Top 8 Watch List for Austin City Limits 2018

Written by Téa Anderson

Every year, Austin has the privilege of hosting one of the biggest music festivals in the country: Austin City Limits. People travel hundreds of miles to see headliners like Travis Scott and Arctic Monkeys, but what about the names you don’t recognize? Here’s a list of some smaller artists we believe you should check out between your must-see sets.

1. Magic City Hippies

Photo courtesy of Arts + Entertainment District Miami

This Miami-based group proclaims themselves to be “indie funk.” If you put a beach ball, hip-hop, and pop in a blender, you would have Magic City Hippies. Be sure to catch their set for a jazzier, feel-good vibe.

2. Wallows

Alternative rock is making a comeback. You know those vibes you get from Perks of Being a Wallflower? The Wallows perfectly embody that. They will make you feel like your angst-filled, rebellious teenage self has been reborn.

3. flor

If you love LANY, you will want to stop by flor’s set. Delivering an indie-pop sound, this is music you clean your room to on a productive Saturday afternoon. Their dreamy and electronic vibe will make you feel like time has frozen.

4. Naked Giants

This Seattle-based group describes their sound as “post-punk, grunge and alternative rock.” Each song is unique, making sure to keep you on your toes. Reminiscent of the Foo Fighters, they embody angst and the desire to just let loose.

5. Ruston Kelly

If you are looking for country music, Kelly is your guy. He is a blend of old and modern country with a unique style that keeps his music from sounding like your average pop country song Better yet — most of his songs feature a harmonica.

6. Molly Burch

Similar to Florence + The Machine, Burch’s vocal range is outstanding and puts you in a trance-like state. Her confidence is unshakeable, and her single “To The Boys” is a feminist anthem. What’s even cooler is that she actually lives near Austin, so there’s a chance you might catch her around the city

7. Duncan Fellows

If you’re looking to hold onto summer vibes for just a little bit longer, check out Duncan Fellows. They illustrate the idyllic, driving with the windows down type of day. They are another indie-rock group, emerging out of Austin.

8. The Q Brothers

Wrapping up the list, The Q Brothers are a can’t miss. This group of rappers come from Chicago, and they have a passion for rapping their own remixes of Shakespeare’s work. It’s not cheesy either — just tragic rap.

Have fun at Austin City Limits 2018! Watch your faves, but don’t be afraid to find some new artists. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water and to stay safe, y’all!