Share
There are literally thousands of bands preparing to flood the city of Austin with music that may or may not be worth your time. While I’ve previously suggested selecting a solid venue/party and staying put as an easy way to see great music (and I stand by that!), I personally prefer a more curated approach.
Whether your motivation is to to catch the next big thing before anyone else, or you simply like the idea of hearing something new, seeking out “under the radar” bands will often result in a break from the insane crowds – something we can all agree is advantageous during the crush of SXSW.
So while I can’t guarantee my recommended artists will blow up anytime soon, I can tell you that after exhaustive research (I’ve listened to the most downloaded and most recently released songs of every showcasing artist listed on the SXSW website), these bands are legit. They have talent, the ability to write a hook that sticks in your head, and honestly seem like people I want to befriend.
You’ll notice “EXTRA BONUS” information for artists from overseas. Since they are less likely to trek across the ocean for a small tour, they may not be local again until they can fill up a much larger venue.
WHO: Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes
WHEN/WHERE: Wednesday, March 16th at 12am / Esther’s Follies
WHO: Roo Panes
WHEN/WHERE: Thursday, March 17th at 8pm / St. David’s Bethel Hall
EXTRA BONUS: From Wimbourne, England
WHO: CALLmeKAT
WHEN/WHERE: Thursday, March 17th at 9pm / St. David’s Bethel Hall
WHEN/WHERE: Thursday, March 17th at 2:15pm / FlatstockStage, Austin Convention Center
EXTRA BONUS: From Copenhagen, Denmark
WHO: My bubba
WHEN/WHERE: Friday, March 18th at 8pm / 18th Floor at Hilton Garden Inn
EXTRA BONUS: From Copenhagen, Denmark
WHO: Janne Schra
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, March 19th at 10pm / 18th Floor at Hilton Garden Inn
EXTRA BONUS: From Amsterdam, Netherlands
WHO: The National Parks
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday, March 19th at 1am / Lambert’s
