ACL '09: I’m Gonna School You

Jordan Jeffus, Austin

So, Austin City Limits is just around the corner (Oct. 2-4 if you’re an idiot and don’t already know this). Everyone knows the big names – Kings of Leon (I’m basically over them, which is HUGE if you knew me two years ago because I was mildly obsessed, but I’ll still check out the show), David Matthews Band, Pearl Jam, etc etc etc. You know these bands are good and you don’t need me to tell you that. What you DO probably need is a little lesson on some of the bands you may not know but that you should check out while at the fest. So that’s what I’m going to do over the coming weeks. Me – teacher. You – student. Class is in session.

Bon Iver

Saturday, 5-6p.m., Dell Stage

Myspace link - http://www.myspace.com/boniver

Justin Vernon of Bon Iver (pronounced e-vare) is a genius. Period. He wrote the entire album “For Emma, Forever Ago” after a series of bad break-ups (his girlfriend and his band). He straight up left Raleigh on a whim, moved to his dad’s desolate cabin in Wisconsin for three months, and turned around this amazing album. He’s got an awesome voice and does some really cool manipulation and voice-over, so I’m looking forward to seeing him live. You’ve probably heard his hit song “Skinny Love,” (below) but you should definitely check out this guy’s full show. His hour long set at the Dell stage will be perfect for anyone looking to chill out before they gear up for Saturday night.