By: Sheena Lyonnais
June 9, 2010
It amazes me the level of sheer talent coming out of Ireland right now and Autumn Owls are no exception. A dreamy, solemn band, Autumn Owls is currently working on releasing their debut full-length album. After two successful EPs, the band is bringing their haunting, enigmatic music to multiple showcases throughout Toronto’s NXNE. I’ve fallen in love, guitarist/keyboardist Paul Bermingham tells us why you should too.
1. How are you doing and where are you right now?
I’m doing well thanks. I’m just on my sofa. It’s 2.40 a.m. in Dublin now and I’m getting ready for bed. Boarding our flight to Toronto in seven hours.
2. There are a lot of bands playing NXNE, why should we watch yours?
Coz [sic] we’ve got the best looking drummer in Irish music. That’s if you’re going to ‘watch.’ If you’re there to listen, we do a really original and interesting medley of the best songs from the Top Gun Soundtrack. That album was a massive influence on Autumn Owls’ sound.
3. What are you doing to prepare for NXNE?
Looking for accommodation. Could be a rough night tomorrow.
4. What are you hoping to get out of the festival?
To play a good show, discover some good new music and go back to the recording studio a bit refreshed. We’ve been quite intense in the studio for the last two months. Actually, our last trip on the road was to Texas, SXSW in March. We loved it, but we expect NXNE to be a little bit less intense, which is a good thing.
5. Which act(s) are you hoping to catch during the festival and why?
I’d like to see Women. Have heard some good things about their album, though I haven’t had a chance to give it a spin yet. Have never seen The Besnard Lakes live, hopefully put an end to that. Our bass player Niall will be keen to catch Surfer Blood also. I’ve only heard their album once, but I remember liking it.
6. Tell me a tour story that is crazy but true.
Elvis once sent his Cadillac on tour so he didn’t have to! No shit
7. What are Autumn Owls working on at the moment?
We’re mainly working on our debut album. Just waiting to get in to the studio proper and get it sounding the way we want. Then we’ll break up the band and do a reunion tour once it’s released.
8. Which shows/events/BBQs are you playing?
Playing our official NXNE showcase on Thursday June 17th at 11 p.m. @ The Boat.
Also playing a 20 minute slot at Joao Carvalho Mastering BBQ.
That’s at 6.20 p.m. on Saturday the 19th @ 43 Laing St.
Can’t think of the other ones off the top of my head. It’s now 3 a.m…getting late.
9. Where can we find out more about you?
www.myspace.com/autumnowls
10. Any last parting words for us music-hungry Toronto folk?
Enjoy the festival and try [to] see as much music as you can.
