On Tuesday, March 11 we went out for the evening to see a few bands--none we'd ever heard of, but we were open to seeing what was on the venue for a South by Southwest (SXSW) party at The Beauty Bar on 7th Street in downtown Austin. Upon arrival, the inside stage was between sets so a DJ was spinning a very cool mix of tunes. (I guess I don't get out much in the club scene because I'd never heard Dolly Parton's hit "9 to 5" mixed with a beat as a dance tune, but it was pretty cool to hear that song and reminisce about the movie.) When the band was ready and came on stage, they pretty much knocked our socks off. They played this music that I'd never thought I'd own up to liking--something like a blend of the Black Crowes, Jim Morrison, Led Zeppelin, and Blue Oyster Cult--and seemingly straight out of a time warp from the 70's. The guys all had Jesus hair and tight 70's pearl snap shirts and they rocked it out like they owned the hippie rock movement. The band, Scorpion Child, is one I'd definitely go see again--possibly even with my parents (Gasp!). For some reason, I think they'd dig their classic rock vibe, as long as they're wearing ear plugs to tune down the volume.This is the greatest thing about South by Southwest... Heading out for the evening with an open mind and stumbling upon something super sweet and memorable in your own backyard--a band that you never knew existing, but have to definitely go see again. I have Scorpion Child on my "must see" list for 2008.
