SXSW© is next week. I have been attending for over two decades, though many of my music biz friends have given up on the experience. Yes it is crowded, yes it is unwieldy, and yes it is difficult to even naviagte around Austin. It is, however, still a thrill for me to be in the company of thousands of music lovers and artists from all over the world. We become a community with a single purpose; to revel in the wonder of all the music brought forth by people of every stripe. I dunno, it just quickens my breath. Of course you know my radio station WMOT is broadcasting and videocasting 30 artists for the 895 Sessions from The Backstage at El Mercado on South 1st starting Tuesday. Also, we are partnering in the day party at the Cactus Cafe on Tuesday with KUTX Radio. We are presenting sets by Shinyribs, Carrie Rodriguez, Carson McHone, Ben Dickey, Chris Shiflett, and Robert Ellis. You will hear all these sets on the air at WMOT afterwards and the broadcast schedule will be announced.
"Getting down in it" is the sentiment of the brand new title from Will Kimbrough. I Like It Down Here is coming out on April 19th, but its already generating buzz. Will was accompanied by Bryan Owings, and Chris Donohue for the Music Fog video session at the beginning of February. Frankly, we couldn't wait to get this one out. Effortless playing, intoxicating lyrics and the gruff and grit that Will always brings make for a compeling title track. See for yourself, here is "I Like It Down Here."
- Jessie Scott