EXCLUSIVE: InCulto talks!

Jurgis, the lead singer of InCulto sat down to answer some questions exclusively for BlogIlkar. Are they third time lucky? Wearing the hot pants in Oslo? How is life postSov? Do they like Verka and what Erica Jennings has to do with it all?

First of all thank you for bringing some crazy funk to the Eurovision! Do you think you have the right recipe to charm all of Europe?  

I can't be sure.  I think that people with a good healthy sense of humor will get our angle.  We're not out to charm everyone, we're out to have a good time.  Our recipe is very very tasty though.

This was your second try to get to Eurovision, are you happy you didn’t win the first time?  

Its actually our third try.  LT United got the best of us last time around.


Your video features some previous Lithuanian Eurovision stars. Who’s idea was that?  They're our friends.  We weren't really trying to capitalize on their fame.  They are very nice and expressive people.

Erica Jennings (Skamp) is your wife. Has she given some good hints?  

She has been invaluable, especially when it comes to understanding and support.  She knows how much of a pain in the ass the whole thing can be and how much work you need to put in if you want to achieve any kind of result.  She also knows how much fun it can be ;).


Did you learn some good dance steps from Arnoldas Lukosius (LT United)?  

One or 2, but you need to be careful.  If you overexpose yourself to his dancing you might forever tarnish your coordination.


Your first album was called PostSovPop.  How is life postSov?  

Life is what you personally make of it, but I think many people are still trying to justify the expectations of life after the iron curtain.  Many people are frustrated, especially in the wake of the global recession.  I think our Eurovision song (in a sense) is about coming to terms with who you are, what your situation is, getting your shit together, and finding the inner optimism to move on with a smile.


Where you ever really worried EBU would censor your lyrics?  

I was actually.  I didn't want to change the lyrics.  I don't think they are political, but they are socially aware and I didn't know how uptight the people at the EBU were.  Apparently they are pretty cool cats.

How serious are you?  

Serious enough to not feel ashamed, but not so serious so that we can't smile at ourselves (or what we are doing).

Are we going to see those glittering hot pants also in Oslo?  

Of course!  Can't wait to get reactions from the girls (and boys ;))

How important Eurovision is to you? Are you fans and followers? If so, do you have some favourite songs or performances? 

I've liked performances that break the mold.  I think that Eurovision is good platform to show some pretty cool crazy shit.  My top Eurovision performances have been Lordi and Verka Serduchka.  Some staunch Eurovision purists may think that we mar the essence of the competition.  I honestly think that its performances like ours that spice up the competition and prove that its a truly 'democratic' affair.


It looks like your song is the shortest this year. Is that an advantage or a shortage?  

We are quick but concise.  I hope it will make people want to listen to it again.


Some of your songs make me think of Manu Chao. Is that a good thing?  

I think it is to a certain extent.  We are Manu Chao and Gogol Bordello fans.

What crazy ideas you have for Oslo?  

We have a whole bagful.  First and foremost we are bringing our beautiful instruments to Oslo, so there'll be partying with live music every night.

Thank you for your time and answers. I wish you have a great time in Oslo and will funk it all the way! 

Thanks man!

Watch their East European funk, Welcome to Lithuania and  Sabroso videos.