Pack the Van: Utah Hits SXSW

Mideau

Spencer J. Harrison – Synth/Effects

Libbie Linton – Vocals/Guitar

SXSW Additions: Luke Williams – Bass/Keys

Jesse Quebbeman-Turley – Drums 

SLUG: This is your first time going to SXSW as a band—how did it feel when you received the invite?

M: SXSW is a crazy event, and we are extremely excited that we get to be a part of it. We love playing live, [and] we love meeting and listening to other bands. We will get to do plenty of both at SXSW this year. It’s a great opportunity.

SLUG: Ultimately, what do you hope to get out of SXSW?

M: We know that SXSW is a big event with tons of talented bands who are all trying to capture the attention of labels, publicists, bloggers and fans. More than anything, our goal is to put on an entertaining and successful showcase.  On top of that, we want to hear and meet other bands, and get to know some new people in the music industry.

SLUG: There are thousands of bands playing the festival—how do you plan to stand out?

M: With so many shows and bands in one place, and with some of those shows being HUGE acts (for example, in 2013, Justin Timberlake played a secret SXSW show in some ultra-hip warehouse), it can be extremely difficult to catch attention. We’re working on making people aware of the show beforehand to get people excited to go to our showcase. Getting people up front to attend your show over one of the other many events happening at the same time is an important first step to getting some attention.

SLUG: Are you taking any merch?

M: We will definitely be hauling some of our T-shirts with us. We will have some handmade Mideau leather keychains that we’ll take, too.

SLUG: Any bands playing that you’re hoping to catch while you’re there?

M: We definitely want to catch our Utah friends, Polytype and Desert Noises. There are loads of other bands that we hope to catch too, like London Grammar, Other Lives, The Autumn Defense and Wye Oak.

SLUG: How are you getting there?

M: Most of the band will be making the 20-hour drive from Salt Lake City to Austin in a station wagon brimming with gear.

SLUG: Top 5 songs on your road trip playlist?

M: Off the top of our heads, we will listen to “Nights in White Satin,” “Graceland,” “In the Air Tonight,” “Heart of Glass” and “212” exclusively for 20 hours straight.