10 Artists You Must See At Fun Fun Fun Fest 2012.

I was doing a Google search today and saw several articles about the must see acts at Austin’s Fun Fun Fun Fest. It was a list of mainly current hipster bands, with nary a nod to some of the more esoteric and veteran acts appearing on the 2012 festival line-up.

So for those who like to see some influential and heavier rock, these are the 10 must see bands you need to check out.

1. PiL

Public Image Limited were one of the most innovative bands of the 70’s/80’s, fusing dub bass with electronics and predating industrial and electronica. Even though their latest album was disappointing, this band is a must see, and singer John Lydon (aka Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols) is quite the frontman, full of sarcastic quips and theatrical facial expressions.

2. De La Soul

This hip hop group were one of the first experimental rap acts, using psychedelic 60’s samples over their slamming beats, making them one of two iconic hip hop groups at the festival (the other, being Run DMC).

3. Turbo Negro

How to describe one of the most outrageously offensive yet totally rocking metal/punk hybrids? Just do yourself a favor and check them out for yourself.

4. Tomahawk

Although I’d be more excited at a Faith No More or Mr Bungle set, anything with Mike Patton (and King Buzzo of The Melvins) is worth checking out.

5. The Sword

One of the best modern metal acts out there, who take their Judas Priest and Black Sabbath influences and give them a contemporary spin.

6. Red Fang

Similar to The Sword, but adding the alt rock swing of Queens Of The Stone Age.

7. Bob Mould

The unsung influence on 90’s alt rock and countless other bands, this singer/guitarist’s work in Husker Du and Sugar being the most notable.

8. Refused

One of the more interesting hardcore acts, who added experimental and occasional electronic touches to their sound.

9. David Cross

One of the most biting and pointed comedians out there, the former ‘Mr. Show‘ performer (and recently revived ‘Arrested Development’ star) will make you laugh with his seething commentary on politics and the worst of humanity.

10. Napalm Death

This British influential extreme-metal band (which briefly featured Justin Broaderick of Godflesh) will damage eardrums in a righteous way, and scare off many pretentious hipsters. Always a good thing.

These are of course just 10 of MANY artists, so be sure to check out the  Fun Fun Fun Fest Website for the full lineup.

The festival runs from Nov 2nd through 4th at Auditorium Shores.