SXSW jams without SXSW prices

Here's an SXSW retrospective from new FP blogger Beth Swindle:

With wristbands now costing in the hundreds, many of us less-flush audiophiles can feel priced out of the best of the Austin spring music mayhem. But fear not! There are many excellent bands playing at wristband-free venues. Such was the case for Porcelain, an Australian rock quintet fronted by sultry sheila Lo Roberts (vocals and guitar). I caught up with them at Darwin's Pub (223 E 6th Street, Austin, TX 78701) on 15 March 2007.

Now relocated to L.A. and signed by Universal Records, Porcelain's uncluttered strains are enhanced by an essential violin line and the band's evocative and lucid lyrics. This band is one part Alanis Morissette (back when she rocked), one part hard drivin' Dixie Chicks.

Darwin's may be the best boring bar in Austin. Unlike so many local staples swathed in themes of hell or Texas, Darwin's name is its only striking feature. The walls are white; the bar is oak; the bathrooms are clean. But Scott, the manager, knows how to bring in talented musicians with tremendous showmanship, and the no-cover bar rakes in the customers in the bargain. His personal touch brings me in the door every time I'm downtown. The night wouldn't be complete without a kiss on the cheek and his proverbial personal touch, "You've changed your hair!" Yes, my hair and my attitude about the accessibility of SXSW!