Speaking of Tzara, this book looks dandy.
"The acts of life have neither beginning nor end." - Tristan Tzara
the second secret word for today is: sinus infection. ugh.
A strange part of Austin that I noticed on this trip is the number of places you can get a tattoo. There was even this place that had a loudspeaker blaring constantly like a carnival barker: "Tattoos! Fun! Get a tattoo! Tell them where you've been with a tattoo!" I wonder how effective this type of marketing is. (Come to think of it, maybe they're targeting carnival barkers.) It seems like there would be city ordinances against constant loudspeakers blaring...but then, Austin is so tattoo friendly. I almost decided to get one, but I realized I already had a zen tattoo: it doesn't really exist, but I can't get rid of it.
the secret word for today is: optimize.
happy spring, everyone!
Saturday night was filled with great music. Andy Stochansky, Tina (w/o the B-Side Movement), and Papas Fritas. I've had a great time but I'm really excited about going home tomorrow. Blogger needs more attention that I've been able to provide here on the road...and I have lots of information and ideas to digest. I can't wait to sleep in my own bed.
Gomez was the best show I've seen so far. I was trying to figure out what made them so good...and after about a dozen margaritas, I was regaling Meg and Matt with my theories. But this morning I forget. Must. Get. Coffee.
sxsw pictures: day...umm, 8? wow, I need to go home.
Last night was teen angst night at SXSW. At least, that's what it felt like. Everywhere we went we heard distorted guitars and screaming kids. Nothing subtle. Nothing inventive. Quite depressing. We ended up hearing the Jayhawks at the end of the night. Their vocal harmonies were impressive. Roger McGuinn joined them for one song, too, which was a nice surprise. He came out with his trademark rickenbacker guitar and sang a tune. It wasn't one of my favorite psychedelic byrds songs like I was hoping -- but still great. Tonight I'm hoping to see Gomez at La Zona Rosa. solid.
sxsw photos: day 7.
The Brave Combo street jam reminded me how portable music is. And that you don't need the lights, amps, monitors, or even electricity to create something energetic and beautiful. Just voices. Maybe some instruments. Music seems to be everywhere here...even in the cracks of the sidewalks when record executives aren't looking.