Live and Dangerous: SXSW 2014 (Part 1)

Attendees will be hard-pressed at this year's festival to find a band with more energy and spark than NONONO. The Swedish folk/electro-pop group emerged late last year with the wildly infectious single "Pumpin' Blood" and have been building momentum ever since.
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It's almost time to kick off SXSW 2014, which takes place from March 7-16 this year in the musical oasis that is Austin, Texas. Every year tens of thousands gather at this premier festival to experience the best from the music, film, and interactive sectors of the entertainment business. In particular, SXSW is known for its phenomenal music week (March 11-16), which takes place over seven days and features hundreds of emerging new artists. In light of the overwhelming amount of talent set to perform this year, "Live & Dangerous: SXSW 2014" will consist of a two-part installation -- with each part featuring three upcoming acts well worth catching in Austin this year. Here are our first three recommendations.

WHO: John Newman
WHY: Since being featured on two of Rudimental's top UK singles last year, 23-year-old British crooner John Newman has been on everyone's radar. His debut album, Tribute, has drawn comparisons in style to some of the most classic soul artists out there, and has already earned him two impressive nominations at the upcoming Brit Awards. His searing voice and incredibly powerful stage presence make him an essential artist to watch at SXSW this year.

WHO: NONONO
WHY: Attendees will be hard-pressed at this year's festival to find a band with more energy and spark than NONONO. The Swedish folk/electro-pop group emerged late last year with the wildly infectious single "Pumpin' Blood" and have been building momentum ever since. Their live sets feel incredibly connected -- and audiences have no trouble losing themselves in lead singer Stina Wappling's light, mesmerizing vocals. Check out their debut single below, and don't miss NONONO play what is sure to be one of the most feel-good shows at SXSW this year.

WHO: Magic Man
WHY: Magic Man's style is self-described as "triumphant synth-pop" -- which couldn't be more accurate. These up-and-comers from Boston have branded their own unique, insanely catchy style of electro-pop... a sound that translates wonderfully live. Magic Man are just finishing up a supporting tour with established indie rockers Grouplove and Walk the Moon, and are sure to deliver a contagious dance party at SXSW this year -- a must-see if you haven't caught them live yet!

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