SXSW Funeral Party Interview

The first interview from SXSW is with the LA-based band Funeral Party. The five-piece group initially started by playing shows in backyards and friend’s houses in their hometown of East Los Angeles. They gained popularity quickly from their spirited, high-energy live shows. Their sound is reminiscent of early Moving Units and the singer from the Rapture.

Back in the day, they used to borrow equipment from their friends to play gigs. Now they are playing with well-known acts such as The Teenager, Cut Copy, Steve Aoki, and Moving Units. They have definitely come a long way from borrowing their friends instruments to playing SXSW.

We interviewed the singer of Funeral Party, Chad Elliot. He’s a man of very few and yet poignant words. Check out what he had to say about the bands road to SXSW below…

Your recordings are extremely high-energy. How do you keep up that momentum for your live shows?

It’s just how we are.

Any pre-show rituals to get the adrenaline pumping?

Our after-show rituals are probably more interesting.

Who or what is your biggest influence outside of music?

Friends, family, and life experiences. Enemies too.

What would you be doing if you weren’t making music?

Selling drugs to your kids.

What’s your dream profession?

Making music and art.

What artists are you listening to right now?

Iggy, Portishead, Sig Sur, Black Dice, and a bunch.

Why the name Funeral Party?

Because it’s a better name than “All cats are gray”.

Is that where you guys spend your free time?

What free time?

Has anyone ever tried to book you for a funeral?

No, but we almost got booked for a wedding.

For those people who have never seen you play, what can they expect from your show at SXSW?

Raw energy and Emotion.

Who are you most excited to see at SXSW?

Echo and and the Bunnymen

Do any of you play in other bands?

Yes, Back Yard Chemists, DJ Sex, and Funeral Party DJs

Based on what you know about the event, what’s your  motto (for SXSW)?

We don’t really know much about it, except that a bunch of bands are going to be there. We’re just about rippin’.

Favorite show you’ve ever played and why?

Our one year anniversary at our friend’s house, just because we survived our first year.

Favorite band to trash-talk?

The Rapture, but we don’t talk trash, we just want people to stop comparing us to them.

Favorite curse word?

Fletch is a pretty nasty concept.

Hey, they may not want to be compared to the Rapture, but there are worse bands to be compared to. Be sure to check this band if you are at SXSW.  I’m sure we will be hearing more about them in the future.

Take a listen:

SXSW live shows:

• Friday, March 20  10:00 p.m. Buffalo Billiards   (201 E 6th St)
• Saturday, March 21   8:00 p.m. Emo’s Jr   (603 Red River St)