DISPATCHES FROM SXSW,
PART TWO

THURSDAY, AUSTIN:

Here are some tidbits:

Wednesday night for the past couple of years has turned into a hot night for seeing buzz bands. This year, a whole lotta A&R reps were out and about Wed. night making the trek from one show to another.

ASCAP's showcase at the Hard Rock was probably the most frequented by label folks. The big buzz band of the evening, which commanded the biggest A&R turnout, was We Are Scientist. The band has a completed record in hand and already had a few labels talking deal before the conference.

Other notable shows that garnered A&R attention included University, The Glitterati and Delegate, each also on the ASCAP bill. Still to come are sets by Smoosh, Army of Me, Upwelling, Firekills, Murder By Death, Every Move A Picture.

Meanwhile, there’s lots of talk and excitement among industry folks about seeing Billy Idol perform at Stubbs at Midnight. Or Elvis Costello at La Zona Rosa at midnight as well. Who’ll draw the bigger crowd?

There have also been plenty of Robert Plant sightings at the Hilton, where he is apparently staying. Plant is delivering the key note address. More on that later.

That's it for now.