Nnedi Nebula, Andy Leonard and Kenny Schwartz are the dynamic trio behind the genre-defying group Trouble in the Streets.
The Austin band has created a sound that is uniquely their own–drawing sonic inspiration from hip-hop, rock, neo-soul and electronica to name a few. Their upcoming 10-track album Satisfy Saturn set to drop via Spaceflight Records this spring and they’ll be playing as official SXSW artists this year.
“We’re always looking to broaden our career of creative people that we’re around and work with.”
I talked to Andy and Nnedi to get to know them a bit better for Issue 25 “Hello!” We asked them Inside the Actor’s Studio-style and heard more about their love of collaboration.
What sound or noise do you love?
N: The sound of carbonated bubbles against a can.
A: The sound of a square wave being low past filtered.
What sound or noise do you hate?
N: When my cats are fighting.
A: Alarm clocks.
What was the first show you went to?
N: Houston Saxophonist Kirk Whalum. My 7th grade class were VIP guests and it was the first time I have ever been backstage or got to hang out in the green room.
A: I saw Phish when I was 12, that was pretty wild.
Last show you went to?
N: Dylanger Skateplan at Mohawk
A: I saw Lena Lucha at Mohawk during Free Week.
What’s the last song you listened to?
N: I’ve been into the music of Toumani Diabaté.
A: “Planet B” by King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard.
Who’s musical career would you like to emulate?
N: Róisín Murphy. She’s a pop singer from Ireland and just has this cool, indie vibe. She’s very much in control of the vision.
A: Pink Floyd if that’s shooting the highest it goes. I like how their career spans all these really weird albums where they are figuring themselves out and then they hit the moment where the music spoke to the whole world.
What’s the ideal setting to listen to your music?
N: On a road trip.
A: With headphones in a dark room or at a dance party with a loud speaker system.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
N: Mycologist.
A: Total left turn but I’d put mycologist on my list too. I’m working on some video editing as well. I’m actually editing the next video.
What profession would you not like to attempt?
N: Customer service.
A: Retail. Or a mortician.
What’s a song you wish you had written?
N: “Party in the USA” sung by Miley Cyrus.
A: “Paranoid Android” by Radiohead
What would your theme song be?
N: “Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars.
A: “Them Changes” by Thundercat.
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