Austinist Interviews SXSW: Uncut

Canadian outfit Uncut recently unveiled their 2nd full length, Modern Currencies on Paper Bag Records. The band is adept at generating dance-rock walls of sound, with equal emphasis on electronic output and abundant guitars n’ bass (although they have been leaning towards the latter lately.) We were fortunate enough to catch them last year at SXSW during a day set at Brush Square Park, and excited that vocalist / guitarist and founding member Ian Worang answered our questions this year.

Share a story about a visit to Austin or a previous trip to SXSW.

The first time we played SXSW we were only in Austin for a total of 22 hours. We drove for three days, got to Austin the morning of our two shows, played them, then left first thing the next morning. We ended up spending more time getting to and from Austin then actually hanging out there. That was a bummer. The highlight of that trip was playing in a hair salon. That made it worthwhile. It was a good show, but more notably, it was the only time we've ever played a hair salon.

Is it still fun to play live if the audience is 95% industry?

That hasn't really been the case for us at SXSW. The shows that we've played have all felt pretty much like regular rock and roll shows. That being said, a lot of regular rock and roll shows can feel like the audience is 95% industry. With so many people running blogs, labels, playing in bands and throwing DJ nights, a lot of crowds can act like they're at a business meeting.

What’s your favorite song on the new record? Why?

“Darkhorse”? I love the solos that Sam plays at the end and beginning of that song. It was a truly inspired moment on his part.

Is there an album an ex ruined for you that you’ll never be able to reclaim?

Thankfully, no. Music beats out exes every time. But an ex stole my copy of "Heart of the Congos" once, and I'm still pretty upset about it.

Name one record that has influenced you (musically, or otherwise) the most.

The answer to this will change from day-to-day but at the moment, I'm on a huge Nick Cave kick. I've had "Let Love In", "Murder Ballads" and "Tender Prey" on infinite rotation, so I guess those are influencing me a lot right now.

Tacos or burritos? Margaritas or beer?

Burritos are superior in my mind. I like the density, the level of meltiness you can achieve with the cheese, and the lack of mess from them being enclosed. You can just stuff the heck out of them with whatever you want. I generally prefer beer to margaritas. I try not to drink things with multiple ingredients.

Is there such a thing as rock n roll anymore?

I would like to think so. There is probably a higher rock to roll ratio at the moment, which is unfortunate, but I'm not too worried.

Uncut: [official site] [myspace]

Uncut plays SXSW at an Emo’s day gig on March 14th, along with a few other shows, no doubt.

Photo from Uncut’s MySpace, by Matt Rubba.