As most music junkies know, SXSW 2012 is upon us.. And like many of you waiting on the music portion to start, I am counting down the days. Counting.

In preparation for the big event, I have RSVP’d to at least 50 parties, that I remember, and have begun my spreadsheet.. Yes, I said spreadsheet. It is truly the only way to calm your nerves when attending this event. Even if I don’t follow it, I can always look to see where I might want to be and when.. this may also be decided by who has the best free food and beverage at the time.

But in deciding what parties to go to and what bands I want to definitely see, it’s really not that difficult. I always go with my gut annnnnnd I float a little. I don’t recommend my method but it works for me. Bottom line, I am always happy and enjoying myself no matter what. If I end up somewhere unplanned? No worries, I am always in good company and love accidentally finding a new band to add to my list. That is truly the beauty of SXSW.

So who am I interested in seeing this year? Well, I have a few, but I’ll try my best not to list the entire festival.

First off are my loves of Austin… The Black Books and Wild Child. Both amazingly talented young groups with a lot to offer an audience. We first blogged about the Black Books in January of last year. They promise a dynamic sound with vocals reminding me of Band of Horses.. Indie Rock perfection. A definite on my list of people to see.

The Black Books: Green Screen

03 Green Screen

My other Austin favorite is a group called Wild Child. Oh, my heart. This folk group will have your heart swooning with their whimsical melodies and love drunk lyrics. One of my favorite songs is Pillow talk…. *SWOOOOOON*

Wild Child: Pillow Talk

12 Pillow Talk

Staying with my TX theme, I also really want to see Sarah Jaffe.. This Denton, TX sweetheart has the vocals of an angel. I always seem to miss her when she performs in Dallas so it will be a real treat to see her in Austin!

Sarah Jaffe: Clementine

03 Clementine

The Cloud Nothings from Cleveland are by far a priority on my list.. We blogged about them back in January of last year ,as well. They are this great Indie Rock band with a fabulous 80’s flair.. Clean vocals and crisp guitar. Win.

I could ramble on forever about other bands I am dying to see for the first time or for a second round, but my quick list includes the following:

Of Monsters and Men
Screaming Females – This girl can sing. They will blow your mind.
Cults
Polarsets
Temper Trap
Chairlift
Miike Snow
Fun.

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