Midland Guitarist Jess Carson Gears Up for Headlining Act at Landlock Fest and Discusses New Album

As the Landlock Festival in Waco approaches, Jess Carson, the guitarist and vocalist of the acclaimed country band Midland, shared his thoughts on performing, the band's music-making process, and balancing touring with personal life. Midland, known for its Texas roots and twice nominated for Grammy Awards, looks forward to bringing their sound to center stage.

Anticipation for Landlock Fest

Midland is set to headline the second day of Landlock Fest, which promises a unique blend of music, surfing, and other outdoor activities. The diverse range of genres draws a varied audience, a mix that Carson finds exciting due to the interactions it promotes. Midland plans to indulge in the festival's array of offerings, from music to yoga, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all attendees.

Performing With a Party Vibe

According to Carson, the band enjoys playing in wide-ranging venues, including casinos, where the vibes align with their music. When it comes to festivals, they create a setlist that mixes their hits with deeper tracks and covers, bringing an element of surprise to their performances. The summer festival environment, with its camping culture and laid-back lifestyle, is associated with fun, making the upcoming Landlock Fest a much-anticipated event for them.

Creative Process of Making Music

For Midland, the essence of country music storytelling drives their writing. Whether capturing the essence of life's highs and lows or crafting a narrative from a unique perspective, Carson values originality. Co-writing is a significant part of their creative process, alleviating the pressure of solo composition and enhancing inspiration. The interaction and shared inspiration with other songwriters, including renowned producers like Dave Cobb, helps in refining their sound and determining when an album truly feels complete.

Inspired by Texas, Ready for the Road

The natural beauty and creative atmosphere of the Texas Hill Country play a role in inspiring Midland's music. Yet, amidst this inspiration, the band also contends with a hectic touring schedule. Carson emphasizes the importance of experiencing each location they travel to, seeking out the uniqueness of different towns and cities, including Waco itself, where the Landlock Fest will take place.

Midland, JessCarson, LandlockFest