We like a challenge.

With no budget for travel and no funds for accommodations, RadioExile.com is sending one writer to Austin, TX for SXSW with hopes of generating some compelling content not only for the site, but to connect with what’s “next,” network with bands eager for a modicum of “buzz” and to recreate “Our Band Could Be Your Life”. We want to give a writer the opportunity to live those stories: imagine Chuck Klosterman coupling Almost Famous and Fear and Loathing…, omitting the budget and engine failure. Can writer Tom Williams con his way down to indie ground zero and make it home with nothing more than the money in his pocket and his dignity intact?

Is it even possible to go to SXSW with no badge, no transportation, seemingly without a plan and experience something incredible? We hope so.

We’re sending one of our own into the fire, so to speak. We spent a week emailing 30 New York-based bands begging for a ride down. Brooklyn’s own Bridges and Powerlines were kind enough to coordinate a ride to the show, and Williams will be making the trek back with Via Audio, hitting several scheduled tour dates in New Orleans, Kentucky and Nashville on the trip home.

If you have tips, tricks or any comments, fill us in below!

Last 5 posts by Shawn M. Smith

• The Parting of The Ways by Shawn M. Smith - June 24th, 2011
• Pulse Original Matthew Michaels Says "Bon Voyage" - June 24th, 2011
• A Final Goodbye from K. Sawyer Paul - June 24th, 2011
• Salty Makes His Final Appearance - June 24th, 2011
• Hope You've Had the Time... - June 21st, 2011