The Walkmen

In March 2010, when The Walkmen took the stage at SXSW, they were riding high on the success of their album, "You & Me," which had dropped just a couple of years earlier in 2008. This album really solidified their distinctive sound, blending jangly guitar riffs with heartfelt lyrics, something that absolutely shines through in their live performance of "The Rat." Interestingly, "You & Me" marked a shift for the band toward a more introspective and mature direction, reflecting their growth both as musicians and individuals. Watching the live recording, you can feel the energy and intensity in their performance, with Hamilton Leithauser’s vocal delivery capturing both the fierceness and fragility of the song. It's also worth noting that live shows like this one helped cement The Walkmen's reputation for electrifying performances, with SXSW being a critical launching pad for many artists seeking to make their mark. It's easy to see why fans still remember this set fondly!

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