In late February I moved to back to
Austin 2 weeks early to prepare for South by Southwest 2008. Final mixes and graphic images were completed by benson and Daniel Llanes in time to have the Aashram EP duplicated before SXSW. Eric Fillip, benson, and I worked to smooth out details with a duplication company located in
Detroit. Everything came together and now Aashram has a solid product that now is available for purchase (myspace).
Once the final product was shipped to me, I immediately started promoting Aashram at the Austin Convention Center. While there, I worked and promoted with the SXSW promotional materials department (March 5th-14th). The 10 days of non-stop action and stimulus was well spent. I was able to connect with everyone from filmmakers and musicians to industry promoters, producers, and engineers. It became the perfect time to distribute a pre-released version of the Aashram EP. I was pleased that the feedback that I received regarding the EP was insightful and encouraging.
During the festival I had platinum access to movie premieres, private parties, showcasing artist performances, and the trade show. It was a privilege to connect and interact with like minded people from different parts of the globe. This year there seemed to be a high concentration of musicians performing from the UK, Spain, Australia, and West Africa. Most of the Filmmakers that I met were based in Los Angeles, New York, and Austin.
The beginning of the week was dedicated to the film and interactive portion of the festival. When not working at the trade center, I would bounce around downtown Austin, from film premiere to film party. I caught the premieres of Forgetting Sarah Marshall, and Bela Fleck’s Throw Down Your Heart. I did make it to several film parties including The Toe Tactic (which included a performance by Yo La Tengo). The premiere party for Throw Down Your Heart also included a live performance by Bela Fleck and some killer barbeque ribs and brisket.
The vibe was intimate for those fortunate to be admitted. It was a mixed crowd that was divided between those who were there to see Bela Fleck, and those who were there for the free barbeque. I had interesting conversations with and indie filmmaker from Alabama, a consultant from Los Angeles, and two individuals who worked for an internet film networking service. We networked and I gave them copies of the Aashram EP. I left the show feeling rejuvenated by Fleck’s playing. It was an honor to meet the man after the show.
--Joshua