There is really no other escape like getting lost in dream-pop and Summer Heart knows how to bring a splash of sunshine to the rainiest day. His lo-fi tropical pop carries all the sweet, nostalgic sounds to take us into summer. We chatted with him about SXSW, his latest single “Beat of Your Heart”, and all the cat emojis you need but don’t exist (yet).
How do you approach music?
It’s definitely a DIY kind of approach. I love doing everything myself from writing music – obviously, to record, produce, release and all that. I love to collaborate with my friends on artwork and photos and those things as well. Working gets so much more fun that way!
What’s been your favorite show to date?
When I first started out I did lots of weird shows at home parties, those were great. My all time favorites though are one I did on Rockorama Festival in Toulon, France in July 2014. We played at midnight on a stage that was about 50 meters from the Mediterranean Sea. It was just so beautiful. And yeah it was really crowded as well, which is always a great thing. Such an amazing night!
Can you tell me anything about the new music you’re working on and what you’re planning to test out at SXSW?
Yeah. On April 6th I am releasing my new EP. I will definitely play at least three tracks from that one, and I am planning on releasing an album later on this year as well, and I will probably play a couple of my favorite songs from that one too, just to see how they feel live.
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What acts/showcases are you hoping to catch at SXSW?
I am really excited to check out Alvvays. I think their music is great!
Is there anyone you’re hoping to meet or get the chance to work with at SXSW?
I haven’t thought that far actually!? But yeah, I definitely hope I meet some good and friendly people over there, and maybe one of them is someone to collaborate with.
What are your top 5 songs in rotation this week?
Oh, hard to pick only five. But I must say. Let’s Talk by Death in the Afternoon, Downtown by The Raveonettes, Hammock by Millionyoung, Put Your Number In My Phone by Ariel Pink and Surfin’ U.S.A. by The Beach Boys.
Where would you like to see your next year headed?
I am hoping my coming releases will be well received and then hopefully tour a lot. I would love to visit places I’ve never been to before. That is what I would like the most.
If you could create an emoji, what would it be?
Wow. A cute cat with a striped shirt and jeans jacket! Haha!
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Catch Summer Heart and his mellow tunes throughout SXSW:
March 18th - Official SXSW Showcase @ Red PatioÂ
March 19th -Â Official SXSW Showcase @ Iron Bear
March 20th -Â When The Gramophone Rings and Mostly Junk Food Showcase @ JavelinaÂ
March 20th -Reverb Nation Party @ The Tiniest Bar in Texas
March 21st - Eye in the Sky Collective / Texas Takeover @ Shiner Saloon