I have learned that the best way to approach SXSW is by just going with the flow. I plan out each day as it comes. I find my hub at the convention center and see what panels and shows are going on for that day. I think the best way to describe it is from the infamous Bruce Lee quote “become the water”.
There are a few acts I’m interested in seeing such as Detroit’s Danny Brown. Danny reminds me a bit of being a one man Pharcyde but with a 2013 in your face twist. Brown developed a lot of hype last year and has lived up to it. His XXX album was a refreshing breathe of fresh air!
Another newcomer I’m excited about is Kendrick Lamar. Kendrick made my album of the year in 2012 with Good Kid Maad City. I saw him share the bill at Coachella with Dre, Snoop and the hologram with a song or two, but this might be the one time I get to hear actually perform some of my favorite album cuts from his debut.
UK dance/electronic producers and dj’s seem to be making their way west with acts such as Disclosure and Bondax.
White Noise ft. AlunaGeorge by Disclosure
Bondax – Gold (Snakehips Bootleg) by SNAKEHIPS
Both which have gotten lots of love Monday nights at midnight on KCRW. Bondax was kind enough to send me a short under the radar mix that I aired last year on my show it was full of gems!
Speaking of electronic beats, Blue Hawaii is an act that just caught my attention with their latest release “Untogether“. Fusing lush vocals with bleeps, samples and sounds. I’m curious to see how the live show might come together. Watching a band re create an album you love in the live setting is always the best part to any show!
Last but not least I am looking forward to catching Toro Y Moi. I missed out on last Sunday’s show cause Walking Dead was on that night and I was curious to know what Rick and the gang were going to do against the Governors compound for retribution.. Sorry. Walking Dead stuff..
Back to Toro Y Moi. This guy literally has the album of the decade! Only 3 years into it but I cant think of any other album that has effortlessly blended so many genres into one. And in such a creative and authentic manner. It all goes back to my point of watching a band recreate the album you love in a live setting.
— Anthony Valadez