*warning: having issues uploading pictures so come back later for some photo fun!
It’s quite a bit later than I’d like it to be, but I’m still bouncing and full of energy from today’s events…everything feels good (except for my feet and over-fed stomach). I’m in my happy place. I’m at SXSW!
Today began by picking up credentials (a breeze!) and meeting friends at The Great British Breakfast where we dined on sausage, eggs, beans, bacon, and toast. Sometime during breakfast, the Spotify line-up was announced and included twenty one pilots to play mid-afternoon. The rest of the morning was a blur of meetings and photobooths with only that one clear item on the agenda. When we approached the Spotify house and found ourselves at the end of a line that wrapped around the house and well down the street, I’d say “dismay” was an understatement for my emotional state. Luck, however, was with me and we all got in nearly 40 min. later right as the first song was starting. The twenty one pilots duo did their best not to let the heat and crowd full of industry folk deter their typically dynamic and engaging performance. The set seemed short, but it did the trick to propel me through the afternoon.
Having a badge this year for the first time, I was able to spend some time wandering around the Trade Show where we ran into a 10 ft. astronaut, walked through a giant yam, created a post-it work of art, snacked on some delicious mini-desserts, and, of course, heard some music (including a band in a box!)…all while wearing cowboy hats.
After a brief respite and dinner of mini burgers and fries at The German Haus, the evening started to take its musical shape. We ended up at Hype Hotel to catch a bit of Ivan & Alyosha, a SXSW favorite from last year, and eat some Taco Bell (yes, there was a lot of eating today). Afterwards we headed to The British Embassy where Lucy Rose was sitting comfortably in a chair singing with an acoustic guitar surrounded by a full rocking band. It wasn’t exactly what I was expecting, but I had no complaints. Next, we went to celebrate the two year anniversary of LMN favorite The Milk Carton Kids whose gorgeous harmonies, melancholy tunes, and unforgettably hilarious banter had the entire room at The Central Presbyterian Church completely transfixed…they received a standing ovation at the end of their set.
I was debating staying at the church to catch Gaby Moreno, but even the short time between sets was too much for me to be without music, so I ran back to Hype Hotel to sample Irish songsters Little Green Cars (and maybe grab a burrito), then headed back to The British Embassy to close out the night. I got a boost of energy in the form of Willy Moon whose lively stage presence was infectious. Finally, perhaps the highlight of my night, after waiting well over a year, I FINALLY GOT TO SEE BASTILLE!! Before the set, I spoke with a Manchester native who told me that it would be near impossible to see this incredibly popular band over in England is such a tiny venue, let alone so close to the front of the stage. The buzz in the room before and during the set was electric and I certainly felt incredibly grateful to be there as the quartet took over the room with songs from their recently release, Bad Blood. Two hours later, and I still can’t quite shake the excitement of that set. But I can, I will, and I must, for I need to get some rest before tomorrow’s adventures.
Here are a couple of the events I’m most looking forward to tomorrow:
Day Party: Horseshoe Casino presents a screening of Butch Walker’s Out of Focus followed by performances by artists including Butch Walker, Six60, Air Traffic Controller, and The Royalty.
Night Party: The Nikon/Warner Sound Party at The Belmont featuring The Rubens, twenty one pilots, Tegan & Sarah, Paramore
And some artist I’d love to see tomorrow:
The Virginmarys at The Blackberry House (2pm)
NO at Cheer Up Charlie’s (2:15)
Mike Mains and The Branches at The Acquarium (7:15)
Youngblood Hawke at Hype Hotel (8pm)
Holy Esque at British Music Embassy (9pm)
Middle Class Rut at Mohawk Outdoors (10pm)
The Chevin at Buffalo Billards (11pm)
BOY at Central Presbyterian Church (12:30am)
Foxes at Red Eyed Fly (1am)
~ Kristen
Last night I was completely re-inspired by long time LMN Band Love Nico Vega. It’s been awhile since I’ve seen them and I recall my last NV experience to be somewhat underwhelming, but last night I was reminded why I fell for this band. The energy and pure love this quartet of musicians put forth is enough to get anyone to pay attention and last night was a prime example as the band dominated a large stage in the middle of Universal City Walk. I watched passersby go from double takes to that slow walk towards the stage, evidence of the gravitational pull Nico Vega and its electric frontwoman, Aja Volkman, has on its listeners. 
The event was for the release of a new video game, Bioshock Infinite, so gamers and music lovers alike were dazzled by the fierce love, fine craftsmanship, and rockin’ music on display.
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