Drawing from influences as diverse as Pink Floyd, the Flaming Lips and Radiohead, San Antonio-bred Blowing Trees demonstrated at this year's South by Southwest that they know how to have a good time. Known for a feverish following and energetic live shows, they wrangled producer Dave Castell—who forged hits for Blue October and Deep Blue Something—for their debut self-titled set. What emerges is a hook-laden 12-track journey that swirls between psychedelic and anthemic, lyrically taking on the state of the world today. Lead singer Chris Maddin's vocals soar to Himalayan heights as he addresses war in "Airplane Fixation" and relationships in "A Different Time." With a strong endorsement from rock historian and Sirius Satellite personality Matt Pinfield, Blowing Trees are primed to blossom.—Alex Vitoulis