In the sensory overload of SXSW, bands can find it awfully tough to make a lasting impression. But in March, when the inevitable "who have you liked so far?" questions happened at parties and in beer lines, Blitzen Trapper were often the band that had everyone talking. The Portland-based sextet traffic in brilliantly revamped classic rock sounds that might shame Kings Of Leon into permanent hiding. You'll hear shades of Dylan, Neil Young, Big Star, and even Pavement in Blitzen Trapper's music. The charm here is that the group is shambolic and rough-hewn at times, but have the tunes to back up the noise. more ›