Source: http://blog.wired.com/underwire/2008/03/sxsw-the-cool-k.html


AUSTIN, Texas -- When two slightly nerdy dudes take the stage -- or more precisely take to standing atop two bar chairs on the stage -- and proclaim they're the "new black Beastie Boys," it takes some chutzpah and a pretty good sense of humor.

Actually, it's exactly the kind of temerity and cheekiness it takes to name your group the Cool Kids.

The Chicago kids Chuck and Mikey (no last names necessary) were the de facto headliners for music blog Gorilla vs. Bear's South by Southwest party Wednesday at the Peacock in Austin. Combined with sets by Holy Fuck and Ghosthustler, the show was a strong start to the still-young festival.

For the uninformed, Cool Kids are the hip-hop version of the '80s nostalgia wave -- more young Run-DMCs than OMDs. And they own it. Their sound is awash in Rakim samples, Do the Right Thing references and 2 Live Crew beats. If they start running around with a guy calling himself Grandmaster it might be time to call the plagiarism cops, but even then they still deserve props.

All of this is to say their show was incredible, with even the effortlessly hip throwing their hands in the air. More photos from the show (plus some from outside, with ice cream!) and tracks from GvB's playlist for the party are after the jump.

Just before Cool Kids took the stage, Toronto noise rock band Holy Fuck threw down an incredible set. The band's sound on record has been described as a playpen on mescaline and it turns out the live show has the same feel, sans mescaline (presumably). HF's members surround themselves with musical toys (see below) and bang and thrash at them in a way music nerds and novices can appreciate.

What's different, though, between HF's records and live sound is the amount of energy. Noise rock is supposed to be enjoyed loud when rocking one's headphones. However, in a live setting where the loud is vibrating the room, it's even more dynamic and, surprisingly, the melodies seem even more pronounced and riotous. This band's name is going to be on the lips of many more music fans in the future (much to their mothers' chagrin, surely).

Finally, a note about Ghosthustler, who played a quick, yet wildly amazing, set before HF. This electronic/dance act from here in Texas was getting buzz before it was even getting gigs, and it's easy to see why. This is dance music for the kind of people who like to tune in and turn off. It's cerebral yet also completely pop-sounding. And live, even in a small bar with little wiggle room, it's impossible not to shake a tail feather.