Four Aussie acts in the first round of SXSW showcases

Four Australian-based acts have been picked to showcase in South By Southwest’s first round of artists. Three of them are from Melbourne.

These were Marlon Williams & The Yarra Benders, Gold Class and Demi Louise. The fourth act is Methyl Ethel from Perth.

Over 160 acts from around the world were part of the first artist announcement for the March 15-20 event in Austin, Texas. Organisers said, “If you have applied and still haven’t heard from us, we appreciate your patience – we’ve received more applications for SXSW Music 2016 than in past years.”

Other acts include the new incarnation of Toronto electronic duo Crystal Castles, London hardcore Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, Minneapolis’ Har Mar Superstar, bedroom pop creator Alex G, Mike Kinsella’s (American Football) solo project Owen, New York indie rockers Caveman, Korean rappers Illionaire Records (Dok2 & The Quiett), breakout Spanish garage rock band Hinds, London electro-pop trio HÆLOS and veteran LA troubadour Emitt Rhodes.

Aside North America, the UK and Europe, other successful applications were from Japan, Russia, Colombia, Belgium, Mexico, Malaysia, Pakistan, Niger, Bangladesh and Trinidad.

Applications are still open via Sonicbids until this Friday, October 23.