From the Northeast to South By Southwest

I traveled to Austin, TX a few weeks ago for South by Southwest (sxsw). Half of the week was for work, but the second half was to enjoy the music. As some may know, I have a radio show (10am-noon on Saturdays on http://www.whcl.org), so this past week I shared what I found for some new music (to me) and some other acts that I finally was able to catch live. Here’s a recap of some of these musicians that I had on the show, as well as some others (each are linked to their myspace page):

Brooklyn Rider – this was a surprise. We caught them at the NPR day show and didn’t expect to like them. All instrumental, theatrical and felt like a soundtrack to a movie.

Lissie – Young woman originally from Illinois, now calling LA her home. Here song writing and performance was simple yet moving.

Local Natives – I like Wikipedia’s description of this band, “”afropop-influenced guitars with hyperactive drumming and hooky three-part harmonies” Nuff said

Broken Bells – we lucked out and were able to catch a preview of Broken Bells (members of the Shins and Danger Mouse) in a parking garage across from Stubbs. Check these guys out, I think they may get better with time. Lot of potential here.

Doll & the Kicks – I didn’t see this band, but my coworker did so I was able to listen to their music. Really enjoy it. Lot of energy. Will get ya moving.

Nneka – Hands down the best act I saw at sxsw. Great singer, songwriter, performer, etc. Wasn’t as impressed with her CD, but can’t wait to see her live again at Newport Folk Festival this summer.

Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings – Didn’t get to see them, but kept hearing great things about them. Also will be at Newport, so I’m exciting about that.

Murder By Death – This was a complete surprise. I was waiting to see Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and these guys went on before them. Didn’t think much of them based on the name, but they were fantastic. Like a haunting Johnny Cash

Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears – I was walking down 6th Ave in Austin and overheard someone talking about this band. Looked them up and noticed they were playing near another act I was checking out. Thrilled I stumbled upon them.

The Hot Seats – Although I don’t have any music by this act, I saw them in the street and dug their raw bluegrass style. Worth checking out.

Matthew Mayfield – Great singer/songwriter that I hope to hear more of in the future.

Kate Miller-Heidke – Didn’t think much of this artist when she first came out on stage, but after she started in on her singing, I warmed right up to her. Her music is a little strange at times, but I think that’s what makes her appealing.

Madi Diaz – We were walking around the western side of Austin and stumbled upon an ad agency that was putting on a free concert in the courtyard behind their building. Although a little too pop-oriented for my taste, solid songwriter and performer.

If you care to watch/listen to some of the shows we attended, take a look at this video that Ryan put together. Although its not all the bands, it definitely gives you a taste for what sxsw can be like. Don’t forget to share