The Untitled Interview #71 – SXSW Edition: Starring Marion Herbain (Veronica Falls)

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.

A few months back, I ran into a musician friend when his band was passing through DC. He happened to be wearing a Veronica Falls pin, and when I asked who they were he proceeded to say the most complimentary things about them, his band having just toured with them in the UK. Naturally, I had to check them out, given such high praise. All I have to say is a) thanks, Kip, and b) I love Veronica Falls. They call themselves gothic/pop/shoegaze, and that's pretty bang on. A little like surf meets the Monster Mash and dances the night away with The Smiths is my take. Either way, they're fabulous. Bassist Marion Herbain, who wins major points for going from zero to bassist in no time flat, waxes poetic about the band's plans for SXSW.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Marion Herbain: We're coming over from the UK, so flying.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
MH: Our passports, that's a classic. Probably sun cream too as we definitely don't need it in England at this time of year.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
MH: Quite a few...as many as we can. It's a long way to go so we might as well make the most of it.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
MH: Gonna try and catch La Sera, J. Mascis, Quintron & Miss Pussycat...Oh, and Professor Green!

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
MH: Have a pumpkin margarita! Do they even exist?

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
MH: Mmm I think it was ATP!

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
MH: The shit sound? Ok, maybe the food stalls...

mp3: Beachy Head (Veronica Falls from Beachy Head)

[photo by Pavla Kopecna]