Slummy’s Top-10 2011 SxSW Shows

Yet another SXSW has wrapped up.  SXSW 2011 is in the books.  Four days of pure adrenaline.  Officially, as of this year, some shows now start on Tuesday, but I only arrived on Wednesday morning through Saturday night.  Departing Sunday morning.  Saw lots of good shows and was certainly an all-around good adventure, which is docuemtented herewithin.

As usual, I have compiled what I consider the best shows of the music festival.  Impossible to catch all of the shows from the 1800 or so bands that are attending, of course.  Of the shows I saw, the bands were from 16 countries, 22 states, at 38 venues.  More than 50% of the bands from USA were from TX, CA, or NY.  As I review the top shows, it seems that these bands happen to be on the punk side.  Last year, it seemed to be more noise bands.  The top ten had four different countries represented and two from Detroit.

Friday night appeared to be the most hectic among the go-ers on 6th St.  More people than ever wandered around.  Saturday day tends to be busy, too, but not so much this year, until that evening.  St Patrick’s Day was not as much of an event as last year, which is fine by me.  No doubt that the amount of people the event brought in was greater than last year.  Can’t wait to see the economic impact estimated for this year, versus last years.  Can it possibly reach $125M?  I think so.

Fads.  Each year, I try to put my fingers on the fads that I perceive noteworthy, from clothing to instruments, to types of music, etc.  This year, other than it seemed like there was a tremendous amount of punk bands, I noted the following elements.  Afros.  They are everywhere, from any race.  Lots more girl bass players than ever.  Floral “Elaine” prints.  Yuck.  At least they weren’t on dresses that much.  More for leggings and hose.  Some floral prints on the 40’s high waste shorts.  Without the floral print, these shorts were sometimes rocked in a 50’s pin-up fashion.  Many girls are holding hands (as friends) as they walk and sit.  And, someone has got to do something about all of the four week old scruffy beards on men.  Gross.  Oh no real celebrity spottings this year- the A, B, or C version.  Although, I did hear that Aziz Ansari did a few free comedy shows, which would be neat to goto.  He’s been in attendance before at SXSW.

 

I’m most disappointed with myself for not being able to make it to the Midcoast Takeover (http://www.midcoasttakeover.com).  It was held at The Liberty, which is a bit east from the main festival, but still, that should not be an excuse for not supporting my talented friends in bands from Kansas City and Lawrence.  I was able to catch some of those bands, however, at other shows around the downtown area.  I did hear on the street that everything was great at The Liberty and there was good attendance.  Regardless, a big round of applause should be given to all that were involved with that endeavor.  Huge undertaking, to say the least and it gives KC great exposure.  Thanks to everyone that made it happen. 

See The Soft Reeds here->   

So happy that SXSW2011 is over, but as you probably know, I literally plan my year around it and am already looking forward to 2012, even though, this has been the most wearing SX, I’ve had to-date.  Let me know what everyone thinks about my top shows.  Would love to hear your top shows.

 Thanks.  Slummy

 

 

 1) Human Eye at Beerland Patio on 3/17 from Detroit, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/humaneyedetroit.  Can you spot Ty Segall in the below videos?

 

2) Obits at Beauty Bar Patio on 3/16 from Brooklyn, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/obitsband  & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obits.

 

3) Bronto Skylift at Parish Underground on 3/18 from Iverness, SCOT.  http://www.myspace.com/brontoskylift.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/ginaclyne/5546454810 

 

4) Terrible Twos at Headhunter Patio on 3/17 from Detroit, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/terribletwos.

  

5) Valient Thorr at Jackalope on 3/18 from Raleigh, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/valientthorr & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valient_Thorr.  Watch for Valient to do the rowboat on the bar.

 

6) Dikes of Holland at BD Riley’s on 3/16 from Austin, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/dikesofholland.

 

7) Moja at Headhunter Patio on 3/16 from Sekimachikita, JAP.  http://www.myspace.com/moja777.

 

8 ) Pulled Apart by Horses at Red Eyed Fly Patio on 3/16 from Leeds, ENG.  http://www.myspace.com/pulledapartbyhorses & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pulled_Apart_by_Horses.

 

9) Suck Piggy at Headhunters Patio on 3/19 from Kyoto City, JAP.  http://www.myspace.com/suckpiggy39

 

10) Weekend at East Side Drive-In on 3/17 from San Francisco, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/weekendmusic.  Can you spot a Slummy in the crowd?

 

 

15) Adebisi Shank at DB Riley’s on 3/18 from Wexford, IRL.  http://www.myspace.com/adebisishank.

15) Amplified Heat at BD Riley’s on 3/16 from Austin, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/amplifiedheat.

15) LaFaro at DB Riley’s on 3/18 from Belfast, IRL.  http://www.myspace.com/lafaro.

15) Twin Tigers at Parish Underground on 3/17 from Athens, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/thetwintigers & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twin_Tigers.

15) White Mystery at Headhunter Patio on 3/17 from Chicago, USA. http://www.whitemysteryband.com.

Previously Noted) A Place to Bury Strangers at Peckerheads on 3/19 from Brooklyn, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/aplacetoburystrangers & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Place_to_Bury_Strangers.

Previously Noted) Capsula at Nuvola on 3/19 from Bibao, ESP.  http://www.myspace.com/capsulaorg & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsula.

Previously Noted) We Are Hex at Peckerheads on 3/18 from Indianapolis, USA.  http://www.myspace.com/wearehex.

Honorable Mention) Hazel Dickens at Dristel Hotel on 3/16 from Washington DC, USA. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hazel_Dickens.

Honorable Mention) Yoko Ono (& The Plastic Ono Band) at Elysium on 3/19PM from New York, USA.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Plastic_Ono_Band & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoko_Ono.

 

 

Top-10 Most wanted to see bands, but missed ’em:

Agent Ribbons / Rock (USA)- www.myspace.com/agentribbons.
Art Vs Science / Dance (AUS)- artvsscience.net.
Black Angels / Rock (USA)- www.theblackangels.com.
Chickasaw Mudd Puppies / Alt Country (USA)- www.myspace.com/chickasawmuddpuppies.
NAAM / Metal (USA)- www.myspace.com/naamdestroysfaces.
Oberhofer / Rock (USA)- www.myspace.com/oberhofermusic.
Seasick Steve- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasick_Steve & http://www.myspace.com/seasicksteve.

Had no idea he was going to be there.  I hear that he now officially lives in Europe.  So, what I’d do to catch one of his shows.
Simple Circuit / Rock (USA)- www.myspace.com/simplecircuitbeep.
Thee Attacks / Rock (DEN)- www.myspace.com/theeattacks.
Wizard Rifle / Metal (USA)- www.myspace.com/wizardrifle.
 
You can follow me on Twitter @Slummy9.  Below is my chatter, during the event.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011 5:33:37 PM via web — Sx bands I saw were from 22 states (24 last yr) at 38 venues. Hope to release Sx Best Of by end of wk. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 5:11:46 PM via Twitterrific in reply to republictigers– @republictigers: thoroughly enjoyd da Maggies Rooftop show. Sorry I culdnt hang after 4 drinks. Luvd da new songs.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 9:49:19 AM via web — Werkd on “Best Of” Sx show list last nyt. Saw bands from 16 countries which is the same amount as last yr. 2nyt will learn how many states.
Sunday, March 20, 2011 8:28:56 PM via Twitterrific in reply to caseybreana– @caseybreana: Oklahoma- home 2 sum srs state troopers 2.
Sunday, March 20, 2011 11:47:37 AM via Twitterrific — Had a blast @ Sx. But glad its over & happy Im home. Nice 2 c alot of friends ther. I’ll try 2 get my annual best of show list done this wk.
Sunday, March 20, 2011 11:16:17 AM via foursquare — I’m at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) ? (601 Brasilia Ave, Kansas City) w/ 11 others http://4sq.com/hiJ8Y2
Sunday, March 20, 2011 2:01:18 AM via Twitterrific — Arm be’g twistd, but dont mind. 🙂
Saturday, March 19, 2011 11:31:52 PM via Twitterrific in reply to ohmrmr– @ohmrmr cheer up marty. Heard from an authority that CIB sounded great y’day @ sxsw.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 10:18:24 PM via Twitterrific — MO’s Living Things. http://yfrog.com/hsdy9trj
Saturday, March 19, 2011 10:15:09 PM via Twitterrific — I’m NOT stayg out til 4am 2nyt! Repeat.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 10:02:47 PM via foursquare — I’m at The Lounge @ Rusty Spurs [Dirty Little Secret] (405 7th St E, Austin) http://4sq.com/ggCkip
Saturday, March 19, 2011 8:41:55 PM via Twitterrific — Treat ur #sxsw doorpersons like TSA Agents. “Yes sir.” “Yes ma’am.”
Saturday, March 19, 2011 8:29:26 PM via foursquare — I’m at 512 Bar on 6th (408 East 6th Street, btw Trinity & Neches, Austin) w/ 6 others http://4sq.com/hFYP8O
Saturday, March 19, 2011 8:27:47 PM via Twitterrific — …They all look at each other, shrug, then shack their heads. They immediately playd thru n true punk fashion. #PunkIsOneLanguage.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 8:26:09 PM via Twitterrific — Soundman stops Japanese band for a length few minutes due 2 a faulty hi hat & language barrier. I yell, “Isnt this a f’g punk show?!”
Saturday, March 19, 2011 8:20:41 PM via Twitterrific — Despite all my efforts, wont b able 2 make it out east 4 midcoastsxsw w Kansas City & Larry’s best talent. Get by ther everyone! U’ll enjoy.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 7:55:06 PM via Twitterrific — Despite all my efforts, wont b able 2 make it out east 4 @midcoastsxsw w Kansas City & Larry’s best talent. Get by ther everyone! U’ll enjoy
Saturday, March 19, 2011 7:48:29 PM via foursquare — I’m at Emo’s Annex (600 Red River, 6th, Austin) w/ 6 others http://4sq.com/gYWuQT
Saturday, March 19, 2011 5:24:57 PM via foursquare — I’m at East Side Drive-In (1000 E 5th St, San Marcos, Austin) w/ 59 others http://4sq.com/fqbWzq
Saturday, March 19, 2011 4:02:57 PM via Twitterrific — A Place To Bury Strangers. New bass player. Destroyg as usual. http://yfrog.com/h73d4mzj
Saturday, March 19, 2011 3:52:11 PM via Twitterrific — Never thought Id say this: #TooMuchFreeBeer.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 3:40:42 PM via Twitterrific — The Bitters just covered She Needs It by The Cars. Luv it.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 3:28:07 PM via Twitter for iPhone — Retweeted by you . Tulipana    The art of finding a place to take a relatively private and hygienic dump at SXSW is a required gift for this fest.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 3:23:24 PM via Twitterrific — About 2 break my no-bourbon-b4-dark-sxsw rule. Prayg 4 sunset.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 3:03:10 PM via foursquare — I’m at The Jackalope (404 E 6th St, at Trinity, Austin) w/ 12 others http://4sq.com/eZxMUr
Saturday, March 19, 2011 2:51:25 PM via Twitterrific — Watchg a guy dip fried cheese sticks n nacho cheese. #killurself …Bet he wont eat da celery stick.
Saturday, March 19, 2011 2:32:27 PM via foursquare — I’m at Peckerheads (402 E 6th St, at Trinity, Austin) w/ 4 others http://4sq.com/dQBkvM
Saturday, March 19, 2011 1:46:16 PM via foursquare — I’m at Beerland (711 Red River Street, E. 7th Street, Austin) http://4sq.com/dHu80I
Saturday, March 19, 2011 12:36:07 PM via foursquare — I’m at Plush (617 Red River St, at 7th st, Austin) http://4sq.com/fPg4Fa
Saturday, March 19, 2011 11:57:59 AM via Twitterrific — 2 of 2. http://yfrog.com/h0uxbkcj
Saturday, March 19, 2011 11:55:01 AM via Twitterrific — Hopefully ur not n this line. 1of 2. http://yfrog.com/gznllhnj
Saturday, March 19, 2011 11:52:17 AM via Twitterrific — Republic Tigers. http://yfrog.com/h7e1rlnj
Saturday, March 19, 2011 1:02:48 AM via foursquare — I’m at Emo’s (603 Red River St, at E 6th St, Austin) w/ 42 others http://4sq.com/elRkKQ
Saturday, March 19, 2011 12:38:51 AM via Twitterrific — Fever Fever. http://yfrog.com/gyvwmddj
Friday, March 18, 2011 10:32:59 PM via foursquare — I’m at Soho Lounge (217 East 6th St, Austin) w/ 11 others http://4sq.com/g5PoqK
Friday, March 18, 2011 10:00:41 PM via Twitterrific — Havnt been able 2 go2 @midcoastsxsw yet. Just 2 many out-of-country bands 2 c. Feel bad. Wanna support da excellent KC/Larry talent.
Friday, March 18, 2011 9:08:02 PM via foursquare — I’m at Swan Dive (651 Red River St, Austin) w/ 9 others http://4sq.com/gUVKsr
Friday, March 18, 2011 6:25:38 PM via Twitterrific — Valient Thorr is wreckg it as usual. Luv em n a small club.
Friday, March 18, 2011 6:02:34 PM via foursquare — Valient Thorr. (@ The Jackalope for Volcom Entertainment’s Free Beer Party w/ @gardeezy) http://4sq.com/faFNdx
Friday, March 18, 2011 5:04:21 PM via foursquare — I’m at BD Riley’s Irish Pub (204 E 6th St, at Brazos St, Austin) w/ 3 others http://4sq.com/eCBTB1
Friday, March 18, 2011 3:47:59 PM via foursquare — We Are Hex. (@ Peckerheads w/ 16 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/h36EBB
Friday, March 18, 2011 3:15:42 PM via foursquare — JEFF The Brotherhood. (@ The Jackalope w/ 24 others) http://4sq.com/gxvcXY
Friday, March 18, 2011 2:04:27 PM via foursquare — I’m at Cheer Up Charlie’s (1104 E 6th St, Austin) http://4sq.com/ejB865
Friday, March 18, 2011 12:53:01 PM via foursquare — I’m at Scoot Inn (1308 E 4th St, Navasota, Austin) w/ 5 others http://4sq.com/hGckI1
Friday, March 18, 2011 1:11:00 AM via foursquare — I’m at 512 Rooftop (408 E 6th St, Austin) w/ 6 others http://4sq.com/f7Lr1E
Friday, March 18, 2011 12:43:36 AM via foursquare — I’m at Black & Tan Seventh Street Lounge (405 E. 7th Street, Trinity Street, Austin) http://4sq.com/g6sPHf
Thursday, March 17, 2011 11:15:56 PM via Twitterrific — http://yfrog.com/h787ltj. Japanther.
Thursday, March 17, 2011 10:54:26 PM via Twitterrific — Now really killg da beers. Funny,… Used da restromm all day y’day. 2day, not so much, even tho consumg just as much. Dehydr8d.
Thursday, March 17, 2011 10:31:50 PM via Twitterrific — 3yrs n-a-row w flat @ Sx.
Thursday, March 17, 2011 8:54:40 PM via foursquare — I’m at Mohawk Patio (912 Red River St, Austin) http://4sq.com/i6cEfX
Thursday, March 17, 2011 8:31:03 PM via foursquare — I’m at Latitude 30 (512 San Jacinto St, at 5th St, Austin) w/ 3 others http://4sq.com/gd2CN9
Thursday, March 17, 2011 8:21:54 PM via foursquare — Capsula. (@ Nuvola w/ 7 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/eNJmCG
Thursday, March 17, 2011 6:13:29 PM via Twitterrific — Human Eye. http://yfrog.com/hs3n5uej
Thursday, March 17, 2011 5:32:38 PM via foursquare — I’m at Beerland (711 Red River Street, E. 7th Street, Austin) w/ 4 others http://4sq.com/gT4gGj
Thursday, March 17, 2011 4:26:44 PM via foursquare — I’m at Swan Dive (651 Red River St, Austin) w/ 6 others http://4sq.com/iaKpww
Thursday, March 17, 2011 3:48:47 PM via foursquare — I’m at Maggie Mae’s (323 E 6th St, at Trinity, Austin) w/ 8 others http://4sq.com/fXPRvl
Thursday, March 17, 2011 3:08:18 PM via foursquare — I’m at 501 Studios (501 Brushy, Austin) w/ 2 others http://4sq.com/fo7JoN
Thursday, March 17, 2011 2:18:51 PM via foursquare — I’m at Scoot Inn (1308 E 4th St, Navasota, Austin) w/ 4 others http://4sq.com/hwrl49
Thursday, March 17, 2011 1:44:34 PM via foursquare — I’m at East Side Drive-In (1000 E 5th St, San Marcos, Austin) w/ 14 others http://4sq.com/f3KQfj
Thursday, March 17, 2011 12:42:44 PM via foursquare — I’m at Barbarella (615 Red River Street, btwn 6th and 7th, Austin) w/ 3 others http://4sq.com/eHKhoU
Thursday, March 17, 2011 1:42:31 AM via foursquare — I’m at Easy Tiger Patio (709 E 6th St, Austin) http://4sq.com/iabU35
Thursday, March 17, 2011 1:38:03 AM via Twitterrific — Already thinkg about 2moro morng’s shows. #nosleeptilbrooklyn
Thursday, March 17, 2011 1:21:04 AM via foursquare — I’m at Spill Bar (212 East 6th Street, Austin) w/ 5 others http://4sq.com/eG3vJX
Thursday, March 17, 2011 12:31:57 AM via foursquare — I’m at Valhalla (710 Red River St, E 8th St, Austin) w/ 9 others http://4sq.com/hBt0bp
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 11:20:51 PM via foursquare — Hazek Dickens. (@ The Driskill w/ 22 others) http://4sq.com/eupxVx
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 10:30:02 PM via foursquare — I’m at Red Eyed Fly (715 Red River St, at E 8th Street, Austin) w/ 6 others http://4sq.com/fEDI3T
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 9:50:28 PM via Twitterrific — #LoneStarBeerOverInduldge
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 9:46:24 PM via foursquare — I’m at Habana Calle 6 Annex (708 E 6th St, at Sabine, Austin) http://4sq.com/hiH80v
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 9:21:56 PM via foursquare — B L A C K I E. (@ Barcelona w/ 4 others) http://4sq.com/g7k9TA
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 8:53:52 PM via Twitterrific — Got full charge on phone, but now mp3 recorder is dead. #electronicskillme
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 8:52:05 PM via foursquare — Moja. (@ Headhunters w/ 5 others) http://4sq.com/hUhxiJ
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 8:26:45 PM via foursquare — I’m at Friends Bar (208 E 6th St, at Brazos, Austin) w/ 2 others http://4sq.com/dKZwIH
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 7:44:09 PM via web — @AcrylicInNature: Ha. Hav’g fun. Amped!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011 4:35:14 PM via foursquare — I’m at The Parish (214-C E 6th St, Austin) w/ 22 others http://4sq.com/hj89Uv
3:15 PM Mar 16th via foursquare — I’m at Elysium (705 Red River St, at 7th Street, Austin) w/ 5 others http://4sq.com/e0bLYt
2:53 PM Mar 16th via foursquare — Ty Segall. (@ Beauty Bar (Backyard) w/ 3 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/hkjIuj
1:49 PM Mar 16th via foursquare — I’m at Maggie Mae’s Rooftop (323 E 6th st, Austin) w/ 3 others http://4sq.com/eJXwh6
1:28 PM Mar 16th via foursquare — Cloud Nothings. (@ Red 7 w/ 17 others) [pic]: http://4sq.com/hgssqo
1:16 PM Mar 16th via foursquare — Maps For Travelers. (@ Blue Moon Rock N Blues) [pic]: http://4sq.com/hu96Cb
11:35 AM Mar 16th via foursquare — Credentials acquired. (@ SXSW Trade Show w/ 15 others) http://4sq.com/ikawRx
10:12 AM Mar 16th via foursquare — Let’s get rockin. (@ Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) w/ 292 others) http://4sq.com/e3VumO
8:04 AM Mar 16th via foursquare — 1/2 way there. (@ George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) ? w/ 33 others) http://4sq.com/gVIjZ9
5:41 AM Mar 16th via foursquare — Sx bound. (@ Kansas City International Airport (MCI) ? w/ 4 others) http://4sq.com/gDwIUg
7:46 PM Mar 15th via web — Need 2 finish Sx prep. Missg Terrible Twos and Ty Segall n Larry 2nyt. Depart 2moro AM.
9:16 PM Mar 14th via web — Looks like I’m go’g 2 miss Human Eye 2nyt @ Replay. 😦 Will hav 2 catch ’em @ Sx instead. 2 much 2 do b4 departur

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Slummy’s 2010 Top 15 Kansas City & Lawrence Shows

Sorry this is a bit late.  My laptop was sick and at the doctors until yesterday.  Really tried to have this done last week.  Some of you have asked about it.  Went with a top 15 for 2010, instead of the usual top 10 plus 5 honorable mention.  I welcome your comments.  Hope you enjoyed many of these shows, as I obviously did.  Thanks.

1) The Oh Sees from San Francisco, CA on Friday, September 24, 2010 at Jackpot (http://www.myspace.com/ohsees);

2) Lightning Bolt from Providence, RI on Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at Jackpot (http://www.myspace.com/lightningboltbrians);

3) When Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth from Austin, TX on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at Joseph Stack Memorial Hall  (http://www.myspace.com/lildinos);

4) Ty Segall from San Francisco, CA on Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at Jackpot (http://www.myspace.com/tysegall);

5) The Lamps from Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, October 02, 2010 at Bottleneck (http://www.myspace.com/thelamps);

6) Jeff The Brotherhood from Nashville, TN on Wednesday, April 07, 2010 at Replay Lounge (http://www.myspace.com/jakeandjamin);

7) Weird Wounds from Lawrence, KS on Saturday, October 02, 2010 at Replay Lounge (http://www.myspace.com/weirdwounds);

8 ) Coward from Columbia, MO on ‘Friday, July 02, 2010 at Mercy Seat Tattoo Alley (http://www.myspace.com/bandofcowards);

9) I Love You from Kansas City, MO on Thursday, April 01, 2010 at 8th St Tap Room (http://www.myspace.com/yahtibyahlablu);

10) Anvil from Toronto, Canada on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Riot Room (http://www.myspace.com/anvilmetal);

11) Architects from Kansas City, MO on Saturday, January 02, 2010 at Club Mustache (http://www.myspace.com/architectskcmo);

12) Wolfmother from Sydney, Australia on Monday, August 09, 2010 at Beaumont (http://www.myspace.com/wolfmother);



13) Tweak Bird from Chicago, IL on Thursday, August 12, 2010 at Riot Room (http://www.myspace.com/tweakbird);



14) Jabberjosh from Lawrence, KS on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Granada Lounge (http://www.myspace.com/jabberjoshua); and



15) The Sword from Austin, TX on Wednesday, December 15, 2010 at Record Bar (http://www.myspace.com/thesword).

Special thanks to Todd Zimmer for some of the photographs.

2010 SxSW Top-Ten Shows

Had an amazingly difficult time narrowing down the “best of” band performances for 2010 SxSW.  Just doesn’t seem like “Top 10” is possible with 1800+ bands attending.  Of course, I can’t hit one of every bands’ shows, but did well by seeing bands from 16 countries and 24 USA states.  Is it surprising that 55% of US bands I saw were from NY, CA, & TX?  Also, interesting that there were 5 4 {updated Mar 30} countries represented in my 2010 top ten.  And, only 3 were official SxSW Showcase, the other 7 were industry sponsored day parties.  In some, but not all previous years, I have only noted what shows were my top ten alphabetically and not ranked in numeric preference order.  This year, I was able to actual present a ranking from 1-10, then 5 more as honorable mentions.  1 being the best.  Keep in mind that a band cannot be part of the top ten list if it appeared the previous (2009) year.

Usually, I depart Kansas City on mid-day Wednesday on AA, but left Wednesday early morning this year, so I would not miss that days’ day shows.  Even though, this meant that I would not sleep on Tuesday night, since the flight left so early.  I hope to continue this next year, since three of my top ten were from Wednesday day shows.  Including Tuesday, or five days total, I received only 9 hours of sleep.  Adrenaline, free Shiner, and free BBQ kept me near, but away from complete exhaustion.  Some quick math reveals that if a venue ran perfectly with shows from 11am to 2am each day from Wednesday through Saturday night (Sunday morning), then there would be 15 hours a day stage time.  If the venue had a split-stage setup (two stages- one inside and one outside, etc), and thirty minute set times, then that one venue could have 120 shows.  Wow!  Obviously it can’t and wouldn’t ever work perfectly that way, but that would be absolute best-case volume.

Fads- No more high running shorts and the expensive real (not knock-offs) Ray Bans seemed to have subsided.  Cheap 80’s sunglasses with neon ear pieces are still around but seem to have evolved to a more non-disposable and non-neon-bright-offensive (classier?) design.  Very little head bands and scarves this year.  Noted an increase in the “forest punks” versus usual “street punks”.  Forest punks are punks, but have adorned themselves in fox tails, feathers, and even leaves.  And, they seem not to shower as much as street punks.  Perhaps, think of them as 70’s NY punks combined with 60’s commune hippies with attitude.  They are more organic than urban.  Plenty of white leggings were spotted and lots of feather hair pieces.  On the music instrument side, the SG guitar noted in my previous Sx reports as everywhere in 2008 has all but vanished (what a pity).  Some Jaguars are still about from the 2009 noted fads and this year the Rickenbacker bass is everywhere.  The Nord keyboards have hung on, since first wrote about in 2007, but there are more and more MOOGs and relic tube keyboards on the scene.  Still not as many laptops as you would expect, but still somewhat around.

Maybe I was just a bit more out of the loop this year, but I did not bump into anyone famous this year, as I have in the past.  I’m very jealous that some friends met and had small talk with Bill Murray on Saturday or Sunday night.  Bill is one of my most-want-to-meet people.  Would have went way out of my way to find him.  Here he is serving Tequila at Sx. {added Apr 1}

Weather was a bit colder than usual, but believe that is on par for a generally colder globe this spring.  It started sprinkling on Friday night and rained hard on Saturday morning.  Don’t like to see any rain while at Sx since it spoils so many planned activities, but Saturday is probably the best day of the week that this can occur.  It was simply drizzly and cold.  It kept the streets much clearer  of bodies than it would on a normal Saturday which allows for easier getting-around.  I bought an embarrassingly ugly hoodie and gloves from a souvenir shop on 6th street and braved the day.  Most other folks may have wisely packed a light jacket before departing to Austin.  My new hoodie was so ridiculous, I was told I looked like a guy who should be sitting on the side of the road in a lawn chair taking bong hits.  But, it kept me warm enough to continue my Sx exploring.

A round of applause should be given to the organizers of Midwasteland Takeover (http://www.midwastelandtakeover.com).  They did a tremendous amount of work bringing the excellent sounds of KC & Lawrence bands to the  event.  Hard to comprehend the level of effort needed to pull this off.  I was able to stop by a couple of times, but my busy schedule kept me focused on the more elusive international bands that rarely make it to the states.  I ran across people who had been to the Midwasteland Takeover and all had good things to say about it.  Bravo guys!  Also, much praise to all of these bands that trekked 20+ hours round-trip from KC and Lawrence to perform a 30 minute set.

Here is some raw footage of ‘the shield’ thanks to Goggin (http://vimeo.com/10289410).  {added July 23}

Although this list will continue to reside on my MySpace account’s blog -as in a few years’ past- I will begin publishing in this WordPress blog format from this year forward, until further notice.  Just seems like it has outgrown the simple MySpace blog.  I have placed last year’s results in a post herewithin, for reference.  The 2009 Best Of SxSW MySpace is at: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=46172650&blogId=478427330.  The 2010 Best Of SxSW will be at: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=46172650&blogId=531680527.

Evfen though it has only been a few days since the official closing SxSW2010 ceremonies and I am happy it is over, so that I may get some rest, I am already craving next year’s events.  Viva 2010 SxSW, bring on SxSW 2011!  Thank you for spending the time to read through my opinions.  Please feel very free to leave your comments.  It was a lot of work, but a big pleasuring compiling this list.  I hope you enjoy these efforts.  Thanks to everyone involved.  Now onto the list.  I apologies in advance for the quality of the photos and videos.  …Funny how I always don’t seem to get good photos/videos of the best shows.  Must be because I am too busy enjoying the show.  🙂

Best 2010 SxSw Band Performaces (or, see the PDF at: <2010SxSWTopTenBandPerformances100324>)->

1) TV Ghost from Lafayette IN on 3/17 at Beerland presented by Can’t Stop The Bleeding Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/televisionghost.

• Handbill

• Video (no audio){added Apr 4}
• Audio

2) Blind Shake from Minneapolis MN on 3/20 at Jaime’s Spanish Village Patio presented by Blackout Booking Showcase.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/theblindshake.

• Photo

• Video
• Audio
• Interview {added Apr 6}

SL9:  Been to Sx before? TBS: This was our first….it was pretty crazy…it was like the MN state fair but with no rides.  There were so many bands, we didn’t know where to start.  We just sat on the sidewalks and watched the people go by.
SL9: Prefer the official Sx shows or the unofficial? TBS: They we’re both great…very enthusiastic people at all of them (five total).  We didn’t feel much of a difference on our end. I think if we had to pick our favorite it would be playing Jaimes spanish restaurant’s patio in the 40 degree weather.  It was just a testament to the music lovers that they’d be out in full force at noon when the weather was far from lovely.
SL9:  Favorite Sx moment? TBS: Have to say it was being in the “pit” watching the Spits play.  Felt like we were 19 again.  That was our favorite show and favorite band by far.  Love em!
SL9:  How do we describe our bands sound? TBS: All things in moderation.
SL9:  Who is your hereo and why? TBS: Michael Yonkers because he is the true definition of an artist.  He is always pushing his sound and re-defining himself.  He waited many years for the music world to catch up to him and he still won’t look back.
SL9: What is your favorite smartphone app?  TBS: I don’t have a smart phone, but Dave (the drummer) does.  Our band uses it to find the nearest book store while on tour!  Thanks!  Jim of The Blind Shake

3) Carusella from Tel-Aviv ISRAEL on 3/17 at Barbella presented by Official SxSw Showcase.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/carusella.

• Video (no audio)
• Audio

4) Ghost of a Thousand from Brighton UK-England on 3/17 at Red Eyed Fly Patio presented by Official SxSw Showcase.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/theghostofathousand & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Ghost_of_a_Thousand.

• Video
• Audio

5) Happy Hollows from Negahdariland CA on 3/17 at Red Eyed Fly Main presented by Little Red Radio Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/thehappyhollows.

• Flyer

• Photo

• Video (no audio){added Mar 28}{added Mar 28}

6) Children Collide  from Melbourne VIC on 3/19 at Iron Gate presented by Dine Alone Records Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/childrencollide & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Children_Collide.

• Poster

• Video
• Interview {added Apr 7}

SL9: Been to Sx before?   CC: Yes
SL9: What were/are your impressions?   CC: It’s amazingly chaotic, but this being the second time around I was able to make a little more sense of it and had a very organised friend to follow around and catch some great shows.
SL9: Prefer the official Sx Showcases or the unofficial industry sponsored day parties?   CC: I prefer good bands. I didn’t take the time to differentiate.
SL9: How many shows did you do at Sx?   CC: We did four.
SL9: Your best show and why?   CC: Probably the Aussie BBQ at Maggie Mays, it was our last one and we were pretty relaxed. Always fun playing with or to friends.
SL9: Plan to Return?   CC: Who knows…
SL9: Favorite Sx 2010 moment?  …Show?  …Band?  CC: Watching Warpaint then Acid Mother Temple right after. Different venues, extremely lucky, unplanned viewing both times.
SL9: In less than 100 characters, how do you describe the band’s sound?  CC: I try not to.
SL9: Who is your hero and why?  Really.  CC: Steve Irwin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_irwin). Bloody beauty.
SL9: What is your favorite smartphone app?  How is your band using today’s technology?  CC: Ummm…I’m not sure my phone is that smart. Our band probably doesn’t use that much of “today’s technology” but I like to write silly Playschool/Vangelis type songs on my laptop while we’re flying places. I guess that’s a little bit “now”.   ooh hang on, I just learnt how to use smileys too  .  Johnny of Children Collide

7) Gay Witch Abortion from Minneapolis MN on 3/19 at Soho presented by Official SxSw Showcase.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/gaywitchabortion.

• Photo

• Video (no audio){added Mar 28}
• Audio

8‘) CocoComa from Paris FRANCE Chicago IL {updated Mar 30} on 3/20 at Beerland presented by Goner Records Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/cococoma.

• Audio
• Video {added Apr 4}

9) Duchess Says from Montreal QC on 3/20 at Galaxy Main presented by Brooklyn Vegan and M is For Montreal Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/duchesssays & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duchess_Says.

• Poster

• Photos

• Video{added Mar 28}{added Apr 4}{added Apr 4}
• Audio

10) Cruddy from Austin TX on 3/17 at Beerland presented by Can’t Stop The Bleeding Party.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/cruddysux.

• Handbill- Same as TV Ghost Aboe (on same bill).
• Aduio

Honorable Mention) Dikes of Holland from Austin TX on 3/17 at Headhunters Patio.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/dikesofholland.

Honorable Mention) Little Girls from Toronto ON on 3/20 at Club Primos- Inside.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/littlelittlegirls.

Honorable Mention) Shellshag from Brooklyn NY on 3/20 at Jaimie’s Village Inn.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/shellshag.

Honorable Mention) Thee Oh Sees from San Francisco CA on 3/18 at Spiderhouse- Stage 1.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/ohsees.

Honorable Mention) When Dinasaurs Ruled The Earth from Austin TX on 3/20 at Club Primos- Outside.  Url:http://www.myspace.com/lildinos.

Some Fun Photos (one is of the mayor of Austin):

Twitter Traffic

Amazing. Of what I believe to b my top 10 Sx list, only 3 were official Sx showcases. The other 7 were industry sponsored day parties.

about 1:40 PM Mar 25th  via Twitterrific

Still lookg over my Sx data, but made some progress towards ‘best of’ list. Determined that I saw bands from 16 countries & 24 states at Sx.

8:41 PM Mar 23rd via Twitterrific

…altho, I’m watchg my niece 2nyt & later will attend an Audubon Society lecture on the Kaw River. So, expectg little progress on Sx list.

12:51 PM Mar 22nd via Twitterrific

@AcrylicInNature: oh, & I’ll eventually get the usual blog w relevent links & best odd posted.

7:31 PM Mar 21st via Twitterrific

Last load of laundry done. Laptop docked. Havg homemade

7:06 PM Mar 21st via Twitterrific

Cococoma! (@ Beerland w/ 2 others) http://4sq.com/5wYicC

3:44 PM Mar 20th via foursquare

http://yfrog.com/hqoxwj Blind shake.

2:19 PM Mar 20th via Twitterrific

I’m at Maggie Mae’s (323 E 6th St, Austin) w/ 9 others. http://4sq.com/5ldVKn

2:02 PM Mar 20th via foursquare

I’m at Encore (611 Red River, 6th St., Austin). http://4sq.com/8UZ1xT

1:15 PM Mar 20th via foursquare

I’m at Emo’s outdoor (6th and Red River, Austin). http://4sq.com/aT8byE

12:40 PM Mar 20th via foursquare

I’m at Bayou Lounge (500 East 6th St, Neches St, Austin). http://4sq.com/aK1GLx

11:24 AM Mar 20th via foursquare

http://yfrog.com/iyqk8hj Roman numerals

11:24 AM Mar 20th via Twitterrific

Sooo ready for sleep.

4:50 AM Mar 20th via txt

Band of skulls. Love em. (@ Maggie Mae’s w/ 14 others) http://4sq.com/5ldVKn

1:23 AM Mar 20th via foursquare

I’m at The Hideout Theatre (617 Congress Ave, E 7th St, Austin). http://4sq.com/44DiiB

12:48 AM Mar 20th via foursquare

http://yfrog.com/j4gtvj

12:30 AM Mar 20th via Twitterrific

http://yfrog.com/0enswtj

10:42 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Jere comes the rain

10:40 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

I’m at Rusty Spurs (403 East 7th St, Trinity, Austin) w/ 2 others. http://4sq.com/dcRS0v

10:39 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

I’m only so-so about born ruffians new songs.

10:31 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

http://yfrog.com/cakhrej

9:56 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

I’m at Soho Lounge (217 East 6th St, Austin) w/ 5 others. http://4sq.com/b3pWAL

8:45 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

The chapman family (@ Latitude 30) http://4sq.com/cig9CT

8:14 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

I’m at Shangri-La (1016 E 6th St, at Medina St, Austin) w/ 2 others. http://4sq.com/7Jv2VB

5:23 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

Balcony at klub krucial. http://yfrog.com/55nxoj

5:13 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Tobacco (@ Mohawk w/ 21 others) http://4sq.com/2sgNU0

4:30 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

Changed my tire tube today. Didn’t put the front brakes back on to save time. Hope I member that n 10hrs & 15beers. http://yfrog.com/e7n8nj

4:29 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Just now gettg over da hangover.

4:24 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Rock n roll chicken. http://yfrog.com/jaks9cj

3:43 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Coathangers r settg up. (@ Karibu) http://4sq.com/7QjYcF

3:38 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

Pocahaunted. (@ Ms Bea’s) http://4sq.com/9mxXod

2:52 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

Tyler jon Tyler. http://yfrog.com/j4q7jj

12:45 PM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

I’m at Longbranch Inn (1133 E 11th St, Austin). http://4sq.com/7DLcsw

12:16 PM Mar 19th via foursquare

Why does the ringing in my ear sound like. David lee Roth singing Dance The Night Away?

6:38 AM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Japanthers. That’s all I got to say.

1:18 AM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

Dum dum girls. http://yfrog.com/42xluj

12:04 AM Mar 19th via Twitterrific

El ten eleven. Lots btr than I thought it would. http://yfrog.com/1nn3ifj

11:31 PM Mar 18th via Twitterrific

El ten eleven (@ IAVA’s SXSW Party at Submerged) http://4sq.com/8XmRRf

11:30 PM Mar 18th via foursquare

I’m at Canvas Bar & Gallery (105 E 5th St, at Congress, Austin) w/ 2 others. http://4sq.com/4JbW5S

8:31 PM Mar 18th via foursquare

@ELMoore: Congress bridge??? Not sure which bridge.

7:34 PM Mar 18th via txt

@ELMoore: Ty segall & thee oh sees will b at the bridge show too. Congress bridge!

7:32 PM Mar 18th via txt

Just met & chatted w John dyer of The Oh Sees. He’s slowly becomg a legend. Amazg show too.

5:33 PM Mar 18th via Twitterrific

Golden Triangles. http://yfrog.com/2ttlsuj

4:00 PM Mar 18th via Twitterrific

I spy lots of sun burnt people.

3:23 PM Mar 18th via Twitterrific

Knew I’d eventually catch em. Kid Congo. Full style. http://yfrog.com/jxqwqzj

3:18 PM Mar 18th via Twitterrific

Thought I’d close with a Roman Numerals (from Kansas City MO on 3/20 at Bayou Lounge) video.  Sorry no audio.  Audio now included.  Actual videostarts at around 1:30.  {updated Mar 31}.  Need to think about how to better do video (and photo) for next year.  I have much better video and audio from previous years, but just refuse to lug around another piece of electronic equipment.  May reconsider this for the future.

Revision / Update Block {added Apr 12}:
Mar 28 – Added two Happy Hollows videos
Mar 28 – Added Gay Witch Abortion video
Mar 28 – Added Duchess Says video
Mar 30 – Corrected CocoComa hometown to Chicago versus Paris
Mar 30 – Corrected to 4 countries versus 5
Mar 31 – Added audio to video of Roman Numerals
Apr 1 – Added Bill Murray video
Apr 4- Added TV Ghost video
Apr 4 – Added CoCoComa video
Apr 4 – Added two Duchess Says video
Apr 6 – Added The Blind Shake interview
Apr 7 – Added Children Collide interview
Apr 12 – Added this revision block

Jul 23 – Added Midwasteland Footage video

2009 KC & Lawrence Best Shows

Friday, December 11, 2009 

2009 Kansas City & Lawrence Best Shows Category: Music In alphabetical order. 10/24: A Place To Bury Strangers @ Record Bar; 2/24: All The Saints @ Jackpot; 9/19: Autolux @ Bottleneck; 5/15: Be/Non @ Crosstown Station; 10/12: Dethklok @ Uptown Theatre; 11/2: Fu Manchu @ Jackpot; 10/21: Jucifer @ Jackpot; 2/13: Living Things @ Midland Theatre; 10/17: Miley Cyrus @ Sprint Center; and 12/9: Royal Philharmonic @ Sprint Center.

2009 SxSW Top-Ten

Sunday, March 22, 2009 

SxSW 09 Best of Category: Music This years’ pool of shows attended included bands from more than 15 countries and more than 20 states. A band that was a ‘best of’ for any previous year is ineligible for consideration. Top Ten: No Date Band City, State/ Co URL Venue 3 3/19 Aids Wolf Montreal QC http://www.MySpace.com/AidsWolf Club 1808 4 3/20 Bang! Bang! Eche! NEW ZEA http://www.MySpace.com/BangBangEche Agave 9 3/18 Capsula Bilbao SPAIN http://www.MySpace.com/CapsulaOrg Habana Backyard 8 3/18 Coathangers Atlanta GA http://www.MySpace.com/FuckTheCoatHangers Ms Bea’s 7 3/19 Inward Eye Winnipeg MB http://www.MySpace.com/InwardEye Rusty Spur 5 3/19 Living Things St Louis MO http://www.MySpace.com/LivingThings Maggie Mae’s Rooftop 6 3/19 Out From Animals ENGLAND http://www.MySpace.com/OutFromAnimals Wave 2 3/20 Ponytail Baltimore MD http://www.MySpace.com/JReamTeam Ms Bea’s 1 3/21 PRE ENGLAND http://www.MySpace.com/PrePrePre Mohawk Lounge 10 3/18 Radio Moscow Story City IA http://www.MySpace.com/RadioMoscow Headhunters Top 10 Big Misses- can’t see ’em all: Black Lips; Cold War Kids; Golden Triangle; Little Boots; Passion Pit; Pete Bjorn & J; Shapes Have Fangs; Thee Oh Sees; Tiny Masters; and Two Gallants.

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