Although I went to Austin for undergrad and had easy access to SXSW, I didn’t actually ever attend until this year. Yes, I attended SXSW after moving to the opposite end of the country.
I only attended the music portion although I would love to experience film/interactive one day if I could ever afford to take off that much PTO. Alas, music is my first passion so I attended Wed-Thurs. For a first timer, this festival was a cluster of sensation. Trying to attend all the shows, finding out secret ones, discovering new artists, waiting in lines and walking through every street in downtown Austin (multiple times) led me through every possible emotion a human could exhibit. The booze was constantly flowing and the food truck meals did not disappoint (definitely overloaded on tacos). And the music! So many live music and bands singing their hearts out. There were quite a few new artists I had recently discovered via Spotify that I wanted to watch. However, one thing that really stood out to me during SXSW is that although this is primarily a new artist showcase, I was reminded of how great the veterans were. Both Vampire Weekend and Tegan&Sara were highlights and their shows really displayed their musicianship. I am guilty of always trying to find the next big thing or listening to “obscure” new artists, but these 2 acts reminded me that old favorites are favorites for a reason.
SXSW Highlights:
Shows - Solange, Tegan & Sara, Vampire Weekend, Kendrick Lamar, CHVRCHES, goldroom DJ set
Food - tacos from a truck I don’t remember, east side kings, chilantros, jeni’s ice cream, family BBQ, cold brew coffee
Venue - fader fort: free booze, haircuts, tshirts and converse shoes HOLLA. ASOS party was a good runner up.
Memory - hanging out at my cousin’s new place, taking my mom to a show, seeing all my friends
Vampire Weekend
Solange
free swag @ Fader Fort
family time
good friends, good times
love you, Austin
