Over the last decade, Canadian punk trio White Lung has become one of the most compelling bands in the punk underground, attracting a devout (and growing) following for their urgent, rhythmic songs topped with frontwoman Mish Barber-Way’s smart, confrontational lyrics, their propulsive live shows, and their DIY, nose-to-the-grindstone work ethos.
White Lung’s fourth LP, Paradise, was released via Domino Records in May, 2016. The record showcases a smoother, more melodic side of the band than they’d revealed before, with narrative-style lyrics inspired by true crime stories and love, among other subjects. It’s been the subject of rave reviews ever since and landed on the Rolling Stone’s list of “45 Best Albums of 2016 So Far.”
Read Barber-Way’s answers to our “10 Questions” and check out White Lung live at Riot Fest & Rodeo in Denver or Riot Fest & Carnival Chicago.
1. What is the first album you ever purchased?
Madonna, Bedtime Stories. I probably bought it with saved up birthday cash. I did a bunch of dance routines to that album.
2. Name one band that changed your life.
Girlschool.
3. What was the first concert you ever attended?
A Charlotte Diamond concert when I was three. I got on stage and played tambourine. I guess I craved the stage since day one.
4. What was the last concert you attended (that was not your own)?
Black Mountain and Marissa Nadler at The Hollywood Bowl. Both so excellent.
5. What is your favorite tour snack?
Gin on ice.
6. What is one book we should read?
Shit Magnet by Jim Goad.
7. Tell us your best festival survival tip.
Stay in the artist area. Do not go onto the patron grounds. The toilets are vile out there.
8. If you were running for president during this election, what would be the top item on your platform?
I would never run for president. I’m not a megalomaniac.
9. Imagine the world is ending at midnight. What are your plans for the rest of the day?
Get for a motorcycle ride with my husband into the mountains, get a motel room and do whatever we please.
10. What is the best song ever written?
“Baby, it’s You” by A Group Called Smith
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