One of my very best Austin traditions, is Leeann Atherton’s Barndance on the Sunday after the last SXSW day. It has been my tradition since 1997, and through Leeann, I have met many interesting and very friendly people from South Austin. I have had some great BBQ, too!

Shelly King

I first met Leeann in 1997, and she invited me to her Barndance. I liked the atmosphere and got to see some great bands, many of which I had never heard of. After a while I asked her if she could be interested in having a Norwegian band or artist on the schedule, and since then, numerous Norwegian acts have played there. Some liked it so much that they asked to come back next time they were in Austin.

Here is a video by  MarionLich of Leeann’s performance from this year’s Barndance so you can get in the mood of the place.

Mhoo

Among the Norwegian acts who have played Leeann’s Barndance, are Big Bang, Real Ones, Eric Moll, Cocktail Slippers, Thomas Dybdahl, Katzenjammer, Polka-Bjørn and Kleine Heine, and this year, Mhoo. and Marit Larsen for the second time.

Leean Atherton

Leean Atherton is a local Austin singer songwriter, and very good at it, too. She performs every Friday at Marias Taco Xpress, and also at different other venues in Austin. The Fullmoon Barndance is held loosely once a month, and from what I have heard of the other ones than the SXSW dance, they keep the same generous and friendly South Austin atmosphere.

Marit Larsen

The Lost and Nameless Band

Eric Larson and PeaceMaker

Duck Fight Goose from China

The BBQ chefs

The dancers

The South Austin ladies