Sounds Australia announces SXSW online schedule, networking opps

Sounds Australia obviously won’t be able to deliver its traditional Australian showcases at SXSW like The Aussie BBQ, Sound Gallery, 2 For The Showcase and Beat Pie.

But as part of SXSW Online 2021 (March 16—20), the music export body is presenting Close Up, with 18 artists performing two songs across three one-hour showcases.

Each showcase will feature six acts, Australian time from 1 pm AEDT on March 18, 19 and 20.

The organisation said: “These performances have never been seen before and all were recorded in the artists' 'backyard' (however they chose to interpret that theme).”

In keeping with the theme, Close Up will be hosted by Sounds Australia's Glenny G, Millie Millgate and Dom Alessio from Glenny's backyard.

In addition, Sophie Hutchings and Luke Howard are performing as part of showcases hosted by UK record label Mercury KX. Hutchings’ is on Friday March 19 (4:30am AEDT) and Howard’s on Sunday 21 (4:30am AEDT).

The Aussie artists selected for SXSW, along with their management teams, are offered networking opportunities, facilitated by Sounds Australia, to meet virtually with representatives from the North American music industry.

These closed-door networking sessions will happen before and after the digital event.

To access SXSW – including the Close Up and Mercury KX showcases – you will need to register for the conference. Passes are currently US $325, but will rise closer to the event. You can register here.

The digital conference is also offering keynotes and sessions, film screenings, networking, and exhibitions.

Close Up Lineup

Thursday March 18 (1 pm AEDT)

Alexander Biggs

Baker Boy

Hachiku

Shannen James

Sycco

The Lazy Eyes

Friday March 19 (1 pm AEDT)

Alice Skye

Beans

Death By Denim

Kee'ahn

Ninajirachi & Kota Banks

The Chats

 Saturday March 20 (1 pm AEDT)

Didirri

Jaguar Jonze

Hauskey

Indigo Sparke

No Money Enterprise

The Merindas