Getting Pretty Fond of Fx3 [Fun Fun Fun Fest Memory]

Somehow I overlooked the first couple of years of Fx3 as a transplant to Austin still elated and overwhelmed by the plethora of accessible live music available on the regular. But in 2009, I scored a cozy introduction manning a booth at the fest for a few hours one day in exchange for a weekend wristband. Why not, right? I had no idea what to expect and found myself pleasantly surprised by the laid back scene - not too crowded, manageable lines for beer/food, and a good mix of fans. I have since happily resigned any interest I once had in attending ACL for a yearly fling with Fun Fun Fun. And while I adore the excitement and unparalleled buzz SXSW generates, the intimacy of Fx3 has made it my favorite of Austin’s fests.

In 2009 I bounced around from stage to stage (honestly, I tend to steer clear of the Black Stage) with absolutely no expectations - I was wide-eyed with curiosity on day one, but quickly found myself drawn in and fully impressed by Yeasayer's live presence (who seemed to be redefining/refining their sound that would soon be revealed on Odd Blood), recharged my lust for the grinding guitar riffs of Ratatat, and met The GZA all in one glorious day. It didn’t even matter when it poured on day two - I stood it out for Lucero, assumed a state of terrified awe throughout Crystal Castles' set, and danced in the rain during Of Montreal.

2010 only solidified my love for Fun Fun Fun, and heck, I even went to see Weird Al Yankovic! I mean, where/when else is that going to happen? And you know what, it totally blew my mind. What an incredibly bizarre spectacle! I spent the rest of the weekend running around covering sets with Austinist. I watched in wonder and disbelief at the wonderful insanity of Monotonix. I ran from stage to stage and caught the legendary Slick Rick, caught Man Man's wild, circus-like performance, and danced it up at the blue stage for Yelle, Dam-Funk and RJD2. I even checked out the Black Stage and it wasn't even scary! The amazing part about Fx3 is the variety that truly allows you to choose your own adventure.

This year I'm curious to see how three full days of Fun Fun Fun and a change of venue alters the fest, but the line-up is more than promising. I am beyond excited to catch Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, Girls, Austin's own and always wonderful Black Joe Lewis, and Lykke Li, whose newest release Wounded Rhymes has been ruling my iPod since it dropped earlier this year. I'm also really psyched for the unconventional musical/comedic stylings of Reggie Watts, an incredible performer that everyone needs to see. Fun Fun Fun thrives on outdoing itself each year, so I don't even know how this festival will sustain itself without blowing up the city, but each year continues to bring a wonderful assortment of entertainment. I strongly encourage everyone to buckle up and enjoy the ride.