Here's a brief review:

I came early to see the English Department after downloading one of their songs online. They were ok. They had a good stage presence but their instruments overpowered the singer's voice. I wasn't too pleased when they introduced one of their songs (the mess) as a love song about Dubya, but what are ya gonna do? I'm a
lone republican in a sea of indie hipsters.

Next up was Clare Burson another SXSW attendee and her pet ice bat named Spat (don't ask). Good voice, girly lyrics, nothing really extraordinary. Another OK set.

The highlight of my evening was when the band Cordero came onstage. The lead singer was this cute short girl who wore a dress and cowboy boots. Their first song sounded horrible as a result of Ani (the girl) breathing into the mic. Then with her meek voice, she started singing in Spanish and it sounded amazing. She did sound like she was a little unsure of herself, but it worked for her. The band definitely got the crowd rocking. I'll be dragging some people to see this band again.

Finally, at a little after midnight, the Damnwells started to play. After listening to their album for the past week, I was expecting a real mellow and uninspiring set from these guys but I was wrong.

Their album just sounded like every nineties modern rock album I've heard on the radio and to some people that's fine, but to me, it doesn't make a great band. There was nothing unique. However, seeing them lived made me want to listen to their album more closely. They definitely played their hearts out. I'd see them again live, but not as a headliner. All in all, a good show and worth coming home past three.