I didn’t feel too beat up this morning, probably because I only caught two performances last night. Around 10AM I hit Las Manitas for some huevos rancheros and a large glass of OJ (gotta stay ahead of the curve and load up on my vitamin C).

After breakfast I headed over to the Austin Convention Center to “officially” check into SXSW 2008. The badge line wasn’t too bad–I’m sure the people traffic will pick up once everyone starts filtering into town. I then got a canvass bag of goodies, my official SXSW guide, and the almighty necessity–the pocket guide!

Weather-wise it’s been a bit chilly at night (high forties). Today the sun is out though, and I think it will start warming up. If you’re coming down to Austin and haven’t left yet, I suggest bringing a light pair of sleeves for the evening’s festivities.

At 3PM today I’ll be interviewing Saul Williams (I’ll post that chat as soon as I can–wireless internet permitting). At the moment, I’m plotting out my game plan for tonight. As it looks now, I’ll be catching Corn Mo and the .357 Lover (9PM), Sons & Daughters (11PM), The Kills (12AM), and The Black Keys (1AM). Still haven’t decided on my 10PM show yet.

Pic #1
(left to right): My badge, the must-have pocket guide, and the official SXSW guide

Pic #2
The canvass bag (which my wife will use as her new teaching bag) and all the goodies that come inside.

Pic #3
These brave volunteers will hand out badges and bracelets all afternoon. They won’t get paid, but they will get to catch some shows later tonight.

Pic #4
This place wins the “bad idea of the year” award. It’s a venue called Smokin’ Music that pumps actual smoke from its walls (get it?). Last night I thought the place was on fire. Let’s hope it doesn’t catch fire though, cause if it does, no one will ever know.

Pic #5
Bright blue skies! Weather’s looking good!