Songs to Inspire From SXSW

Everyone knows Austin, TX is the live music capital of the world- but not everyone can (or cares to!) be a part of the musical mayhem known as South by Southwest, or SXSW. A five day bacchanalian revel of tuneage and parties worthy of the most decadent college kids- but filled mostly with industry professionals and grownups who can afford to take that much time off of work.

The SXSW artist showcases are considered THE place for new artists to strut their stuff, and if a label positions them during the prime real estate of that week, it means great things are expected. It's quite a show of faith.

For the past three years, I've been lucky enough to attend SXSW Interactive, which is SXSW Music's nerdy cousin. I love the exchange of ideas, the mixing of industries, and the...I'm not gonna lie to you, folks- the parties. But I've not yet been able to stay for the music portion of the experience, as it's just too long to be away. This year, I finally admitted to myself that I may be more nerd than rock chick.

BUT, I contented myself with downloading the 23 songs on the FREE SXSW sampler. That's right, 23 songs by the hottest up and comers of the year- for a limited time only. So if you're in my shoes, and life prevented you from being AT the party, hey, at least we have the soundtrack, right???

New tunes from Anna Calvi, Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears, Lucinda Williams, and Glasser. Never heard of 'em? All the better- you can thank me later.

CLICK HERE FOR ITUNES DOWNLOAD.