Autumn Souvenir

When Steve Earle was released from prison in the mid-90s, in addition to quickly recording his three best records, he also teamed up with Ray Kennedy and launched E-Squared Records, giving a home to such acts as 6 String Drag, Bap Kennedy, Cheri Knight and a foursome out of Knoxville, Tennessee called The V-Roys. Complimenting his own creative outburst, Earle's ear for talent was every bit as impressive. Of the handful of acts on the label, none appeared as promising as The V-Roys. Merging straightforward pop with a hint of some traditional sensibilities, they seemed to have it all: great songwriting, energy, hooks, passion and even a pretty damn cool look. But like a number of acts on Earle's label, after a few records, The V-Roys were no more. Co-frontmen Mic Harrison and Scott Miller pursued solo careers, and of all the talent on Earle's fantastic, but short-lived label, it's Miller who's gone on to release the strongest post-E2 material. Often backed by his band...

Before indie became truly commercial and the Pitchfork-era made a band's dress and fabricated weirdness more important than their songs, there was an indie rock scene awash in soul, humility and depth. And despite realizing the absurdity of my own word choice, I find myself largely stuck pre-2000 when it comes to music. Yes, there have been a handful of important acts to break through the past decade (e.g. The Arcade Fire, LCD Soundsystem, Okkervil River), and many that started in the 90s/early 2000s who continue to make great records, but the endless laundry list of bands receiving high praise in the "indie" world, will largely be forgotten once the big shades, boat shoes and tight Wrangler's scene comes to a close. In an effort to remember what it was like, well, you really only need this three-minute clip.

From around '98 - '00 these two were the leaders of the greatest band going.

I have so many unforgettable memories from South By Southwest. Slobberbone and members of The Gourds at Club de Ville. Being introduced to Apollo Sunshine and feeling as though I was seeing one of the most talented and passionate bands I'd ever seen (a chills runs up my neck just thinking about that set). Running across Austin to get to Elliott Smith's set. Marah at Waterloo. That set by The Brakes. World Party. That once little, but now massive, festival down in Austin has delivered some of the greatest memories of my life. In 2008, after touching down in Austin and dropping my retainer off at the hotel, I charged downtown and walked into an outdoor venue just seconds before South San Gabriel was to take the stage. As the venue door closed, I saw many of my friends in the crowd waiting for the band to arrive. As a friend handed me a drink, the sun seemed to drop as subtle blue lights filled the stage. The band walked out one-by-one and casually took seats. They played the song...