Hello! We are packing in preparation for our first-ever appearance at SXSW, and though we will be spending a lot of time attending panels and developing content we will also be watching a number promising young musicians showcase their talent. We know you have probably seen other sites and blogs post their list of essential sets and showcases to catch, but until today we have not offered a single music recommendation. Why? We could try and say it’s because we wanted to build anticipation, but the truth is that we haven’t had much time to think about concerts as of late. Between figuring out our panels, as well as scheduling press opportunities, the performances more or less took a back seat on our priority list.
Today we are making a change. Instead of focusing on panels or the many ways one can successfully market themselves while at SXSW, today we are going to highlight several performers we feel will be gaining a lot of attention in the months to come. You might not like every act we choose, but we can promise that if you approach the following list with an open mind you will certainly someone or some group who may soon be your new musical addiction.
Leon Bridges
Hailing from Dallas with a sound straight out of Motown’s golden era, Leon Bridges has been building a lot of hype for his throwback sound and style over the last several months. The young musician recently announced his first US tour, which found many cities selling out within minutes, and will soon be headed overseas for his second set of European shows in less than a year. We have no idea when Bridges plans to release a proper album, but for now the three singles he has available on iTunes are more than enough to set the mood for an unforgettable night with the person you love.
Migos
Not exactly an up and coming group in the classic sense, Migos have been cutting a path entirely their own through the urban music landscape for the last several years. Through mixtape and live performances the men of Migos have made their names known, and later this year they hope to take things to the next level when their debut album arrives in stores. You may remember their Drake-assisted hit “Versace,” but that is only one of many catchy, high energy tracks we expect the trio to perform while in Austin.
Nick Thomas
For years we thought Nick Thomas would eventually be held in the same regard as Dashboard Confessional or Third Eye Blind. Both catchy and heartfelt, the music Thomas made with his band The Spill Canvas remains one of the alternative scene’s go-to soundtracks for young love (as well as young heartache). Now with a solo album in stores and a new band at his side, Thomas is reintroducing music fans to his vision of the world, and so far the results are nothing short of stellar.
Dustin Kensrue
There was a time when Dustin Kensrue was only known as the frontman for the rock band Thrice, but that point in history is starting to become a distant memory as Censure prepares to release his sophomore solo release. We don’t know what exactly to expect when Dustin arrives in Austin, but we do know his legion of fans will be lining up extra early to hear his latest material. We’ll be there as well, and we hope to see you too.
The Last Bison
Mumford and Sons may have chosen to dispose of their Americana sound, but for those who still believe in the power of harmony, banjo, and acoustic guitar will soon realize The Last Bison are likely to become their new favorite band. Their sound is not too distant from the hipster-tinged folk that has been big at radio in recent years, but it does pack an extra dash of emotion we never heard in those other projects. We have never seen the group live, but given the strong word of mouth currently helping them along we believe those able to catch them in Austin will be in for something special.
Microwave
This may be the set we are looking forward to the most, but to be completely honest part of the reason for my excitement is the fact this band is also part of blog editor James Shotwell’s record label. We would still love them if anyone else had signed them, but for the sake of transparency we felt that detail needed to be shared. ANYWAYS. Microwave hail from Georgia with a pop-laden take on modern alternative rock that you won’t be able to shake anytime soon. The hooks are big, the melodies are infectious, and the lyricism is unlike anything you have heard before. Don’t dig deeper, just give them a chance to impress. We promise they won’t let you down.
Rae Sremmurd
This time last year Rae Sremmurd were just another hip-hop duo looking for a hit song. They attended SXSW, but not as showcasing talent. This time around, they have a slew of hits under their belt, as well as a Billboard charting debut album. With producer Mike Will Made It slated to appear as well, possibly even during one of the duo’s sets, we think it’s safe to say Rae Sremmurd have become THE need to see urban act of the festival.
Dej Loaf
Rae Sremmurd and Migos a bit too mainstream for you? No worries. Detroit emcee Dej Loaf is poised to be one of the hottest solo acts in hip-hop this year. She has received praise from every corner of the industry, and now with a series of successful digital singles under her belt there seems to be no stopping this twenty-something from achieving her dreams. Our favorite song in her catalog is “I Got It,” but truth be told any track on her recent mixtape is sure to impress.
Hippo Campus
Best band name at SXSW? We think so. Hippo Campus have been on our radar for several months now, but Austin will be the first opportunity we have had to see them live. The band will soon be opening for My Morning Jacket on tour, so we believe this is one of the last chances anyone will have to see this band before they become a household name. Don’t miss out!