I lived in Austin for a year in the late 1990's and I have to largely agree. Austin is really not a whole lot like the rest of Texas, it's a little oasis of coolness in a state not always known for being cool. Although home to the Texas legislature, they only meet once every 2 years (imagine a state like NY doing that!), and has a huge live music scene. Also home to a large university campus. I had a good time in Austin and the only thing I don't much miss is the extreme heat in the summertime!