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March 21, 2006

Gang of Four at SXSW

Let's sum up SXSW 2006 in a cliched listing: large crowds, long lines, hipsters, Neil Young, the Beastie Boys, Ray Davies, headbands, Chrissie Hynde, Morrissey, day parties, Billy Bragg, barbecue, Perry Farrell, Echo and the Bunnymen, the Red Bull House, the Flaming Lips, the Podcast Pickle, Tapes 'N Tapes, garbage, exhaustion and the Arctic Monkeys. But by far, one of the biggest surprises to hit this year was the bootleg parking garage rooftop performance by Gang of Four. Even SXSW organizer Roland Swenson was surprised:

This off-site "shadow fest" is plainly a source of irritation for SXSW organizers, especially when corporate hosts import talent not booked at the official festival. With a hint of aggravation entering his voice, Swenson noted that Sauza tequila put on a private party featuring the English post-punk band Gang of Four.

"I don't want to stand in the way of somebody's payday, but we have to look after the event," Swenson said.

Hmm...next year may see a few changes (but we say that every year). Gang of Four's Dave Allen has posted a video of his band's secret performance on his blog.

Posted by timothompson at March 21, 2006 10:29 PM