I don’t recall this ever happening before, but this year I kicked off SXSW with one of my favorite sets of the week. Kathleen Edwards performed solo (save a brief appearance by Lauren Morrow on harmony vocals), highlighting songs from throughout her illustrious career plus a new one. Attitude, charm, and great music. I couldn’t think of a better way to start my SXSW.
J. Isaiah Evans and the Boss Tweed
The name J Isaiah Evans may sound familiar to those who have heard Dallas R&B rock powerhouse The 40 Acre Mule. The Boss Tweed is a new path on Evans’ musical journey, an organ power trio that was launched not even a year ago. Put the emphasis on power – they rocked hard. I caught them in back-to-back sets, first at Austin’s legendary Arlyn Studios and, a mere 15 minutes later, at the Continental Club. They pulled a Spinal Tap: If the Arlyn show was a 10, the Continental Club set turned it up to 11.
I caught a few sets from Austin-based West Texas Exiles, a fave discovery from last year. Their official showcase at the legendary Continental Club was particularly electrifying – the group are rooted in Texas country but on this day they came to rock.
It’s not often that one gets to see Harris, who generally tours solo, with a full band. So I damn sure wasn’t going to miss it. Hearing her songs, a potent combination of lyrical intensity and melodic charm, brought to life in full band arrangements was mighty special.
Nashville by way of Texas Mando Saenz excels at the craft of songwriting – his catalog is filled with songs that are both gritty and catchy. His solo acoustic set was filled with personal faves, delivered with a heart-on-my-sleeve authenticity.
The first thing one notices about Barna is his spectacular, soaring voice. But that’s only the beginning. His songs, not to mention the performance by his band, captivated with both theatrics and social commentary.
Show number two on day one was a solo set from The Revivalists’ singer David Shaw. Well, not exactly solo – Shaw had a full band in tow, including a pair of back-up singers. They rolled through a high energy set of songs planned for a forthcoming solo release. Based on what I heard, I’ll be eagerly awaiting the arrival of said release.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.