SXSW 2012 – the parties

I am still getting my head around how this SXSW thing works.

There are the showcases, the short official sessions for all the bands, then there are the parties sponsored by record labels (do they still call them that?), magazines, web sites or anyone else that cares (i.e. NZ trade is running a party for the NZ bands). There are also ‘music in the park’ type events over the final weekend.

The problem is when you want to see band X – you have to work out when and where, and that’s not easy. The ‘unofficial’ party scene is pretty hectic and its often a mystery who is playing and when.

Then there are the bands that are in town and unrelated to SXSW. El Ten Eleven is playing one of the parties, will I get to see them?

I am not a party animal. SXSW is a party event. I have wrangled invites to the following and several more. Looks like not much sleep coming up.

 

Wedding Present…

I BLAME YOKO / Heave Media Day Party Showcase (FREE w/ RSVP on Do512)

Choose My Music and Sweet Tea Pumpkin Pie presents: The State Of Music Day Party (FREE w/ RSVP on Do512)

Black Angels…

Heartless Bastards, YACHT, The Drums, Built to Spill and Clap Your Hands….

Greetings from... Noise Pop presented by Wente Vineyards Feat. Gardens & Villa, Star Slinger, Sleepy Sun and more (FREE w/ RSVP)

Aquarium Drunkard - SXSW Day Party w/ Alabama Shakes, Youth Lagoon, Bass Drum of Death & More! (FREE DRINKS)

Yep. Bass Band Drum of Death particularly.

Bang the Milkmade @ Willie Nelson's Luck, Texas

Milkmaids, free beer and music – how can I resist.

Titus and Cloud Nothings, sweet.

SAY Media's SXSXi Party (Invite Only)

Requiemme Mgmt and Devil Dolls Booking present our 2012 SXSW Day Party (Free entry w/ RSVP on Do512)

Com Truise ! Matthew Dear!

Brooklyn Vegan's Hotel Vegan - Tons of Bands, Three Stages (FREE ALL 4 DAYS)

I’ll be at this one with all the scenesters.

I haven’t a clue about any of these bands, but the ‘circus from beyond’ poster has me curious.Alternative Press "The 100 Bands You Need To Know" (Free, All Ages)

Hoedown at The Highball (Free entry with RSVP on Do512!)

Reverb Party with Typhoon, Bass Drum of Death, Com Truise (Free Food & Beer!)

Wet HairChad Valley

Dinosaur Jnr

kiwibash 

Last but not least, the Kiwi bash