Turbo Fruits Interview: SXSW 2010

Reminiscent of an explosive 1970s-era garage band, Turbo Fruits embody everything we love about sweaty, infectious Southern punk rock. Currently on tour with power-pop rockers Surfer Blood, the trio of Nashville natives are lyrically simple (girls, weed, cars, repeat), yet melodically complex. With two albums out and a handful of SXSW shows this week, the Fruits show no sign of slowing down - a pace frontman (and former Be Your Own Pet guitarist) Jonas Stein knows all too well. Spinner recently caught up with Stein who confessed his love for The Dude, crawfish and a few other things.

How did you guys form the band?

I formed the band five years ago as a two-piece. It has since evolved into a three-piece.

How would you describe your sound?

Rowdy rock 'n' roll! I'm very influenced by rock music that came out in the late 1950s and 1970s.


Who are your musical influences?

I love CCR, Buddy Holly and the Crickets, Sam Cooke, etc.

How did you choose your band name?

Played some shitty gambling machine in the UK when my old band, Be Your Own Pet, was on tour. The game was fruit-themed, and I won a few pounds by hitting some random buttons. The 'Turbo Fruit' light lit up, and that's when I knew...

What's in your festival survival kit?

Lots of water and lots of drugs. And some crawfish on the side.

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

Probably touring through Puerto Rico with Davila 666. It was some of the most fun I've ever had. That, or accidentally driving through the Canadian border and getting strip searched all just for one li'l bitty joint in the van.

What's your guiltiest pleasure?

Eating strange cuisine in which people make me feel guilty about. Or smokin' on some cock.

If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, which would you choose?

'The Big Lebowski,' without question. Best movie of all time.


Tina Smithers is a contributor from Seed.com. Learn how you can contribute here.