SXSW Interview: Jackie Mendoza
Jackie Mendoza is here today with her responses to our SXSW questionnaire. She’s signed with Luminelle Recordings, the label run by GvsB, so you know that she’s going to have a huge year, as Chris has long been one of the premiere taste-makers. Check out what she had to say!
ATH: Whats the name of the band/group? Where are you from?
JM: My name is Jackie Mendoza and I am from San Diego, California, but have lived in Brooklyn for about 7 years now.
ATH: Describe your groups sound.
JM: I call my sound ukulele electro pop. I produce synthy, electronic, latin-inspired beats with airy vocals and electric ukulele.
ATH: What was your most recent release? Any planned releases from 2019?
JM: I just released the first single, De Lejos, from my upcoming EP coming this April with Luminelle Records.
ATH: For most SXSW sets, you get 30 minutes to leave a lasting impression. Whats your plan of attack? You have a set list mapped out yet?
JM: My plan of attack is to have fun, dance around on stage, and play crowd favorites. Ill play some old songs, along with new ones from the EP.
ATH: Lets say your band has been booked an official showcase at a pop up venue somewhere in the middle of 6th street. The lineup features thrash metal, hip-hop, spoken word, and you. The sound is horrible, the lineup is not your style, and the crowd seems angry at the world. How would your band deal with such a situation?
JM: Ive been stuck in similar situationswhat worked for me was connecting with a single person in the crowd that actually seemed interested, and performing for them. You just have to play the set, roll with the punches, and become part of the environment no matter how negative it may be.
ATH: There are tons of bands coming into town. Of the 1000+ bands coming into town, who would you ideally like to play with. What band friends will be here?
JM: I wouldve loved to play a showcase with Vanessa Zamora from Mexico Cityor the band Baln. A couple of friends from New York will be there including my girlfriend with her band Anna Altman!
ATH: What has everyone in the band been listening to, or, what plays in the tour van/car/bus?
JM: Ive been listening to electronic projects like U-Ziq, Animistic Beliefs, and recently started listening to Perfume Geniusso good!
ATH: Describe your perfect festival, real or not? Whos headlining? Wheres it take place? Etc.
JM: I feel like I already experienced the perfect festival when I played keys for Mint Field in Desert Daze last year! Joshua Tree is the perfect place to forget about everything but music. It was a magical blend of art, nature, and sound. I got to see my friends in Sunflower Bean play and even toyed around with Panda Bears visuals backstage while he was playing.
ATH: Whats on the bands rider? If were bringing you food and booze, what can we bring you?
JM: Since Im vegan, any vegan snacks are ideal (hummus, oreos, fruit). Beer and sparkling water are nice too.
ATH: The band gets to create their own taco pop-up shop at SXSW? Whats the name, and what sort of tacos will you have? Any sides?
JM: I would have a vegan taco truck named Ta-Consciente which means you are conscious. I would have vegan cauliflower and mushroom ceviches and cactus and mushroom tacos. Rice and beans and guacamole for sides.