If you read any music blogs, or any other kind of blog really, or are in a position to receive press releases, then you are well aware that the annual South By Southwest festival is underway in Austin. The interactive and movie portions have been going on all week, but the big kahuna — the music festival — starts today. This year, a big heaping handful of D.C. bands are heading to Texas:

Apes
Meredith Bragg and the Terminals
Doujah Raze
The Fairline Parkway
Georgie James
Kid Congo and the Pink Monkey Birds
Le Loup
Mingering Mike
Timothy Bracy’s Collection Agency
Wale
YahZarah Performing as Purple St. James
You, Me, And Everyone We Know
Exit Clov
Jukebox the Ghost
Middle Distance Runner
Pash
Samantha Murphy
These United States

That’s some strong representation! There are so many D.C. bands in attendance, that the Digital Freedom Campaign is actually throwing a D.C. Does TX party tomorrow. They chose local bands who each have “a unique story about how digital technology is vital to reaching new audiences and to furthering their music careers.” Don’t forget to mention coverage on local blogs, guys!

If you’ll be at SXSW, be sure to check out some of our local talent while you’re there. We asked a few of our favorite locals some questions about their upcoming journey before they packed their bags and headed out of town. After the jump, see what Jukebox the Ghost, Middle Distance Runner, These United States and Le Loup had to say about their trip to SXSW.