MUSIC BUZZLIST: BEST BUZZINE INTERVIEWS... 2011

Big Talking Bear Heads, Flaming Cemeteries, Dancing Gypsies & Beyond

By: Team Buzzine

December 30, 2011

2011 was a great year for Team Buzzine. We got to hang out back-stage, in the studios, in the suites, and the streets with some of music's most notable, established, and upcoming stars. With over a hundred interviews this year alone, we all have a favorite artist, discussion, or moment that summed up something special about the year. So here is a very small selection of the greatest conversations that we were fortunate enough to share.

King Fantastic: Team Buzzine got to sit down with Killer Reese One and DJ Troublemaker in our very own Back Yard Bar. We shot the breeze and discussed the sounds and videos, the unique chemistry, and how to turn chaos into opportunity. From the Fingersnaps and Gun Claps album to the Death of Summer EP and a whole host of cult videos, we were party to a very particular vision with a pair of artists who have been planting explosive materials and are truly ready to detonate.

DeVotchka: Lucky enough to play host to old friend Nick Utura, front man of everyone's cult-favorite and sound-tracking band, DeVotchka, Buzzine cracked open some beers and discussed the development of a unique sound. From increasingly expansive stage shows to Little Miss Sunshine and the release of the unbridled beauty of 100 Lovers, the conversation flowed, the drinks frothed, and the sun poured down on one of our most memorable days 'in the office.'

Flaming Lips: We caught up with Wayne Coyne, the Flaming Lips' guru-like front man, just before he took to the stage at the Hollywood Cemetery as part of Hollywood Forever. The meanings of life, love and music, tales of perception, magical interactions, and the relationships with place were explored, and jelly skulls were shared. Love, honesty, and pure intention were the tone of the sun-kissed afternoon, ahead of the Lips taking to the stage to play one of their longest recorded concerts and their super secret, exclusive sunrise show with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes.

Kate Nash: Back in February, Buzzine leapt at the chance to catch Kate Nash at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles. Following a panel discussion and an intimate show, the British songstress sat down with Buzzine to talk about her reason for being in town: The Rock and Roll for Girls After School Music Club -- a charitable outreach organization designed to encourage, support, and inspire young women in songwriting and musical endeavors. Of course, we also delved into the artistic life of one of pop culture's unique voices and found out just how it feels to be Kate Nash on a stage and on a mission.

Teddy Bears: Joining us in the Hollywood Hills to hang on the sofa and discuss the ever expanding developments of their musical career, the Swedish trio presented Buzzine with one of the most memorable interviews of 2011. Suited, booted, and describing the sensory effect of seeing the world through a teddy bear head, the charismatic purveyors of electronica and showmanship proved to be the perfect guests to the indoor picnic. Baskets not included.

Honorable Mention: