Austin City Limits: 2005 Music Festival

They call it a festival, but the first hour of this newest set of performances from the annual concert bearing the imprimatur of Austin City Limits, the long-running public television musical showcase, is more like a parade—of mediocrity. As was the case with 2004 version (VL-3/06), the format is clean and simple, presenting 24 acts, each playing a single tune. One after another, bands like Kasabian, Bloc Party, Gap commercial faves Jet, The Frames, The Bravery, and oh so many others (the emphasis is on indie and alt-rock, but there are also reliable veterans like Blues Traveler and the Allman Brothers) exhibit lots of energy but little in the way of originality, to say nothing of inspired songwriting. Things improve considerably in the second half, when groups such as Eisley (a mostly female outfit with sweet, country-ish harmonies), The Decembrists (melodic Brit pop), and Aqualung (more Brits serving up swell, soulful hooks) display a good deal more flair. Major props also go out to Gov't Mule (led by the electrifying guitarist Warren Haynes, who also appears with the Allman Brothers) and Steve Earle (whose smart, rockin' "Warrior" suggests what the Doors might have sounded like had Jim Morrison stayed alive and sober). Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1, the title also includes a bonus disc with interviews, "mini-documentaries" (including a look at the rather warped Roky Erickson, founder of legendary '60s psychedelic band the 13th Floor Elevators), backstage stuff, photos, and other filler. Bottom line: Unless you're a fan of the particular performers showcased here, this will be of limited interest. Optional. Aud: P. (S. Graham)