SXSW 2008

APRIL '08

Harder Beat Magazine Online

SXSW 2008

Photos and story by Randy Bookout

Van Morrison

The Ringers

Civet

To call it a Huge Party would be an enormous understatement on both counts. This year’s event ran from March 7-16 (both film and music) with the music portion taking place from March 12 – 16.

Austin’s famed Sixth Street corridor was jammed with music lovers from around the globe - taking in the some 1700 official acts this year. For me, this year’s quest began Tuesday night at The Parish, a private party featuring Yo La Tengo and My Morning Jacket (both excellent).

Wednesday featured some classics - REM, Lyle Lovett and Van Morrison - along with some rockin’ from Dead Confederate and Litany For The Departed.

Among my favorites, The Ringers were on the patio at Red 7. Other favorites were totally wild punk rock outta L.A., Civet, plus The Donnas, Flyleaf, Dax Riggs and The Soundtrack of Our Lives.

Rumored appearances from The Boss, Perry Farrell and Keith Richards never materialized. During the five days, I managed to catch portions of about 40 shows, averaged 15 hours daily on point and had a killer time.

In addition to the official shows, there are quite a few free shows that ride the SXSW coattails amongst the chaos… Free Stuff perks me up! If you can’t afford a badge ($600+), you can get a wristband ($180) or just do the free stuff. The badge is definitely preferred but not required for a great experience.