South by Southwest Round -Up

• 24th Mar 2009

South by Southwest consists of five nights of music performed by acts from all over the world. It takes place in over 80 venues in downtown Austin, Texas. Now in its 23rd consecutive year SXSW showcases the best new talent and established acts, as well as providing valuable networking opportunities. It has been described by The Wall Street Journal as:

“… a place where new bands come to get discovered, stars seek to burnish their indie credentials, and executives come to share ideas.” The Wall Street Journal, 3/14/08

This year’s festival saw:

Kanye west making an unscheduled performance. Word spread throughout the day that he was there and by the time the 9pm performance arrived fans were still queuing to get in. Proving that the current possible jail sentence Kanye could face hasn't deterred anyone from wanting to catch a glimpse of the man himself. Kanye's performance was at the showcase for G.O.O.D Music record label.

Justin Hawkins made an appearance with his new band Hot Leg. As Glam rock as ever Hawkins was in one of his trademark jumpsuits, this time it being leather – lovely. Towards the end of their set Hawkins got a fan to put him on his shoulders and walk round the venue while he played guitar. Nothing like a bit of audience participation.

Scottish bands were well represented with the likes of Primal Scream, Glasvegas and The Proclaimers all performing. The Proclaimers performed their version of King Of Leon's '17'. Which has to be seen to be believed!Unsurprisingly the highlight of their set was a mass sing a long to ' I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)'.

PJ Harvey and John Parish previewed their new album 'A Woman A Man Walked By’ performing new songs including 'Sixteen, Fifteen, Fourteen', 'Leaving California’ and 'Black Hearted Love'.

So, there you have it an extremely condensed few highlights from this year's festival.

On the website this week we have lots of news and reviews, including an album review of Filthy Dukes 'Nonsense In The Dark', a live review of Howling Bells and videos from bands such as , DANANANANAYKROYD, The Chemists and Bombay Bicycle Club. Doctors Of Love take time out for a chinwag with Glasswerk. This week’s gigs are, Official Secrets Act, Jessie J, Goldie Lookin Chain, The Anomalies, Polly Scattergood and Them Is Me.