Though I am a veteran seen through the eyes of attendees half my age, SXSW 2010 was a whole new experience for this (soon-to-be) 40-year-old music enthusiast.
First, Austin has changed dramatically. Expensive restaurants and vacant high-rise condos adorn streets/lots that were barren just three to five years ago (sound familiar, San Diego?). In fact, on the way to the Stone Temple Pilots show at Austin Music Hall, I became completely discombobulated by my new surroundings (although, the Lone Star beer didn't help). In addition to the Austin skyline, the crowds have intensified as well. Hailing a taxicab is more challenging than getting into a show with a wristband. "Badges" are the new wristbands, and badge express passes are the new badges. "Day parties" -- or side parties -- are the new showcases, and big-name acts like Muse, Snoop Dogg and STP have replaced some of the weirdness of the fest. Another major shift: Online platforms run the show (no longer record labels/traditional media).
In a sea of change, or evolution, one thing has remained constant at SXSW: thousands of exciting acts, jammed into a variety of venues. While it's physically impossible to check out all of the SXSW awesomeness, here are some of my top moments :
1. The XX
Following a series of packed showcases, UK's buzz band the XX played their last (SXSW) show at the Central Presbyterian Church, in Austin. An unusual setting for a show, it proved to be the perfect backdrop for this young, "chill wave" three-piece.
2. Minus the Bear
Seattle indie-rockers Minus the Bear, performed at a SXSW "day party" sponsored by KCRW in Los Angeles. The half hour set included songs from their latest critically acclaimed release, 2009's Into the Mirror.
3. Miike Snow
Miike Snow, an electro-pop Swedish band, were a huge draw at this year's SXSW. They played several shows over the course of three days -- I witnessed singer Andrew Wyatt take a serious shot on the head (with his guitar). However, it didn't stop the following performance of "Animal," off their eponymous debut album.
4. Anya Marina
Former San Diego FM/949 radio personality/coffeehouse musician Anya Marina dazzled the crowd at her SXSW showcase. Backed by Brian Karcig of the Nervous Wreckords, Anya delivered a loose, fun, energetic set to a packed room (that included San Diego musicians and press).
5. MUSE
A band known for their massive, arena-size prog-rock anthems played a surprise MySpace Music show at Stubb's BAR-B-Q, COLD BEER + LIVE MUSIC that was packed to the gills. Singer/guitarist Matt Bellamy brought the same intensity (and, lasers) of an arena show as he told the crowd: “We’re feeling good vibes in this town right now.” I couldn't agree more.
Other SXSW highlights : Broken Bells / Toro Y Moi / Real Estate / Stone Temple Pilots / Surfer Blood / She and Him / Hole / Washed Out.
Did you head out to SXSW ? If so, we'd love to hear your picks from SXSW 2010!
