Last year, it was Franz Ferdinand. In previous years, it was the Darkness and the Polyphonic Spree. These are just some of the acts that earned enough music-biz buzz at South by Southwest to generate national attention.

This 19th edition of the festival promises similar discoveries. Whether it's indie-rock, hip-hop or rock en español, there are enough fresh faces to fill a few seasons of American Idol -- without a whining Brit and faded pop queen passing judgment. Here's who you might be hearing a lot of this year:

Daara J: Hip-hop is truly international as this Senegalese outfit shows.