Public Chalk

Optimist or Pessimist? At SXSW, you can find both. I was an optimist. Reason why? So many bands that I fell head over heels for while exploring the music jungle. This year I wandered right because I heard various masterpieces by hidden talent. I could go on forever, but here’s in the next few days, I’ll list a few…

Phenomenal handclap band

This group’s name says it all- seriously, though. Imagine the term “Groovy” – but in a 2k9 sense, and THAT is PHENOMENAL handclap band. They were the second band (and my 15^th) I saw at SXSW and I left wanting more. They are truly a fresh breath of air in the world of ever so common garage bands. I also have a feeling Roky Erikson and the 13^th floor elevator gang would like them too. All the characters took the stage with a peculiar coolness and just by looking at them, you knew they were from New York. Every song I saw was a different genre, however they had the constant – and ever so sacred- funk beat or psychedelic tendency on songs. On top of music’s favorite beat they placed electric guitar break outs, harmonic riffs , sultry funk – you name it, they did it. Every song was a surprise with their abstract lyrics and undeniable creativity peaking through the mellow, yet energetic set. Their song “15 to 20” consists of spouting out multiples of 5 “all the time still ridin’ the bus”. As my co-worker said later, “After their set, I knew they were special.”

http://www.myspace.com/passionpitjams