Asian Junkie Asian pop. Without discretion.
South Korean heavy metal band Victim Mentality return to the 30th edition of South By Southwest (SXSW) to cause a whirlwind of trouble and mischief. Or at least I hope so.
“It feels awesome,” frontman Krocodile tells Asian Junkie via email interview about performing at SXSW again. “We had a great time at the fest last year and are really excited to get to perform at two different showcases again this year.”
Another thing they’re pumped about: the noms. “Eating at Chosun Galbi in Austin was definitely a highlight from our first visit to the city. It was 10 times more delicious than the Korean food in Korea! American beef is the best.”
Every year, Korean music at SXSW broadens its scope. What started as a light indie showing has now become a full-fledged stew of performers, with both underground and mainstream talent represented year in and year out. At SXSW 2016, hip-hop splinters off into its own showcase — although with Illionaire Records’ cancellation last week, that night will be cut short — while R&B swoops in to headline K-Pop Night Out.
If you’re curious to know what the likes of Victim Mentality think of these trendier genres laying claim to the music scene at SXSW, look no further than the band’s newest single, hilariously titled, “I Hate Hiphop.”
“We just released a new single called ‘I Hate Hiphop.’ You should have heard it by now. If you haven’t for some strange reason, look for it on YouTube right away and you’ll love it!”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGlnqQ5OzYk
When asked if there are any performers Victim Mentality want to catch at SXSW this year, well, the band couldn’t be bothered.
“I only care about me and my band. And that’s all you should care about too,” says Krocodile. “Victim Mentality are the only band that matters. Come see us in Austin. I know you’ll love us!”
Victim Mentality plays at The Belmont on March 16 for K-Pop Night Out, as well as at Maggie Mae’s on Saturday, March 19 for the V-Rox Showcase.
The band also hints at dropping a new single soon.
“And you can expect that one to be awesome as well.”
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Victim Mentality – SXSW 2016 Schedule
March 16 – Austin, TX @ The Belmont — Korea Night I: K-Pop Night Out Showcase (8:20 PM – 9:00 PM)
March 19 – Austin, TX @ Maggie Mae’s Gibson Room — V-Rox Showcase (12:00 AM – 12:40 AM)
Be there or light yourself on fire.
