About Last Night: SXSW Thursday
Your ATH crew kicked things off for SXSW last night with a slew of official(ish) events around the downtown area and on the east side. It was great to get the band back together for a short night before the madness really begins today and into the weekend. As always, we try to provide the best coverage we can and hit on things in a timely manner. We didn’t see a whole lot last night, but we certainly had some highlights. Check out some quick notes and fancy photos after the jump.
RayRay Top Bands:
Horsepower – This was a chill show at 13th floor and it had me feeling the feels. Slower melodies and harmonies playing nicely with a kicked in, distorted guitar. A nice way to ease into the weekend, and a band you should make some time for over the next few days.
Bikini Beach – These Germans brough a ton of energy and fun to the small stage at Low Down Lounge. After some super chill moments earlier, this was an invigorating punch to the face. I’ll definitely be following this band around to see another set before things wrap up next Wednesday. Hell yes.
RayRay Thoughts:
Things were very mellow last night with a lot of venues half full and lines non existent. Great for us as fans, but maybe not so great when trying to sell a big festival. Was it just slow because it was the first day, and a Thursday? I’ll be curious to see if things pick up today and into the weekend. Also, sound at Stubbs, 13th Floor and Chess Club was killer at all venues. Be kind to the staff and tip your bartenders.
Nathan.Lankford Top Bands:
The All American Rejects – Sure, I can be an insufferable snob when it comes to my tastes, but I also love a good performance. I’ve probably seen this band over 100 hundred times (and yes I did sell their merch for a hot minute), but they’re still bringing a great live show some 25 years later. I think it’s remarkable that despite their success and the ability to get carried away, they still seem to be enjoying themselves and having a blast revisiting old hits and new ones alike. Their performance is one that should put some of these young bands on notice; it’s so much more fun if you move on the stage!
Nathan.Lankford Thoughts:
Like RayRay, things from my viewpoint were mellow, but if I’m being honest, that’s why I loved last year so much. It goes back to being about discovery and music, not about free booze and partying. Sure, I’d love more eyes on these incredible acts, many whom have traveled from afar, but also don’t hate being able to watch these bands put on great shows without the normal buzz of showtalkers and folks with one too many free drinks in their belly.
bgray Top Bands:
Going to go with Congratulations for their fun banter that is backed up by party jams and feel good vibes. Their first SXSW, but looked like quick set pros. PONS pulled phtogenic awards based on mic-in-pants shens and full shred. Going to echo Rejects, pros putting down nostalgia without feeling nostalgic. Got a couple new tracks from Night Drive; singles for a new full length will start showing up in the next few months. Touch Girl Apple Blossom also played a bunch of new stuff, so stay tuned there.
bgray Thoughts:
Some sad feels, not having the convention center as a simple focal point. It does feel scattered, a bit sparse. We’ll see as the weekend kicks off and the spring breakers land. Also, I appreciate security, but I feel like Stubbs is more strict than TSA these days. Expect to spend a little time in line for any shows you want to catch there. Local bands are running it.
