seven questions with folk bitch trio

What inspired the band name? Jeanie Pilkington: We are three folk bitches. It’s unserious but the truth. Gracie Sinclair: Retrospectively, it may subconsciously have been a shield of armour, poking fun at ourselves for what we are before anyone else could. Heide Peverelle: We’re all very proud of what we’re doing and don’t feel the need to hide behind a name.

How would you describe the Melbourne/Naarm music scene? JP: Courtney Barnett said it well when she said, “My friends play in bands; they are better than everything on radio.” HP: The community radio, indie labels and bands that come out of this city are a real testament to just how important music and art are to its community.

Who do you listen to when you need some inspiration? GS: I need to go to a venue and see a friend’s band play with a pint in my hand. That really does it. HP: Wilco, Nourished by Time, The Sundays, Troye Sivan, Karen Dalton, Jacob Diamond.

When did you all know you wanted to be in a band together? GS: Still don’t; I’m a bit sus on these two. HP: We didn’t exactly plan on being in a band. We were mucking around with some songs we wrote and played a small show. It snowballed from there.

What’s the first thing you do after a live show? JP: Crack a beer and giggle.

What was it like performing in Texas for SXSW? GS: Jetlagged, dazed and fish out of water, trying to bring 110 per cent to every show. HP: A bit of two-stepping with some friendly cowboys was a great way to unwind.

If you weren’t musos, what would you be doing? GS: We’ve discussed opening a wine bar together. Ask us about it.

This interview was featured in frankie issue 122. To get your mitts on a copy, swing past the frankie shop, subscribe or visit one of our lovely stockists.