There’s been a lot of changes at SXSW over the last 4 years. Believe me, I’ve been here for each said year, and I’ve watched this awesome indie music festival turn into a corporate free-for-all for product placement. And I blame myself, too, for feeding the machine and attending just about all of the “big events with A-listers.” I couldn’t help it. However, SXSW is not totally useless for new and emerging artists. If you’re willing to look, there’s still tons of buzz-worthy talent to take in.

I had one of these moments last night at Bar 512 for A3C’s showcase. Located in a tight little bar with 2 floors off of 6th Street in Downtown Austin, the spot was crowded with underground rap fans for acts like Denzel Curry, Lil’ Bibby, Gold Lake and many more. I have to say I was really into what Denzel and Bibby did. Both acts brought the same aggressive content that features in their music and were genuinely having a good time. Granted, both artists definitely need major work with their live shows, but the energy was there.

In time, I’m positive they’ll become way more polished and organized on stage. Remember how all-over-the-place A$AP Mob was in the beginning?

Watch video clips below…

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