According to some fans, day three of the SXSW music conference was referred to as ‘Metallica Day’ – and yes, the metal legends did take the stage at Stubb’s BBQ for a 90-minute greatest hits set to help sell their new game ‘Guitar Hero: Metallica.’

But for others (like myself) who didn’t make it in to the industry-dominated showcase, day three was more like ‘So-Much-For-Metallica Day.’ And with lines around the block at Emo’s and many of the other well known venues, it was the same story at many of the showcases for anyone without a badge.

But musical magic was still to be found at Cedar Street Courtyard on W. 4th Street, where I slipped right in and camped out for an evening of indie rock that culminated into an extraordinary shred-show with indie/alternative legends Dinosaur Jr.

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Nobody has time to read all the music news, but if you’re looking to squeeze in some interesting snippets from today, here’s a quick overview:

• President Obama said he will emphasize a “transparent” presidency, but one inauguration performance contradicted that ideal. In their performance of John Williams‘ “Air and Simple Gifts,” cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Itzhak Perlman, pianist Gabriella Montero and clarinetist Anthony McGill are reported to have played along unamplified with a recording. So that historic performance you thought you heard… was a fake. Bummer. Read what the artists had to say about it in the full story.
• Steve Martin will release a (comedy-free) album called “The Crow: New Songs For the Five-String Banjo” on Jan.27. The 15-track album will be sold as a three-month Amazon.com exclusive with a slew of guests, including Dolly Parton, Vince Gill and Tim O’Brien. The album doesn’t include any stand up, but it will be interesting to see if the comedian can control his knack for subtle quips amid all the bluegrass. Read the full story here.

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