Austin, Texas dining, known for its red meat, was a challenge for vegaterian Mandi Perkins -- who recommends Ironworks Barbeque for their amazing beans.
Perkins and her band drove for 25 hours with a brand new drummer to get to Austin. They nicknamed their green van Bucky and filled its cubbies with personal photos She, like thousands of other musicians, filled Sixth Street to showcase her work at the SXSW festival in Austin, Texas
It was her first year as a SXSW official artist and Myspace correspondent and it proved to be refreshingly artist friendly for Perkins who found the experience hit the spot creatively.
The Sony BMG recording artist, started writing music at three years old and influenced by Joni Mitchell and Stevie Nicks found it a struggle in L.A.'s competitive music scene to introduce her own sound of melodic rock. But her passion remained steadfast and she has become one of the leading women in rock.
"There's no games.. (Its) real and honest and a truthful place to play music. Everyone's having a great time and people are there to check out the scene...A great time to be an artist...If it's good it will rise."
In person, with a long blond ponytail and her infectious girl-next door energy, Mandi Perkins evokes a relaxed confidence. There is a sparkle in her eyes when she recalls her recent adventure.
"It's an honor to be there. Austin is so rich in heritage. All these people from around the world coming to show their art," Perkins said. "SXSW is about working. Doing accoustic shows, interviews and performing at night...Working 16 hour days is the biggest gift an artist can have."
The beat goes on for Mandi Perkins as she hits the Key Club LA on April 25th.
