Ok, just one last post on SXSW '10, and then I'll stay mum on the subject until next year!  Overall, it was another great year for the fest.  I'm not sure how the SXSW organizers made out, but from what I could tell, this year was definitely more crowded than last.  I had a wristband in '09 and rolled with friends who had badges and only had to wait in line (for about 10 minutes) once.  This year, many showcases became "badge-only" events due to the massive lines wrapping around street corners - Holy F*ck/GZA at The Mohawk and Dr. Dog at Lustre Pearl come specifically to mind.  I guess better showcase attendance forecasting (if there is such a thing) could help solve the problem or, perhaps, moving into some larger open spaces like Waterloo Park? 

Regardless, it seems like the word is getting out about the fest, which is good and bad.  Good because it's like a second Christmas for Austin businesses, but I'd really hate to see it blow up much more than it already has.  SXSW is the perfect festival as it is now, blissfully mixing open-air day and nighttime parties/showcases with I-can-hardly-breathe-it's-so-effing-packed-in-here clubs.  And guess what?  Bill Murray may even be your bartender! 

My only regrets are not catching a few bands that were on my definitely-must-go-see list, including Dr. Dog, Crystal Fighters, Sleighbells, Neon Indian, Local Natives and The Black Keys.  Also, I could see myself rocking out to Japan's Okamoto's - likened to The Rolling Stones - as well.   Next year I suppose!

Okamoto's at SXSW Japan Preview Show from rob campanell on Vimeo.

If you're already feeling nostalgic or just want a taste of SXSW, check out my daily recaps - chock-full of photos and videos - if you haven't already: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.