ACL was awesome. I ‘discovered’ some new bands and was thoroughly converted. Ween, Ben Kweller, and Yo La Tengo were all very impressive. Special mention goes to Ween for innovative lyrics, vocals, kick ass drumming, and killer guitar solos. David Garza was a pleasure to watch. Liz Phair, however, was considerably less energetic than I was hoping. Then again, I don't know her music very well.

REM was phenomenal, as always. This was my third REM show and likely my favorite so far. They played songs that were released when I was a toddler as well songs that are so new they have not yet been released. Some gems were Fall On Me, Begin The Begin, Drive, Man On The Moon, Finest Worksong, Don’t Go Back To Rockville, Losing My Religion, and The One I Love. They closed with a charming version of Nightswimming and It’s The End Of The World As We Know It. For a full setlist, go here.

I saw an old friend I hadn't seen in ages and finally met her sister and boyfriend. A bunch of old college buddies were also in attendance, so I spent a lot of time with them (and bummed rides – thanks much). I also ran into a gaggle of random people, including my Management professor from senior year.

Overall, it was a great weekend despite the crummy weather. Oh yeah, and Will Wynn (the mayor of Austin) and senator Lloyd Doggett introduced Lance Armstrong, who introduced REM.