Music Thursday: South by Southwest’s Free MP3s Help Beat the Economic Blues

South by Southwest (SXSW) starts this Friday. This is the second Friday the 13th in an already pretty unlucky year. One thing about music, though: it thrives in tumultuous times, and the annual gathering of bands in Austin, TX, (followed by record scouts, media, and other assorted industry types) could make this year's SXSW the anti-Davos. Rather than depressing, it likely going to be a joyous occasion. No! It WILL be a joyous occasion, because some great, fairly unknown bands are playing…and they are going to kill it. Even if you don't have a coveted all-access badge you can listen to them and download them on the festival's website. Awesome new music for free. Take that, recession.

Lonnie Walker, from Raleigh NC, "Compass Comforts"

Rev KM Williams & The Amazing Trainreck, Dallas, "Tell the Truth"

Past Lives, Seattle, "Strange Symmetry"

Whether you are unemployed, under-employed, or just need a break from downsizing stress, here are 20 Southwest trip options to extend your stay.