The Chronicles of SXSW

Let me begin by saying that if I can help it, I'm never missing another SXSW. Ever. There are more bands than any other music festival. It's in one of the most badass cities I've ever been too. AND THE WHOLE DAMN THING IS FREE. After spending the first week of spring break in Nashville and falling into the usual slump of not doing anything, I made it to Austin, TX on Sunday the 13th. I'm basically couch surfing each night I'm here, but thanks to my new friend Ashley I have a spot on the floor for the rest of the time. But enough about all the free food, beer, and music I've been seeing, eating, and drinking, respectively. Here's what I've done. (recap of shows at end)

MONDAY
Wait in line for TV on the Radio and Sleigh Bells for 3 hours (as we were not on the RSVP list)
Got in just as Sleigh Bells was finishing.
Got lots of free tex mex food (really good shit) and free beers.
Flying Lotus comes on and plays a special guest set before TVOTR, which was really just fantastic.
TVOTR comes on, and hugs tightly to Dear Science and the new unreleased record. They played fantastically, but unfortunately, the venue was an old parking garage and sounded like garbage.

So that was a great night. But wait.

As we're exiting the venue, we turn the corner and I hear Local Natives' "Airplanes." There was a long line of badges waiting to get into the event, so i just stood outside the venue to listen. Right in front of me, however, the VIP door kept swinging open with people leaving. Without skipping a beat I just waltzed in and was on the front row by the third song. As usual, Local Natives were just perfect, never missing a beat or a note of any of their wonderful songs.

TUESDAY:
a grand list of small bands at a warehouse show, some of which were fun

at Red 7:
some bands
Japanther
No Age

WEDNESDAY:

(at Club Deville)

Yuck

Smith Westerns

exploring Austin on foot
staying at a housing co-op

THURSDAY:
Swimming in a lovely little river in Austin
then to the banks of the river downtown for

Twin Shadow

The Strokes (oh man, what a show. what a show.)

FRIDAY:

Wye Oak

Kurt Vile and the Violators

Deerhunter

Kurt Vile totally loving on Deerhunter

I have about 100 shots of each of these shows. If you want more, let me know and I'll burn ya a damn disc.