As our attention is about to be diverted by a whole slew of out-of-state folk come SXSW, take the time to invest in Austin's local talent with the 10th annual Free Week, a concept originally introduced by Graham Williams, previously of Emo's and now of Transmission Events.

In January of every year since 2003, clubs from Red River to the East Side have offered up seven days of no-cover shows at Austin's most popular live music venues. Genres mix, people mingle and most everyone goes home a fan of at least one band they've never heard.

While several of the bands that we profiled last year are making repeat performances in 2013 (check out our previous previews of Sip Sip, Hundred Visions, and Marmalakes), we've picked a few more local acts worth knowing.

Editor in Chief, Caitlin Ryan's picks:

Orthy, January 4
Holy Mountain

Orthy is tight, well-rehearsed and has nailed down its sound: nuanced new-wave and/or melodically lilting tunes for a crowd that's grown beyond indie pop.

Smoke and Feathers, January 5
Red 7

Specializing in psych-rock with southern swagger, Smoke and Feathers began in 2007 and has become a favorite of metal lovers, stoners and hipsters alike.

Cheap Curls, January 10
Red 7

Dreamy surf rock by a three-piece band expert in banging out short, fast songs one after another — not dissimilar to a set of waves.

Managing Editor, Arden Ward's picks:

Mike and the Moonpies, January 2
Club DeVille

An old staple of the new country scene in Austin, the Moonpies bring a high-energy show steeped in country, but cool enough for any Red River rock club.

Ume, January 4
Emo's East

Three-piece indie band Ume is sweet and edgy, with catchy hooks and a well-developed sound that stands out in Austin and on the national scene.

Hard Proof Afrobeat, January 6
Holy Mountain

A 10-piece collective of Austin musicians, Hard Proof Afrobeat brings a unique, chill saxophone- and trumpet-infused sound to the indie-heavy streets of downtown.

For the entire Free Week 2013 schedule, check out Showlist Austin. There are dozens of bands to see!