"If there was one thing to be learned from SXSW 2009, it’s that now everyone’s invited to join in: from Metallica to Mike Sniper, and Kanye to Zola Jesus. Regardless if you have a badge, a wristband or just a fanny pack full of kind bud, you’re going to see at least a few acts that you’ll remember years down the road—and a few you’ve forgotten before the ride home. Those that claim the fest is getting too big for its britches and that is has lost its focus, obviously aren’t there or if they are, don’t know where to look. For every Fader Fort built into a marketing playground with fountains of free beer, there’s an unassuming Austin dive with a staff of hospitable locals that will let you drink till dawn."