Aussie talent has left a mark at SXSW yet again, with a slew of acts impressing at the massive Austin event over the past week.
Melbourne’s Angie McMahon picked up the festival's top honour, winning a Grulke Prize, while a handful of other acts established themselves as ones to watch via solid showcases across the city.
Here’s what the critics are saying about some of the Australian acts to grace SXSW.
Amyl & The Sniffers
“Amyl & The Sniffers then take to the outside stage, confirming their status as one of the most talked-about bands of the festival, barrelling their way towards the release of their debut album with intoxicating energy, all channelled through the relentless, scrappy charm of Amy Taylor.” – DIY Mag
Haiku Hands
“Australia’s Haiku Hands, meanwhile, are given the unenviable task of following Fontaines and, though there’s a notable exodus after the Irish lads leave, it only takes a couple of songs of the trio’s infectious, stupidly fun rap-pop to draw people back in. There’s simultaneous choreography, an array of flamboyant headwear and the kind of relentless, giddy energy that makes you firmly wanna be in their gang.” – DIY Mag
Dean Lewis
“The 31-year-old Australian... wooed the crowd who showed up at St. David’s Historic Sanctuary for his South by Southwest performance. With a packed chapel, Lewis played a short set with only a keyboard and couple of guitars. And that’s really all he needed. The venue suited his performance as he talked to the audience in between each song, making things feel that much more intimate.” – Austin 360
Mojo Juju
"[Mojo Juju] with brother Steven on drums was a force as a singer and guitarist, and she needed to be... Her songs, a mix of soul, blues and folk with a dash of rock, outlined her pain and staked out her mission.” – Chicago Tribune
Oh Pep!
“Following Another Sky on the inside stage are Melbourne’s Oh Pep! who bring highlights from last year’s I Wasn’t Only Thinking About You, acoustic jams that fold out into something more forceful and biting.” – DIY Mag
Angie McMahon
“Aussie Angie McMahon delivered the breakout set, with a vocal range and smart songwriting that pulled crowds across the field.” – Austin Chronicle
Comments