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There's no question, the North-by-Northeast music conference will soon need a bigger boat. This year's conference, although lacking in the star-studded speaking panels of years before, seems to be gaining a foothold on the notoriously slippery 'indie cred' pedestal; in fact, it's cementing itself as the premier gig for any up and coming hopeful independent.

Why? Probably because with the amount of financial support from sponsors, and industry support from key players, the NxNE week is doing exactly what an indie festival is supposed to - it's giving often disparate ends of the industry: bands, music fans, and industry heavyweights the chance to co-mingle and potentially, influence each other.

Supernova was there to take in an entire week of partying, from club shows to industry events (like The Pilot Agency showcase pictured above, featuring Songs from a Room, Monster Truck and others).

Although many of the hottest acts were carefully planned, like the heavily branded Virgin Mobile launch party featuring Eagles of Death Metal, some were more impromptu like the Video Dead hit on the Bovine.

"Maybe it was the beer goggles and 4am last call... or maybe it was just the sheer talent and calibre of the bands; but I am putting this year’s North By North East festival up for best ever.”
- Jordan Howard at Supernova.com

While Jordan will share a more opinionated review in our next feature, here's a few of our favourite highlights from the June 14-20th, 2010 NXNE week:

Among my favourite acts this year? Definitely Whale Tooth - a relatively young band that has both high-energy and heavy-talent... also one of the few female vocalist led groups where the guitarists REALLY shine through. Was absolutely thrilled to hear them perform at The Rivoli for a totally tuned in crowd.

Other shout outs are well-deserved by bands Drive Like Maria, The Schomberg Fair (also Polaris long-listers!) and the ever in-your-face Iggy Pop - thanks for inciting a riot during NxNE!