A huge list of releases this week with some much anticipated albums and popular artists in the mix including UK band The Vaccines, The XX, Periphery, Dntel and a live DVD from Danko Jones. Local releases include Sophie Koh, Wooshie and Expatriate.

Just before we all headed off to Austin for the 2012 SXSW Festival, we told you our 12 picks for the festival. Well some of them we saw (and were impressed by), others we missed, and of course at the other end of the spectrum there were plenty of surprises. Here now are our 12 festival highlights, 3 from each AU member who was there:

One of the mainstays of the SXSW festival is the Fader Fort. Held just outside the centre of all the action, the Fort has been home to hundreds of performances over the years, in front of just about anyone who has a computer and can RSVP.

Whilst the first day of the festival had its undeniable highlights and a number of memorable music moments, it became clear fairly early in the day that the second day wasn’t going to disappoint either. Whether it be discovering new bands, insane dance circles, or enjoying an ice cold cider whilst listening to some great folk music, there was something for everyone on the final day of the festival.

A chilled out atmosphere greeted the second day of the 2012 Southbound Festival. The day's lineup featured the John Butler Trio, Drapht, The Kooks, The Jezabels, Missy Higgins, CSS, Tim Finn and more. Stuart Sevastos brings us the highlights of the second day.

We sit down with Baltimore native and dance party expert Dan Deacon to discuss his upcoming Australian tour, as well as his new album and what it's like working with the director of The Godfather.

Hey Dan, how are you?

Good, how are you?

Yeah, good thanks, where are you calling from today?

I’m in Texas

You’re on a solo tour at the moment aren’t you?

The Falls Music & Arts Festival has cut loose with a double line-up announcement of yet more exciting artists migrating to Lorne and Marion Bay this summer.