When I think of Shortstraw two things generally come to mind: “Bikini Weather” (which features Crazy Jay showing off his “assets” if he’s attending their show) and instant happiness / a feeling upliftedness (a feeling that my brain / being has come to associate with their music over the years).
I still remember seeing Shortstraw live for the first time in February 2011 (at one of the first editions of Park Acoustics that I attended) and I must say that this Joburg band has come a long way since then. There have been tons of memorable performances that I’ve experienced over the years (RAMFest 2013, Mieliepop 2014 and Oppikoppi 2014 & 2015 come to mind) and I’m pretty sure that these blokes are going to bring their A-game to Mieliepop 2016 (which takes place from the 18th to 21st of March).
I recently had a quick chat to Shortstraw lead vocalist Alastair Thomas about Mieliepop and a few other things. This is what he had to say.
What comes to mind when you think of Mieliepop Festival?
A Lekker, intimate festival with green, green grass and a weird grotto thing with not enough naked people.
What can music fans expect from your set at Mieliepop 2016?
Jumpy jump jumps and radio hits! I dunno, hopefully we’ll get everyone dancing and singing along. Probably a couple of fart jokes thrown in for good measure.
What is currently playing on your iPod / CD Player / Music Streaming service that you use?
The Triple J hottest 100 playlist.
What is the funniest thing that you’ve experienced on stage?
Tom has a tiny bladder, so he usually needs to go for a wee break in the middle of longer sets. When we were at the adrenalin fest of smoking dragon last year he managed to play the last half of Couch Potato mid pee.
Which quote / phrase would you use to describe the term “Kief Music” ?
Music that is not kak.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Alastair and Shortstraw for taking time to answer my questions. To get you in the mood for Mieliepop 2016, listen to their hit single “Bikini Weather” below:
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