Austin Sound Check

South by Southwest kicks off this week, with registrants for film and interactive streaming into town for the big kickoff on Friday. The music festival is next week, but some of Austin’s most savvy bands are playing this weekend to get a jump on the competition that will undoubtedly be drawn in by next week’s music festival.

Full recommendations below for your perusal.

Monday 3/9
Dean Stafford (Pompeii) and Hollywood Gossip @ Emo’s
This show is a gentle yet rocking way to begin your week, good for the thrashing that is going to be upon us shortly as SXSW rolls out.

Tuesday 3/10
Riverboat Gamblers @ Waterloo Records (free, instore)
The Riverboat Gambler’s new CD Underneath the Owl will be released on Tuesday, so pick up a copy while you’re at Waterloo seeing their free performance. Also be sure to read my interview with Ian MacDougall of the Riverboat Gamblers in March’s INsite Magazine.

Riverboat Gamblers @ Red 7 (DJ set)
This is a CD release party for The Gamblers, who are inexplicably only performing a DJ set. Still a worthwhile event, as it’s free.

Friday 3/13
Harlem @ Club 1808
The always-on Harlem will not disappoint. It’s fuzzy grunge rock that you can groove to.

Saturday 3/14
ATX Emerge @ Mohawk
I already told you about this show last week, but it bears repeating. Do not miss this show. Incredible local lineup includes Ume, Brazos, Zeale and Foot Patrol.

Black Joe Lewis and White Denim @ Red Eyed Fly
Another show featuring some of the hottest bands in Austin right now. Too many good shows make for hard decisions on the weekends around here.

Local Music is Sexy 7 @ Pure Volume House
Another great Saturday night lineup featuring The Calm Blue Sea, The Steps and Electric Touch.

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