Mixtape Saints are a punk rock band from Leamington Spa. We caught up with lead singer Sam after their set at Clear Your Throat fest for a chat and a session.
Below is the session; an acoustic version of “Lights and Signs”.
Interview:
How did Mixtape Saints get together?
“Mixtape Saints” started off as a name for me to use when I was playing solo. I always wanted it to become a full band so when I got offered a full band support slot for Sonic Boom Six, it made sense to sort it out.
Who are your influences in the DIY Punk scene?
Anyone who’s playing honest and passionate music – The Replacements, The Hold Steady, Jawbreaker. Apologies, I Have None are currently just getting better and better and Against Me! released one of the best records of their career. Plus, our friends in Drones and Ducking Punches are getting totally deserved attention.
Do you have any advice for people who are thinking about starting a band or early in their career – booking shows, promoting themselves?
Just do it. I think there’s this culture that tricks people into thinking you need to have 10000 Facebook fans or whatever to book show, it’s a lie. Even if there aren’t many bands around the area you live in, there are loads of great promoters and bands in the UK who will help out. Just talk to people, be nice, and they’ll help out. For promoters – start small, never promise something you can’t back up like guarantees and massive audiences. Be good to everyone you work with – DIY only works if everyone helps each other out.
What are 3 UK bands you think more should be listening to?
- Guerilla Monsoon. They are an amazing Punk Rock from Birmingham, they just put out a split with Gameday Regulars on Paper and Plastick and they’re going to be huge. Go see them in basements while you still can.
- Magpies & Vagabonds. We’re kind of biased because they’re good friends of ours, but they have such a unique sound, and they’re all amazing musicians. They’re supporting The Computers in November in Birmingham, it’s going to be the best dressed show of all time.
- Sam Russo. I probably don’t need to say this because I’m sure everyone’s already onto him, but this guy writes the best heartbreak songs. It’s that whole “three chords and the truth| deal which to me is totally compelling when it’s done so well.
You said it would be the last full band show for a while, do you have any plans to play more solo? What’s in the future for you and the band?
I’ll probably end up playing more shows to be honest! I love playing as a band but it’s easier to just get in the car and take off to wherever without having to check anyone else’s work schedule. I’m booking some dates in the UK/EU in October with my friend Emma Hallows who’s totally awesome. After that, I guess I’ll figure it out as I go. I can’t imagine never playing as a band again, but I’ve also always played solo as well, so you never know.
