[cliffdweller]

Livia, did you ever get to see the Frames? I saw them at a free day show on Thursday afternoon. Some radio station was doing a live show, can't remember which one. They were really good. Since it was "Patty's Day" they did a laid back acoustic set, I guess because they wanted to drink and just have a good time. Anyway, they were amazing. I can only imagine what they would sound like "plugged in." It must be a mind blower because the acoustic set was powerful enough.

And you didn't miss much with Aimee Mann. She is absolutely wonderful, I love Aimee, but the sound was piss-poor and she took 45 minutes to set up! Argh, my feet and back were killing me but of course but that sums up much of my experience with SXSW...waiting in lines, waiting for bands to set up, etc. I was glad that she played "Wise Up" and "Save Me" two of my favorite songs of hers. She also did "Humpty Dumpty" from Lost in Space. I was hoping for Pavlov's Bell, but she never played it.

I caught Bobby Conn at a free day show too. Man, you must really investigate those free day shows...oftentimes they're better than the nightshows! And they're free with free beer! You can't beat that **** with a stick.

For all you hardrock/metal fans: check out Isis. I think they're from L.A. if I'm not mistaken. They will blow your ass out. I am not kidding at all. No hyperbole here. They are an amazing band. If you're acquainted with the Japanese instrumental band Mono, or the American band Mogwai, just imagine a combination of those two bands but cranked up past 11 with a metal edge. Oh. my. god. Amazing.

And what more can be said about Robert Plant?...the man still shreds. His voice is in top notch shape. I couldn't believe he could still belt it out but he did. I'm still reeling from "Babe I'm Gonna Leave You, " I can die happy now that I've heard that song live from the man himself.

Edit: oh yeah, I was on the front row for Robert Plant and he smiled and winked at me twice ~sigh~ needless to say I was transfixed.