This month is going to be full of noise.

Whew! Just let me breathe for a moment. I’m currently in the process of reviewing three albums by today, and planning several things. When I say “several things,” I mean 35 Denton and SXSW, and that’s just in the duration of two weeks. Last Monday I was at a Radiohead show in Dallas (click here for my videos), which prepared me for concert mode, and seizure-dancing with maracas if SXSW bands feel inclined to do so. However, one arena concert will not fully prepare me for the onslaught of music about to occur.

Every March bands parade through Texas (and usually most of the U.S) while they make their way to SXSW. 35 Denton is the weekend before SXSW’s music portion really kicks in. This year’s lineup boasts bands such as The Jesus & Mary Chain, Atlas Sound, Best Coast, The Raincoats, Mountain Goats, and more. SXSW includes more than 2,000 bands.

As thrilled as I am to satisfy my shoegaze heart’s desire for The Jesus & Mary Chain, it is also one of the most stressful times of the year for me. Luckily I am not currently in college, so I have time to plan everything, but the level of press I am providing this year is far above anything I have ever done. On one hand, I feel a sense of accomplishment, and promise that my worries of not having a successful future is merely temporary self doubt. On the other hand, am I going to survive?! The amount of walking/awkward running will surpass the previous festival workouts.

It may seem like I’m just complaining (well, I kind of am, aren’t I?), but I certainly enjoy the craziness. 35 Denton is much more relaxed and laid back. It is a way to see bands without the mayhem and large crowds, and SXSW offers an atmosphere and musical experience unlike any other in the world.

This year, I will be taking photos and reviewing shows at 35 Denton (which goes along with the Air Review interview already completed), and then it is off to SXSW on March 14-20. So far, I know there will be an interview with Brooklyn’s Ava Luna, photo-taking at Spin‘s Austin Throwdown and Rachael Ray’s Feedback parties, and reviewing/taking photos at many day parties.

There are some other possible developments that are really exciting. I will be interviewing other bands, and may be attending a few other events that will for sure get me giddy if they end up being confirmed. Here’s to musical bliss and sneaking in saltine crackers for the next few weeks!