I’ll admit that I was really nervous to finally see Islands. As a huge, huge fan of the Unicorns (and a big fan of Islands), I had given Nick a pretty high bar for his live show to jump over. But true to SXSW fashion, the show was a complete blast, filled with great new songs, a cover and even a guest appearance for one of my favorite songs.

MP3: Islands - I Feel Evil (Creeping In) (new; live)

When the men of Islands took the stage, Frank and I noticed that they’d switched from all white to all black. I figured it was to signal a stylistic change from “Rough Gem” pop to Arm’s Way gloom. Frank pointed out that it was probably a good idea from a laundry standpoint as well — no pit stains on black shirts when touring. But sure enough, they whipped out a large number of new tracks, complete with a curiously beautiful type of gloom. As if that wasn’t enough, we also got a cover of “A Quick One While He’s Away” by the Who.

The real treat was when they started into the familiar beginning to “Where There’s a Will There’s a Whalebone.” I immediately began looking around for any familiar faces that might jump on stage to take up rap duties. My eyes stopped on one particularly tall guy — Giovanni Marks, aka the LA rapper Subtitle. Giovanni jumped on stage, grabbed Nick and the mic and proceeded to lay it on us.

Islands were absolutely an amazing close to another great Hot Freaks! event. I just want to take a quick second to thank all the bands who played — it was a pleasure having you involved, and we appreciate everything. Thanks again to everyone who came out. Hope to see everyone again next year!