Houston Calling

SXSW preview: Midlake

March 8th, 2010 · No Comments

Denton’s Midlake recently released The Courage of Others, the follow-up to the lauded The Trials of Van Occupanther. The new album is another beautifully crafted album, which finds the band weaving its penchant for British folk and 70’s Americana into sedate indie anthems. While the band first found its footing in the UK, its US fan base continues to grow.

The band just wrapped up a short tour in Europe, is back in the States, and plays SXSW this month before heading out on a U.S. tour. Midlake’s Eric Pulido recently answered some questions for Houston Calling.

Houston Calling: How was the European tour?

Eric Pulido: It went very well. It was great to be over there again and see all the great folks that came to the shows.

HC: What’s your favorite part about playing overseas?

EP: Doner kebabs

HC: There’s been a lot of anticipation for The Courage of Others. Did you feel a lot of pressure after the success of …Van Occupanther?

EP: Just the pressure we put on ourselves to make a record we feel good about.

HC: I know that most, if not all, of you started with a background in jazz. How did you make the transition from playing jazz to the music you make with Midlake? Also, how do you think your musical influences play into Midlake’s music?

EP: Tim heard OK Computer, and the rest is history. Over the years, our sound has changed depending on what we’re listening to. We have a tendency to wear our influences on our sleeve. 

HC: What are you as a band hoping to get out of this year’s SXSW?

EP: A bratwurst on 6th street and a good time playing and seeing new and old friends.

HC: What’s your favorite thing about playing at SXSW?

EP: Everyone converging in one place making it a great opportunity to hang out with those I don’t see often.

HC: Any band(s) in particular that you’re looking forward to seeing during SXSW?

EP: Robert Gomez; Matthew and the Arrogant Sea; Centro-matic; Tacks, The Boy Disaster; Sarah Jaffe…

Here’s a promo of the band’s new album:

Midlake plays its official SXSW showcase on Thursday, March 18, at Buffalo Billiards at 1am.

Visit Midlake online at www.midlake.net or on MySpace. The Courage Of Others is available online and at most record stores.

Tags: Interviews · Music · Show listings · SXSW

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