The sun is shining in Austin, the beers are flowing and the smells of Texan BBQ are teasing us into what’s going to be a week of indulgence. Monday spells the beginning of the SXSW Music program for 2016 and we’ve done for the last few years, the AU will be bringing you some exclusive content from the various venues and live showcases around the city. As part of our coverage of the Aussies making the journey out for SXSW this year, and of course we’re going to take this opportunity to catch up with one of the country’s brightest starts Harts. The soulful, masterful guitarist and singer is set to deliver an explosive set as part of this year’s Aussie BBQ, and in this quick catch-up he let’s us reacquaint ourselves with his career thusfar, what to expect from the showcase, and what he’s got cooking up for the rest of this year.
Have you played SXSW before?
Never, this will be my first time.
What are you expecting from the festival? What have you heard from others?
I’ve heard it’s a good opportunity to play in front of key industry people.
What are you hoping will come out of this year’s event for you?
Hopefully to get as many of the right industry people as possible to my showcases and play a good set. Hopefully spread awareness for me and my music in the US market.
Why should SXSW attendees come and see you?
I think my music and what i’m doing in the music scene is unique. It’s a unique blend of Funk, Rock, Blues, Soul and a lot of lead guitar playing, which isn’t around as much anymore. I’ve built a strong following online globally and received many accolades on my guitar playing and songwriting from a range of industry and artists. Including Prince, which has been amazing.
What’s a track that you think best represents where you are right now, and what audiences can expect from your sound and your set?
What made you want to showcase at SXSW?
I want to give myself as much chance as possible to play in front of the right industry and tastemakers, who could possibly help me further in my career.
Do you have any dream collaborations?
Stevie Wonder, Andre 3000
How much more US touring is on the cards for this year?
At the moment, not much is planned. But it’s definitely on my mind.
How do you think / hope the American crowd will receive your music?
I’ve played other showcases in the US before and it has gone well in the past. I think the american audience like the energy I put into my performance.
What other Aussie act playing SXSW would you recommend the rest of the world needs to see?
I haven’t yet had a chance to see what other Aussies are playing SxSW this year, but some of the Aussie artists I saw at CMJ in NYC last year were among the best I saw of the whole conference. The Aussie performances will be strong again I’m sure.
Please list your SXSW showcases (to now) and give us a link where we can find your most up to date list!
FRI 18 at Esther’s Follies. 10pm set time; and SAT 19 at The Aussie BBQ. 1:30pm set time.
Any last thoughts before we catch you at SXSW?
New album to be released in Australia in August! Can’t wait to share with you all!
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