So...we're one week out from the annual SXSW2006 extravaganza, and event sure to deliver a few of my friends into the E.R. for alcohol poisoning/overdose. I'm also assuming I'll be close to bed-ridden for a good portion of the week following.

At any rate, I know you all are dying for my opinion of what will be the "NOT TO MISS Showcases" this year.... I'm planning on expanding and beautifying this spewage of info for a proper piece on Austinist.Com or Crazewire, but, until then - here ye go!

The ..1 - DON'T MISS THIS FUCKIN' SHOW - of all 1,300 Shows - - RACEBANNON at the Lava Lounge Patio on Friday, march 17th, 12:45AM. Let me sum this up by saying - I've lived in Austin for over 5 years, seeing zillions of shows in the process. Racebannon have been the VERY best gig I've seen here, even though it took place in the somewhat sterile confines of a bookstore (not usually a host for live music). Here is my "review" of that particular show: http://www.crazewire.com/features/20030630284.php

Don't miss Racebannon's MySpace profile...and tell 'em "chad beck" sent you! http://www.myspace.com/racebannonrocks

Other SXSW2006 Highlights:

Oxbow at Emos (Jr.)/March 17th/9:15PM - - - This band nearly ripped my flesh from my body and fed it up my backside the first time I saw them, a few SXSWs ago. Here's my review of that wild night: http://www.crazewire.com/features/20030320185.php

Oh, Beast! at Molotov/March 15th/8PM - - - This is the best band you've never heard. A mindfucked combination of jagged rhythm, retarded stage-presence and instrumental calisthenics. On MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/ohbeast

Oranger at Velvet Spade/march 15th/10PM - - - A sublimely fantastic psychedelic pop/rock combo from San Francisco. Be sure to give the bass player (Matt) a cheek-squeeze for me!

The Clutters at Habana Calle 6/March 17th/11PM - - - A super-terrific rock and roll act from Nashville, The Clutters are ready to explode!!!! Check out what Rolling Stone's Senior Music Editor, David Fricke, hast to say about them: http://www.rollingstone.com/reviews/album/_/id/7438822/rid/9249154/

The Woggles at Habana Calle 6/March 17th/1AM - - - I first saw these fellas open for GbV in Indianapolis back in '97 or '98. I promise you, they are an amazing live act. If you aren't quite into getting your veins torn away from your beating heart by Bloomington's Racebannon (mentioned above, duh!) - I'd suggest shakin' yo ass to The Woggles. http://www.myspace.com/thewoggles

Man MAn at Velvet Spade/March 16th/11PM - - - - this is my wild card show. Never seen these guys, haven't heard too much about their live show. BUT, I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE their new record, "six demon bag." Sounding like a cross between Tom Waits and Gogol Bordello - this one looks promising.

Genghis Tron/March 17th/Flamingo Cantina/8PM - - - These NY dudes freakin' rule! Even w/a drum machine! http://myspace.com/genghistron

see you out there,
Amen,
-chadly con Q
.. superchadlyqueso