主播大秀

DATELINE: TUESDAY, 16th MARCH
______________________________

We had an interview and session today with the people from 2FM. We played our toned down version of Where The Wolf Roam and met some lovely people in the hotel where it was filmed. The first point of buisness done for today. Next up is a gig in Rusty Spurs bar, but not before we sampled some authentic tex mex! It's been raining all night and morning so Jonny hasn't had a chance to weck on some shorts and break out those impressive calf muscles that he possesses. Everyone has been really friendly and for the start of our time here it's still been very smooth sailing, I can feel a "you spoke too soon" comment coming back to haunt me.

Today was the official first day of the music side of the festival, there's a film festival the week before. We went to check in at the Austin convention centre, which is the main hive of SXSW. If you're an artist you get a lovely bag of goodies, mostly junk you'll never use but the energy drink came in handy as well as loads of ear plugs. We are on stage at 4pm, only a 20min set but a great chance to warm up for the Belfast Rocks showcase happening tomorrow.

Couple of hours later...

In true Strait Laces fashion, we set up to play in Rusty Spurs and Jonny's pedals don't seem to like being in America. But in saying this, the back line is incredible. Pando was at a loss because the drum kit was perfect! The gig was great, people stayed and looked interested so it's a great start with some nice post gig comments from the locals. A fitting warm up and now once we find a power supply for Jonny's pedals it's a full on assault on Austin.

I'm in a sweet apartment downtown which is across the road from a venue called Mohawk, I've been chilling out with another new American friend called Rob, after hours of me showing him every Belfast band I could think of (AXIS OF, you're too punk for these Americans, sorry I joke he loved it) and playing some Mandolin and guitar with him, we find out there's an open bar in Mohawks with Mariachi el Bronx and We are Scientists to keep us entertained. Free night that could potentially get out of hand. Tomorrow, Belfast Rocks showcase and St. Paddy's Day. I hope you all at home have a lot of fun, let us know if there's any riots.

______________________________

*** were in Texas for the South By Southwest music industry event ***