The Untitled Interview #116 – SXSW Edition: Starring BRAIDS

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

BRAIDS is something else, y'all. Another one of the Canadian musical elite, this here band will get your pulse racing and your blood going with their deliriously dynamite sound. It's breathy and dreamy, but with an undercurrent of severe and serious rock. Haunting lady vocals send this band right there over the top. Here's what they'll be getting up to down Austin way.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
BRAIDS: Automomeal, cereal wheels.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
B: Swagger and cuteness.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
B: Neuf.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
B: Sean Nicholas Savage. He just released an album Trippple Midnight Karma. Go here to order a tape. Very very special artist. I believe, Canada's best songwriter.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
B: Finding my friend Patricia and giving her a big hug.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
B: Calgary Folk Festival. I was of the general public. I danced to Broken Social Scene! A very folk festival thing to do.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
B: A lot of the time you get to be with your friends. It's especially nice to see people you love when you have been on the road away from them for months!

mp3: Plath Heart (BRAIDS from Native Speaker)

The Untitled Interview #115 – SXSW Edition: Starring Little Red

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

I’d hazard a guess, given their lively, rollicking sound, that Little Red can probably show a gal a good time. The latest Down Under band to hit SXSW in an attempt to captivate the kids, Little Red’s easy to listen to rock-pop should prove easily digestable. Here’s what the band’s got planned for their time in Austin.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Little Red: By plane from Australia, via to Papua New Guinea and New York - not the most direct way.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
LR: Vegemite.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
LR: We've got 6 shows in Austin - the Neon Gold party on Wed night at 8pm is the official one and then some other great parties too - 3pm Wed at Virgin House, 3pm Fri at Uncorked with Paper Garden records, Fri at 4.40pm at Maggie Mae's for Sonicbids, the NoiseRacket party is 12.30pm Sat at FADO's and then the Aussie BBQ at Maggie Mae's Sat at 2.55. Really looking forward to it!

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
LR: The Strokes, Black Lips and we're actually really looking forward to finding new bands we've either never seen before or maybe even never heard of. And Asian bands!

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
LR: Shooting guns and wearing cowboy hats.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
LR: It was probably the Big Day Out in Melbourne but the first one we went to all together was The Falls Festival, we didn't have tickets but someone let us in and it was great.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
LR: Babes, money and VIP passes.

mp3: Forget About Your Man (Little Red from Midnight Remember)

The Untitled Interview #114 – SXSW Edition: Starring Richie James Follin (Guards)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Richie James Follin is one busy dude these days. One of his ventures is the sublime Guards, a candy-coated fuzzy lo-fi loveliness, bringing some scuzzy, sludgy rock and some saccharine poppy sweetness together in a perfect pairing. Guards is guarandamnteed to show you a good time, y’all. Pulling double duty down in Austin between Cults and Guards, Follin will hopefully have a chance to enjoy some barbecue.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Richie James Follin: Automobile. I'm touring out to SXSW as we speak...

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
RJF: I will forget nothing. I am a master of the road.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
RJF: 15 or so between my two bands...

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
RJF: The Strange Boys.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
RJF: The four B's...brews, bros, babes, and BBQ.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
RJF: Lollapalooza 96'...my stepdad played the main stage so I was backstage for the whole thing...Ramones, Devo, Rancid, Screaming Trees, Soundgarden, Metallica...

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
RJF: Getting to see a bunch of bands you have been hearing about all in the same day..

mp3: Resolution of One (Guards from Guards)

The Untitled Interview #113 – SXSW Edition: Starring Pat Jordache

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

The music made by Pat Jordache is quite frequently messy, loud, and all over the place. The latest record, Future Songs, was given an apt title, because the songs sound to me like songs stuck between now and then, bits and pieces of here and there. I hear occasional nods to Black Dice, Joy Division, Xiu Xiu, and Islands, you’ll probably hear something totally different. But again, that’s quite alright with me. Below, it sure sounds like this is one busy band this SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Pat Jordache: Win32 drivers.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
PJ: The soundblaster.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
PJ: So many that it would be easier to say that I stop playing for X time, the spreadsheet would be smaller.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
PJ: Cadence Weapon.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
PJ: Cut the pant legs off my Zegna jeans and make headbands for infants with them

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
PJ: The Royal Horsejumping Championship in Toronto.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
PJ: Doggies.

mp3: Radio Generation (Pat Jordache from Future Songs)

The Untitled Interview #112 – SXSW Edition: Starring Colin Stetson

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

I’m not sure if he’s making music for these apocalyptic times in which we live, or music from years in the future, but whatever it is that Colin Stetson’s doing, it’s intense and unlike anything you’re likely to hear being done by anyone else. The wacky, unexpected things that Stetson can do with horns is unreal, my friends. Unreal. Obviously, he is not to be missed. And go on, buy him a fried avocado taco.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Colin Stetson: I will be arriving by plane, though actually I have a show in NYC the day before, so I'll be driving down from Montreal for that. So, plane and automobile, but no train.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
CS: My European power adapters...wait, I don't need them!

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
CS: Five, and a couple other things.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
CS: Looking forward to seeing my friends in Gayngs, Sway Machinery, and the Luyas.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
CS: I hear they have tacos with fried avocado. Probably be eating one of those.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
CS: ACL, playing with Antibalas.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
CS: All the ridiculous drunkards not paying attention to any of the music. No, wait, that's my least favorite thing about festivals.

mp3: Fear of The Unknown & The Blazing Sun (Colin Stetson from New History Warfare Vol. 2: Judges)

The Untitled Interview #111 – SXSW Edition: Starring Mikey Wallace (Friendo)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.'

Y'all already know I loves me some Friendo. After all, they had one of my favorite records of 2010. Their raw, dissonant angularity melded with lighter, less ferocious prettiness encapsulated into perfect little songs is music to mine ears. The lo-fi grit of it all is a delight. Mikey (or Mike, for those formal occasions) Wallace gives one of my favorite ever interviews below, and causes an eyebrow raise or two in the process. Secret rendezvous? Oh behave!

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Mikey Wallace: The Canadian half of the trip we will be traveling by dog sled because that’s how we get around up here. The lower states we will be barebackin' it because that's how they get around down there right?

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
MW: My drumsticks! I'm not even the drummer, but I try to remember to bring some because I know Henry will forget his!

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
MW: One! Because we plan on enjoying ourselves, catching other great acts, swimming in the river, shooting guns, slapping a police horse, going to jail, getting bailed out of jail, getting bit by a rattlesnake etc... all the great Texan (SXSW) adventures to be had.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
MW: I was really pumped on seeing my good friend Idiot Glee but since recently finding out that Mike Tyson former heavyweight champion will be promoting iPhones I simply can't imagine a greater performance than a man so large with a voice so small promoting Apple products.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
MW: It's usually go swimming at the amazing Barton Springs, but after days and days of dog sledding and horse riding I'll probably have a beer and a secret rendezvous with my ladyfriend who I will be meeting down there, In her tour van I'm sure..

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
MW: Sled Island is the best thing that ever happened to my Butt Fuck home town of Calgary. It was great I was able to perform with Women on an outdoor main stage and it was really fun. I got blackout drunk hanging out with Mogwai trying to drink like a Scot!

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
MW: Probably everything except all the fucking loser whores all over the streets passing out flyers of their bands shows saying how good their band is that I will love their band and that I should go check out their band! Positives include ~ Taco trucks, running from show to show, playing shows, not having to work or do real life things, staying up all night for three days, babes, bros, Texas Heat (Canada is so cold right now), free shoes, free cigarettes (I don’t even smoke) and meeting new people to name a few fun things!

mp3: Counter/Time (Friendo from Cold Toads)

The Untitled Interview #110 – SXSW Edition: Starring Marc St. Louis (Valleys)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Valleys has come to share with the world a magical, bewitching sonic reverie, you lovely loves of mine. This is a band capable of creating hypnotic, otherworldly trances with their songs, pulling you in and not letting go. Their music is nothing short of beautiful, and that’s a fact. Read on to see what Marc St. Louis has to say about this year’s SXSW. And I must say, making sure you’re in the right place is probably the sagest of all possible advice.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Marc St. Louis: In a red Volvo station wagon.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
MSL: Business cards, iPad, overnight eyelid tightening balm and my helmet.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
MSL: 6 or 7, I think.

LET: Bands you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
MSL: White Hills, Lower Dens.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
MSL: Make sure we are in Austin.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
MSL: As a civilian, Lollapalooza in 1994. Highlights: Boredoms, Breeders, A Tribe Called Quest, L7.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
MSL: Inter-band sports.

mp3: Ordinary Dream (Valleys from the Stoner EP)

The Untitled Interview #109 – SXSW Edition: Starring Paul Duncan (Warm Ghost)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Crazy Warm Ghost/LET tidbit of knowledge: Way back when yours truly was a book/record store maven, one of the perks was getting truckloads of free music. One such record was by a guy called Paul Duncan, and it was so weird and wonderful that I totally fell in smit with it. Years later, Paul Duncan has once again come into my life, this time in the guise of Warm Ghost, his former solo and now joint venture (with Oliver Chapoy). The sound is still weird and wonderful, but a lot heavier on the electronics. Below, Paul talks about SXSW and his plans for Warm Ghost’s first (but probably not last) festival.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Paul Duncan: Taking a plane to east Texas where my folks live, then driving a pickup to Austin. That's how we roll.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
PD: A million dollars for tacos and BBQ.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
PD: We are playing 4 and a possible 5th.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
PD: Laurel Halo…also J Mascis is playing later in the night after us on Wednesday I think. Pretty stoked for that too.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
PD: Stretch from the 5 hour drive and say hey to friends I haven't seen in years.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
PD: Lollapalooza…I was like 15-16. Saw Pavement, Beck, Sonic Youth and…Cypress Hill. I fell asleep on the grass next to a girl with blue hair and an L7 shirt.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
PD: This will be our first one to play, but I like the idea of getting to walk around in the sun with a beer and see other peeps play music.

mp3: Open the Wormhole in Your Heart (Warm Ghost from the Claws Overhead EP)

The Untitled Interview #108 – SXSW Edition: Starring Todd Miller (A Lull)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Darned if I’m even gonna attempt to shoehorn Chicago’s A Lull into a genre, y’all. The closest I’d get is industrial pop, but even that barely scratches the surface. They clatter and clang and hook their way around songs, and the resulting noise is confounding yet kinda awesome. One-man rhythm section Todd Miller puts his SXSW thinking cap on below. I’m betting he hears “Oye Como Va” in his sleep by now...

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Todd Miller: We just bought a new (to us) van before we went out at the end of February. It seems like we've had nothing but van issues since we've been a band. This is our third one in three years, but unlike the past two, which were fifteen years old, this one is a 2007. For the first time, we feel pretty confident that we will get to where we need to be without major problems (as I'm looking for a piece of wood to knock on).

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
TM: Well, since we've already been out for about a week and a half now and are going to head straight to SXSW after this tour, anything we forgot, we have already picked up along the way. I guess we kind of forgot to figure out a stereo situation in the new van, although it was kind of a money-based decision. We decided not to have a stereo installed with an auxiliary input because we thought we would be able to survive on FM radio for three weeks, but we quickly realized that classic rock stations around the country have identical play lists. And it's getting really old. For example, we've heard "Oye Como Va" by Santana enough times already to last us a lifetime.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
TM: We will be playing four times.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
TM: We're really looking forward to the Schuba's/Lincoln Hall Roundup. Those are two venues in Chicago that we love, so we're really excited to get down there and hang out for Thursday afternoon.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
TM: Last year I had what was, by far, the best BBQ I've ever had. It's was super simple, just brisket, hot links and white bread, no sauce needed. The only problem is that the friend who brought it to us has since moved to New Zealand. So we're on our own for finding it, but I think we're up for the challenge.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
TM: I went to Lollapalooza for the first time in 2008, but I haven't been back since. A couple of the guys in the band have been down to Bonnaroo a couple of times as well. As a band, we played a showcase at SXSW last year and we played this year in January at Tomorrow Never Knows in Chicago at Lincoln Hall. We will also be playing at Middle of the Map in Kansas City in April. We'd love to play as many as we can moving forward since they are a great way to get a lot of people in the same place and offer them a wide variety of music choices.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
TM: Like I said, it's a great way for people to go to one place and see a bunch of different music, and they are great for bands since they are exposed to audiences that they may have not been exposed to otherwise.

mp3: Weapons for War (A Lull from the forthcoming Confetti)

The Untitled Interview #107 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jessie Stein (The Luyas)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

I had the immense pleasure of seeing Montreal’s The Luyas live not too long ago, and my dear dearests they were sensational. Like many of their Montreal band brethren, the band traverses some interesting sonic territory, but they find a way to make their noise sound rather breathtaking at times. Believe you me. You have to see/hear/experience them for yourselves. Songstress Jessie Stein lets us in on her SXSW plans.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Jessie Stein: Big decal covered diesel van.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
JS: My sanity.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
JS: 7 or so!

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
JS: Cass McCombs.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
JS: High-fiving the dudes from Dead Oceans cause it's been months. After that, I want to eat a taco.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
JS: The Royal Winter fair in Toronto is an agricultural festival that I was obsessed with from age 8-15. The first time I went to a music festival it was probably Canadian Music Week or something. I was underage and bands snuck me in back entrances of the clubs. It was awesome.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
JS: Getting to see and meet other bands, I guess.

mp3: Too Beautiful to Work (The Luyas from Too Beautiful to Work)

The Untitled Interview #106 – SXSW Edition: Starring Royal Forest

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Time to check in with another Austin band, I think. Royal Forest (formerly known as Loxsly) makes quite a jangle, getting their shimmy on while staying true to the Austinian love of the psych rock. It’s a dandy little sound they make, friends, quite splendid, so try them for yourselves. Below, more local SXSW conversationalizing.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Royal Forest: We are lucky enough to live in this fair city of Austin.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
RF: This is Texas, land of the Nuge. If you aren't packing, then you are SOL.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
RF: We typically play about 4-6 shows, but nothing is really confirmed until the week before. When you live in Austin you know the chaos that is SXSW.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
RF: Ke$ha

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
RF: Again, we live here so we have been doing it for 7 years, ROCKING.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
RF: Lollapolooza in Phoenix somewhere in the late 90's. KoRn dropped off the line up earlier in the festival season which was a downer to the 16 year old version of me. I did get to watch Snoop Dogg and get visually molested by MJK of Tool. Atari Teenage Riot played and still is the best noise out of Germany since WWII. They are like Enon on 11 but through a fuzz pedal and less dancey, and really nothing much like them.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
RF: Free food. Last year HOMETAPES did an amazing showcase where they cooked everyone breakfast! It was great.

mp3: You’re a Big Girl Now (Royal Forest from Borrowed Tune/You’re a Big Girl Now – Free Download y’all!) (thanks Meccalecca)

The Untitled Interview #105 – SXSW Edition: Starring Jessica Grassia (Golden Dogs)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

For some reason, whenever I hear the name Golden Dogs, I think of Bowie’s “Diamond Dogs.” Totally irrational, perhaps, but I like to think there’s a smidge of Bowie to be found in the music of these feisty Toronto-ites. They get a little raw with their pop-laden rock, and yours truly sure does dig it. Below, check out what salty yet sweet lady mouthpiece Jessica Grassia has on her mind regarding all things SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile? Jessica Grassia: Taking the BIG BOY, the Betty White, the Vananarama (our white and gracefully rusted 1992 Dodge Ram van with 360 vision). Last time we went to SXSW it was almost the virgin voyage. Now she's a vet. Still purrin' like a bearcat.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
JG: Swimsuit - never fails.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
JG: So far, one party, one showcase.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
JG: Spoon (always great) - Don't even need to check the schedule. Guaranteed they’re playing somewhere.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
JG: Either Mexican & margaritas or BBQ and beer. First morning, breakfast burritos are a must. On tour, it's amazing how much you think about food. We'll also be staying with our good friend from Toronto who lives in Austin now, so the first thing we'll probably do is sit in his back yard drinking some bubbly water and NOT freezing. SXSW is such a nice escape from Canadian winters. It's hilarious seeing all the pasty white Canucks walking around with their shirt sleeves and pant legs rolled up....

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
JG: The first festival I can remember playing as a band was the Festival of Friends in Hamilton, ON. Sass Jordan was the headliner and it was the first and only show ever I played rhythm guitar - for some reason, that never happened again...I must have been way too good.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
JG: I love the way the vibe of festival completely takes over a city and gives it an identity. I only know Austin in SXSW circumstances, so my idea of Austin is this crazy, wild music-frenzied place where you can walk down the street and someone will hand you a pack of free cigarettes, then you walk into a bar and there's free drinks and a cool band you've never heard of playing while there's band vans driving up and down the streets blaring music and giving out flyers then you see Wayne Coyne and he's rolling down the street in a big bubble while you're following the pack to some Beastie Boys afterparty...everyday at SXSW is like that.

mp3: As Long As You Like (Golden Dogs from the forthcoming Coat of Arms)

The Untitled Interview #104 – SXSW Edition: Starring Grass Widow

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Bewitching. That’s Grass Widow in one word, my little spellbinders. These three Bay Area ladies make some serious post-rock rock ruckus, but they also make some seriously fetching, lovely harmonies. Together, the two elements prove strikingly hypnotic. I suggest you get thee to their shows.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Hannah Lew:We're flying in to Dallas, playing a festival in Denton, driving to SXSW, then touring east with Wild Flag , then flying home from DC.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
HL:My toothbrush. So cliche.
Lillian Maring: I recently had a dream that I forgot to bring my laptop on a trip, and I was really stressed out. I'm about to jinx myself by saying that I'm usually pretty good about remembering to bring everything I need.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
HL:Probably 6 or so. Some stuff is still in the works.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
HL: Mostly pals from other places like Wet Dog, but it's always fun to see Bay Area buddies like Shannon and The Clams. Not really sure who else is going this year, really we're just planning on seeing everyone we know.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
HL: Getting a taco at Mr. Natural
LM: Playing fetch with our friend's dog, Mr. Baby.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
HL: In terms of official festivals with corporate sponsors etc...I guess Ladyfest SF (2003?) was the most legit festival I attended before SXSW last year.
LM: I actually never attended any festivals. Unless the Ren Fair counts. I take that back, I played the "What U Got?" Fest in Olympia, WA a few years ago, it was a small festival showcasing the talents of local under-age artists.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
HL: Grass Widow has played less than a handful of festivals and I can't say too much in general about festivals as I haven't been to many, but SXSW is a great place to see friends from all over the place.
LM: So many different types of music and their corresponding audiences are all jammed packed into the same vicinity, crossing paths and bumping into each other.

mp3: Shadow (Grass Widow from Past Time)

[photo by Dillon Donovan]

The Untitled Interview #103 – SXSW Edition: Starring Sara Lucas (Callers)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Callers got themselves the blues. Despite a certain angularity and messiness (in a good way) to their sound, there’s a whole lotta blues pervading their music. Perhaps it’s the siren call of Sara Lucas, that torch singer voice of hers sounds like it could probably lure thousands of sailors to their watery graves. She’s got some lady soul, that Lucas, and the bluesitude rock of Callers will make you feel anything but. The vamp herself talks festival below.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Sara Lucas: 1994 Ford Econoline Conversion Van

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
SL: Dan Savage podcasts.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
SL: 3.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
SL: Delicate Steve.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
SL: Eat breakfast tacos.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
SL: St. Louis Blues Festival at Laclede's Landing on the Mississippi River. Early 90's. Saw Etta James. Mind blowing.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
SL: Seeing musicians from all over the world.

mp3: Life of Love (Callers from Life of Love)

The Untitled Interview #102 – SXSW Edition: Starring Zoobombs

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

It’s totally impossible these days to not think of the horrible things that have befallen Japan over the last week. Zoobombs, from Tokyo, is a bright spot amongst all that darkness. Their herky jerky garage fuzzery and sonic antics are surely to become the stuff of legend. Obviously, if you happen to see them, a) buy them a beer and b) give them a big, big hug.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Zoobombs: Well, all of them. We go Tokyo airport by train (2 hours), then fly to US by plane (13 hours), then drive in car to Austin after some shows in U.S. and Canada (many days!!!). Unfortunately, no ship or space ship. Next time!

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
Z: Motivation, soul and health.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
Z: Show? We have to play show!?!?! Okay! We pack instruments then. Motivation and soul, too!!!

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
Z: Exciting new band we don't know yet but will love. We like surprise. SXSW good for that!

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
Z: Gas for automobile, coffee for person. Get to show!

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
Z: Fuji Rock Fest - the Japanese most biggest festival! - in '97. We were so happy. Then hurricane hit and the second day was blow out. No more show! Not so happy anymore. It is almost legend.

mp3: Highway A Go Go (Zoobombs from the forthcoming La Vie En Jupon)

The Untitled Interview #101 – SXSW Edition: Starring Eric Lodwick (BRAHMS)

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Oh sweet mercy, y’all. There’s something oh so foxy about this here BRAHMS. Listening to them is totally taking me back to those synth-worshipping, ever-so almost goth-tinged British dudes with a penchant for eyeliner and precocious pouting (see: Depeche Mode, Gary Numan). It’s icy, it’s glossy, and it’s addictive. Make sure to see what Eric Lodwick thinks of SXSW goings-on, and then check out one of their multitude of sets (yeah, they ended up with more than just one).


Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Eric Lodwick: Automobile. *insert John Candy joke*

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
EL: Enough socks or underwear.


LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
EL: At least one. Will hopefully be playing more than sleeping.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
EL: Twin Shadow, Gordon Voidwell.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
EL: Her name starts with pit and ends with beef.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
EL: SXSW last year. We played 4 shows.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
EL: The music and energy of gathering for music...beyond that, SWAG, new friends, and free food and drinks!

mp3: Brought It Out (BRAHMS - pre-order the Add It Up 7")

The Untitled Interview #100 – SXSW Edition: Starring Reading Rainbow

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Hey look! It’s the 100th LET Untitled Interview. That certainly requires a special band, no? And darned if Reading Rainbow isn’t a special band. When I think of them I think less of Philly, their homeland, than I do a crazy, wackadoo planet in which Levar Burton (HELLS YES) frolics with sinewy go-go dancers and tripping bunny rabbits and undulating flora and fauna and the characters of Candyland play Battleship. Musically-speaking, they bring the fuzz, they bring the bop, they bring the whole shebang. Rob and Sarah are crazy awesome, y’all. Simple as.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Sarah: We're driving down in our Subaru Outback station wagon.
Rob: We'll be playing a bunch of shows down the East coast on the way to Austin. Then after the festival we'll be making our way up to Canada and then down the West Coast. So excited!

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
S: Oh god - probably enough underwear. That happened last year and we went to Target with 1/2 of Dum Dum Girls and our friend Brent and bought some more.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
S: As of now I think 5 or 6? I have no idea! Out of the loop.
R: It’s always a fine line between playing as many shows as possible and being totally burnt out.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
S: Last year I was realllllly looking forward to seeing Grass Widow for the first time. This year I am not so dead set on any one band. I mean, I'm stoked to see any bands I like a lot even if it's for the 1,000 time!
R: I agree, most excited just to see all of our friends in other bands that we don't get to see often.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
S: Get to the hotel and chilllll. Maybe go in the pool or use the free wifi like a straight baller. Then go to the giant super Whole Foods and stock up on vitamins and get some Kombucha on tap! (maybe even fill a Kombucha growler)

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
S: The first festival I ever attended was also my first concert. I was 12, and it was an all day "birthday bash" for the alternative radio station 104.7 The Buzz in Richmond, VA where I'm from. It had a bunch of C-list alternative bands. The highlights were: seeing Our Lady Peace play (they were obvz headlining), meeting OLP at a meet-and-greet table where they signed my chucks, and also crowd surfing for the first time!
R: Hahaha. Yea my first festival was also for an alternative radio station. WHFS 99.1 for the DC/Baltimore area. Looking back on it, all I can remember are lots and lots of JNCOs.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
S: The comraderie with other bands we're friends with, and festivals are usually held in warm summery months/climates.

mp3: Wasting Time (Reading Rainbow from Prism Eyes)

The Untitled Interview #99 – SXSW Edition: Starring The Lines

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

Ladies and gents, I’d like you to get to know The Lines. They hail from Wolverhampton (those Premier League afficianados amongst us know that as home to a not so great football club), and are quickly becoming apples of mine eye. The Lines harness the raw danceability of the first Bloc Party record and mix it with the somewhat baggy-esque Northern sensibilities of The Music. It’s a pretty nifty little pairing, I must say. Read below for their SXSW plans.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
The Lines: We're getting to SXSW by plane, but it's a bit of an odd journey from the UK as we're going via Toronto for Canadian Music Week first.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
TL: I'm not sure what we'll forget to pack, last time it was electricity socket adaptors, but you learn from your own mistakes so it won't be that this time!

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
TL: We're not entirely sure how many shows we're doing for SXSW, I know we've already got quite a few confirmed, but we're always the last to know these things!

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
TL: It's a bit shit but at these sorts of things we're usually so busy with our own stuff we don't really get to see many of the other bands. Chapel Club are playing though, so that'd be great if we get the chance to watch them.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
TL: I think the first thing we'll be doing when we get to Texas is heading to venue as we've got a show booked for that evening. No rest for the wicked!

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
TL: I think the first festival we went to was the V Festival back in the UK as it's pretty much on our doorstep, and they always get the biggest names playing there like Kings of Leon, Oasis, Primal Scream, Ian Brown, etc.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
TL: I think the main thing anyone loves about festivals is just the atmosphere. Loads of people being brought together in the same place with the common goal of partying and having a good time! Bring it on!!

mp3: El Matador (The Lines - more here)

The Untitled Interview #98 – SXSW Edition: Starring Delicate Steve

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

There’s a certain I don’t know what about the Garden State’s Delicate Steve. These Jersey rapscallions have big goals (making people hate Bruce Springsteen and seducing lady journalists being among these goals), and they also happen to make a big ole confounding racket. It’s like listening to a kaleidoscope-eyed George Harrison all sped-up like while smoking hookah in the middle of Brazil? Maybe? Perhaps you'll hear something completely different. Delicate Steve is weird and wonderful, and you know how I like both of those words, especially when they both refer back to the same thing. Below, Delicate Steve speaks, collectively-speaking, about SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile? Delicate Steve: Ford e350 van.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
DS: All the unimportant things.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
DS: Staying at a 2x day pace.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
DS: Callers.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
DS: Going for a run!!!!!!!!

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
DS: Can't remember, didn't leave an impression.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
DS: The festivities.

mp3: Butterfly (Delicate Steve from Wondervisions)

The Untitled Interview #97 – SXSW Edition: Starring Cloud Nothings

The days are getting longer, the nights are getting shorter and sweeter, and that, my little vixens, can only mean one thing: it's getting close to being almost time for the one and only SXSW. And of course, that means I had to ask some questions of the bands I'd sure want to see if I was heading down to Austin for the 25th annual SXSW-stravaganza.

There’s something so undeniably charming about Cloud Nothings. Perhaps it’s because Dylan Baldi’s brainchild seems so young and excited and bursting with, well, youthful exuberance. Hey, he is still in his teens after all. Be that as it may, the music of Cloud Nothings is lovely and rather enjoyable. If I was a betting lady, I’d put money on the expanded band being pretty dang lovely and enjoyable when playing said music live. Below, take the Cloud Nothings challenge. And make sure you bring your sunscreen.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Cloud Nothings: Big old white van.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
CN: Phone charger, toothpaste, some band members.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
CN: Eight shows in three days, if you miss us you're just not trying.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
CN: Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
CN: Applying sunscreen. This is a good travel tip.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
CN: SXSW last year. It was hot but really cold one day.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
CN: All of the free things.

mp3: Understand At All (Cloud Nothings from Cloud Nothings)

[photo by Gemma Harris]