Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds is an eight-piece powerhouse that puts a modern spin on classic soul. The band is led by Arleigh Kincheloe (Sister Sparrow), whose astoundingly powerful voice and sly demeanor make for a spellbinding presence onstage. She is backed by the mighty force of The Dirty Birds, a flock of seven men who masterfully lay down thundering grooves and soaring melodies. The Brooklyn-based band recently released an EP, Fight, which was produced by Randy Jackson. Since releasing their debut album in 2010, the band has brought their “stick-to-your-ribs style rock” (Wall Street Journal) nationwide, playing 150 shows across the country in each of the past three years. In addition to appearing at major festivals such as Bonnaroo, Mountain Jam, and Firefly, they have shared the stage with the likes of The Avett Brothers, Gov’t Mule, Trombone Shorty & New Orleans Avenue, Fitz and the Tantrums, and Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, among others.
As a lead-up to South by Southwest, The Noise Room is talking to bands and artists performing at SXSW. Here’s what Sister Sparrow had to say:
What do like most about playing at SXSW?
It’s exciting to be in Austin while SX is happening – to see so much amazing music and to be able to contribute to the insanity. It’s pretty thrilling.
Are you out promoting anything?
Last year we put out an EP produced by Randy Jackson entitled “Fight”. So far this year we’re starting to workshop a bunch of new material. We’ll be doing a bit of both in Austin.
Are there any bands or musicians that you are looking forward to checking out?
I’d like to see Aloe Blaac and Allen Stone. The best part about SXSW is the unexpected random show you inevitably stumble into. I don’t like to make a schedule.
What are the challenges for you or your band when playing at SXSW?
We’re doing a lot of shows this year, multiples in each day. It’s a big challenge to get around that city while this is all going on, so I hope everything runs smoothly.
Do you have any survival tips for those attending SXSW?
Stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t tell any musicians where you’re sleeping unless you want an indie band on your couch/floor.
Are you more “stick around, check out music and enjoy the scene” or “play as many shows as possible then get out”?
We’re trying to do both. We’ll be there most of the week, but our schedule is a bit grueling. We’ll be getting out there to see as much music as we can before we have to leave.
What are your SXSW Show Times?
SXSW Official Showcase
Palm Door on Sabine
401 Sabine Street
Wednesday, March 12th, 11:59pm.
Spring Break ATX
Tent Venue
Corner of 7th and Neches (sponsored by Red Bull, State Farm, Atwater Brewery, Cap’t Morgan White, Smirnoff)
Thursday, March 13th, 3:45 to 4:15
Dogfish Head Day Party
The Ginger Man
201 Lavaca Street
Friday, March 14th, 2:30 to 3:00
Sonicbids Day Party
Maggie Mae’s (rooftop)
323 E 6th Street
Friday, March 14th, 5:00 to 5:30
Jivewired Day Party
Darwin’s Pub
223 E 6th Street
Saturday, March 15th, 5:30 to 6:00
New Frontier Official SXSW Showcase
Holy Mountain (Backyard)
617 E 7th Street
Saturday, March 15th, 10:00 to 10:40
What is the best way for people to contact and connect with you?
www.sistersparrow.com
www.twitter.com/sistersparrowdb
www.facebook.com/sistersparrow
