Mark My Words

Wednesday's top show (for me) was the Decemberists. They played their new album, Hazards of Love, in it's entirety for NPR at Stubb's BBQ. Though I think the crowd would have preferred a hit-packed set-list, I'm sure we'll all look back and appreciate having been there. I may be voicing a very unpopular opinion, but I think the 'emperor has no clothes' when it comes to The Avett Brothers, the band who took the stage just before the Decemberists. I drank liberally (Lonestar in a can!) and took advantage of the short line to the bathroom during this set. I tried to top off my evening with frozen margaritas at the Iron Cactus, but was foiled - something that would continue for the rest of my trip. 

Thursday's End of the Road Festival in the afternoon was a treat. Here's a 'mark my words' moment: both The Young Republic and Alela Diane will be huge! The Young Republic are a blend of The Commitments and The Pogues with a modern dash of Arcade Fire. Superb! There are no words for the young, beautiful and talented Alela Diane. Well, I did just find three! She could be the next Gillian Welch/Norah Jones. We were treated to a Grammy/NARAS party at the Four Seasons afterwards - lovely! It was a thrill to be a part of the event. We wrapped up our evening in the park with a huge M. Ward show. Always a pleasure to see Matt and his talented band. It's weird to see your friends on a Jumbo-tron style T.V. screen, but it's so cool to know they're experiencing a great measure of success. 

Friday was a very special day personally, as I helped out with the first ever Tape Op Magazine party at SXSW! Laura put an incredible amount of work into the event and the folks at Donn's Depot were so sweet and helpful. It was as fun as it was star-studded! Though she didn't perform, the gorgeous Rebecca Gates was amongst the talent at the bash - someone whose music you simply must seek out. Congrats, Tape Op! We took so long wrapping up our own party that we missed a lot of shows, but it was worth it. Secret treat at the end of the evening? Karaoke at Ego's! 

And finally, Saturday! More bands to look out for: Two Sheds, New Roman Times, The Petrol Motion, Juliette & The New Romantiques. Two Sheds music is a hypnotic singer-songwriter blend with an edge. New Roman Times (featuring Harris Thurmond, formerly of Hammerbox and my favorite lady with the best rock name ever, Josie Fluri) are a must. Their energetic show was the burst I needed. I heart Juliette Lewis and her new band! I got a chance to see them briefly and was worth it. Who I don't love? Rachel Ray who turned me away from her party - not personally, granted, but it stung all the same. Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned, Rachel. Get ready!