in England but never had success in the mainstream in the U.S.  His songs have been sampled by the big hip-hop acts and he has a cult following, though.  If you like reggae you may want to check him out.

The band playing the Honda stage at 7:30 fills the C3 dance slot previously occupied by acts like Deadmau$ and Empire of the Sun.  I like that it's a band instead of just a DJ.  Since we'll be walking out that way we'll get a chance to check them out.  I'll post this song although you probably won't like it.  This has a Kraftwerk feel to it.  I like their retro use of 8-bit sounds mixed with a good bass beat.

Air War

The Weeknd

Also playing at 5:15 on Sunday is Toronto based The Weeknd.  It is mainly Abel Tesfaye, a Canadian of Ethiopian descent.  The band came out of nowhere in 2011, posting their first album for free online.  That first album barely lost out to "Suburbs" for the Polaris prize in Canada.  It has garnered adoring praise from all the critics.  I listened to it and must say it is very good, although kind of dark.  This Pitchfork review sums it up pretty nicely.  Some of it reminds me of Prince during his "Sign of the Times"/"Black Album" days. There's also some George Michael influence.  Even more recently, some of it reminds me of Gayngs.

You're going to motherfucking love this song.

Wicked Games

Die Antwoord

We're starting the final acts on Sunday afternoon/night, which are pretty underwhelming to me.  This act is a head-scratcher.  They are from South Africa and appear to be in the WTF slot previously occupied by Empire of the Sun.  I won't share a song but I will share this video.  Who knows what they're going to do on stage but I have a feeling it will be outrageous.  I'm planning to see the other act playing at 5:15 but it may be worth it to catch a glimpse of this act just to see what they do.

Lumineers

I won't preview the two big bands playing at 4:15 on Sunday as they're both well known.  Civil Wars are the NPR Americana darlings after only one album.  Two Door Cinema Club are the 101X/dance club darlings.  Splitting the middle is the Dunwells, a new band out of Leeds that plays radio-friendly folk-rock.  They recently played the Tonight Show and have toured with Mumford and Sons so expect to hear more from them in the future.

I'll highlight what I predict will be crowded clusterfuck of the day: Lumineers playing the Austin Ventures Stage at 5pm.  You'll have people trying to get food mixing with what is going to be an overflowing crowd.  Lumineers just released their first album earlier in the year and they already have a hugely loyal following.  We saw them at Antone's just a bit after their album was released and not only was it completely sold out but everyone knew all the words to every song.  It was surreal: a very young crowd singing along to country-rock songs.  Kind of like the Mumford and Sons phenomenon.

I will say that they put on a very fun, interactive show with lots of clapping, stomping, and singing along. The people in front will be having a blast while the people in back struggle with the mass of humanity trying to squeeze into such a little area.

Here's one of their stomp/sing-along songs.

Submarine

Poliça

The other band playing at 3:15 on Sunday is Minneapolis-based Poliça. They were started by the founder of Gayngs and have played at SXSW this year as well as the 2nd Street Soundcheck back in May, where we got to see them.  Their music uses lots of Autotune, but not in the Britney Spears "mask my bad voice" way.  It's more of a creative use.  We saw them live and they didn't use Autotune at all.  The singer has a great voice.  I enjoyed the show and really like their debut album.  It's unfortunate that they're playing opposite Tennis as these are two of the bands I most wanted to see on Sunday.  I'm not enamored with any of the bands playing at 4:15 so I wish they spaced them out.

Wandering Star

Tennis

There are two bands I want to see playing at 3:15 on Sunday.  I'll start with Tennis, a husband-wife duo from Denver that plays retro-poppy music.  Light, catchy tunes.  Their most recent album was produced by Patrick Carney of Black Keys, which is interesting.  I wouldn't put those two together.  I haven't heard much of it so it may be different from their old stuff.

We've missed them every time they've been in town and during the last couple SXSWs so maybe we can catch them this time, although I'm leaning towards the band I'll preview tomorrow.

This is the first single off their new album.  I like it.

Origins

Gary Clark, Jr.

Playing at 2:15 on Sunday is an overnight success story that is about to hit the big time.  An unknown talent discovered by Warner Brothers who is about to release his first full-length album.  While I'm sure that is going to be the storyline we know it's not true.  The fact that Gary Clark, Jr. has been playing in obscurity in Austin is an indictment of any claims that we may have towards being a music launching pad.  Sure, we're called the Live Music Capital of the World, but what does that get the artists?  Allow me to rant:

Gary Clark, Jr. played the first ACL in 2002.  He also played in 2003.  Back then he was considered a young prodigy.  He even played the young guitar prodigy in a major motion picture in 2007.  Yet he toiled at Antone's and Continental Club for years.  He didn't play another ACL until 2011, on the tiny BMI stage.  His breakout was playing with Eric Clapton at the Crossroads Festival but it wasn't until he was seen by music royalty in New York that his career took off.  Now he's playing at the White House in front of the President and finally getting a show on the big stage in prime-time at ACL.

If an obviously great musician can spend his career playing in Austin and it takes 12 years to get discovered, what does that say to other musicians looking to establish a life/career in Austin?  Take Austinite Suzanna Choffel, who had to move to Brooklyn and land an audition on "The Voice" before she was finally recognized.  At 32, despite playing in Austin for over 10 years, she's finally being recognized.  What about Pleasant Grove, a great band out of Dallas that moved to Austin, only to find gigs hard to get?

I don't have an answer, just asking the question.  If we don't want to keep losing promising artists to LA, NYC, or Nashville somebody needs to figure out the answer.

Don't Owe You a Thang

Stars

The other indie pop band playing opposite Freelance Whales at 1:15 on Sunday is Toronto/Montreal-based Stars.  The members were also occasionally part of Broken Social Scene.  They've been around awhile and I guess I should know more about them but I've never really paid them much attention.  This is one of their new songs which is nice and fun.  I'll probably wander between stages as I can't decide which band to see.

Hold On When You Get Love and Let Go When You Give It

Freelance Whales

Playing at 1:15 on Sunday are two indie pop bands going against each other.  I don't know why ACL books similar styles against each other, then leaves other timeslots devoid of choices.  They put two pop bands against each other, then two Americana bands against each other, then two rock bands against each other.  Oh well.

These guys are from Queens and probably fit the mold of hipster New Yorkers.  We saw them at SXSW 3 years ago (2010) when they were riding the success of the attached song.  They haven't put anything out lately but their new album is coming out October 9th, right before ACL.  I'm sure that since ACL booked them it's a good one.  They play an eclectic mix of instruments and were pretty animated in concert.

I'll post the other indie band playing at 1:15 on Monday.

Generator First Floor

The Boxer Rebellion

Playing at 12:15 on Sunday is a band formed in London but consisting of members from the US, Australia, and England.  They're compared to the Smiths, Radiohead, U2, and the Verve.  That should cover just about everyone.  Not sure what to expect but I like this song.  The other option is Kimbra but I haven't warmed up to her solo stuff.  I'm sure she'll play with Gotye Saturday night so that may be enough for me.

No Harm 

Residual Kid

This isn't ACL related but wanted to share this band that played Stubb's inside last night after the Devo/Blondie shows.  It's a power trio of kids 12-14 that totally rocked.  Blew out the speakers (and my eardrums).  C3 needs to book these guys.  The kid playing lead guitar on this song is normally the drummer and he is great. He also plays bass.  The drummer in the video is usually the lead singer and guitarist.  The bassist also plays mean drums and guitar.  They would switch instruments between songs.  They're 12-14 years old!

Alt-J

So now we begin the Sunday previews.  This is one of those days you'll want to arrive early and leave early.  The depth of the bands is nowhere near Saturday but there are still good choices most of the day.  I've already previewed The Eastern Sea, who plays at 11:20.  That was my original plan: to see them.  However, in the last week I happened upon Alt-J.  I'm glad I did.

Alt-J is named after the Mac keyboard shortcut for Δ.  They are a quartet from Leeds and their first album was just released in the U.S. yesterday.  They are already making waves: the album was nominated for the Mercury Prize.  This is one of those shows that you'll want to say you saw when these guys are headlining.

I listened to the whole album and I have to say it's one of the best I've heard since the XX debut.  It's that good.  I'll post one of my favorites from the album.  Here's the video of their first single, which is also pretty good.  Rest up Saturday night and get out early for this.


Tessellate

Punch Brothers

Playing at 5:45 on Saturday is Punch Brothers.  Bluegrass/folk, they were formed after Nickel Creek called it quits.  If you liked them you'll like these guys.  They've been on the ACL show.  Pretty good stuff although I haven't listened to much of it.  May be worth checking out.  This song is more mellow but I figured I'd share since it was on "The Hunger Games" soundtrack.

I won't go into the other acts playing after this on Saturday.  You know them all.  I'll begin with Sunday tomorrow and an act I just discovered (thanks to this project) that I really like.

Dark Days

Podcast #1: Friday ACL

After years of just posting individual songs, I now present the first ever Overenders Fan Club Podcast.  For those of you that have a long commute, or have to get on a plane and need something to bide your time, I've put together a sampling of my favorites from a few select bands playing on Friday.  It runs a little over an hour long.  Download it to your phone and hook it to your car stereo, or listen on the plane with your phone in Airplane Mode.  Of course, you can always just listen on your computer, too.

Please provide feedback.  If this is useful I'll do some more for Saturday and Sunday.

Overenders Podcast: Friday ACL Preview

Band of Skulls

Playing at 5pm on Saturday is a power trio from Southhampton.  We saw a short set by them at SXSW.  The term "power trio" is fitting.  It's pure guitar-driven rock-n-roll.  A nice warm-up before Jack White or Neil Young, whoever you decide to see.

This is one of their "mellow" songs.

Lay My Head Down

Michael Kiwanuka

Playing at 4:30 on Saturday on the Austin Ventures Stage is Michael Kiwanuka.  I previewed him before SXSW but we didn't get to see him.  He's continuing to pile on the accolades: his album was nominated for the Mercury Prize this week.  Good stuff.

Home Again

Metric

Playing opposite Andrew Bird at 4pm on Saturday is a band originally from Toronto.  They've had a lot of success, get lots of radio airplay, and even sold out Stubb's recently, IIRC.  Her voice reminds me of Jenny Lewis.  I've never seen them so I'd like to check out some of their set.  If we can get near it: I predict massive, MASSIVE crowds.

Help I'm Alive

Andrew Bird

Playing at 4pm on Saturday is Chicago native Andrew Bird.  Happy-fun-time is one way to describe his music.  Mixing great wordplay along with an eclectic sound, he's a favorite with the NPR crowd.  He's also fun to watch in concert as he's a very talented musician.  If you want a nice laid-back sound in-between the rocking of The Whigs and the bands later on the bill check him out.  If you want to continue the party head to the band I'll preview tomorrow.

Fitz and the Dizzyspells

Father John Misty

At 3:15 on Saturday is J. Tillman, formerly of Fleet Foxes.  His new moniker is more rocking than his previous efforts.  It reminds me of some solo John Lennon, especially this song.  We saw him at the Mohawk and it was a great show.  Definitely worth your time.

I'm Writing a Novel

Oberhofer

Playing at 3pm on Saturday.  I previewed this guy before SXSW and we got to see him as well so not much more to report.  Pretty good show.  Indie rock.

Gotta Go

Dead Can Dance

We interrupt the ACL previews to highlight a band playing tonight at the ACL Moody Theater.  This is one of my bucket list bands I never thought I'd get to see.  I'm so psyched to see this show.  I started listening to them during my Goth phase I mentioned in an earlier post but they haven't toured in Texas since 1995.  This is quite a treat.

They are known for Lisa Gerrard's vocal prowess and she has been quite successful on her own, doing  soundtracks ("Gladiator") and multiple solo albums.  I happen to like Brendan Perry's songs as much as hers, though.  The lyrics are always good and there's more of a song structure.  His songs and hers complement each other.

Here's one of my favorites but it's hard to choose just one.  This gives a good introduction to the Lisa Gerrard side of the band.  If you want to try more go to Spotify and check out "The Host of Seraphim" or "The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove" for starters.

Cantara

The Whigs

The 4th band playing Saturday at 2pm is a group from Athens, GA.  They've toured with the Black Keys, Toadies, Band of Horses, Kings of Leon, etc.  I guess I always associated their sound with Afghan Whigs and never gave them a try.  Well I won't anymore.  Listen to this.  This song KICKS ASS.  They're channeling My Morning Jacket.  If you want to start rocking at 2pm this is the band to see.

Right Hand Over My Heart

Dry the River

The 3rd band playing at 2pm on Saturday is also good.  They're from London and play folk/rock with sweeping anthems.  Reminds me a little of The Call.  Hard to describe.  They don't fit into a nice mold which keeps them from being derivative.  We saw them at SXSW this year during the day and enjoyed it.  Good live act.  If they were playing Sunday it would be a no brainer but against 3 other worthy acts you may want to walk by and listen briefly on your way to the next band I'll preview...tomorrow.

New Ceremony

Rufus Wainwright

Also playing at 2pm on Saturday is Rufus Wainwright.  I've never really listened to much of his stuff.  Everyone knows his cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" on the Shrek soundtrack.  He's fairly eclectic, mixing operas, Judy Garland songs, pop, and folk.  These days I guess he's into pop.  His live shows are supposed to be unique as he's quite flamboyant.  I'm a much bigger fan of his father's work.

He's got quite a following so it should be pretty crowded.  May be a good show.

Out of the Game

Gardens & Villa

I already mentioned how Saturday is stupid with scheduling conflicts.  Well 2:00 on Saturday is when the crazy goes up a notch.  All four bands playing are worthy of your time.  I'll start with Gardens & Villa, a band out of Santa Barbara.  I previewed them before SXSW and we got to see them live.  It was a fun show.    Even if you don't like the music it's worth seeing them live to check out their lead singer.  He plays the flute but he has like 10 flutes he carries in what looks like an archery quiver on his back.  He's jamming along with his guitar then reaches back into his quiver and pulls out the appropriate flute for that song and starts fluting away.  (Is that the appropriate term?)  Not your typical rock star maneuver but it's totally cool.

I really like these guys.  They're whole album is good.  Worth checking out.

Black Hills

Zola Jesus

The other act playing at 1:15 on Saturday is Zola Jesus, the moniker of Nika Roza Danilova.  Her music is much better suited to 2am at Elysium than 1:15pm on a Saturday.   I don't think her fanbase is even awake by 1pm.  

This is where I have to admit a little secret:   despite my exterior americana/folk music tastes and white-bread WASP personality, I'm a closet Goth music fan.  In college it was Joy Division, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Sisters of Mercy.  When I moved to Dallas I discovered The Grey Zone on KNON from midnight-4am on Friday nights.  DJ Stereotype introduced me to bands like My Life with the Thrill Kill Cult.  When he passed away in 1991 Cyberina Flux carried on the show as Rocket Radio.  Here's a good article on the show's history.  I've kind of drifted from that music over time but then another band comes along that makes me wax nostalgic.

Zola Jesus suits this genre even though some of her music is fairly straightforward pop.  She was here for SXSW and I previewed her then, but we didn't get to see her.  It won't be the same in the middle of the day but I definitely want to check it out.


Vessel

Bombay Bicycle Club

Saturday at 1:15 has two bands worth seeing.  I'll be at the band I'll post tomorrow but some of you may enjoy this one.  It's composed of 4 nice lads from Crouch End, North London.  I assume they're nice.  They could be cads.  They have a sweet light folk-pop sound, though.

Ivy and Gold

Wheeler Brothers

Playing ACL at 1pm Saturday on the Austin Ventures Stage is a local Austin band.  Kind of folk/pop, we saw them at Blues on the Green opening for Rhett Miller.  I enjoyed them.  Laid back Americana sound.  A good Saturday afternoon band.

Portraits

Civil Twilight

Back to Saturday at ACL.  The next band on the schedule is Civil Twilight at 12:30.  It consists of brothers from South Africa.  They cite Radiohead as an influence.  I can also hear some Muse and U2.  The other bands opposite them are Dev, a rapper influenced by Eminem, and Native Run on the BMI stage.  I'll start with these guys and give them a shot.

Letters from the Sky

He's my Brother, She's my Sister

After that short break, I'll start with a band playing on Friday at 11:45am.  This is an LA band that is getting lots of praise for their music and their live shows.  Their first album is coming out soon and the buzz is big.  Supposed to be folk/blues/rock.  Signed to Park the Van records (started by Dr. Dog), they're also supposed to be playing Stubb's at an aftershow that weekend.

If we get an early start Friday we should check them out.

Tales that I Tell

Wild Child

Playing at noon on Saturday on the Austin Ventures stage is an Austin folk duo called Wild Child.  They are getting big fast and were quite the buzz at SXSW.  Very nice mellow songs.  

Pillow Talk

Caveman

Playing at 11:45 on Saturday is a Brooklyn band I've been meaning to see for awhile.  I previewed them when they opened for Here We Go Magic last year and again when they came to SXSW this year.  Once again, we didn't see them either time.  Hopefully we'll be there in time to see them this year.

Old Friend

Nikki Lane

Appearing opposite Quiet Company at 11:15 on Saturday is Nikki Lane.  I previewed her before SXSW but alas we didn't get to see her.  She reminds me a little of Sarah Borges.  I still love this song so I'm torn about who to go see.  The video is pretty cool, too.

Gone, Gone, Gone

The Eastern Sea

I'm going to skip ahead on the schedule in order to preview another band playing tonight at Blues on the Green.  The Eastern Sea is an Austin band that is playing the 11:20am set on Sunday.  I didn't know much about them which goes to show you that sometimes you miss what is right under your nose.  All the bands I listen to and I didn't stumble on to these guys?  They are right up my alley.  I'm ashamed of myself.

Very nice tunes.  Great mellow music to start out a Sunday.  Or watch the sunset on a hot summer night.  If we don't go tonight I definitely want to get out to see them.  They just released their first album after 2 previous EPs.  This is off the album.

The Match

Quiet Company

Saturday of ACL this year is insane.  Since Sunday is pretty lame (more on that later) I plan to get there first thing Saturday and stay until the very end.  It is going to be impossible to see everyone but I'd like to try.

How good is Saturday? At 11:15 there are two exciting bands playing opposite each other, and another one starting at 11:45.  I'll start with the Austin Ventures stage, which has a stacked lineup all day.  

Quiet Company at 11:15.  Austin band that took home every Austin Music Award this year.  I think they invented categories just so they could give them more awards.  They're playing Blues on the Green tonight.  Very poppy, happy music with horns, guitars, and choruses with lots of harmonies.  Singalong music.  

How do you do it

M. Ward

I was going to move on to Saturday but figured I'd post something about the other act playing opposite M83 on Friday.  I have 2 active commenters but over the 4 years existence of this blog I think the readership has doubled.  With that massive growth comes the chance that the other 2 readers may not be as versed in the bands we go see.  So I'll try to be more inclusive.

A great guitarist,  M. Ward has played behind bands such as My Morning Jacket, Jenny Lewis, Neko Case, Beth Orton, and Bright Eyes, to name a few.  He is part of Monsters of Folk and She & Him but in between all that he puts out solo albums.  He has been on more tapings of the Austin City Limits TV show than practically anyone.

Here's a song from his new solo album that I really like.  Very mellow.

The First Time I Ran Away

M83

The 6:30 timeslot is all rock.  I'm not going to preview any of the bands as they're all well known.  You've got the garage rock of the Black Lips, indie rock of Weezer, and alternative rock of Florence and the Machine.  The latter will have all the people as she's on quite a roll.  I'm not in my rock phase these days so I just can't get into her music but I'm willing to give it a try.  I may briefly check out Weezer then head to see Florence and the Machine.

The 7:30 slot is a different animal.  While I'm not excited about any of the 6:30 shows, all the 7:30 shows are solid.  You can't go wrong with any of them.  You've got always good perennial ACL band Thievery Corporation if you want to sway and dance, alt-country/folk from M.Ward, and synth/guitar dance from M83.  Again, you all know these bands so no need to discuss them so I'll just post one of my favorites from M83's latest album.  Probably not going to be played but it's so cool that I had to share.

Raconte- Moi un Histoire

Alabama Shakes

At 5:30 on Friday there are two choices: A-Trak, who I think is DJ, and Alabama Shakes.  2012 is the year of Alabama Shakes.  They exploded at SXSW and have been at all the festivals this year.  They're at Lollapalooza this weekend as a matter of fact.

They remind me a little of Woodstock-era Ike and Tina Turner, not to be confused with MTV-era Tina Turner.  The song "Hold On" is on heavy rotation on most radio stations so here's something a little more mellow.

I Found You

Trampled by Turtles

Playing the Austin Ventures stage at 5pm on Friday is a bluegrass/folk band from Minnesota.  They've been around for awhile and have played SXSW but I've never seen them.  Kind of a mix of Gourds/Avett Brothers/Dawes.  Some of their songs are very fast-paced bluegrass but others are more mellow harmonies like Avett Brothers.  This song is kind of a mix of their two styles.  Their shows are supposed to be raucous like Split Lip Rayfield so may be worth checking them out.

Walt Whitman

Tegan and Sara

The 4:30 slot on Friday gives us Lance Herbstrong, a reggae/funk dance band from Austin that substituted for Gayngs at ACL 2 years ago when the Gayngs truck and equipment left town at the last minute.  Most of the crowd didn't know the difference and we heard people really liked Gayngs.  Well now they get legitimate billing so if you want to dance and smoke weed this is your band.

Also playing is Afghan Whigs.  The hipster thing to do is discover a mediocre band from the past and embrace their sound.  Kind of a "way ahead of their time"/"that last generation didn't get it" thing.  Like we did with Nick Drake.  Well, I'm sure the young kids will enjoy the Afghan Whigs but they didn't do much for me in the 90s and they still don't.

That leaves Tegan and Sara, the indie darlings from Canada.  They played ACL in 2008 and have carved a nice niche in the indie pop world.  They came through town recently but they played Bass Concert Hall and tickets were like $50.  I missed it, obviously.   This will have to do.

Back in Your Head

Ben Howard

The 3:30 slot on Friday resembles my 2008 analysis of ACL's strategy of booking bands for 4 groups: old "South Austinites", frat-boys, indie hipsters, and NPR listening World Cafe types.  Little has changed in the last 4 years other than the addition of more electronic and hip-hop bands to appeal to the younger demographic of the millennials.  So now ACL books for 5 groups.

First is jazz Grammy-winner Esperanza Spalding for the World Cafe crowd, gospel-funk The Relatives for the South Austinites, rapping/dancing Jovanotti from Italy for the millenials, and singer-songwriter Ben Howard for the frat-boys.  No indie choice for this hipster-kitty.

In the same vein of Brett Dennon and Jason Mraz, British acoustic folk singer Ben Howard has released one album that has already gone Gold in England.  He's hitting all the big festivals and getting lots of publicity.  Signed to Island Records, which includes alumni like Nick Drake, he is riding a wave.

If you want nice mellow music on a Friday afternoon and you don't want to see Esperanza Spalding check him out.

Old Pine

The War on Drugs

The 2:30 timeslot gives us country-rockers Delta Spirit, music industry hyped LP, and The War on Drugs.  I always thought of them as Kurt Vile's former band so I never gave them much attention.  Leana insisted we stay late at Mohawk during SXSW to see them so I reluctantly agreed.  One of the best shows of SXSW.  What a revelation.  Can't wait to see them again.

Comin Through

River City Extension

Playing opposite First Aid Kid on Friday at 1:20 is this band from New Jersey.  They were here for SXSW and I previewed them then but didn't end up catching their show.  If First Aid Kit is too mellow these guys are a dancing alternative.

Also playing at this same time is Patrick Watson, from Quebec.  He won the Polaris Prize in Canada so he's one to watch.  He reminds me of Andrew Bird.  If you want indie pop head over to check him out.

Our New Intelligence 

First Aid Kit

The ACL schedule has come out so it's time to get busy.  I'll post bands based on their times, starting from Friday afternoon all the way through to Sunday night.  Right off the bat we have a conflict with two bands I want to see playing at the same time.  First up is on Friday at 1:15.  First Aid Kit, two women from Sweden, I think they're sisters.  Good folky pop.  I like this song.

Emmylou

Crocodiles

I'll start the ACL previews eventually but here's the band opening up for Temper Trap tonight.  It's a duo from San Diego.  They played SXSW and are now back.  Kinda fuzzy pop that reminds me a little of Dandy Warhols.  There's one other opener so they'll probably play 8:30 or so.  May be worth getting there early.

Sleep Forever

SXSW 2012 Recap

Not sure how to do justice to all the bands we saw.  As usual, we didn't get to see many of the bands I wanted to see (only 6 of my top 10 priorities).  Here are some quick categorizations for this year's music:

Bands I didn't like before but was converted to a fan after seeing them live:  Hospitality, Milo Greene, Blitzen Trapper

Highly anticipated acts that delivered: The War on Drugs, Of Monsters and Men, Buxton, Gardens & Villa

New bands (to me) that made me want to hear more:  Aunt Martha, District Attorneys, Ki: Theory

Best local Austin act I saw:  Pink Nasty.  The name really detracts from the nice Americana sound they produce.  Definitely want to see them again.

Acts we missed that generated a lot of buzz:  Lumineers, Caveman.

Here's the entire list for posterity:

Tuesday

@Hole in the Wall
Pink Nasty
Channing Lewis of Grand Champeen
The Pollies
Bohannons
The District Attorneys

Wednesday

@Brew Exchange
Conner Youngblood
@Dogwood
James McMurtry
@Mellow Johnny's
The Barr Brothers
@Dogwood
Jon Dee Graham
The Hobart Brothers
Ruthie Foster
@Brew Exchange
Free Energy 
Choir of Young Believers (3 songs)
@24Diner for dinner
@Gingerman
David Garza
The Thunderchiefs
@Haven
Blood Orange
Oberhofer
Ki:Theory
Band of Skulls

Thursday

@Waterloo
Blitzen Trapper
@The Stage on 6th
Vintage Trouble
JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound
Of Monsters and Men
The dBs
@Hotel Vegas
The Velvet Teen
Fanfarlo (1 song)
@Takoba for dinner
@Mohawk
Brazos
Gardens & Villa
Bear in Heaven
Exitmusic
The War on Drugs

Friday

@south by san jose
The Mastersons
Dry the River
Milo Greene
@Home Slice
Hospitality
Yellow Ostrich
@Zax for dinner
@Auditorium Shores
Tender Mercies
Diamond Rugs
@Tap Room
The Ragbirds
Skinny Lister
Aunt Martha
Scattered Trees

Saturday

@Waterloo
Youth Lagoon
@Yard Dog
Ken Stringfellow (1 song)
Garland Jeffreys
@St. Vincent de Paul lot
Lincoln Durham
Buxton
Suzanna Choffel
@Zax
The Pines(2 songs)

Top 10

Since it's so chaotic and we have lots of choices each day/night, here's how I would prioritize my decisions.  No real logic behind it, but I have heard good things about the bands and/or their live performances so I'd like to check them out:

The Barr Brothers

Blood Orange

Caveman
Choir of Young Believers

Gardens & Villa

little hurricane

The Lumineers

Of Monsters and Men

Youth Lagoon

Zola Jesus 

edited already!

The Pines

Last year we finished up SXSW at Zax (the Red House Records party), ate dinner then headed home.  Not a bad way to wrap things up.  If we decide to repeat this is the last band playing at 5pm at Zax.  They're from the Midwest and currently reside in Minnesota.  A nice sound.

My ideal finish: dinner afterwards, watch The Cult at Auditorium Shores, then bike home.

Chimes

Tender Mercies

Here's an Americana side-project from members of Counting Crows.  The band has been around since before Counting Crows formed but just decided to release their first record, which has gotten great reviews.

Saturday they're playing the Yard Dog party (Dogfish Head last year, yummy!) and the Outlaw Roadshow at Rusty's (across from Kebabalicious, yummy!).  Some good acts on that bill but no times listed yet.  I could be happy at either of those shows all day long.

Scarecrow

Tanlines

Here we go with Saturday.  Usually on Saturday we try to catch a band we wanted to see earlier in the week but missed or find a good spot to sit and just watch whatever bands are playing.  There are a few new bands playing on Saturday that may be worth checking out.

Here's an electro-pop duo from Brooklyn getting airplay on XM.  This is a different one than the one we heard the other day.  The album comes out March 20th but they're already getting hype so it's probably going to be good.  They play the MWTX day party on the East side along with Electric Guest, FIDLAR, etc.

Brothers

Cuff the Duke

Here's another band that has been around for quite a few years that I've never heard.  They're from Ontario so I guess they don't get down here much.  Their last two albums were produced by Greg Keelor of Blue Rodeo so that should give you a feel for their style.  They cite Blue Rodeo as one of their main influences.  This song comes from their last release which was nominated for a 2012 Juno.

They play their showcase Friday night at Trinity Hall and I think they have a day show Friday, too.  Not much information on them.  I guess they like a low profile.  Their website hasn't been updated in months.

Time is Right

Aunt Martha

Here's a band out of New England that has already played CMJ, Bonnaroo and even opened for Deer Tick.  Here's a lot more on them.  They play the Friday night showcase at Tap Room, which would be my Plan A if we decide to not do the Lambert's showcase.  They also play a day show Friday at Maggie Mae's and one Saturday at Bar 512.

Bloodshot

Nikki Lane

If you want country here you go.  She's from South Carolina but now resides in Nashville.  Her voice reminds me of Wanda Jackson, who is also in town I hear.  She played CMJ in NYC and got a write-up in the NYT.  I like this song.  Definitely a throwback.  I also like the video.

She plays her showcase Friday night at Club 606 along with Grace Woodroofe.  She also plays the Twangfest party at Jovita's Saturday along with Crooked Fingers.

Gone, Gone, Gone

Crooked Fingers

Back to previews.  We're up to Friday now.  Today will be heavy on Americana after all the indie-pop, guitar-rock, and electronic shows from earlier in the week.  First up is a band that's been around for awhile.  It was formed after Archers of Loaf broke up back in 1998.  I'm not familiar with either band, which either speaks to my lack of knowledge of Americana or the lack of coverage of Americana in general.  Either way, I like this song and the band's style.

Their showcase is the Friday Merge showcase at Frank, which would be my Plan A if it wasn't at Frank.  They also play the Paste day party at the Stage on 6th along with Belle Brigade, Rhett Miller, Lumineers, Barr Brothers, Glen Hansard, Reptar, Alberta Cross, etc.  Phew. That's another great lineup.  Finally, they play the Saturday Twangfest party at Jovita's along with the next band I'll post shortly.

Typhoon

Radiohead

I'm going to skip the SXSW previews for today.  Instead, you may want to check out this band from England called Radiohead.  They've put out a few albums so you may have heard of them.  Apparently they are similar to Oasis and Blur so if you like them you make like these guys.  They play in town tonight so maybe we can pick up a cheap ticket and check them out.

As I like to repeat often, I saw these guys in 1995 opening for R.E.M.  It's a case of wishing you could go back in time knowing what you know now.  "The Bends" had been out for a few months but all anyone knew about them was "Creep".  Look at the setlist during that tour:


1. My Iron Lung
2. High and Dry
3. Planet Telex
4. Anyone Can Play Guitar
5. Just
6. Street Spirit (fade out)
7. Creep
8. Fake Plastic Trees
9. The Bends

Sick.  If they played a set like that today people would freak out.

Anyway, here's a song to get you ready for tonight.  It's an "outtake" from "King of Limbs" that was released at the end of the year.  They sometimes play it on this current tour.  I really like it and hope it makes it into the show tonight.

The Daily Mail

FIDLAR

While we're on the L.A. skate punk guitar-rock theme, here's another one.  They play at Lustre Pearl Thursday and a few places throughout the week.  They're signed to Mom+Pop Music, home to Andrew Bird, Sleigh Bells, and Neon Indian.  The next Social Distortion?  You decide.

No Waves

Bleached

I think this band is going for most shows at SXSW this year.  They are playing everything.  I think that will change because some parties have them playing at the same time.  I don't think that's possible.

In the spirit of Vivian Girls, Best Coast, and I'm sure lots of others, here is the latest Ramone's style girl-group.  This is sisters from L.A.  Pitchfork likes them.  I like this song.

Searching through the Past

Peaking Lights

Today I'll try to fill in the Thursday activities with some bands I haven't mentioned in the past.  Peaking Lights is a husband-wife duo from Madison, WI by way of the Bay Area.  They are at the Pitchfork day party at Mohawk.  They also play at Urban Outfitters on Saturday so if you like them we probably won't have trouble catching them.  They'll be back for the Austin Psych Festival on April 27th but I think we may be busy that weekend.  The music is psychedelic chillwave.

All the Sun that Shines

Reptar

I'm sure they're playing these guys on XM so you've heard them.  They're all over SXSW this year and I'm sure they'll be blowing up soon so we'll end up seeing them at some point I'm sure.  They play the Paste party at the former Radio Room on Wednesday.  This day party also has Barr Brothers, Belle Brigade, Punch Brothers (former Nickel Creek), Alberta Cross, etc.  Quite the lineup.

I'm not so sure about these guys.  Their live shows are supposed to be fun.  This song is good but it's a little close to MGMT.  They're from Athens, GA which is a good thing.  If they were from L.A. I'd think they were another rip-off band built by the RIAA music machine.  I still have questions because their other "hit" song, "Sebastian", sounds just like Vampire Weekend.  Not much originality.  Decide for yourself.

Stuck in my Id

The dBs

Wednesday is the annual Guitartown day party at Mother Egan's Dogwood, which is always good.  Freedy Johnston, James McMurtry, Thomas Dolby(?!), and many others.  The band I want to see is the dBs.  This is the original lineup that includes Chris Stamey.  Stamey played with Alex Chilton and is here to participate in the collective of all-stars playing Big Star's Third album at the Paramount Wednesday night after a screening of the Big Star documentary.

The dBs, from Winston-Salem, formed in the early 80s after the demise of Big Star and before the rise of R.E.M. and are held in high esteem by R.E.M. Peter Buck is in town for the all-star show too so maybe he'll be in the audience Wednesday.  I don't see any other performances by the dBs other than Friday night at BD Riley's.

Amplifier

Tycho

This week I'll try to cover some day parties and alternative showcases.  I'm going to skip Tuesday night for now.  We can discuss plans for that as the options are diverse.  I'll start with the Wednesday day parties.

Tycho is instrumental dream pop from San Francisco-based Scott Hansen.  Nice way to start a Monday.  He's playing Red 7 and Red Eyed Fly on Wednesday.  However, he's also playing the MWTX day show on Thursday, my first choice.  So maybe we can wait.  He also plays the Club de Ville showcase Wednesday night, my Plan B/C.

Hours

Princeton

It's Friday so I'll post one of my guilty pleasures.  This is pure sugary retro-pop that sounds like a complete rip-off of A-ha.  So what, it's still a good song.  The band is from L.A. (of course) and include twin brothers on guitar and bass.

They play a showcase Wednesday at Maggie Mae's and a day show Wednesday at Beauty Bar and Thursday at the Pure Volume House.  I doubt I can handle a whole show of this but it's a nice little ditty for a Friday.


Florida

Solander

This is a trio from Malmö, Sweden that plays folk/pop.  This is their second album but the first I've heard of them.  A nice song.  They are playing St. David's Bethel Hall on Wednesday and have one day party on Thursday at the Swan Dive but nothing else.  I wasn't a fan of Swan Dive last year so maybe they'll play another show.  On that note, there's nothing posted for the French Legation Museum that I've seen.  What's up with that?

Book of Advice

Motopony

Today is potpourri day.  I don't have a theme.  Just want to post some songs I like but can't fit the bands into the schedule yet.   Next week will be more specific posts with bands at day shows or Plan B/C showcases we may want to attend.  For now, some of the songs I've enjoyed while researching.

First up is a band from Tacoma/Seattle that plays folk/pop(?).  Fairly new, they are making waves on MTV and HBO apparently.  This song's lyrics are right in line with Scissor Sisters but I have no idea what that's about.  They seem like folky/hipster Seattle dudes but then put out a song like this.  Pretty cool actually.

Anyway, they play 2 showcases.  Neither are on my list.  They also play Friday morning on KUT at the Four Seasons.  Also not on my schedule.  No other day parties listed.

King of Diamonds

Youth Lagoon

This is the moniker of San Diego-born Trevor Powers.  He has been getting lots of hype and is playing all the big parties (Red 7 Wednesday, Pitchfork Thursday at Mohawk, Aquarium Drunkard also on Thursday, Flamingo Cantina Friday) and has 2 showcases.  Definitely one of the buzz bands of the year.

I've heard bits of some of his songs on XM and haven't been too impressed.  I discounted it as another avant-garde act that the critics love but the public doesn't.  Then I heard this song.  It's brilliant.  So much feeling in such a simple song.  If he's got more songs like this then count me in.

17

Grace Woodroofe

Here's someone that's set to go places.  Just 21, she moved from Perth, Australia to L.A. and was taken under the wing of Ben Harper.  He produced her album and she toured with him last year.

This song is perfect for today's theme.  It reminds me a little of Portishead.  Her other music is more blues and rock.  I wasn't too impressed by what I heard but maybe it will be better live or after repeat listens.

She has 2 showcases, one Friday at Club 606 and one Saturday at Maggie Mae's as part of the Australian BBQ.  Doubt we'll make either of them.  She's also doing a segment on KUT at 8am Wednesday.  Doubt we'll make that, either.  No day shows but I'm sure that will change.

Battles

Ramona Falls

Today is melancholy song day.  Maybe it's the weather.  Maybe it's because we just finished "The Wire" and this music suits the mood.  Maybe it's because I like these songs.  


First up is Ramona Falls, a side project of Brent Knopf of Menomena.  This is their 2nd album.  This is a good quote about this song: 


 “I like the idea of someone refusing to feel lonely, 
despite how utterly alone they might actually be,” Knopf explains the 
song. “It’s a form of rebellion.”

They play their showcase Thursday at Red Eyed Fly.  If we can't get into Mohawk it's an option.  They also play a day show Friday at Red Eyed Fly.

Spore

Marcus Foster

File this under "not so sure".  London-born Marcus Foster has all the connections: friends with Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, protege of Mumford and Sons.  He's even had a song on the "Twilight" soundtrack.  The music is called a cross between Tom Waits and Neil Young.  I'm not so sure.  This song is okay but it tries too hard.  Y'all may love it.

His main showcase is Wednesday at Maggie Mae's, right before the Apache Relay.  He also has a day show Thursday at the Music For Listeners party, playing before...wait for it...the Apache Relay!

Shadows of the City

Ed Sheeran

The next pop wonder from the U.K. is Ed Sheeran.  This song blew up the charts and the 21 year-old became a teen heartthrob.  I don't know if he's Britain's answer to Justin Bieber or not but this song has a little more depth to it.  He's signed with Atlantic Records and managed by Elton John.  Not too shabby.  Here's a Telegraph article on him.

Right now he's playing the Wednesday Warner Bros. showcase at La Zona Rosa along with future star Gary Clark, Jr.  He's also playing the Filter party Friday right after future stars Of Monsters and Men.  Oh, and he's opening for Snow Patrol on their tour and will be back at Stubb's on May 17th.

The A Team

Michael Kiwanuka

Today will be British hitmakers coming across the pond to entertain us at SXSW.  First up is the winner of the BBCs Sound of 2012.  He's being compared to Bill Withers and Otis Redding according to this BBC article.  His first album, produced by Dan Auerbach at Ray Davies' studios in London, comes out in the U.K. March 12th and later in the U.S.

He has a showcase at 12:30am at St. David's on Friday and a day show at the Convention Center (badges only).  I'm sure he'll be on a bill with Springsteen or some other huge act as well.  He's destined for stardom.

Home Again

Widowspeak

Here's a trio from Brooklyn.  I think the term is shoegaze.  They're compared to Mazzy Star, which fits.  Right now they only have a showcase on Saturday at 11pm at the Parish and a day show Wednesday at Red 7.  I like this song.

Harsh Realm

Whispertown

Whispertown is the moniker of Morgan Nagler, who also plays in the band Whispertown 2000.  I guess she drops the 2000 when she's solo.  She's from L.A. and hangs with the cool kids. Friends Jenny Lewis and Blake Sennett of Rilo Kiley convinced her to become a musician.  Based on this song it was a good decision.  Her voice reminds me of Jessica Lea Mayfield if she decided to go pop.  She's signed to Gillian Welch and her partner David Rawlings' label.  He produced the latest album, too.  Good credentials.

The showcase is at 11pm on Saturday at St. David's as part of the Hotel Cafe's songwriter showcase.  No day parties scheduled.  WTH?

Open the Other Eye

Imaginary Cities

Yesterday was all male singers so today will be all female.  First up is a duo from Winnipeg.  I'm sure they're being played on the Verge.  Their latest album was nominated for the Polaris Prize.  So far they only have one show scheduled at midnight Thursday at Maggie Mae's.  No day shows.  I hope that changes.

Hummingbird

Electric Guest

Here's a band that will have buzz all around them.  This is an L.A. duo with a new album coming out soon.  Produced by Danger Mouse.  Yes, that Danger Mouse.  This song is already getting airplay on KCRW.  Here's a good interview with them.

They play a day show Thursday at Lustre Pearl and their showcase is Friday at the Stage on 6th.  Both will be packed.

This Head I Hold

The Barr Brothers

Here's another band I'd like to check out.  The Barr Brothers are Brad and Andrew Barr, from jam band The Slip.  I'm sure y'all know them.  They played ACL way back in 2004.  Anyway, their new band is very mellow Americana.

So far these guys have a showcase on Thursday at St. David's and one Friday at the Deseo Central Lounge as part of a songwriter's showcase where they only play 30 minutes.  No day shows listed yet.

Beggar in the Morning

Horse Feathers

I'm calling an audible on my posting plan for the week.  I was going to post some Plan B and C showcase choices this week and day parties next week.  I've decided to post some bands/songs I've come across during my research that I really like but can't fit into the schedule yet.  Either they're on a showcase I doubt we'll see or they're not playing many day parties yet.  If you come across a day party with them on it we need to find it.

First up is Horse Feathers.  This is an Americana/folk band out of Portland that has built a loyal following over the last couple years.  Their music is mellow but really nice.  Their showcase is Friday night at Central Presbyterian Church and they have one day party scheduled for Saturday at the ND.

Fit Against the Country

Fallulah

Friday is usuallly upbeat music post day so here you go.  Fallulah is the moniker of Maria Apetri of Copenhagen, Denmark (yea!).  Very dance-able, this song reminds me a little of Oh Land, a little of Lykke Li.  Those Nordic countries.

Anyway, Fallulah's showcase is Saturday night at Frank.  I'm going to research some of the other bands to see if it's worth checking out.  We should look for a day party at least.

Out of It

Cary Brothers

Like Meiko, Cary Brothers (his name.  No brother involved) has had success getting his songs placed in movies and TV shows, including "Garden State" and, more importantly, "Cougar Town" (!).  He's a regular  player at The Hotel Cafe.  This is a remix by Tiësto of his song "Ride" by that was a hit back in 2008.

Ride

I think that's all I'll post from the Saturday showcase.  I may post something random that I want to see at a day party today, but maybe not.

Meiko

Here's another performer at the Bethel Hall showcase on Saturday.  Meiko has had great success getting her songs on TV shows, particularly girly shows like Grey's Anatomy,  One Tree Hill, etc.  She's been through Austin before, including at SXSW.  Nice pop sound.  By the way, both showcases at St. David's are curated/hosted by The Hotel Cafe, an L.A. bar that features singer-songwriters.  Meiko was a bartender there before making it big.  KCRW "discovered" her.

Under My Bed

Milow

Saturday evening showcase, what's that?  We haven't made a Saturday showcase in awhile.  I doubt we'll make one this year, either.  First, it's St. Patrick's Day.  Second, most of the bands are exhausted and either don't play on Saturday or are too worn out to put on a good show.  Looking over the showcases most are hip-hop, singer-songwriter, or foreign bands.  Oh, and the John McCauley side-project du jour.  The man is indefatigable.  Last year it was Deer-vana at Lustre Pearl, this year the band is Diamond Rugs at Lustre Pearl.

If we decide to go out I'd say we'll want to relax and see a singer-songwriter show.  I narrowed down the choices to St. David's Bethel Hall, its Historic Sanctuary, and the Tap Room.  The first 2 will probably have a $25 cover.  The Tap Room is all local Austin acts we've seen.  I guess I'll choose Bethel Hall for now.  I already posted one of the acts at Bethel Hall, Madi Diaz.

Milow is the moniker for Belgian singer-songwriter Jonathan Vandenbroeck.  He is most famous for covering the very sexual 50 Cent song "Ayo Technology".  More specifically, his video for the song made him famous, racking up over 50M hits on youtube.


Ayo Technology

Ola Podrida

The final preview for Friday's Lambert's showcase is Ola Podrida, the moniker of formerly Brooklyn-based, now Austin-based Dave Wingo.    His main vocation is composing scores for movies but he dabbles in Americana/folk on the side.  The sound is compared to Band of Horses.  His voice reminds me of Bob Mould.  The third album is supposed to come out around June.  This is a cool song.

Roomful of Sparrows

Mynabirds

Next up on Friday is Mynabirds, the moniker (there's that word again) of Laura Burhenn.  Also out of Omaha.  Also on Saddle Creek.  I'm noticing a trend here.  She is said to be for fans of Feist and Cat Power.  This song is nice and poppy.

Numbers Don't Lie

 

Icky Blossoms

This is the first band on the Lambert's bill for Friday.  It's an offshoot of Tilly and the Wall out of Omaha, also on Saddle Creek Records.  Here's an interview.  There's really only one song out there so who knows what their other songs will sound like.  It's very hush-hush.  Based on the revolving membership it sounds like they're trying to create an Omaha version of Broken Social Scene.  This song reminds me of "She's a Jar" by Wilco.  It's a little long but not too bad.

Perfect Vision

Big Harp

We are now at Friday for evening showcases.  I really don't have a Plan A that is a slam dunk, for multiple reasons.  First, we're usually beat by Friday evening and I don't want to deal with a crazy line/crowd.  Second, other people typically want to join us by Friday so we have to find a place that everyone can get into for not too much money.  Third, SXSW is at the peak of crowds so a lot of showcases are badges only.  The bars on 6th St. and Red River are almost impossible to get into with cash.

My vote is to find a showcase off the 6th craziness with a nice bar, bands that play good casual music, and nothing too late.  My choices were narrowed down to Frank (Merge showcase), Lamberts, Buffalo Billiards, and Tap Room.  To see all my schedule options, click here.

If this was another night I'd go with the Frank showcase.  But, M.Ward is the first act so the crowd will be at its peak trying to get in when we're trying to pay cash.  I've seen the lines at Frank before and they're ridiculous.  Plus, the other bands on the bill don't blow me away.  Finally, Frank doesn't seem like a good place to see live music to me.  Bad acoustics, bad sightlines, small bar.  I just think it will be crazy.

I'll cover some of the other showcases next week but my choice for now is Lambert's.  All the bands are pretty mellow, Lambert's has nice acoustics and a nice bar, and I don't think the crowd will be unbearable.  Plus, it's easy to get home from there (if they've finally opened the Shoal Creek trail).

The first act I'll post is Big Harp.  This is a husband-wife duo.  Husband from a small town in Nebraska, wife from L.A.  They're on Saddle Creek Records, home of Rilo Kiley, so that's a good sign.  Here's an interview with them.  I bet they will be great.

Everybody Pays

Taken by Trees

This is the final band I'll preview from the Thursday Mohawk showcase.  Taken by Trees is the moniker of Victoria Bergsman, Swedish singer formerly with the Swedish indie-pop band Concretes.  More recently, she sang the female vocals on the Peter, Bjorn and John song "Young Folks".  (She did not reprise the role on "Pumped up Kicks" though.)

A very nice voice.  This song is called "Anna" but it almost sounds like she's saying "Leana".

Anna

Nite Jewel

I think the word of this SXSW is "moniker".  Nobody goes by their own name, they all take a moniker.  Nite Jewel is the moniker of Ramona Gonzalez, a singer/songwriter out of L.A.  She plays dance-pop with an R&B tilt.  Her 2nd album is coming out in March.  This is the title song.


One Second of Love

Supreme Dicks

Supreme Dicks started in Amherst, MA in the 80s, played through the 90s, then quit.  Jagjaguwar released a retrospective on them in the Fall and now the band is playing a reunion show at SXSW.  I can't do their story justice but read the comment on this blog for their history.  They had quite a cult following.  Interesting comment from the blog:  "Among those who have played as honorary Supreme Dicks: Courtney Love, Neutral Milk Hotel, Beck, Cat Power, J Mascis and Lou Barlow, Jens Jurgensen of Boss Hog..."


This song doesn't sound like something that would come from a band called Supreme Dicks.  It reminds me of Modern Lovers, also originally from Amherst.  I think their music is all over the map, though, based on what I've read.  We'll see.


Jack-O-Lantern

Exitmusic

Thursday once again has lots of choices among showcases so I won't be upset if we can't make my Plan A.  But this is quite a showcase*.  Start with the Mohawk and its 2 stages so there's always music playing.  Then add their new, much larger balcony which should be complete.  Mix in esteemed labels Secretly Canadian(Yeasayer), Jagjaguwar(Bon Iver), and Dead Oceans(Destroyer), and you can't go wrong.  Not enough?  How about throwing in these bands already discussed at the Fan Club:

Bear In Heaven-future Mrs. Smith's favorite
Sharon Van Etton
The War on Drugs
Gardens & Villa- my predicted breakout band

Still not enough?  I'll post songs from some of the other bands today to convince you.  First up is Exitmusic, a duo out of L.A.  The singer just so happens to be Aleksa Palladino aka Jimmy's wife, Angela Darmody (no spoilers for those who haven't seen "Boardwalk Empire").  Haunting music.  They'll be playing inside.

The Sea

*I'm assuming we can get in if we're early but who knows.  The Pitchfork showcase Thursday w/Fiona Apple is badges only.  Nothing has been announced for Stubb's or ACL yet.

Apparat

The final "band" on the Wednesday KCRW bill is Apparat, which is the moniker of Berlin-based Sascha Ring.  Originally a techno/house music musician, he's now doing ambient/dubstep chill music.  The song on KCRW's website, Ash/Black Veil, sounds a lot like Radiohead.  Go listen.  In the meantime, this song is really good.

Black Water

Kimbra

She'll be a household name in the U.S. once this song reaches #1.  Of course, she's already known worldwide thanks to the 75M views of that video on Youtube.  But that was someone else's song.  She also has her own music.  The buzz will be high and everyone will want to check her out.  I'm not such a big fan of what I've heard so far, though.  It's soul/pop a la the Supremes or Amy Winehouse but more on the sugary side of pop.  Maybe there's more to it.  This song is more mellow.

Good Intent

Oberhofer

Oberhofer is Brad Oferhofer, who is maybe 21 years old.  There's not much on him out there but it appears he's originally from Tacoma and is now at NYU.  Suffice it to say, he has gotten big fast.  He's slated to play the Filter party, Waterloo Records, and this plum spot on the KCRW showcase.  He must be doing something right.

He released an EP that supposedly was more experimental (I haven't listened) but his latest songs are more pop-oriented.  The song on KCRW's website reminds me of Westerberg.  I liked this song so I'll share it with you.

Gotta Go

Ki:Theory

Next on the Wednesday showcase is the moniker of Joel Burleson, who lives in Richmond, Virginia.  Taking advantage of the seismic shift in the music industry, he makes his money off licensing and gives away all his music for free on his website.  His music has been used in commercials, video games, and television shows.  He makes original music but also remixes and DJs.

By the way, KCRW has their own preview of their showcase on their website, along with songs from each artist.  I'm trying to post alternative songs from theirs so you can sample something different.  Here's one from Ki:Theory.

Holiday Heart

Blood Orange

Wednesday at SXSW really picks up steam.  There are at least four showcases I would be happy to attend.  However, my Wednesday Plan A is the usual: the KCRW showcase.  This is always a great showcase given that the coolest station on Earth curates it.  They've finally found the perfect venue for them, too.  Haven (formerly Phoenix, formerly Alamo Drafthouse) has great acoustics, a great stage, and the crowd noise is minimal.  The only downside is the $6 12 ounce beers.  You can't have everything.

I'll be posting songs from each of the scheduled bands throughout the day.  I've already posted Band of Skulls.

First up is Blood Orange.  This is the latest moniker of Houston-born, Essex-raised Dev Hynes.  I can't do justice to his background so go read the link.  Suffice it to say he's similar to Danger Mouse: prolific, talented, in demand.  Oh, and very good.  This song reminds me of Lindsay Buckingham and/or later Rilo Kiley.  Very cool.  What else would you expect from KCRW?

Sutphin Boulevard

Caveman

Continuing the Tuesday showcase preview, here's a new song from Caveman.

Old Friend

The Apache Relay

Since the showcase schedules just came out this week I'm going to pick my Plan A choices for each night.  Next week I'll hit the Plan B and C and start looking at the day parties.  The following week will be last-minute finds and/or summaries.  Only three weeks away!

Tuesday night (March 13th) is Night 1 of SXSW.  Typically we hang low and maybe go see a local show or something but this year there is a really good showcase I'd like to check out.  It's at the Bat Bar which is on 6th somewhere.  I hope it's big.  The show includes:

Polica- Already talked about them.
Caveman- also talked about them but never got to see them.
Yellow Ostrich-they were at ACL and I previewed them.
Ume-local Austin rock band that I've still never seen.  Need to change that.

That brings us to the 5th act on the bill:  the Apache Relay.  This is a band out of Nashville that plays Americana/Rock in the vein of Blitzen Trapper, Dr. Dog, and Nebraska-era Bruce Springsteen.  I like this song so that gives us 5 buzz bands on one bill.  Hopefully since it's Tuesday it won't be packed.  This would be a great showcase to see.

American Nomad

Gotye

We'll close out the week with another hit.  It has already taken Europe by storm and I think it's #1 in England right now.  KGSR is playing it regularly and I'm sure it will hit #1 here eventually.  Gotye is a Belgian/Australian musician and he pulls in Kimbra, a New Zealand singer, for female vocals on this song.

Putting aside a critic's impartiality for a moment I must say:  I LOVE THIS FUCKING SONG.  It deserves to be #1.  I love the music, the lyrics, the interplay between male/famale vocals.  It gets better with repeat listens.  There are tons of remixes out there and I'm not even sure which is the original.  I liked this version.

Somebody I Used to Know

Edit: I think this is the original version

Edit2:  75 Million Views!  I'm so out of touch.



Edit3: That video is really good.  It visualizes the relationship described in the lyrics perfectly.

fun.

Today is big hit day.  First up is already on the charts and will only get bigger.  This song came out in September and has already been featured in an episode of "Glee" and a Superbowl commercial.  The female voice is none other than Janelle Monáe.  I don't know much else about this band, though.  They're a trio from New York that plays indie pop.

We Are Young

River City Extension

Here is a band from New Jersey with an eclectic/folk(?)  sound.  This song mixes in all kinds of stuff in a fun way.  They've already played Bonnaroo and the Newport Folk Festival.  Here's that show from NPR.  They just announced a new album coming out in June.  All accounts say they put on a hell of a show.  May be a great day party.

Our New Intelligence

The Wilderness of Manitoba

What do you get when you add a female voice to Fleet Foxes?  Here you go.  These guys are from Canada, not Seattle.  Ontario though, not Manitoba.

Orono Park

The Parson Red Heads

This may be more 70s than 60s.  This is a band from L.A./Portland.  They're touring w/Blitzen Trapper which is appropriate.  They've been through Austin a few times recently.  We need to get out more.

Burning up the Sky

Quilt

We're stepping back into the 60s for today's tunes.  First up is a band from Boston.  They're signed to Mexican Summer (Real Estate, Kurt Vile, No Joy, Washed Out) so they got that going for them.  Turn on, tune in, drop out...

Penobska Oakwalk

Band of Skulls

Since West Ham is playing Southampton right now I guess I'll post this song from Southampton's own Band of Skulls.  A traditional power-trio, they also have a soft side.  This song goes with today's and this week's theme.  The album was released today.  I heard this song on KCRW last week and tried to find it to share but couldn't find it until just now.  Fortuitous timing.

Lay My Head Down

P.S. Come on you Irons!

Elizabeth and the Catapult

Here's the anti-Valentine's Day song for those so inclined.  This band is from Brooklyn and plays a mix of styles.  Here's a live show from NPR.  I don't think they have a new album to promote but this song is catchy.

Go Away My Lover

Madi Diaz

This as close as I can get to a song that fits with Valentine's Day.  Madi Diaz is out of Nashville and collaborates with Kyle Ryan on songwriting and touring.  They've been to SXSW before but just released a new album.  KCRW is a fan.  Maybe she'll play their showcase.  This is a nice pop song.  She sounds a little like Kathleen Edwards on this one.

Gimme A Kiss

Of Monsters and Men

Congratulations to the female reader who correctly predicted this week's theme of male-female duo singing groups.  You win a free annual subscription to the Overender's Fan Club for your efforts.

If you like SXSW because you get to see a band before they strike it big then this is the band for you.  Soon they will be headlining ACL so catch them in a bar before it's too late.  They've been signed to Universal Music so they've got the big guns promoting them.  They are compared to a mix of Arcade Fire, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, and Mumford and Sons.  I can hear a little of each in their music.  I bet their music is going to be electric live.  People will be bouncing off the walls.

I'm posting 2 songs.  The first, "Little Talks", is already in rotation on KGSR.  It has the same call-and-response style used in "Home".  It's good but I can see myself getting tired of it when it's played non-stop around the pool this summer by my niece.  The second song is more of an Arcade Fire style.  Perfect for audience participation.

Little Talks

from finner

P.S.  Forgot to mention that they're from Iceland, home of Sigur Ros and the Sugarcubes.