By Hope Petersen
Gadget
Featuring state-of-the-art graphics and the latest in innovative technology, the Playstation 4 is the most high-tech console of the year. Personalized content gives your console the ability to learn your likes and dislikes, and filters your content appropriately. Play-as-you-download does just that, allowing the player to play the game as the rest of the content downloads in the background. Remote play using the PlayStation Vita makes the Vita the ultimate companion device, allowing you to play games downloaded to the PS4 remotely from any Wi-Fi access point. The new PlayStation 4 app allows you to view new content from any mobile device, purchase and download the content directly to your PS4 at home. The PS4 has something for everyone, so don’t miss out on this all-in-one media device.
Web Tool
FMGEM is a revolutionary web app and multimedia search engine that integrates content found on popular media sites such as YouTube, SoundCloud, Dailymotion, Vimeo, Discogs and AOL On Network. The service allows you to create playlists similar to those on iTunes or Spotify, only with all your favorite videos! Best of all, FMGEM allows you to easily create and share these playlists with other FMGEM members.
CD
Austin-area progressive bluegrass “newgrass” band, The Greencards, received a 2014 Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album for their latest, Sweetheart of the Sun. Residing in Austin by way of Nashville and Australia, the band has topped Billboard’s Bluegrass Chart, making them the first international band to do so. They have received invites to tour with legends such as Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson. Sweetheart of the Sun is available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon.
Book
Everyone knows about Austin’s worldrenowned music history, but few know its roots. Sonobeat Records: Pioneering the Austin Sound in the ’60s explores Austin’s musical history, beginning with a little-known indie label: Sonobeat Records. An independent label founded by father-son duo Billy Josey Sr. and Billy Josey Jr., Sonobeat set the stage for Austin’s musical legacy. Musician and author Ricky Stein explores the roots of Austin’s musical history through the story of this small but historical label.
Frye Logan Flap Briefcase
Perfect for work, school or just bouncing around town, the Frye Logan Flap Briefcase is made of lightly distressed leather for that classic vintage appearance. It features a padded laptop pocket perfect for most 15-inch laptops, an adjustable shoulder strap and a compartmentalized zip pocket for all your odds and ends. Enjoy SXSW in style this spring with a bag that’s perfect for an on-the-go Austinite.
