10 Questions with Nots

Image by Don Perry

We’re stoked that Memphis’ Nots are making their Riot Fest debut this year. The band formed five years ago as a collaboration between guitarist/vocalist Natalie Hoffman and drummer Charlotte Watson. Soon after, they signed to the tastemaker garage/punk label Goner Records based on the strength of an early demo that was eventually released as an EP.  Since then, the band has recruited synth player Alexandra Eastburn and bassist Meredith Lones and kicked up their classic lo-fi garage sound with equal parts urgency and psychedelic weirdness. Their upcoming second LP, Cosmetic, showcases its most in-your-face songwriting to date. The record comes out on September 9 via Goner Records.

Check out Hoffman’s answers to our “10 Questions” and catch Nots live at Riot Fest & Carnival on September 17.

What is the first album you ever purchased?

I think I saved up for the lion king soundtrack tape when I was 5.

Name one band that changed your life. How?

Can. Everything about what they do changed how I thought about music.

What was the first concert you ever attended?

No idea. Probably something bad and religious from my hometown though. And I’m sure it was at the same arena where the circus happened.

What was the last concert you attended (that was not your own)?

Brokehearted Boys and Chickasaw Mound. Two Memphis greats.

What is your favorite tour snack?

Beer

What is one book we should read?

Neon Vernacular by Yusef Komunyakaa

Tell us your best festival survival tip.

Tequila

If you were running for president during this election, what would be the top item on your platform?

Raising the minimum wage to $15/hr

Imagine the world is ending at midnight. What are your plans for the rest of the day?

Dark question. Guess I’m gonna get all my people together for an improv music night at a local haunt in preparation of haunting that local haunt.

What is the best song ever written?

“Strawberry Letter 23,” by The Brothers Johnson