SXSW 2006

Posted March 20, 2006 — in Music News

sxswxxEvery time a large group of industry get together, there always seems to emerge some hot topic item. Generally, it’s whatever the industry is lagging at or having a problem with. At this year’s SXSW, the topic of marketing was more discussed than any other. It seems the new recruits at the major labels are having some difficulty figuring out what it is that makes their artists great and noteworthy. Those who couldn’t admit they were having a problem with it confessed they use a ‘formula.’ And people wonder why there is cookie-cutter music? Maybe because it’s being marketed in a cookie-cutter fashion! I commend those who could admit they found themselves grasping at straws trying to find the story for a band they don’t particularly care for. My advice to these people was, and is, quite simply ‘Ask someone.’ Doing research is absolutely imperative for any successful marketing campaign. If it’s not a style of music you’re into, talk to people who are into it. Figure out what it is that is so appealing to them. What is it they are relating to, and how can you get others to relate to it as well? It’s not rocket surgery.

Unsigned Bands @ SXSW

This is just a quick look at a few of the unsigned bands who performed at SXSW that really shouldn’t stay unsigned for long.

Unsigned bands at SXSWIndorphine: Something like Syndrome of A Down? It’s like getting punched in the face and then licked. SOAD - Politics + Talent/Performance = Indorphine. Listen to: Spaghetti

Ludo: Absolutely brilliant. Great performance, even better songs, not to mention really charming guys. I know the offers are coming in, but whatever you’re offering isn’t enough.

Furthest From The Star: They rocked that parking lot like they had sold out the Erwin Center. Austin natives, FFTS showed off their tight set spanning a wide range of emotions. Really good stuff. Listen to: Cry For Help

Hotspur: These guys had a crowd just as big outside as it was inside. Infectious hooks and a really strong performance made everyone stop to dance, even the people who are too cool for that kind of thing. I only caught 4 songs, but was left completely exhausted. Listen to: Get Me Out Of Here

10 Comments »

  1. Indorphine Rocks! Being from Florida I’ve seen them several times. They really have that “special something” that set them apart from the crowd of mee too bands. A bunch of creative and exceptionally talented dudes. Watch for em!

    Comment by Moose — March 21, 2006 @ 12:02 pm

  2. Indorphine are completely unbelievable. At their shows I stand there somewhat panicked wondering if I am going to be attacked, but at the same time, kind of hopeful. Along with the marketing part of this, what’s not marketable about a band that look like cracked out teletubbies?

    Comment by AJ — March 21, 2006 @ 1:06 pm

  3. I caught Hotspur at SxSW and they rocked it! these guys are coming up so quickly though that i wonder if labels are going to be interested in a band thats so new and possibly inexperienced? they definitely look to be the next buzz group though!

    Comment by Ryan — March 23, 2006 @ 6:55 am

  4. ah LUDO is AMMMAZING!
    hands down the best live show you can see. I advise everyone to go check them out!
    http://www.myspace.com/ludorock

    Comment by Mollie — March 23, 2006 @ 7:48 am

  5. I don’t think I would consider HOTSPUR inexperienced. Most of them have an “industry” background and have proven on both their EPs that they know how to write very good songs…and as you surely saw in their live show, they kick ass live. I think they’d be a solid signing for just about anyone. I think their sound is going to be the next wave of pop alternative and they have what it takes to compete on a large level…plus they’re really good looking guys which always helps. I’m a fan.

    Comment by AJ — March 23, 2006 @ 9:33 am

  6. The world is more than ready for Indorphine’s Spaghetti and has been for several years!
    How long will it take before the lucky label that is smart enough to sign them gives them the support they need to blow up worldwide ?
    Better hurry up or the meatball may roll off the table and on to the floor and then that poor meatball may roll right out the door…

    Comment by Bonnie — March 25, 2006 @ 3:27 am

  7. I am going to have to post ‘So Many Days’..electric and acoustic. That’s the one I really get stuck on.

    Comment by AJ-KOAR — March 25, 2006 @ 12:43 pm

  8. Furthest From The Star are a killer rock band and great guys. It was a pleasure sharing the stage with them and as we were the only band not from Austin, they made us feel at home. The sky is the limit.

    Comment by Steve — March 27, 2006 @ 11:36 pm

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