Before I can write about the music of this year's SXSW festival, I must acknowledge the senseless tragedy that occurred late last week, injuring many and heartbreakingly taking the lives of attendees Sandy Le, Steven Craenmehr, and Jamie West
. If you can help support the families of the victims, including those still in recovery, please go to www.sxswcares.com.
The day after the tragedy, I wondered how the festival could continue. But music is always significant in its ability to heal. We all took pause and a citywide moment of silence at midnight, then slowly gathered together and continued to embrace the creative community.
As a local reminiscing over the many diverse experiences of the past week, I love Austin even more when it is a generous host to the celebratory sounds of the world. Despite the mental and physical exhaustion of a week-long festival with
many must-see shows 
