If you find yourself stumbling around in a midday, directionless haze during this year’s SXSW – which is perfectly normal – point yourself east and uphill, and check out the French Legation happenings. This is possibly my single favorite destination during SX.
Because Texas was once its very own country – take that, Oregon – we had our very own ambassador here from France, who was housed at this elegant estate up on a hill. Now, I can’t be sure, but I think that the French ambassador decreed at one point that there should be fine indie rock, grilled sausage, and Lone Star beer made available on SXSW afternoons, and it has come to pass. This year events on Weds., Thurs., and Fri. – hosted by Bella Union, Yours Truly, Other Music, and Dig for Fire – will feature Low, Cass McCombs, Vetiver, John Vanderslice, and !!! (above).