Q&A: Barry Can't Swim Rides High at Portola
IN THE HEART OF THE BUSTLING PORTOLA FESTIVAL, WHERE MUSIC AFICIONADOS CONVERGE TO CELEBRATE THEIR SHARED LOVE FOR SOUND, BARRY CAN'T SWIM TOOK CENTER STAGE AND LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK. With an electrifying performance that left the audience craving more, the DJ showcased a unique blend of music that's both immersive and electrifying. In a post-show interview, we got the chance to delve into his thoughts on the set and how his set has evolved.
What's immediately evident about Barry Can't Swim is his infectious enthusiasm for his craft. He described the Portola performance as one of his all-time favorites, citing the immense turnout and palpable energy as key highlights. It's clear that he thrives on connecting with his audience, and the festival setting provides the perfect backdrop for this musical connection.
For Barry Can’t Swim, the transition from intimate club shows to the grandeur of festivals has been both thrilling and challenging. He confesses that his signature downtempo style isn't always the obvious choice for festivals, but he's found a way to infuse his sets with a contagious sense of fun that resonates with festival-goers.
As he evolves his sound to embrace a more song-oriented approach, the crowd's response continues to be overwhelmingly positive. Barry Can't Swim is on the precipice of an exciting new phase in his career, with a highly anticipated album on the horizon and an extensive tour that promises to captivate audiences around the world.
LUNA: We're here at Portola, and you've just delivered an incredible performance. How are you feeling right now?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: It was unreal. Honestly, one of my favorite shows ever. The warehouse was packed, and there was even a massive queue outside. I didn't expect it to be this busy. Every time I play in San Francisco, the crowd has been amazing, but this was on another level.
LUNA: The festival setting definitely adds a unique energy. How does it compare to your regular club shows?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: Festival shows are different because a lot of my music is more downtempo, which doesn't always suit a festival where you have a limited time slot. At festivals, I tend to play a few of the bigger tracks, and it's more about having fun and getting the crowd going. Fun is a crucial part of my sets, and I enjoy playing festivals because it allows me to showcase some of the stuff I wouldn't typically play in clubs.
LUNA: It sounds like you've adapted well to the festival scene. How has your sound evolved recently?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: My recent music has been really well-received. Some of the tunes are still pretty new, but even those are getting great reactions. People seem to be resonating with my move toward more song-oriented writing.
LUNA: What's your favorite track to perform live at the moment?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: "Sunsleeper" is the sleeper hit, pun intended. It's the one that everyone wants to hear, and it always gets the crowd going. It's the kind of fun tune that's perfect for festivals, and it opens the set with a bang.
LUNA: Looking ahead, what are your plans for the rest of the year, particularly in October?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: The big one is wrapping up tour and the album. Following that, there's a tour in November with the full band, which I'm really excited about.
LUNA: Are you feeling more nervous or excited about the album and tour?
BARRY CAN'T SWIM: I'm weirdly just ready for it. It's been a long time in the making, and I'm excited for it to be out there. I don't feel nervous, more like a sense of relief that it's finally happening. I'm already thinking about what comes next. It's about letting it be what it is and not putting too many expectations on it. Let's see how it goes, and I'm looking forward to people hearing it. I'm ready for the next chapter.
