Soundscapes and Self-Belief: An Interview with Mint Field

In the modern indie landscape, few bands weave atmospheric soundscapes as beautifully and intentionally as Mint Field. Comprising Estrella del Sol  and Sebastian Neyra, the Tijuana-bred duo has carved out a unique space with their dreamy, reverb-drenched psychedelia and shoegaze sensibilities, captivating audiences from Mexico City to San Diego. Beyond their own captivating recordings, they are champions of the thriving Mexican music scene, curating the Sueño Despierto festival to elevate local talent. Listensd.com caught up with Estrella to discuss the band’s experimental origins, the philosophy behind their curation work, their favorite local haunts for sunset viewing and incredible tacos, and the powerful advice they have for emerging artists. Dive into our conversation to explore the driving passion behind one of the border region’s most vital bands.

ListenSD: We’re huge fans of your work! For our readers who might be just discovering your wonderfully atmospheric sound, could you take us back to the beginning and share the story of how Mint Field first came together?

Mint Field: The band was born from a restless curiosity to explore sound. It all began when I (Estrella) was learning to play the guitar, and the simple spark of forming a band came to me. From there, our sound unfolded naturally, shaped by pure experimentation and creative impulse.

LSD: Beyond your own music, you’re deeply involved in the community as curators for the Sueño Despierto festival. What was the initial spark that inspired you to create that event, and what is your guiding philosophy when curating its lineup?

Mint Field: Creating Sueño Despierto was important to us because we believe there is an incredible amount of talent in Mexico, yet there are very few spaces where that talent can truly be showcased and where Mexican artists can take center stage. The festival was born from that desire—to build an event where this would be the guiding idea. In Mexico, festival headliners are usually foreign artists, and we believe that needs to change, because our country is full of talent and has always been a place of artistic vanguard.

LSD: You have such strong roots in the San Diego-Tijuana music scene. Are there any specific artists from either side of the border that you’ve been watching and would love to collaborate with on a future project?

Mint Field: I think that after living away from Tijuana for so long, I’ve become a bit disconnected from what’s happening on that side of the country. I truly wish I could stay more in tune with everything going on there, but it’s not always possible, especially being so far away. But if I had to mention someone, I think it would be lovely to do something with Julieta Venegas.

 LSD: When you do get a moment to yourself in this area, what are your essential stops? We’d love to know your must-visit spots—whether it’s a go-to record store for digging, a favorite coffee shop, or the best taqueria.

Mint Field: I’m fortunate that my parents still live in Tijuana, and I visit them whenever I can. The area where I grew up is called Playas de Tijuana, and what I love most about it is being able to reconnect with the sunsets there, which to me are the most beautiful and special. Whenever I’m there, I try to watch them every day. Food is also very important in Tijuana and will always hold a special place in my heart. Every time I go, I eat carne asada tacos at Taquería El Francés and birria tacos at Tacos Aaron.

LSD: Finally, as a band that has toured and grown so much, what’s one piece of advice you’d offer to emerging artists just starting their journey? And on that note, what can we all do—artists and fans alike—to help keep the spirit of live music thriving?

Mint Field: I believe that music and art are all about perseverance and determination. The path is never easy, but if you trust yourself and your art, everything will eventually fall into place. Getting people to listen to your music doesn’t happen overnight, so keep seeking opportunities, even when it feels like the world is against you. Music created from love and soul always endures—it becomes timeless and proves its authenticity. Being true to yourself is essential, but it’s something that must be nurtured. My advice is to play as much as you can, compose with passion, and keep moving forward—your dedication will shine, and your art will reach the hearts it was meant to touch.

From their beginnings rooted in “restless curiosity” to their current role as curators and pioneers, Mint Field embodies the spirit of perseverance and artistic authenticity. Their journey serves as a powerful reminder that music created from love and soul will always find its audience. Fortunately for San Diego fans, the opportunity to witness their timeless, ethereal sound live is fast approaching. Don’t miss Mint Field when they grace the stage at the Soda Bar on Tuesday, December 3rd, with fantastic support from Exit Party and Neon Beach. Grab your tickets and prepare to be immersed in the mesmerizing soundscapes of a truly authentic band.

Interview by Narda Crossley