The Russian Futurists Interview: SXSW 2010

Toronto-based indie-pop outfit the Russian Futurists are neither Russian nor particularly futuristic -- unless you think '80s-influenced synth lines and drum loops are totally out of this world.

The songs that musical mastermind Matthew Adam Hart has released under that name are built on bouncy beats, layered with analog electronic melodies and topped with with his trademark repetitive vocal lines.

The tracks themselves often evoke a poppy, upbeat feeling that's hard not to bob your head to, but if you look deeper the lyrics have a sad, yearning theme that adds a complexity to the music. Hart began the project on his own over ten years ago, but as Hart and his band head to SXSW, it appears that they are finally about to get the recognition they deserve.

Please describe your sound in your own words

I think the sound of the band is always changing but generally I would describe it as psychedelic pop. I like lots of layers of keyboards and heavy drums. Basically I'm trying to sound like Eric B and Rakim and the Cocteau Twins combined.

How did you the band get together?

I started recording as the Russian Futurists in about 1998 on a 4-track machine. I did a bunch of songs like that and moved on to an analog 8-track. After I had released a few of these songs there was a demand for live shows. I tried for years to do it myself on stage but was nervous and lonely up there. I put together a live band a few years after and have had many different line-ups and configurations. The newest live set-up is our strongest and the most fun I've had on stage

What are your musical (and non-musical) influences?

I listen to a lot of hip-hop and dance music right now but I love classic pop as well. I try to filter those influences into Russian Futurists to make something that sounds like all of those things. I really enjoy good lyrics so I try to challenge myself in that area as well.

Why did you decide to call yourselves the Russian Futurists?

I get asked this question a lot and I don't really have a snappy answer, I just liked the sound of it. I guess I'll say... it was a dare.

What's your biggest vice?

Not sure I really want to talk about my biggest vices here but I like to make party. I enjoy a stiff drink and a jazz cigarette from time to time... often. I kind of like all vices, I think people are too uptight about the things they like to indulge in. More recklessness people!

What's in your SXSW festival survival kit?

Because I'm a ginger and pale as a zombie, sunscreen and a hat are absolutely necessary. You're gonna want some kind of stimulants as sleep is kind of a luxury at SXSW -- a lot of the kids like Sparks if you can't find anything better. Also, bourbon. Stop on the way down if you're driving and get a bottle of Jim Beam black and some s---ty beer. I prefer Busch, it comes in 30-packs and that should at least last the afternoon. Keep all of those on hand and you'll make friends everywhere you go.

What's your musical guilty pleasure?

"Ra Ra Ah Ah Ah Roma Roma mah, Ga ga ooh la la, want your bad romance." Does that answer your question? I love that s---.

What's the craziest thing you've seen or experienced while on tour?

That's a tough one. I would say my cousin almost getting arrested in Sicily for hanging his a-- out of the window directly at two Italian cops. They were not amused. We were. That's the only one I'm willing to tell in print.