Coulda, shoulda, woulda… With over 1,200 bands appearing during the course of the festival it was inevitable that I would miss a few gems. Here are a few artists that may have slipped by me at SXSW but they didn’t escape me completely.
Susan Cagle – I missed her in Austin but I made up for my mistake a few weeks later in New York. The forthcoming The Subway Recordings is an infectious pop gem, anchored by Cagle’s captivating voice. For more on Cagle, see the recent Twangville album preview.
The Brokedown – The Los Angeles quartet swerves effortlessly between garage rock and Southern California country. (Latest Release: The Dutchman’s Gold)
Jimmy Rankin – Great roots rock from Canada with a sound similar to Kentucky’s Chris Knight or early Steve Earle. (Latest Release: Handmade)
The Feeling – Do you miss ELO? If so, you’re in luck. This London-based outfit hearkens back to the easy listening sounds of the 1970’s. (Latest Release: Sewn)
Corrine Bailey Rae – Rae’s voice has qualities similar to Norah Jones, but her jazz-based style leans more towards pop than Jones’ country.
Wolfmother – Classic rock delivered by a power trio from Down Under. In a clever marketing move, the band’s label ran a late night infomercial about the band on Austin television. They were impossible to miss! (Forthcoming Release: Wolfmother)
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.