Another on my short list of new to me artists for me this year was Roanoke. They bore more than a passing resemblance to the fictional Daisy Jones and the Six in both song and spirit. A good thing in my book.
Jake Blount is a true student of American music. So much so that he announced at his official showcase that he was going to pursue a PhD in Musicology & Ethnomusicology. He’s well on his way – his set was a master class in and of itself.
Fort Worth’s Alexander captivated the crowd at Central Presbyterian Church with songs sweet and soulful. SEA/SONS, his debut album, arrives mid April.
Tragedy struck Kweller and his family with the passing of his teenage son in a traffic accident a few weeks prior to SXSW. What was intended to be his son’s music debut as part of a Friday night showcase instead turned into moving tribute. Kweller cancelled all his SXSW performances save this one, where he delivered a set that was as powerful as it was moving.
Kweller was followed by Austin’s Wild Child, who highlighted songs from their new album End of the World and shared their own tribute to Kweller’s late son.
A decade into their young careers – Sav Buist and Katie Larson are still only in their mid-20’s – just get better and better. They were in a particular rockin’ mood when I saw them at 1am on Friday night (well, Saturday morning). Their set was glorious and intense, concluding with a phenomenal mash-up of Coldplay’s “Viva LA Vida” and Foo Fighter’s “Everlong”.
I went to what I thought was going to be a set by Daniel Romano and was pleasantly surprised to see new to me artist Julianna Riolino, a member of Romano’s band, showcase her music. Backed by Romano, Carson McHone, and Romano’s outfit, Riolino delivered a fine set of 1970’s tinged rock and roll.
Jon Dee Graham is an Austin institution. Every year I make a point to catch his afternoon set at the legendary Continental Club as part of Mojo Nixon’s annual Saturday party. Recent health issues have slowed Graham but his wit, fiery guitar, and songwriting are as stout as ever.
He was joined by his son William Harries Graham, whose songwriting and guitar prowess follows very much in his father’s footsteps. Seeing father and son trading guitar solos, heads on one another’s shoulders, was a special SXSW moment.
If you’re looking for a high energy and euphoric party, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone who does it better than Vandoliers.
Wells is best known for his work with Dallas rock band Ottoman Turks, but he is equally adept with the more country fare of his solo outings. Rumor has it there is a solo album on the horizon…
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.