The Untitled Interview #22 - SXSW Edition: Starring Duquette Johnston

I've been a fan of Mr. Duquette Johnston for quite some time now, thanks to the wonderful world of Myspace. Part of it could be traced back to my soft spot for anything Alabama, but probably my affection for Duquette's music most likely stems from the fact that it's just flat-out good. He's got rugged, rootsy, bluesy, gritty things going on in his music all at once, a mix that appeals to me to no end (i.e. you might hear dashes of Ryan Adams hither, Neil Young thither, etc.). His solo debut , Etowah, is a great listen (especially that darned fantastic "Oh 19"), and you'll almost certainly want to get your hands on it at some point.

For the lucky ducks among us who are traveling to Austin next month, Duquette will be among the assembled musicians. Obviously, I had to interview Duquette. See his thoughts on the festival below, and definitely give him a listen. You'll be glad you did.

Les Enfants Terribles: How are you getting to SXSW: plane, train, or automobile?
Duquette Johnston: By a pack mule because there is no budget for gasoline.

LET: Inevitably, you will forget to pack:
DJ: Everything.

LET: How many showcases/parties will you be playing?
DJ: Two, Wednesday night and a Birmingham day party on Saturday.

LET: Band you're most looking forward to seeing at the festival?
DJ: Delta Spirit and Daniel Johnston.

LET: What's the first thing you plan on doing upon arrival in Austin?
DJ: Find my hotel.

LET: What was the first festival you ever attended, either as a musician or member of the general public?
DJ: The Greatful Dead circuit seemed like a festival when I was much younger.

LET: Favorite thing about festivals?
DJ: All the Music.

[Photo by Morgan Jones Johnston]