Organizers of the annual SXSW [ tickets ] Music Festival in Austin, TX, have rolled out the initial batch of confirmed acts for this year's edition of the multi-day event.

So far, the list comprises about 140 acts, most of which are indie-label or unsigned artists from around the world. Better-known participants include Crystal Method, Blaqstarr, Al Kapone, Sage Francis, and Peter Bjorn & John. A complete list of currently confirmed artists is posted at the SXSW website.

Now entering its 23rd year, the SXSW Music Festival features hundreds of acts playing in dozens of venues through Austin at all hours of the day and night. Bands must submit showcase applications for a chance to play an official SXSW showcase; more than 10,000 acts applied for the 2009 event, according to organizers.

This year's SXSW Music Festival is set to take place March 18-22, and will feature music-industry icon Quincy Jones as the keynote speaker.