Hot to trot Irish bands have up until October 29 to apply for a slot at the 2005 South By Southwest festival in Austin, Texas.

Running from March 16 to 20, SXSW is one of the world's premier shop windows for new talent with The Darkness and Franz Ferdinand two of the bands who've benefited from showcasing there in recent years.

For the full application lowdown log on to www.sxsw.com but don't delay.