SXSW de Dawn

SXSW ended days ago and yet I think some of us are still recovering. It was a full week of bands, parties, swag, tacos and margaritas. The first night in we checked out the K Records showcase. The Blow was unsurprisingly and indescribably adorable. This was my 6th time seeing her live, and I don't know how she does it, but she manages to outdo herself every time.


On Thursday while running errands around Austin, Adam purchased a sweet set of maracas. His plan was to to bust them out at random shows in hopes of being invited up on stage for impromptu jam sessions. His plan did not pan out.


Then on Friday night, Tara and I were lucky enough to stumble upon
Akron/Family. Easily one of the most fun and memorable shows I've ever
seen. It was a complete rock n roll free for all culminating with the
band leading the entire crowd onto the street for an unbelievable shout
'n dance party. This could have been Adam's chance to shine, but
unfortunately for him, he and his maracas were at another show.


Then of course on Saturday was the BUST Hangover Lounge! Hundreds of partiers came through for free bloodies, 10 Cane Rum, E Boost, Izze soda, massages, and crafts. Armed with crafty gear from Duncan, Crafty Chica, and Aleene's, the crafting tables were packed all day. I couldn't believe how impressive everyone's crafted totes and eye masks looked!

Here are a couple of my favs:


After our party, Tara and I decided to grab a pedicab to a nearby show. Playing the role of tourists on a fantastic voyage, we rolled up on a parked moving truck that was taking up the entire space of the alley we were trying to get through. Our driver tried to guide the cab in between the truck and brick wall but was having trouble. We hopped out and lifted the back of the cab hoping to make it easier. Things looked hopeful until we managed to completely wedge the cab in mid-air between the truck and wall.



7 annoyed movers and many laughing pedestrians later, we pulled the cab free and were on our way. As we laughed and chatted with our driver, we were stoked to find out that she was none other than Belle Starr from the Texas Rollergirls' team, The Texacutioners! I had read about her and her team in a magazine just days earlier. She and her team are total badasses.

Other points of radness:
Matt Pinfield smiling and waving at me
The Dodos
Crystal Castles
Langhorne Slim (duh)
All things Tex Mex
Draft House