Since 2008, Empire of the Sun‘s pop-centric synth-heavy songs have spread like shockwaves out from their native Australia. Now, in 2010, the Empire has finally set their sights on the U.S. of A. and their first stop is Lollapalooza. Though you already know this, given the group was our first Lolla Discovery, Consequence of Sound‘s ongoing article series highlighting the most exciting acts headed to Chicago this summer. However, think of this as an audio supplement to that article, so that when Empire headlines the dance stage you won’t have any questions or apprehension – you’ll be 100% prepared to go wild.

When it comes to Empire of the Sun, Luke Steele is the Emperor. After all, he’s got the biggest hat.  He’s the shiny-suited, face-painted frontman with the guitar, and a stand up guy who just wants to make you feel good. CoS reporter Cap Blackard had a chance to interview his lordship via a communique with his orbiting solar palace. The good Mister Steele was surprisingly laid back for royalty and was pleased to share musings on success, costuming, meeting Jay-Z, the future of his former band, Sleepy Jackson, and the movie that never was.

Luke, what is Empire of the Sun?

empire-of-the-sun-q1.mp3

Lollapalooza is going to be Empire of the Sun’s first concert in North America, and there are so far four other dates… Why Lollapalooza?  Why 2010?

empire-of-the-sun-q2-revised.mp3

Is your stage show at Lolla, or any of your North American shows, going to be different from your previous tours?

empire-of-the-sun-q3.mp3

There’s a reoccurring set of musicians that Empire of the Sun is frequently compared to. Is there someone that you’d compare your music to that no one has yet?

empire-of-the-sun-q4.mp3

Do you design your own costumes?

empire-of-the-sun-q5.mp3

Tell me about the Swordfish Girls.

empire-of-the-sun-q6.mp3

You collaborated with Jay-Z on Blueprint 3, but you weren’t able to meet in person.  Have you had a chance to meet him yet?

empire-of-the-sun-q7.mp3

Do you have any other collaborations in the works?

empire-of-the-sun-q8.mp3

So the future of Empire of the Sun is more singles, more touring- is there anything bigger, other albums?

empire-of-the-sun-q9.mp3

For your new projects, like the new Sleepy Jackson record, will you be conjuring up another image for yourself outside of the Empire of the Sun persona… or will you go back to just being Luke?

empire-of-the-sun-q10.mp3

Cap tells Luke Steele his Empire of the Sun story:

empire-of-the-sun-q11.mp3