What began as a PBS music feature in 1976 is now the longest running concert music series in American television history. Austin City Limits began and continues as a PBS mainstay, but since 2002 also exists as an annual outdoor music festival, flooding the Austin Zilker Park for at least three days each year with music, fans, artists, and humane causes. This year’s festival boasted more than 120 musical performances, featuring hip-hop, soul, indie rock, country, jazz, and just good old rock ‘n roll spread across eight stages.
Another noteworthy subject of this particular festival is that it was 100 percent carbon neutral, a real signature of Austin and its green mentality. Recycling programs were set up all through the grounds, as well as creative uses of biodiesel. Concertgoers were offered up an opportunity to buy their own “Fan Tag,” a three-dollar carbon offset for festival travel.
The 2009 festival began on a high note on Friday, October 2nd, with perfect weather, a lush, freshly irrigated lawn, and a spirit of friendliness from all the attendees coming together for the three-day event. Artists that day included the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, John Legend, Thievery Corporation, and Kings of Leon. It was apparent who were the alumni ticketholders, as they planted their chairs, blankets, and coolers within sight and sound of three different stages to necessitate less travel to keep the music going all day.
Saturday was the day of rain, and that would not hold back the dedicated fans of Dave Matthews Band or Ghostland Observatory. The intensity of performances throughout the day was only elevated by the rain — like that of And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead, with dual drummers and screams from the stage and fans, sharing the same wet experience. As the day wore on, we were unaware of the depth in mud created by the tens of thousands gathered in front of each stage. Other dryer options for enjoying the shows were watching a streaming feed online hosted by hulu.com and iclick.com.
On Sunday, as we gathered once more (this time without the rain), the mud was uncompromising — though it could not deter the excitement, as galoshes were donned and bare feet were not frowned upon. Acts like the B-52’s, Arctic Monkeys, and The Dead Weather kept spirits high. No one was about to leave without seeing Pearl Jam.
Now, as the festival has closed its gates until next year, I can say I’ve survived yet another outdoor festival with nothing but great stories to share, some much needed rest, and intentions of returning for many years to come. Thanks to all the sponsors and C3 Presents for another great year.