Category Archives: music fest

SXSW 2015 Music Tips

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It’s SXSW time and the months of preparing are now coming together oh so nicely! There are many friendly people sharing tips on twitter and music blogs that definitely should not be ignored. While I’m going on my 7th SXSW, it would have been nice to have tips at the very beginning. I’ve learned lots over the years, through trial and error and watching others mistakes. Here are a few more tips that I haven’t seen floating around.

Check out my 2011 and 2014 tips for the SXSW music portion too. See you there!

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1 :: Eat a hearty breakfast (or lunch depending on your wake-up time) to start the day. More days than not, breakfast is the only meal consumed as running around doesn’t lend much time to stop and eat. Also, a good breakfast base is key for the day and night of drinking ahead. I do carry almonds in my bag to get me through until a random taco truck appears.

2 :: Be prepared with stuff you foresee needing. A jacket for the bipolar Texas weather, sunscreen to keep those tattoos bright, and travel Kleenex for the ladies. I don’t think toilet paper exists at SXSW.

3 :: Watch your drinks. You don’t want to be slipped something unpleasant. It happened to me once (not at SXSW) and sucks big time.

4 :: Earplugs! EarPLUGS! EARPLUGS! I’ve been into live music for over half my existence and just started wearing earplugs in my early 30’s. Protect your hearing now, kids! [end of PSA]

5 :: I state this a lot, but here goes again… do not see the huge acts! This is one of the reasons why I avoid Fader Fort and stages shaped like vending machines like the plague.

6 :: Be weird and have fun. Follow Bill Murray into that elevator. Hang out with those DJs in the park at 3am. Flirt with that door guy to get into a badge only showcase. Make forever friends. Whatever.

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All photos by Annie ~ more photos here

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SXSW 2014 Recap

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This post is dedicated to those lives lost: DeAndre Tatum, Sandy Le, Jamie West, Steven Craenmehr. I didn’t know you, but consider you kindred SXSW spirits. May your souls rest in peace.

IMG_3258Another South by Southwest has come and gone and as always, it was different from years past. The streets of Austin were definitely more chill this year and especially after the sad incident that occurred on Red River. It only felt right to back off the twitters, take less photos, hug the ones you love and enjoy life. This year Michael joined me for his first SXSW, and the first year I’ve attended non-solo. Together we teamed up and listened to all of the showcasing artists in hopes of uncovering some hidden gems. In years past, I’ve tried to tackle the massive list myself but it’s tough so it was nice to make and share discoveries with a fellow music junkie. I will be featuring some of our selections in the coming weeks on the returning Music Monday posts.

Over the course of 5 days, we saw a total of 43 bands live. My favorite performances of the week were Team Me, Mutual Benefit, Black Violin, Public Service Broadcasting, Jungle, Mire Kay, Sun Club, Cleanup, Boyfrndz.

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THE GOOD :: Spotify House :: The Wild Honey Pie Showcases ::  :: Tyson’s Tacos :: Bill Miller BBQ :: Enjoying a drink and chat with Julien Maury, French horror film Director & Writer :: my secret venue to chill and regroup on 6th was not crowded

THE BAD :: A tad bit chilly, so no skirts for me :: Seeing less bands due to the horrendous lines this year :: SXSW has gotten too corporate :: Debating if I will attend SXSW in the future (it’s been a good 6 years, but geezus with the large acts) :: missing our other 100+ top selections, but hopefully will see them at a Seattle venue soon!

THE MEH :: Torchy’s Tacos :: Waylayers played one rad song then quit because they weren’t pleased with the sound :: Brooklyn Vegan Showcases (I blame the venue choice)

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All photos by Annie Cuce

except my family took a few… pi in the sky by Davey and the red roses at Mohawk by Jannette (she also made the pretty flower arrangement)

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SXSW 2013

SXSW 2012

SXSW 2011

SXSW 2010

2014 SXSW Music Tips

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Each year, I learn more about SXSW…what you can get away with, secret spots, best venues, parties to avoid, etc. The main goal being to be exposed to as much new music as possible while having a damn fine time. So far, I’m to be on the right track. Each year gets better than the last, which is difficult to believe since the previous was a fucking blast. The key is to be prepared. I spend months planning for my absolute favorite week of the year. I am giddy and the best feeling is walking down 6th Street on the first day with the warm sun on my skin and feeling the energy in the air. And I hate the sun, so this says a lot. Also, Mr Wackdelly will be joining me for his first SXSW so we have both been listening, planning together, scheduling and I’ve been filling his head with tips and tricks.

Check out my 2011 tips too, but you’ll notice that some tips are outdated (RIP Leslie).

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1 :: Do not see the big acts (also on the 2011 list). Seriously, you spend all your time standing in line for hours to see a popular band that tours in your city multiple times a year, when you could be experiencing what SXSW is really about… fresh new music. The undiscovered gems are where it’s at! Over the years some of my favorite SXSW discoveries before they blew up were Baths, Cloud Nothings, Beirut, Warpaint, Of Monsters and Men and Grouplove.

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2 :: Check out the free shows at night. My friend at Blue Sky + Hard Rock (along with Music Saves Lives) put on a fantastic showcase last year with free music all day AND night (including free delicious sushi). Be on the lookout for unofficial night parties for they do exist. I believe there will be even more free night stuff this year. (photo: Seryn at Firehouse Lounge & Hostel, 2013)

3 :: There is a new addition to the wrist bands you will be collecting during the week, the Guest Pass wristband. It is a free credential and allows you to get in certain venues/areas (that use to not require any credentials). More info here.

4 :: Be sure to check out Waterloo Records’ free shows from 3/12-3/15, but plan to get there hella early if you want to get in the door. Also, it’s a hike from the main 6th Street music festivities so plan for that and no RSVP necessary! Lineup here and more info here.

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5 :: While the beers of the Pacific Northwest are pretty boss, I do miss old Texas favorites like Firemans #4 from Real Ale Brewing and the always refreshing Lone Star. I’m getting thirsty just thinking about it. Also, be sure to tip those great people slinging drinks behind the bar. They are working hard so you can enjoy yourself.

6 :: If you can find a rad band playing a tiny venue off the beaten path, pay the cab fare to check em out. The best shows are the smallest. This is easier said than done. I have skipped seeing some top picks due to location and later found out what I missed out on and that just plain sucks.

7 :: Don’t invest all your time and planning into one showcase or party… the venue will be at capacity, there was a schedule change, the distance is too far, gotta follow the friends, etc. Just have lots of backup music options. I usually plan 10-15 backup options, and that’s just for the day parties.

8 :: Twitter is one of the best on-the-go tools. Ask questions about line status, tweet a band to confirm times, or just see what’s blowing up at the moment in Austin (Prince, Bill Murray sighting, etc). Be sure to use the proper #sxsw or #sxsw2014 hashtags and someone is bound to respond to your inquiries. Secondary tools that work well are the SXSW app and a spreadsheet via the Google Drive app. I’m at @wackdelly if you have any questions.

9 :: Earplugs are a necessity. I wish someone (anyone) would have told me the importance of earplugs at a younger age. Anyhoo, I took 3 pairs of earplugs last year and managed to lose them all. My backpacked savior, Bruce, came to the rescue with a whole bag of earplugs. I might pay it forward and stock-up, then proceed to shove them in the ear holes of all the clueless youth.

10 :: Don’t be a stuck up asshole. Talk to people. If they are friendly and you are friendly, then keep talking. Buy them a Lone Star and chat about your favorites of the fest or suggest bands to check out. I was chatting and giving some suggestions to a lady and it turned out to be Ann Powers of NPR. I’ve met some really great people over the years at SXSW that I still keep in touch with.

All photos by Annie Cuce

Wackdelly’s 13 Favorite Live Shows of 2013

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While the posts in 2013 were far and few in-between, the music attendance didn’t miss a beat. It actually increased by a large chunk over 2012 (and I still know I am off by 10-ish bands somehow). It was a bizarre year with so many ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change a single thing. While being in a different mindset will change ones opinions of the music, I just look at it as being more open towards music you wouldn’t have listened to otherwise. Anyhoo, I added more “analytics” this year, as I am a spreadsheet junkie (if you see me at a music festival, you will understand). I tend to be a money-tracker of sorts so knowing what is spent on live music in 2013 was eye-opening and I have no idea why it’s never been tracked before. I saw a plethora of free shows this year due to generous connections and music writing friends with a +1, music start-ups, secret shows, beach shows, and rad anniversary shows on the streets of south Seattle. It’s been a crazy year and I love it all and the people involved. Thank you.

2013 Breakdown :: at least 267 live bands :: est total cost of $951 (avg $18.28/wk) :: 7 cities :: 6 music festivals :: March was loudest month (71) :: Dec was most quiet month (4)


Anamanaguchi @ Chop Suey – Seattle WA 6/6/13

This show blew away their SXSW performance with the blasting sound, bright background and those cubes! Seriously, the cubes made me feel like I was gonna 1-UP with every song. Rad all around.

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Balmorhea @ Columbia City Theater – Seattle WA 8/9/13

This band from Austin Texas is one of my absolute top favorite bands to see live. The music truly puts me in another place. Here’s footage from a different show:

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Black Violin @ Scoot Inn for SXSW – Austin TX  3/14/13

Listening to all of the SXSW bands is a tough job, but when a gem like Black Violin stands out, you fork out the $25 to see a single evening showcase. This show the only money I actually paid to see a band at SXSW (since partaking in the day showcases mostly). Totally worth it! They are also playing SXSW 2014 (YES!).

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Blind Pilot + Oregon Symphony @ Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall – Portland Oregon 4/27/13

3 Rounds and a Sound. With a Symphony. Enough Said.   Photo :: Daily Blender

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Byrta @ Þjóðleikhúskjallarinn for Iceland Airwaves – Reykjavík Iceland 11/2/13

Byrta is incredibly unique with angelic robes and complete with backup singers. Definite stand-outs of the entire festival!

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Dresses @ Tractor Tavern – Seattle WA 10/15/13

I fell in love with Dresses immediately. This adorable Portland duo has remained in heavy rotation ever since this show.

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For A Minor Reflection @ 12 Tónar – Reykjavík Iceland  10/30/13

The best live shows are in tiny music stores with capacities of 30. The sound in this video does not give these post-rockers justice.

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Geographer @ Wild Buffalo – Bellingham WA 1/14/13

They made my top live band list of 2012 also. Yup, that good!

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Grouplove @ The Crocodile – Seattle WA 9/9/13

Ah, one of my favorite music discoveries… Every live show is better than the last which is mind-blowing since the first Grouplove show I attended was stellar!

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Hermigervill + Vox Mod @ Neumo’s – Seattle WA 10/12/13

These two go together like peanut butter and jelly. Kudos KEXP for this fantastic Reykjavík/Seattle match-up!

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The High Highs @ Brew Exchange for SXSW – Austin TX 3/14/13

This band has been on my radar for quite some time. I was stoked to finally see them and then a month later back in Seattle.

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Jagwar Ma @ Reykjavík Art Museum for Iceland Airwaves – Reykjavík Iceland  10/31/13

So, I’m really confused as to why this band is not HUGE! The live shows are fantastic with intense visuals and really great sound.

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Retro Stefson @ Harpa Norðurljós for Iceland Airwaves – Reykjavík Iceland  10/31/13

This was such a super sharp and energetic show! Retro Stefson was one of our most anticipated Reykjavík acts of the fest and totally delivered.

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all photos by Annie unless otherwise noted

 

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2013 band list

A Trak, Aaron and the Sea, Aby Wolf, Air Review, Alex Bleeker and the Freaks, All My Friends, Allah-Las, ALT-J, Aluna George, Anamanaguchi (x2), And So I Watch You From Afar, Andel King, Apparat Organ Quartet, Árstíðir, Ásgeir, Astronautalis, Avians, Alight, Balmorha, Baptist Generals, Bastille, Baths, BattleMe (x2), Bear Mountain (x2), Bellstop, Benny Crespo’s Gang, Benoît Pioulard, Billy Woods, Black and White Years, Black Violin, Blackbird Blackbird, Bleached, Blind Pilot, Bloodgroup, Blue Boy, Borko, Braids, Brushy One, Built To Spill, Butch Walker, Byrta, Caged Animals, Cake, Carmen Villain, Cashmere Cat, Cayucas, Chad Valley, Chrome Sparks, Chvrches, Clipping., Cody ChestnuTT, Constant Lovers, Conveyor, Daniel Hart (x2), Darwin Deez, David Bazan, Death Cab for Cutie, Delorean, Dessa (x2), DIIV, Dillion Francis, Doe Paoro, Dolly Parton Tribute Bands, Doranna bjornsdotter/Trouble, Dream Tiger, Dresses, Dude York, Duologue, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Electric Children, Elín Ey, Empress Of, Erik Blood, Explosions in the Sky, Family of the Year, Father John Misty, Fly Moon Royalty, FM Belfast, Fol Chen, For A Minor Reflection, Four Color Zack, Fox, Frightened Rabbit, Gemini Club, Geographer (x3), Ghost Beach, Girls in Hawaii, Gold Fields, Grand Hallway, Grant Olsen (from Gold Leaves), Greg Dulli, Grimes (x2), Grouplove, Hausu, Hello Wheels, Hermigervill, Hey Marseilles (x2), Hibou, Hjaltalín, How To Dress Well, Humans, Hymnalaya, Icky Blossoms, Islands, J Thoven, Jagwar Ma, Jan Mayen, Japandroids, Kajak, Katie Kate, Kaylee Cole, Kid Smpl, King Tuff, Kisses, Kithkin, Kiven, Lay Low, Le1f, Leagues, Limousines, Lord Huron, Love and Fog, Low Roar, Lucy Rose (x2), Lusine, M-Band, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Majical Cloudz, Mammút, Man Without Country, Maserati, METZ, Michael Kiwanuka, Midlake, Mikey and Matty, Mitzi (x2), MØ (x2), Mudhoney, Múm DJ Set, Mumford & Sons, Mylets, Myrra Rós, Nacho Picasso, Natasha Kmeto, Nine Inch Nails, Nissim, Nolo, Not in the Face, Odesza, Ojba Rasta, On An On (x3), Onuinu, Oregon Symphony, Oyama, Papa, Pascal Pinon, Petit Noir, Phox (x2), Pinback, Polyphonic Spree, Preservation, Pure Bathing Culture, Ra Ra Riot (x2), Radiation City, Radical Face (x2), Red Fang, Reignwolf, Retro Stefson, Robert DeLong, Rökkurró, S (Jenn Ghetto) (x2), San Fermin, Saytan, Sea Wolf, Sean Nicholas Savage, Seattle Rock Orchestra (performing Beatles), Sera Cahoone, Seryn, Shabazz Palaces, Shovels & Rope, Shugo Tokumaru, Sign, Sigur Ros, Silent Diane, Sin Fang (x2), Ski Lodge, Skurken, Slow Magic, Smoke & Feathers, Sophia Duccini, Star & Micey, Stealing Sheep, STRFKR (x2), Suburban Living, Sun Glitters, Super Water Sympathy, Sykur, T Bird and the Brakes, Tall Ships, Tape, Telekinesis, The 1975, The Comettes, The Eastern Sea, The Eels, The Grey Area, The Grizzled Mighty (x2), The Horde and Harem, The High Highs (x2), The Lumineers, The Neighbourhood, The Pharmacy, The Postal Service, The Rubens, The Tallest Man on Earth, This Town Needs Guns (TTNG)(x2), Tomo Nakayama (from Grand Hallway), Tony Lewis Trio, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Trails and Ways (x2), Trust the Lies, Úlfur Úlfur, Ultra Mega Technobandið Stefán, Útidúr, Vigri (x2), Villagers, Vök , Vox Mod (x3), Waxahachie, Why?, Wild Cub (x2), Wildcat! Wildcat!, X Suns, Y Niwl, Ylja, You Won’t, Young Dreams, Young Dreams, Youngblood Hawke

Best Live Shows of 2012

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The music discoveries, live shows and music festivals of 2012 were absolutely incredible! I met so many friendly fellow music loving people at shows and festivals this year so it’s easy to say this was the best year yet for live music and making friends at the same time. I am at my most happiest, most at peace and feel most at home while being in the audience of a live show. It doesn’t matter if I’m laying low in the back with a beer and a friend, dancing in the middle or pushing my way up front eager to get some good photos.

In 2012, I saw more than 210 live bands (since I know for a fact that several were left off the list). Out of these, I chose the top 20 performances. I tried to cut it down to just 10 as in years past, but just couldn’t.

all photos by Wackdelly

20 :: Housse de Racket @ Coachella – Indio CA

This crazy-white-clothes-loving-jumping duo surprised me for I prefer their live performance to the album.

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19 :: Jake Shimabukuro @ Skinny’s Ballroom (SXSW) – Austin TX

I finally got to see Jake live!! I was one of the few that got into this official showcase with cash since all those stuffy badge holders got in first. pff

18 :: Alesso @ Coachella – Indio CA

The Sahara tent was one of my favorites. The DJs were great, my top fave being Alesso.

17 :: Of Monsters and Men @ Hotel Vegas (SXSW) – Austin TX

I had to pull myself out of bed early for this early day show since Of Monsters and Men played right at noon. This set was worth it and was my first time to see them. Just lovely!

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16 :: GIVERS @ Coachella – Indio CA

Probably the most fun band at Coachella! Up Up Up!

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15 :: Bryan John Appleby @ Bumbershoot – Seattle WA

This dude has talent. No wonder the people from Head and the Heart love him so much.

14 :: Fly Moon Royalty @ Chop Suey – Seattle WA

Miss Adra Boo and DJ Action Jackson make up this rad Seattle duo. There is a tasty cover at the end of their sets that gets the crowd going. Yeah, you know what it is!

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13 :: Tallest Man on Earth @ The Moore Theater – Seattle WA

Kristian Matsson packs a strong voice that could fill up two Moore Theaters. I like how he was messing with the photographer up front. Hilarious!

12 :: Parlovr @ Spill Bar (SXSW) – Austin TX

I listened to all of the showcasing artists before the actual festival. Parlovr was one of my top must-see picks and their live show did not disappoint!

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11 :: First Aid Kit @ Coachella – Indio CA

Absolutely lovely. Period.

10 :: Tumbledown @ Manette Saloon – Bremerton WA

MxPx’s Mike Herrera has put together a fun alt-country band with members of the Rocky Point All Stars. I’ve seen them a few times in 2012 and they bring it every time.

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9 :: The Drums @ Flamingo Cantina (SXSW) – Austin TX

I saw The Drums three times in 2012, the first performance being my favorite. I may or may not have a crush on Jonathan Pierce. That arm sway thing gets me every time.

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8 :: Jeff Mangum @ Coachella – Indio CA

Jeff Mangum. At sunset. Heaven.

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7 :: mewithoutYou @ Nuemos – Seattle WA

This show was one of the most insanely brilliant sets I’ve seen in a long time. Also the first time for seeing them despite listening for years and years.

6 :: Geographer @ Chop Suey – Seattle WA

Such an incredible set, they were the opener for this one. Geographer is swinging through Seattle the second week of January and will be headlining. Yay!

5 :: Matt & Kim @ The Neptune – Seattle WA

I’ve been wanting to see Matt & Kim live for years and finally have! This duo is by far one of the most fun bands to photograph. They don’t stop moving. Ever. I was in complete awww when Kim was dancing on top of the crowd and couldn’t stop snapping.

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4 :: Icky Blossoms @ Nuemos – Seattle WA

I just love going to shows where one of the openers blows me away more than the headliner. This was the case with Icky Blossoms opening for Tilly and the Wall. Derek Pressnall, a member of both bands, has put together a fantastic electropop band that creates a sexy, creepy and poppy sound. I haven’t been able to put this album away for months.

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3 :: Sufjan Stevens @ The Neptune – Seattle WA

It is no surprise that Sufjan has made my best of list again. His sound live is absolute perfection and the visuals and costume changes highlight that. I was in complete awe listening to To Be Alone With You. My year has been made. Thanks Sufy!

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2 :: Balthazar @ TenOak (SXSW) – Austin TX

I did A LOT of my listening homework before SXSW and my top to-see pick was Balthazar. They were everything I’d hoped for and more. I’m hoping this amazing band from Belgium makes it back to the states and soon!

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1 :: Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs @ Barboza – Seattle WA

I attended this show and had no idea what I was about to experience. I was completely blown away! And I arrived to the show in a complete funk that night too but Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs pulled me out of it.

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2012 band list

…musicvideo?, Air Review, Alesso, Allen Stone Andrew Anderson, Andrew Bird, AraabMuzik, Arctic Monkeys, At The Drive-In, AVICII, Awolnation (x2), Balthazar, Barcelona, Beat Connection, Beats Antique, Beck, Beirut (x2), Ben Kweller, Blind Pilot, Bon Iver (x2), Breakbot, Bryan John Appleby, Buried Beds, Campfire Ok, Childish Gambino, City and Colour, Civil Twilight, Coeur De Pirate, Cold Specks, Com Truise, Cosmetics, Crafts Spells (x3), Damien Jurado, Dani Elliott, Datsik, David Reynolds, Destroyer, Dinosaur Wars, Dr Dre & Snoop Dogg, Eighteen Individual Eyes, Electric Guest, Explosions in the Sky (x3), Fanfarlo (x2), Feed Me, Feels Like Yesterday (x6), First Aid Kit, Fitz and the Tantrums, Fly Moon Royalty (x2), Flying Lotus, Freelance Whales, Geographer, Girl Talk, GIRLS, GIVERS, Glen Hansard, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Gold Leaves, Gotye, Gregg Graham, Grouplove, Half Moon Run, He’s My Brother She’s My Sister (x2), Head and the Heart, Heartless Bastards, Helio Sequence, Hello Seahorse!, Hey Marseilles, HoneyHoney, Hooray for Earth, Hospitality (x2), Housse de Racket, Icky Blossoms, Idiot Glee, Irukandji Physics of Fusion, Jake Shimabukuro, James Murphy, Jan van Lier, Jason Lytle, Jeff Mangum, Justin Timbreline, Kasabian, Kevin Devine, King Khan & the Shrines, Korallreven, Lana Del Rey, Lefthead (x2), Lemolo, Lights, Little People, Loch Lomond, Low, LP, M Ward (x2), Madeon, Madness, Manchester Orchestra, Matt & Kim, Metric, mewithoutYou, Miike Snow, Mt St Helens Vietnam Band, No Rey, Oberhofer (x2), Of Monsters and Men (x2), Old Mexico, Other Lives, Parlovr, Pretty Lights, Pulp, Radiohead, Real Estate, Reggie Watts, Rocky Point All Stars, Said The Whale, Santigold (x2), SBTRKT, Sea of Bees, Sea Star, SebastiAn, Sebastian Ingrosso, Sera Cahoone, Shakey Graves, Sharon Van Etten, Shoot the Hostage, Squeeze, St Vincent, Strand of Oaks, Strfkr (x2), Sufjan Stevens, Tallest Man on Earth, Tenacious D, Tennis (x2), The Barr Brothers, The Big Pink, The Black Angels (x2), The Black Keys, The Civil Wars, The Dear Hunter, The Drums (x3), The Growlers, The Head and the Heart, The Horde and the Harem, The Islands, The Jezabels, The Love Language, The New Law, The Pains of Being Pure at Heart, The Paramedic, The Persevering Promise, The Promise Ring, The Roots, The Seedy Seeds, The Shins (x3), The Spring Standards, The Torn ACLs, The Vaselines, The Wedding Present, The Young Evils, TheeSatisfaction, This Will Destroy You, Thus: Owls, Tilly and the Wall, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Trampled by Turtles, Tumbledown (x2), Ty Segall, Tycho, Ume, Why?, Wild Belle, Wild Flag, Wolfgang Gartner, WU LYF, Ximena Sarinara, Yann Tiersen, Yelawolf, Yellow Ostrich, Yuck, Yve Evans, Zammuto, Zedd

Music Monday: Sasquatch!

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Our first Sasquatch experience was a smashing success! Four days of camping, listening to music, and sleeping under the bright shinies was a perfect way to spend Memorial Day weekend. I am still taking it all in (even a week later) and we plan to attend again next year!

Around our campsite…I will buy an avocado green camper, yes yes I will.

Our camping neighbors, Hillary & Lauren.

Keeping cool in the shade.

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Those determined bananas hoisted me up during Of Monster and Men.

HoneyHoney (left), Yellow Ostrich (right)

Of Monsters and Men

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Explosions in the Sky

I think this is STRFKR again b/c I Break Horses cancelled.

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Craft Spells

Portlandia: Fred Armisen & Carrie Brownstein (left), Com Truise (right)

Michael and I lounging in the grass.

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Araabmuzik at the Banana Shack tent

Coeur De Pirate

Wolfgang Gartner

dirty feets (left), Beirut (right)

Head and the Heart signing

The regular Music Monday has been on a brief hiatus but will be back very soon!

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Coachella: Weekend 1 Wrap up

SXSW Day 3

Coachella: Weekend 1 Wrap up

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We are still coming down from the excitement of Coachella. Here are bits and pieces of the first weekend, which is the better of the two…I may or may not be biased. If you are attending weekend 2, check out Coachella tips by Kid Dangerous. I think there will be live streaming again next weekend but lots of the past performances can be found on the Coachella youtube channel. Just today, there were photos added to the Coachella fb page and they are absolutely gorgeous. This was easily one of the most visually stunning music festivals I have ever attended.

Over the course of 3 days, we smuggled in 5 flasks, saw a total of 58 bands live, and checked the puppy webcam more often then we should have. Anyhoo, my favorite performances of the weekend were WU LYF, Yuck, GIVERS, First Aid Kit, Alesso, Andrew Bird, AWOLNATION, Real Estate, Housse de Racket, Childish Gambino and Grouplove.

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Carrie Brownstein of Wild Flag (left), Gotye could fill up 2 Mojave tents (right)

Beirut (left), SBTRKT (right)

GIVERS (left), Childish Gambino (right)

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THE GOOD The Art installations :: Crab Fries :: The sound of EVERY stage was better than any other outdoor music festival :: Tupac hologram :: Perfect non-scorching weather :: Celebrating my birthday

THE BAD The Hives annoying-ness between songs :: Getting searched more than airport security :: Chilly, drizzly Friday :: Jeff Mangum and Radiohead not shown on the giant video screens :: Fuzzy bear hats worn with bikinis

 

First Aid Kit (left), art is everywhere at Coachella (right)

 

Super fun performance from Housse de Racket (left), Balloon art (right)

Andrew Bird playing at sunset

Sebastian Ingrosso (left), Grouplove (right)

At The Drive-In (left), dancing to Alesso (right)

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SXSW 2012 Days 4 and 5

Outside Lands 2011!

 

Music Monday: Coachella

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While we are both stoked for 80% of the bands playing Coachella this year. Michael and I chose our top five per day that we are most excited to experience. And the 2012 Coachella app was finally released today but the times are still TBA, so there is still lots of planning to get the max amount of music humanly possible.

Michael: FRIDAY Explosions In The Sky, The Horrors, Alesso, GIVERS, WU LYF SATURDAY AWOLNATION, Andrew Bird, SBTRKT, Flying Lotus, Godspeed You! Black Emperor SUNDAY At The Drive-In, Gotye, Beirut, Real Estate, Zedd

Annie: FRIDAY Explosions In The Sky, M Ward, WU LYF, GIVERS, Hello Seahorse! SATURDAY Jeff Mangum, AWOLNATION, Andrew Bird, Radiohead, St Vincent SUNDAY The Growlers, Real Estate, At The Drive-In, Beirut, First Aid Kit

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SXSW 2012 Music Selections – Part 2

SXSW 2012 Music Selections – Part 3

SXSW Days 4 and 5

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Craft Spells play the Brooklyn Vegan party at Hotel Vegas.

Alex Maas of The Black Angels. I love him!

The Black Angels (left), People listening outside of Hotel Vegas (right)

Joe Lifto showing me his rad shirt.

Air Review performs at Doc’s patio. They were a nice surprise since we were shopping next door at Parts and Labour.

Air Review (left), Austin sign on South Congress (right)

Crawfish at Shoal Creek (left), Mike and Leslie dancing to Sam Cooke on East 6th St (right)

Jan van Lier at Kingdom.

           

It’s not SX without a Bill Murray sighting (left), Art by Tim Doyle on South Congress (right)

The Spring Standards play on the 18th floor of the Hilton, shortly past 2am.

The Spring Standards

Parlovr!!!

Parlovr

The lovely and talented Tara McPherson shows me her bunny ring at her Flatstock booth.

Abe Lincoln. Holding a pizza. With a guitar purse. WIN.

Ben Kweller singing “Wasted & Ready” (one of my faves). We listened from across the street while indulging in beer and Amy’s ice cream.

Balthazar was a must see on my list and they were the perfect last band of SXSW!

All photos by Annie Campos
 
 

SXSW Day 3

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Of Monsters and Men :: Incredible live!!

Of Monsters and Men

Glen Hansard :: Such a sweetheart!

Half Moon Run

Thus:Owls

Hospitality :: One of my favorite bands currently!

I met Jacquie who saw way more bands than me. I met her doppelganger, Margot, the day before.

Korallreven :: Members of the amazing band, Radio Dept!!!

Korallreven

Killer set by Fanfarlo

The Drums :: 2nd show

Ume

This Will Destroy You

On our way to Leslie’s 1st Shins show at Auditorium Shores

Auditorium Shores

The Shins

All photos by Annie Campos
 

SXSW Days 1 and 2

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Another SXSW is behind us and the recaps, photos and best-of lists are endless. And I love to read them all! It is impossible to see and do everything that SXSW offers, but it is fun to try. There was never a night where I was asleep before 4am only to wake up early each day and do it all over. Some bits from days one and two…

The Drums at Flamingo Cantina for the Under the Radar party. I haven’t had a crush on a blonde boy since high school. Jonathan Pierce is adorable when he does that arm sway thing.

I met these super nice people at the bus stop and hung with them for a bit. They are touring in a lime green school bus that runs on veggie oil (I love that). They are members of Lost in Atlantis, Thomas King, and Meagan from Blue Sky and Hard Rock.

 

incredible eggrolls at Yakitori food truck (left), cookies being passed around at The Drums set (right)

friendly guys, Jason and TJ of The Grey Area

Hooray for Earth (left), I didn’t make any hip-hop shows this year, but heard some while walking by (right)

Reggie Watts! I convinced Don and Steve from Vancouver to stay for his set and they loved Reggie! I also met Tamara (a former Seattlite and photographer), Derek, and Margot.

The Love Language (left), Margaret of the Seedy Seeds (right)

He’s My Brother, She’s My Sister… this band is so friendly and fun live!! I have video of a Zach Galifianakis lookalike (TJ from New Hampshire) dancing to one of their songs.

Lauren Brown is adorable! He’s My Brother, She’s My Sister

Bush Baby Beer girls. BB turns beer into water for countries that need it. (left), Jake Shimabukuro, a ukelele master!!! I can’t believe I got to see him live. The whole place was full of badge holders and I was one of a few that got in with cash. He played amazing covers like Bohemian Rhapsody and While My Guiter Gently Weeps. (right)

In The Pink: So much energy and great stage presence!

All photos by Annie Campos
 

SXSW Music Selections :: 3rd round

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This is the final chunk of SXSW bands that I sampled. The full list of bands can be found here, but just remember the list can change. It will be impossible to see all of these bands, but at least I’m prepared if someone asks me if I want to see so-and-so band. I’m super psyched!

 

Peter Bradley Adams (Brooklyn NY) – singer/songwriter
A.Dd+ (Dallas TX) – hip hop
Allah-Las (Los Angeles CA) – surf rock
Anamanaguchi (Brooklyn NY) – electronic rock/8-bit
Andrea Balency Trio (Mexico City MEXICO) – french
Balkan Beat Box (Brooklyn NY/Tel Aviv ISRAEL) – world/electronic
Baloji (DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO) – belgian french hip hop
Bez (Lagos NIGERIA) – soul
Brite Futures (Seattle WA) – indie rock
Built to Spill (Boise ID) – indie rock ***
Chicha Libre (Brooklyn NY) – latin/surf pop
Chokeules (Toronto CANADA) – rap/hip hop
Clubfeet (Melbourne AUSTRALIA)
Craft Spells (Seattle WA) – dream pop
Cuba Cuba (Cardiff UK-WALES) – indie rock
Cuff the Duke (Toronto CANADA) – folk
Da C.O.D. (Austin TX) – rap/hip hop
The Dandies (Hochdorf SWITZERLAND) – rock
Daughter (London UK-ENGLAND) – singer/songwriter
Delta Spirit (Long Beach CA) – folk rock
Dent May (Oxford MS) – singer/songwriter
DIVE (Brooklyn NY)
Electric Empire (Melbourne AUSTRALIA) – soul
Electric Guest (Los Angeles CA) – indie pop
Elephant Stone (Montreal CANADA) – indie rock
Frank (Just Frank) (Queens NY) – post punk
French Films (Helsinki FINLAND) – dream pop
Gold Fields (Mitchell Park AUSTRALIA) – indietronic
Gold Motel (Chicago IL) – indie pop
The Good Natured (Newbury UK-ENGLAND) – brit pop
Gospel Music (Jacksonville FL) – indie pop
Grimes (Montreal CANADA) – electro pop ***
Half Moon Run (Montreal CANADA) – alt pop
Horse Feathers (Portland OR) – folk **
Hospitality (Brooklyn NY) – indie pop ***
Sarah Jaffe (Denton TX) – singer/songwriter
JENNY O. (Los Angeles CA) – pop/singer/songwriter
Jonti (Sydney AUSTRALIA) – electro/experimental
Michael Kiwanuka (London UK-ENGLAND) – soul/folk
Lights (Toronto CANADA) – synch pop
Lost Lander (Portland OR) – alt rock
Emma Louise (Toowong AUSTRALIA) – pop/singer/songwriter
Metric (Toronto CANADA) – indie rock
Mord Fustang (Tallinn ESTONIA) – electronic
Krista Muir (Montreal CANADA) – singer/songwriter
Natty (London UK-ENGLAND) – reggae
Oh Land (Copenhagen DENMARK) – pop ***
1,2,3 (Pittsburgh PA)
The Seedy Seeds (Cincinnati OH) – indie pop **
Soul Khan (Brooklyn NY) – rap/hip hop
Squarehead (Dublin IRELAND) – surf/pop/rock
Tall Ships (Falmouth UK-ENGLAND) – indie rock ***
This Will Destroy You (San Marcos TX)
Tilly and the Wall (Omaha NE) – pop **

**so fun/amazing that I want to see again

***been wanting to see this band live for a while

SXSW Music Selections :: 2nd round

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In alphabetical order, I have chosen my second round selections for the SXSW music portion. The first round can be seen here the complete sxsw band list can be viewed here. Click on the band name to learn more about them. Again, enjoy!

Capsula Bilbao SPAIN (garage rock)
Choir of Young Believers Copenhagen DENMARK (folk pop)
Duran Bogotá COLOMBIA (dance pop)
Miles Zuniga Austin TX (singer songwriter)

Nive Nielsen & The Deer Children Nuuk GREENLAND (singer songwriter/folk)
Oh Mercy Melbourne AUSTRALIA (alt rock)
Radiation City Portland OR (lo-fi pop)
The Record Summer New York NY (singer songwriter)
You Can’t Win, Charlie Brown Lisbon PORTUGAL (indie pop)
Zulu Winter London UK-ENGLAND (indie rock)

SXSW Music Selections :: 1st round

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In alphabetical order, I have chosen my first round picks for the SXSW music portion. I know it won’t be possible to see all of these bands plus the many more I will add in the coming weeks.  The complete band list can be viewed here. The genres listed below are fairly broad, but hopefully helpful. I am slowing listening to the 2nd and 3rd round bands and hope to have those up in a few days. Click on the band name to learn more about them. Let me know what you like! Enjoy!

Ambition Halifax Canada (hip-hop)
ANR Miami FL (indie rock)
Antoine Reverb Guadalajara Mexico (indie pop)
Avalanche City Auckland New Zealand (folk)
Balthazar Gent Belgium (alt pop) ***

Big Deal London UK-England (lo-fi)
Big Scary Melbourne Australia (folk rock)

Cloud Nothings – Cleveland OH (indie rock) **
Com Truise – Princeton NJ (electronic) ***

Fat Tony Houston TX (hip hop)

He’s My Brother She’s My Sister Los Angeles CA (folk, western swing) ***
Howler Minneapolis MN (surf rock)

il abanico Bogota COLOMBIA (rock)
Matthew Perryman Jones Nashville TN (singer-songwriter)
Jonquil Oxford UK-ENGLAND (pop rock)
Just A Band Nairobi KENYA  (electro pop)
Marit Larsen Oslo NORWAY (singer-songwriter)
Letting Up Despite Great Faults Los Angeles CA (shoegaze)

Marmalakes Austin TX (folk pop)

Motopony Seattle WA (indie pop)
Mujeres Barcelona SPAIN (garage)

Of Monsters and Men Reykjavík ICELAND (folk)

Parlovr Montreal CANADA (alt rock) ***

Molly Rankin Charlottetown PE (pop)

Rosie and Me Curitiba BRAZIL (folk)
Royal Canoe Winnipeg CANADA (indie pop)

Skewby Memphis TN (hip hop)
Skinny Lister London UK-ENGLAND (folk)

Thee Oh Sees San Francisco CA (garage rock) **

The Wedding Present Brighton UK-ENGLAND (brit pop) ***

**so fun/amazing that I want to see again

***been wanting to see this band live for a while