In just two short years, the Happy Hollows have racked up some impressive milestones since their formation in L.A. – they’ve released two EPs (with a full-length album on the way), filmed about a half-dozen videos, played opening slots for sold out West coast appearances by the Silversun Pickups and Deerhoof, and have just played their first East coast date at New York’s annual CMJ festival on October 25.

In the midst of preparing for the release of the band’s new EP, and in the run-up to the CMJ appearance, Popdose seized the opportunity to catch up with the zany leader of this feisty Pixies-inspired band of indie rockers with the Fugazi-esque rhythm section, Sarah Negahdari. The original plan was to pass the phone between Sarah, bassist Charlie Mahoney and drummer Chris Hernandez, but as life took over, the plan didn’t quite work out that way. Instead, Sarah talked our ear off all by herself, getting us caught up with the history of the Happy Hollows, their new EP Imaginary (it’s free!), growing up with hippie parents, making a video with tiger cubs, and all sorts of other fun stuff.

Sarah Negahdari: Hello?

Popdose: Hi, is this Sarah?

SN: Yes! Hi, is this Michael?

PD: This is! How are you doing?

SN: Hey! How are you doing?

PD: I’m doing alright! You got the whole band together?

SN: No. (sounding disappointed) It’s been such a crazy day for Chris and Charlie, and they live so far away from me, and they can’t get here and they’re so sorry.

PD: Ohhhh, well definitely send them my regards.

SN: Oh, they are so sorry, they tried really hard.

PD: Well, maybe you can speak for them at certain points.

SN: OK.

PD: …and if not, I’m sure maybe we can hook up again another time.

SN: Good, cool. (laughs) Thanks you again so much for the Popdose interview! We’re gonna put a link to it really soon when we’re gonna start pushing for our EP. (more…)