The Brooklyn Bowl Family Reunion was held at Austin’s Historic Scoot Inn for three evening during SXSW, March 14-16. Presented by Harley Davidson, this event showcased 25 amazing musicians and bands throughout the weekend and was sponsored by several other brands such as Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Meyer Sound, Robe Lighting, Ultimate Ears, and High Brew Coffee.
I had the chance to attend Brooklyn Bowl Family Reunion one evening during SXSW, and it was by far the most relaxing and laid back event I attended during the festival. With nearly no line upon arriving, we immediately entered Scoot Inn and were handed a free MiiR reusable metal cup to use for ordering drinks (we love that eco-friendly life!).
On that particular evening, we got to see performances by Illiterate Light (who I was previously unfamiliar with) and Billy Strings (who I was very familiar with – check out our interview with him here!).
Illiterate Light is a duo featuring Jeff Gorman and Jake Cochran. Though alternative rock at their core, the band brings a new twist and vibrance to the genre, creating and energy that all spectators can’t help but consume. After seeing their set at Scoot Inn, I quickly became a newfound fan.
I’ve been a fan of Billy Strings since I saw him at Old Settler’s Music Festival last year (read more here!). One of the most beloved bluegrass guitarists today within the bluegrass community, Billy Strings is talented beyond his years and speaks to crowds through his guitar riffs and irresistible voice. The full band features William Apostol (Billy Strings), Billy Failing, Royal Masat (a fellow Texan), and Jarrod Walker.
Billy String’s set at Scoot Inn was even better than the previous time I saw him live, which says a lot. Pure fun and just downright enjoyable, the band’s ability to spontaneous jam and groove of each other’s vibes is simply incredible to witness and a blast to listen to. I couldn’t have imagined I better way to spend a Friday night.
For more coverage on SXSW, click here, and be sure to check back in for more interviews, recaps, and photo galleries!
Featured image & photo gallery credit: Leigh Kettle/Shuffle Online
Leigh is a native Texan gone temporary New Yorker and now proud Austinite. Passions include but are not limited to music (both as a spectator and dabbler), traveling & cultural adventures, film & television, true crime, design (of the fashion, interior, and graphic sorts), and photographing & writing about all the aforementioned. Self-acclaimed coffee connoisseur & wino, cat aficionado, book worm, and nature junkie.