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. more ›

One of the longstanding ambassadors from the “Golden Age of Hip Hop,” Slick Rick remains one of early hip-hop’s most influential figures, and though his later career has been dogged with stints in jail and a few artistic missteps, fans of the genre will always be fond of his boisterous and smooth delivery. A Bronx rapper by way of Great Britain, Slick Rick is hard to miss visually - from his loads of bling to his eye patch - and his rapping style is just as unmistakable. With that bit of British drawl, Slick Rick’s rhymes are at times humorous, or lewd, but frequently instructive and positive, as well. more ›

Suicidal Tendencies' hard hitting aural onslaught was a favorite of metal and punk fans alike back in the day. Now a new generation (and old fans, of course) will get to witness the California band's mayhem live in concert. Lights...Camera...Revolution! from 1990 should be a staple of every heavy music connoisseur's iPod rotation, we reckon. Next up, we're thrilled that oft-controversial rapper Slick Rick (or Richard Walters) will be bringing his novel gift for storytelling and hits like “Treat Her Like A Prostitute” to Waterloo Park. Offering up legendary artists at each edition has truly become a Fun Fest tradition, if not a trademark. Let that take nothing away from the third Fun Fest performer to be revealed today, Best Coast. Although a very new act, it's safe to say that their irresistible melodies could fit in in any generation. The brainchild of Bethany Consentino, Best Coast will surely shed plenty of sunshine at this Fun Fest, regardless of exasperating dust storms or unending downpours. Here's to Fun Fest 2010 -- may it be another unforgettable addition to Austin, Texas' rich chronicles. more ›

Well, it certainly feels like winter. This marks a usually slow time on the roadshow scene, as bands head home for the holidays and clubs close up shop. Not so fast, though: December is still unusually active this year on the Austin music calendar, so have a look below and see which acts you should bundle up and head out to. December: 12/01 FunFunFun: Spoon, Peaches, Prefuse 73 + more (Waterloo Park) 12/01 Dressy... more ›