SXSW is always a whirlwind of excitement, anticipation and energy. People flock from all over the world to see their favorite bands, films and interactive media projects. My favorite part of the week is the music. That’s what draws me there. Thousands of bands, playing all over the city, in hundreds of different venues. In house parties, dive bars, and huge concert halls — there is a little something for everyone. Up-and-comers, indie rockers, hip-hoppers, thrashers, dubsteppers, mainstreamers and headliners take over Austin and bring the people to the party. This music festival is like no other. Wristbands give you a chance to see your favorite band, badges give you an even better chance… heck, a press pass may even get you in the backdoor, but once the club is at capacity, all doors are closed off. If you are lucky enough to be inside the right venue at the right time, then you just may get to witness an epic performance. So, in honor of such an amazing music festival, I have listed my “Top 5 Epic Experiences of SXSW 2011.”

“I think we like to keep it tense. I think we like to keep a really healthy balance of, ‘Ohhh, everything could fall apart at any given moment.’” – Josh Lambert

Space Labias.

“We’ve been making the music we’ve wanted to make for six years, and no one’s wanted to hear it. They’re starting to want to hear it, so either we hit our groove, or people have just finally caught up, or, a little of both.” – Adam Wills, Bear In Heaven

“In Spain, there comes a moment when my music just can’t move on… basically because there’s no space or audience for my music. It’s as if you have to excuse yourself for dedicating your time to making non-profitable music.” – Hyperpotamus

“When you’re younger, you kind of freak out and want people to like you. I’m glad that I don’t sound like I did 15 years ago.” – Ceci Bastida

“I think the timing is right right now. We’re really psyched about the record, and we just felt an agreement that this was a real time to strike.” – Christopher Pappas