SxSW 2009 Preview: Black Diamond Bay

Canadian dwelling collective Black Diamond Bay have just recently put the finishing touches to their album Calm Awaits which is due for release in Canada on March 31st (and downloadable for everyone else on the same date).

We thought we'd catch up with the promising foursome to see how they felt about playing this years SxSW Festival, here's what they had to say.

1) How many times have you been to SxSW?

This will be my 5th time. (3 times with The Dears) 2nd time with BDB.

2) What's the best thing about being in Austin? or if you've not been before.... What are your tourism related plans?

As a Canadian, I’d have to say the best part is the weather, it’s nice to get away from the snow for a while. SXSW is pretty chaotic so we’ve never actually had the chance to explore anything as tourists. But it’s without a doubt one of the great highlights of the year for us every time, great parties, great music and great food.

3) Why are you playing SxSW? (Cos we hear the money isn't too good)

The goal in mind is to play to as many international booking agents, labels, managers, publishers and anyone that could eventually be a part of the band’s team and lineup. The money is definitely not good, we lose quite a bit going there, but we’ve seen some good results in the past and it has the potential to be well worth it

4) Who are you showcasing for, and where and when can we expect to see you?

M for Montreal is the showcase, it takes place at EL Soy y La Luna and we’re on at 11 pm. M for Montreal is an event that aims to export Montreal talent, and has been around for a few years now. Some of the bands on the lineup this year are phenomenal (namely Sam Roberts Band)

5) Which other bands/artists are you most looking forward to seeing over music week?

Sam Roberts, The High Dials and Final Flash, these are just a few fellow Montreal bands, I haven’t made my official “must see” schedule yet. That said, I usually just go with the flow and see what’s going on while I’m there.

6) Will you visit the Film or Interactive sections of SxSW this year? Or is time tight?

Time is way too tight this year.

7) What does the rest of 2009 hold for you?

An album release in Canada (March 31st), lots of touring in North America, and hopefully a full on world touring schedule. All while the next record is being written and slowly pieced together. It should be a pretty busy year for us!

Further Information

Black Diamond Bay: Myspace

VIDEO: Black Diamond Bay - First Time I See You Again (Live)

Playing:

March 20 - SxSW M Is For Montreal Showcase // El Soy Y La Luna, Austin // 23:00