There is so much more to Austin during SXSW than the official showcases. The unofficial and unaffiliated gigs have grown exponentially since the festival started in 1987. Arguably this gives an opportunity to get a more intimate experience in unusual and quirky venues.
They say that necessity is the mother of invention, and as the pandemic took hold casting a shadow over the world of live music David Castro faced the challenge head-on. His response was Vancerts, a mobile production unit. David saw social distancing as an opportunity to harness the energy of innovation. A 2500-watt generator became the heartbeat, pumping life into unconventional stages and transforming ordinary spaces into musical sanctuaries. A van and a mobile stage, equipped with professional-grade audio gear, became the vessel of musical liberation. Every note played, every unconventional venue transformed was a deliberate stroke on the canvas of Austin’s music scene. Vancerts is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and the visionary spirit of David.
During SXSW Vancerts goes into overdrive putting on its own event. This year Vancerts is planning a massive festival:
3 venues, 6 days and 114 acts confirmed.
The full details will be finalised once the international artists have confirmed their entry to the US.
The majority of the bands will be at 517 N Interstate 35 Frontage Road between 5th East and 6th East Street. An impressive 84 bands will perform from 10 – 16 March. The site has no bar but you are very welcome to BYOB and there will be two food trucks: Reem’s Falafel and Lumi’s Crepes. The list of artists participating is impressive with a mix of both local and international.
The second location is King Bee at 1906 East 12th Street, which does have a full bar and El Borracho’s Taco’s Food Truck. 26 bands will play on 13, 14 and 15 March.
The third location is Vinyl Beauty Bar at 2400 East Cesar Chavez which has a full bar and no food trucks but there are plenty of restaurants in the area. There will be a day of music on Tuesday 11 March with 9 artists performing.
For more information on Vancerts including the full schedule for It’s A Van Fest please check the website here. Please also check their facebook and instagram for regular updates.
