The Los Angeles-based sister trio, Haim, may have been one of the most buzzed about new bands of 2012, and this year they’re making a point to show everyone what the buzz is about.

In the past year, the folk and R&B influenced band has released a well-received EP, toured with the likes of Florence + The Machine, and signed to Columbia Records. With such a successful start, we predict they’ll do even more great things in 2013. Este, the oldest of the sisters, was nice enough to talk to me about the band’s rollercoaster year, plans for the future, and how a random man in Bristol proposed to her (and she said yes).

 

Katrina Nattress: You girls picked up music at an early age, playing in the family band Rockinhaim with your parents. How do you feel this influenced your current project?

Este Haim: Being in a cover band so early was like having the best lessons in songwriting. We played all the classics, so we can’t help but be influenced by those songs.

KN: Do you feel like you would have walked on this same path if you didn’t have the family band experience?

EH: I think music would have been invoked in our lives in some capacity even if Rockinhaim had never happened. Our family was always very musical.

KN: I think it’s so great that you three are sisters, but I’m sure it can be overwhelming at times spending so much time with each other. Do sibling rivalries ever unfold within the band?

EH: The only time we get into tiffs is when one of us borrows an article of clothing without asking. Other then that, everything is pretty mellow.

KN: What a wonderful year you’ve had! The EP you released in 2012 has received nothing but praise and you recently were nominated for BBC’s Sound of 2013 poll, how does this feel?

EH: It’s a crazy feeling! We’re truly honored to be on such a great list of artists. This [last] year has been so fun and we don’t want it to stop.

KN: Aside from releasing such a special debut, you had the opportunity to support Florence and the Machine on their UK and Ireland tour in early December. How was that?

EH: We had the best time. It was a magical experience that none of us will ever forget. Florence and Isa are like our sisters now. We had epic dance parties before each show. So fun.

KN: How did it feel to play in front of such large audiences?

EH: It was intimidating at first, but once we got on stage it was the best feeling.

KN: Any crazy stories from the road?

EH: I got proposed to by a stranger in Bristol. I said yes of course. Well keep you posted on the nuptials.

KN: You were recently signed to Columbia Records (congratulations!!) and are gearing up to release your debut full-length in early 2013. What can you tell me about this record?

EH: Thank you! We just want to make the best record possible. We’re very meticulous so we want to take our time and make sure it’s exactly what we want it to be.

KN: As you reflect on all your successes from the past year, what would you say was your largest accomplishment?

EH: Putting out Forever. It was kind of what started it all. It was the first song we ever recorded that we loved and listened to on repeat.

KN: What were your top 5 albums of 2012?

EH: 1. Good Kid, m.A.A.d city - Kendrick Lamar

2. Confess – Twin Shadow

3. Swing Low Magellan – Dirty Projectors

4 Lonerism – Tame Impala

5. Devotion – Jessie Ware

KN: What are your plans/goals for 2013?

EH: Make the best record and see the world!