Fresh Bread: South By Southwest Music Fest (Friday)

Firstly, let me just say the Beef Bar-B-Q sammy at Stubb's was magnificent.

The day kicked off at the Stereogum / Paste party with one of my favorites right now, Lightspeed Champion. A perfect way to start what would be a great day overall of quality music. The Fader Fort provided me introduction to Denmark's The Fashion. I'm not sure I was expecting the energy they brought; certainly my aching dogg's didn't mind grooving for them. They have an infectious sound and great stage presence.

Stubb's brought me another Vampire Weekend set. All the classics except "Walcott"...dammit....because that's my jam. Venerable L.A. band X was next....then that magical BBQ sammy to end my Stubb's stay.

UK band Your Vegas was a good way to kick off the night festivities. unbelievably catchy rock songs (peep "In My Head" on their myspace), dynamic lead singer and band, small room, electric energy...those things usually make for a memorable set. They are about to go out on tour with The Bravery for a few weeks.

I dipped over to Emo's to spread my wings a bit. Saw the tail end of Does It Offend You, Yeah? - they caught me off guard (in a good way) but definitely didn't offend. Two Chicago groups next, Flosstradamus (whose knob turning was very catchy) and the unbelievable The Cool Kids with probably a top 5 set for me from the festival.

I ended the night with Ireland's Fight Like Apes. I'm not sure if I have ever heard anything like them before. Futuristic Punk? Maybe. Amazingly sweet live? Damn straight. Did they have a song with 90210 in the title? They sure did and it kicked ass.

Lightspeed Champion @ Volume (Stereogum, Dell, & Paste Present)