Broke-Ass Band Interview: Laura Weinbach of Foxtails Brigade

Laura Weinbach, intrepid frontwoman of Foxtails Brigade, runs all over the Bay Area (and the country) busking and playing shows. Have you ever walked down the street in SF or Berkeley and all of a sudden seen the most adorable little pixie with a ridiculously powerful voice and classical guitar chops entertaining the masses a la Edith Piaf? That was probably Laura. This lady takes “singing for your supper” to a whole new level. And her live shows are even more spectacular! Multimedia feasts for the eyes and ears! And her current lineup, including Judgment Day’s Anton Patzner ripping on the violin, is not to be missed (scroll down to see their beautiful live music video! More to be found on their Youtube page!).

Her album release show, complete with two comedians (Brent Weinbach and Chris Garcia!!), Rachel Fannan (of Sleepy Sun!), and a fashion show (!!), is this Sunday, April 17th, at the Swedish American Music Hall (most beautiful venue ever!). So many exclamation points because this show is going to be amazing!!!! Check out the Facebook invite!!!!!

I caught up with Laura to ask her some very important questions. Read on for odd and hilarious tidbits!

Introduce yourself!

Laura Weinbach — singer/songwriter/guitarist for Foxtails Brigade.

How would you describe your sound in five words (or less)?

Pigs feet.

Who/what are some of your biggest influences?

My brother Brent, Faun Fables, the rest of my family, Anton Patzner, Kara Ford-Martinez, and Jennifer Hannah.

What should people be listening to (besides your music)?

Fishpaste.

Favorite lyrics of all time (name artist and song with quote)?

“I wanna be a millionaire so freakin’ bad.” Don’t know the name of the band.

Favorite thing about San Francisco?

Golden Gate Park.

Favorite SF restaurant?

Here’s two: Sons and Daughters and Le P’tit Laurent.

How do you prepare for a big show? What will you be doing the night before?

Play on the street a lot and pass out flyers, sometimes make some kind of art project for the stage setup like giant silhouettes with water-colored paper and lights behind them.  The night before: different every time depending on schedule.

What can people expect at your shows?

To have their minds blown and pubic hairs curled. JK!

Best tour memory?

Hotel Congress in Tucson, AZ about a month ago, the night was warm and summery and lots of San Francisco people there and everyone just having a great time for all hours of the night.

What’s next for the band?

After our CD release on April 17that Swedish American Hall, a west-coast tour in May, followed by immediate fame and fortune.

What did you have for breakfast today?

Chardonnay poached potato chive bisque, crispy potato haystack.

Three things you’d take to a desert island?

Blankie, magnifying glass, knife.

What movie can you watch over and over and never get sick of?

There are two: Sound of Music and Little Women.

Favorite season or time of year (and why)?

Summer because of the golden hour.

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Now let’s get down to the nitty gritty, i.e. money:

Have any tips for aspiring musicians trying to make it on their craft?

Dress well, have famous friends.

Best money saving tip in general?

Eat out and order steak every night.

Where do you live now and what are some good cheap/fun things to do in that area?

In Oakland, CA in the Laurel district. Fun cheap things to do: have picnics in Mt. Sibley, go swimming at Mills College.

What do you refuse to spend money on?

Napkins.

What is the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought and how did that feel?

My 2002 Toyota Camry.  It felt sophisticated, yet refreshing.  I liked it.

What’s the best deal you’ve ever gotten?

Five squids for three clams.

What is your favorite free thing to do?

Have picnics, play games and read 3 minute mysteries.

If you woke up a millionaire, what’s the first thing you’d buy?

A pair of Fiorentini + Baker boots.

Despite not having money, do you still love your life?

But I have money.

You busk for a living, right? Tell us about busking!

Yes, it’s a great way to make money whenever you need it. It also helps a lot with promoting shows and getting fans who want to come to shows. It’s also very helpful in becoming a better performer. It is not fun when it’s raining, but a true romance when it’s sunny. It also helps finance tours. A reliable portable amplifier has proven necessary in my success as a street performer.

Tell us about the album release show!

The show is happening at the Swedish American Hall in San Francisco. My brother, comedian Brent Weinbach will be performing a comedy set following a music performance by Rachel Fannan.  After my brother will come runway fashion shows by three Bay Area designers: Nicole Eymard of Lecon de Vetement, Zoe Hong and Verrieres & Sako ( I am very excited to see all their beautiful work in action!) and then finally a set from Foxtails Brigade. The night will all be hosted by Bay Area comedian Chris Garcia, who will also be doing a short set before Brent.

Any last words?

Hello L.A. Hello NEW YORK!

*photos via Facebook