SXSW Watchlist: The Antlers
The Antlers are a band who have grown in leaps and bounds over the last year or so. This new found fame is thanks in large part to the band’s critically acclaimed LP of last year Hospice. Since that release, Antlers have been touring like mad in the US and abroad to make a name for themselves and their music. The band was originally created in 2006 as a solo project for Peter Siberman who later recruited himself a band to tour and record with. You’ll have a few chances to check out The Antlers during SXSW and you won’t want to pass up that chance. Trust me. We were also luckily enough to speak briefly with leading man/founder Peter Siberman about his band. You can find that full interview after the jump.
ATH: We’re still rather early in 2010, so what are your band’s expectations or hopes for the rest of the year?
Peter: I expect us to tour to no end, and I’m looking forward to that. But more so I’m hoping to finish a record by the end of the year.
ATH: If you were creating a festival, who are the headlining acts? Who would never be allowed to play?
Peter: Portishead, The Knife, Fuck Buttons? I’m not sure…I’d like it to be a small festival. No arrogant, indifferent bands allowed.
ATH: Are there any bands you want to see why you’re in town for SXSW, or are you just going to go with the flow?
Peter: A bunch of our friends are playing this year, so I’m going to try and see most/all of them. Frightened Rabbit, Son Lux, Holly Miranda, Sharon Van Etten, etc. It’s hard to keep track of who’s actually playing, but I think I’ll probably go wherever I’m told.
ATH: We have three options: BBQ, Tacos, Beer. Which is the most important to you on your visit to Austin?
Peter: I don’t think I can choose. Those are all really important
ATH: Seeing as the whole music industry is in town for SXSW, what you think about the current state of affairs with the music industry? Does it need to be fixed? Any ideas on how to do that?
Peter: For awhile, it seemed as though the industry was misguided and shortsighted. Sometimes it still is, and pounces on bands that couldn’t possibly have a long life. But recently, I’ve noticed more emphasis on longevity. If you focus on that, and listen to the people who listen to music, I think you’ll do alright. Accept the fact that people steal music.
[audio: https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/07-Two-1.mp3]Download: The Antlers – Two [MP3]
Many thanks for the time Peter. You can catch a free show by The Antlers on Thursday, March 18th @ The French Legation Museum @ 2pm.