South by Southwest Music Festival has more than 1300 bands playing in more than 50 venues in Austin, TX. And those are just the official shows. Many of the bands also play parties and unofficial showcases several other times during the week. Wednesday March 15, 2006 opened SXSW for its 20th year of great music.
My day started with one of the unofficial parties to see Paris Motel. In a type of music that leaves the possibility of pretension wide open, Amy May and her crew were anything but smug. The band of seven was extremely kind and down to earth. While they were playing, you could tell every single one of them was having a good time. And what better way to start a music festival than to see a band of people really enjoying themselves?
My first official show was Amos Lee. I have to admit I was unfamiliar with his music, but a friend assured me I would enjoy it. The venue was packed and general admission was closed so only badges and wristbands were allowed in. The club was three levels and it was extremely difficult to even find standing room. But my friend was correct; I definitely enjoyed Amos Lee’s music and will go out to buy his CD as soon as I can. A little bit folk and a little bit soul; Amos Lee kind of has a Damien Rice mixed with Ray LaMontagne thing going for him.
While watching Amos Lee, I heard buzz about the band after him so I decided to stay and see what World Party had to offer. And man oh man did this rock band from London give the crowd what they wanted. I was on the balcony on the third floor and could see a majority of the room was singing along. Everyone in the club was doing their own little concert watching dance and smiling. I’ve been to SXSW for the past several years and have never once seen a venue so crowded. I am definitely adding World Party to my list of bands to learn more about though.
Article comments
1 - Eric Olsen
grea Erin, thanks - very excited about this! Aren't down with World Party and the Plimsouls? What are you, like, young?
2 - DJRadiohead
I am sure the assignment seems much more glamorous than it is but I am muy jealous, Erin.
Go find Glen Phillips and tell him I am sorry I missed him in Nashville on Sunday. Heh. BTW... his new album is pretty strong. I have a review upcoming for the site...
3 - Triniman
Nice review! Looking forward to more! I believe World Party are from the mid-80s.
4 - -E
HAHA EO yes, I am like, young. I'll try to remember my camera to rest of the festivities today. It is fun, but I am excited I have time for a little nap!
5 - ryan
You planning on catching the Jackie Greene set on Friday? I'd love to see another review.
6 - Merlinfmct87
Sounds like a blast Erin - Can't wait to hear more! You really put me there.
Merlin
7 - -E
Jackie Greene? What time is that show? Friday I seem pretty booked as Blue October is playing and David Ford is playing again, but you never know.
And thanks Merlin. But you really can't even begin to imagine how great SXSW is till you've been there.