Echotone

Director Nathan Christ's documentary reflects on Austin's independent music scene in light of the city's economic growth, mirroring in some ways the story of the Lower East Side, where punk-rockers got their start while paying a pittance in rent (by the 1980s, however, the party was over as tenements gave way to condominiums and chain stores). As Austin has grown into "the live music capital of the world," housing and practice spaces have become less affordable, so artists must try to keep their overhead low, working together in creative ways. In addition, condo dwellers near the live music district are tired of the noise. "My bones rattle," complains a speaker at a sound control council meeting, "while I'm trying to sleep." Of the city's working musicians, over 70% make less than $15,000 a year, even as the annual South by Southwest Music Festival brings $110 million into the local economy. Belaire's Cari Palazzolo copes by decorating her own t-shirts and packaging her own CDs. Although Belaire sold a song to a major corporation in order to fund their next record, the band remains independent, unlike Bill Baird, who recorded for Capitol Records as part of Sound Team, gave up creative control, and then lost his deal when Capitol merged with EMI. More introspective and artfully shot than most music documentaries, Echotone's stories are also sure to resonate with musicians in other American cities. DVD extras include bonus interviews and performances. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)