With the recent breakout success of Mumford & Sons, I finally feel validated that the sound I’ve enjoyed for years has finally crossed over to the category of “stuff my friends will actually listen to.” In past years, I’ve had to venture out amongst the throngs of music go-er’s at SXSW by myself in order to catch the bands that I wanted to see. Not the “on-the-verge-of-breaking-out-so-you-better-see-them-now” bands, but bands like Deer Tick, and A Hawk and A Hacksaw; folky, introspective music that doesn’t necessarily provide an earth shattering good time or story, but leaves you with a lingering ache in your stomach, like recalling an old memory, long after the show is over. Music that creates that physiological response is what ultimately attracts me as a listener. So hopefully these acts will provide that tingly sensation to my SXSW companions, and entice them to join me the next time their schedule opens up.
1. Great Lake Swimmers– A Canadian band that my dear friend Gordon may have overlooked, should get a second glance at their showcase at the Central Presbyterian Church.
I’ve listened to this song like 5 time in since I started witting this post. It’s amazing.
2. The Head and The Heart– With a stint at Sasquatch, plus two shows in San Francisco coming up, this might actually be a “band to see.” You heard it here first.
3. Zoe Muth and the Lost High Rollers– This might definitely be more of an acquired taste, but credit should be given where credit is due. This is good shit.
4. Abigail Washburn– I love a woman who can shred on an instrument, be it electric guitar or clawhammer banjo, it don’t matter. Plus, she has Bela Fleck’s endorsement.
5. Amy LaVere– This song has such a sweet demeanor for being so provocatively titled.
6. Old 97’s– Ok, I might be cheating with this one. Most people have probably already seen the Old 97’s or at least know who they are. I actually have never seen them live and since it’s not just Rhett Miller performing by himself, you’ll probably find me in the crowd stuck behind some guy thats too tall for me to see over. Maybe Dakin too.
