I am not going to South by Southwest this year. Well, I've never gone, but that's only because I can't rationalize spending a bunch of money to go down there purely for my own entertainment. Thankfully, I can live vicariously through blog posts and flickr pools. I'll get some of the enjoyment without the lighter wallet and complete lack of sleep.

Instead of sitting idly by and letting you go to whatever shows you want, I figured I'd offer you the shows I would have seen if I were going. This way you can go to them for me and take pictures.

I've highlighted my picks for each night and listed bands that I already enjoy and those whom I'm curious about. I omitted quite a few bands I like because they were either obvious choices or tour non-stop. Oh, and I am well aware that I would not be able to see all these shows due to many laws of time and space, but I am going to assume these would have no effect on me since my trip to Austin is happening in my mind.

Wed 03/15

Beth Orton @ Antone's
k-os @ Antone's
Laura Veirs @ Caribbean Lights
The Go! Team @ Exodus
Built to Spill @ La Zona Rosa
Limbeck @ Momo's
Hockey Night @ The Velvet Spade Patio

Thurs 03/16

The Zutons @ Austin Music Hall
Chin Up Chin Up @ Emo's Jr.
Mark Mallman @ Exodus
The Twilight Singers @ Friends
The Hidden Cameras @ Molotov Lounge
Nada Surf @ The Parish
Damien Jurado @ Redrum

Fri 03/17

Neko Case @ Antone's
Billy Bragg @ Cedar Street Courtyard
Real Ones @ The Drink
Rye Coalition @ Emo's Jr.
Hotel Lights @ Friends
Black Heart Procession @ La Zona Rosa
Rogue Wave @ Red Eyed Fly
The Magic Numbers @ Stubb's

Sat 03/18

Okkervil River @ Emo's Annex
We Are Scientists @ Fox and Hound
Aberfeldy @ Karma Lounge
The Stills @ La Zona Rosa
Sam Roberts Band @ Momo's

If you want to see all the other bands that are playing, SXSW has listed them all and many have mp3s for your listening pleasure.