The Right Ons, a five piece from Madrid, formed in 2006. They found their footing relatively quickly, winning over Spain’s festival circuit with their extremely energetic live shows. Despite their Spanish origins, they’re not immediately identifiable as a foreign act – they sing in English and play classic Detroit garage rock. The Right Ons recorded their sophomore album, Look Inside, Now!, at Boston’s Q Division Studios in November of 2008. Their U.S. tour in support of this album kicked off in that selfsame city on March 9th and swinging through Austin in time for SXSW.

–Tim Burdick

Quick! What’s the first thing that pops in your head when you think of Madrid:

I’d say good weather, good food, good people and red wine on a terrace.

How do you think your city has contributed to the national music scene?

Well, Madrid is a really open-minded city, cross-roads of many influences and always has had a rock’n roll scene. I think right now lots of good and original bands are popping out of our city.

What’s the best part about being a musician in your city?

Wow…not so many good parts. There’s a bunch of cool bars to listen music, especially in Malasaña. Not so many live music clubs though, but we’re working on that.

What’s the best non-musical part about your city?

The cultural scene (El Prado and Thissen museums).

What’s one group (other than yourself!) from your city that you think the whole world should know about? Why?

Pajaro Sunrise is the band project of Yuri Mendez, a singer-songwriter based in Madrid. Good songs, arrangements and lyrics. Something special there.

Who are you excited to check out at SXSW? Why?

Years ago I learned that at SXSW you have to let yourself go. If you have a tight schedule to see many things, you won’t enjoy anything at all. Last year we got to discover great bands such as Arkells or Delta Spirit just by chance. Hope the same thing happens this year.

Who are you most excited to share the stage with at the EWR/TPB showcase? Why?

Definitely Jenny Dee & The Delinquents…and Reno Bo. Good songs there!