Meredith Bragg Interview: SXSW 2010

As part of the Kora Records showcase, Washington D.C. artist Meredith Bragg makes a second appearance at SXSW, with a new record forthcoming in 2010. Spinner recently spoke with him about his visit to Texas, where he'll play some new songs and get out of the blistering cold.

Describe your sound.

I would say I started as a conventional songwriter whose music has become more experimental with each album that I have released. I used a lot of looping on my last album and experimented with as many unique and untraditional musical sounds and noises as I could think of and create. For example, I borrowed my cellist's bow and used it on my guitar strings to produce surprisingly wonderful results. I have always wanted to do different things musically to get the sounds that I want and hear in my head.

What are your musical influences?

I would have to say one of the most influential musical acts to me has been They Might Be Giants. They were a band I heard for the first time in junior high and I just didn't understand why they weren't played on commercial radio. I still remember buying the cassette of 'Lincoln' at summer camp. Other artists that have influenced me from the past include Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine. Currently I have been listening to a lot of Sparklehorse. We are lucky to live in a time of really good music right now. Sometimes you just have to really dig and search for it.

What's your musical guilty pleasure?

I don't feel guilty about them, but I love Tears for Fears! Maybe I should feel guilty, but I really don't.

What's in your festival survival kit?

A great text message plan. SXSW is notorious for horrible cell phone reception in downtown Austin, so text messaging is often the only way I can get in touch with my bandmates and find out what shows they are checking out. Also, a good set of earplugs! I can't stress that enough.

What's your biggest vice?

I would definitely say caffeine. I drink a ton of coffee during the day. I mean, I have had to literally cut back on multiple cups of coffee -- at least five. I can't help that I enjoy the taste and the fact that it is warm. It's helping me get through this blizzard of a winter we are having right now, where the city pretty much shuts down due to all the snow!

What makes you get out of bed first thing in the morning?

I am not a morning person at all. My wife and cat definitely help get me going.

Anything else you feel the world should know?

First of all, I am a GUY! Meredith is an old family name. Secondly, I am working on a third full-length album for 2010. Lastly, I need suggestions for a baby name. I'm not sure if it's a boy or girl yet. Perhaps someone can suggest another name that would work well for a boy or girl?


Jessica M. Alexander is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.