Despite what you think you know about SXSW, we’re guessing Lenka could teach you a thing or two. She has been a fixture of the festival for years and has a special connection with Austin that was written in the stars. That, plus her new single “Blue Skies” off her upcoming album, The Bright Side, has us anticipating just how crazy awesome her showcase this year will probably be.
VM: How many shows will you be playing at South by, and which ones are they?
Lenka Kripac: I’m playing two shows. The Aussie BBQ and ASCAP Presents, both on March 20.
VM: What is the general theme of your new single, “Blue Skies?”
LK: Optimism that things will be better. And um, the weather?
VM: Can we expect the same sentiments to be repeated in your upcoming album, The Bright Side?
LK: Yes, it’s a super optimistic album. I feel like that’s my biggest strength as a songwriter and communicator. Imparting a feeling of hope and happiness in our lives.
VM: You’ve had such an interesting and colorful career. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve experienced creatively as an artist between now and when you were in Decoder Ring?
LK: Not being in a band, means always having to form a band. I’ve employed so so many awesome musicians over the years. It’s a rotating roster, depending on people’s other projects and availability. It can be quite stressful making it all work. But creatively, of course, I’m free to explore whatever I feel, so that’s liberating.
VM: Who are you most excited to see play this year at South by?
LK: Marina and The Diamonds! I’ve always been a fan but never seen her live. Hope I can get to a show!
VM: You’ve said in previous interviews an astrologer once told you that Austin was the perfect city for you to live in. What attributes do you think you share with the city that people are trying so hard to “keep weird?”
LK: Well, I do like to surround myself with wonderful weirdos. I guess there’s something in my stars! Freedom to be weird is very important to me.
VM: Are you a barbeque joint or a food truck kind of gal?
LK: Both, either – I’m gonna eat it all. But I need a lot of veggies on the side, too, please!
VM: In your opinion, what are the biggest differences between making music in the U.S. and Australia?
LK: It’s very S L O W in Aus, I find. People are too wrapped up in living the good life maybe. My experience in the U.S., though sometimes still complicated, has been much faster. People are always ready and excited to work.
VM: The Bright Side is set to release in June. Will you be releasing any more singles before then?
LK: Yes, I hope so! Not sure which song though…
VM: Will you be playing any other songs from your new album during SXSW?
LK: Yep, a few more for sure!
