In this KGNU interview, Maria B Vibing speaks with Denver-based band Surprise Soup about their Midwest tour, their origins as a group, and their collaborative, genre-blending approach to songwriting. The band reflects on highlights from touring, including standout venues and cities, and emphasizes the importance of community in the local music scene. They also discuss organizing their DIY festival Soupstock, which brings together musicians, artists, and audiences in a shared creative space. The conversation highlights their growing presence in the scene and their upcoming performance at the Fox Theatre.
(Air Date: 3/30/25)
Listen Here:
Transcript:
Maria B Vibing:
I have Surprise Soup with me in the studio—a local Denver band I first saw about a year ago at their music festival, Soupstock. I also caught them recently on their Midwest tour in Chicago. They’ll be performing at the Fox Theatre with Big Pinch and On the Dot on April 16th. Let’s hear some music.
Surprise Soup:
Performance.
Maria B Vibing:
Wow—great work. The whole city of Boulder just heard that. Let’s talk about your recent tour. What was a highlight?
Surprise Soup:
Chicago was a big highlight—exploring the city, reconnecting with friends, and playing a great venue.
Surprise Soup:
Indianapolis stood out too. The venue had an immersive, art-installation feel—kind of like Meow Wolf. It was one of the coolest places we’ve played.
Maria B Vibing:
Tell me about how the band came together.
Surprise Soup:
It started with a connection through another band. We met while filling in for different projects, then began playing together and formed the band around November. Later, Graham joined after we saw him perform and knew we wanted him in the group.
Maria B Vibing:
That’s great—sometimes opportunities just present themselves. The local scene really seems supportive.
Surprise Soup:
Definitely. The community shows up and supports live music, which makes a big difference.
Maria B Vibing:
Would you play another song?
Surprise Soup:
Performance.
Maria B Vibing:
You’re listening to Surprise Soup live on KGNU. What inspires your music?
Surprise Soup:
A mix of influences—alternative music, local bands, and each other. A lot of our songs come from jamming and building ideas together.
Surprise Soup:
We all come from different backgrounds—some of us from jazz, others from band or self-taught experiences. That blend shapes our sound.
Maria B Vibing:
Tell me about Soupstock—your music festival. What went into organizing that?
Surprise Soup:
It was a lot of work. We opened submissions and got an overwhelming number of responses. It really showed how many great bands are in the local scene.
Surprise Soup:
We also included vendors and artists—it was about creating a community space and bringing people together in a DIY way.
Maria B Vibing:
That community aspect really stands out.
Surprise Soup:
Absolutely. That’s a huge part of what we’re about. We’re also planning more Soupstock events, including a pop-up show in May.
Maria B Vibing:
Great to hear. Before we wrap up—one last song?
Surprise Soup:
Performance.
Maria B Vibing:
That was Surprise Soup live on KGNU. Thank you so much for being here. Don’t miss them at the Fox Theatre on April 16th.
