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There was a load of talent on hand for SXSW 2006. Something for every taste was to be had and in some cases second helpings that were furiously devoured. From unsigned to multi-platinum and some Grammy winners, here are some of the sights and sounds of the SXSW music festival showcases. Check out our picture gallery at: http://www.bandradio.com/gallery
 Nickel Creek . The bluegrass band with a touch of Americana tore up the stage. The energy, emotion and conviction that they play with is simply amazing. Chris Thile grabs the microphone for a down home version of “Toxic” by Britney Spears. The song was complete with the violin stylings of Sara Watkins not to mention Chris’s shaking hips. The set didn’t end before some good ol’ tap dancing took place which filled the space that the smooth upright bass had been occupying.
Beastie Boys . An unannounced show took place at Stubb’s. The line outside showed just how quickly and well word traveled. The Beasties tore it up and people were left hanging outside. Full capacity baby. I literally felt like I had seen the Boys the day before when I screened their new film: Awesome; I Fuckin’ Shot. It is awesome, but you probably didn’t shoot that. See it anyway. The concert film hits theaters March 31st.  The Washington Social Club put on an energetic pop-rocky performance. The bass player was a girl and she definitely rocked it. A lot of girls that play bass, well, play like girls. Not this one, she’s a seasoned player. Their set was catchy, entertaining and full of great nuggets.
The Dresden Dolls , from Boston, jam packed their 40 minute set with pop-punk cabaret.
It’s really hard to believe so much music comes from two players: Amanda Palmer on Piano and vocals and Brian Viglione on drums. A few highlights were “Coin Operated Boy” and a cover of the Black Sabbath tune “War Pigs”. Evidently they weren’t the only band covering that song this weekend. Great version and homage to the recent Hall of Fame inductees.  The Pierces from New York are two sisters that sing their hearts out. I’ll take a little attitude with my pop tunage please. Great harmonies over music that felt a bit reminiscent of 50’s pop music. The backing band was tight and only had 2 days to prepare. A very nice set.
 Guy Forsyth kicked some Country/Americana ass at his set on Saturday night. Great vocals and a full band playing with great dynamics and emotion.
Daniel Balthasar , from Luxembourg, provided a very cool set of European infused modern rock. I have to tell you that the bands from Europe were sounding quite fresh and interesting to my ears. Gem , who hails from the Netherlands, took the stage next keeping the heads bobbing and the feet tapping. 
We also caught some great sets from: The Jessica Fletchers , They Shoot Horses Don't They? , Brightback Morning Light , Gomez and the Grassy Knoll Boys . It was a great year for live music at SXSW. So many great bands, so little time.
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