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Home > Austin Music Source > Archives > 2008 > March > 14 > Entry
SXSW scene: Sound problems
Every year there is at least one SXSW sound ordinance horror story that leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of musicians and music fans.
This year’s battle commenced promptly at 9 p.m. Thursday during the Arclight Records showcase at the Light Bar.
Austin instrumental punk rock band Tia Carrera made it through their blistering set by ignoring the venue’s soundman’s request for sonic temperance.
At 10 p.m., Brooklyn, N.Y. band Freshkills made it about halfway through their set before the venue’s soundman pulled their plugs.
Club employees attested that City of Austin police arrived at the club with a decibel reader.
“They told us the police said the music was too loud,” Arclight Records founder Mauro Arrambide said.
“We knew we were going to get shut down before we even played our first note,” Magnet School vocalist/guitarist Mark Ford said, laughing through his frustration.
An enormous PA was in place, but there was no evidence of sufficient sound dampening devices in the venue.
“They’ve got three of Austin’s loudest bands playing in a venue that is totally inappropriate,” said Tia Carrera drummer Erik Conn. Most of the musicians that were supposed to play that evening said that evening that the rooftop venue was not appropriate for the Arclight Record’s hard rock showcase. Austin’s ever-changing skyline — where open condo windows litter the landscape — is going to make this an issue that needs to be addressed.
(For instance, what is going to happen to Club de Ville and The Mohawk when the condominiums across the street from them on Red River open for residents?)
Despite the fact that his entire showcase was a wash, Arrambide eked out a smile while apologizing to his bands, two of which had traveled from New York.
“Hey, maybe we can hit four for five and get almost all of our bands shut down,” Arrambide quipped as the New York City band Phonograph hesitantly began to set up their gear.
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