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Although attendance is way up from last year and they've started the music portion of the festival a day earlier (Tuesday), we've witnessed the vibe at SXSW thus far to be fun and amicable. People are still (somewhat) jovially putting up with the long lines and intense crowds, so we'll check back in on Saturday as to whether or not the free booze and food can placate the masses.
Best part of the festival, however, has been the general air of conviviality - is that Austin or SXSW? Either way, impromptu meet-ups and recommendations (bands, food, clubs, directions) have been flowing freely, which means you can throw out your preconceived notions of where to go and what to see. We're thinking this trip is going to be about uncovering the special. Sort of like last night - our favorites were Trash Talk, OFF!, Bad Brains, and Duran Duran.
PREVIOUSLY:
LAist @ SXSW: The Real March Madness Begins In Austin
LAist @ SXSW: Day 2 - Queens of the Stone Age, Duran Duran, Black Angels
