It’s 2000trees weekend! Hooray. Three days of debauchery at Upcote Farm near Cheltenham, alongside 120 of the best rock bands around – including Upset faves Lower Than Atlantis, The Menzingers, The Front Bottoms, Nothing But Thieves, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, Deaf Havana, Mallory Knox – and Black Peaks, who’re hoping to hang around all weekend.
Hey Andrew, how has 2017 been treating you so far?
2017 has been great so far. We hit the ground running with a headline run through January and the beginning of February which was so much fun. We finally got to take out our pals in Tigercub and experienced the sonic onslaught of Employed To Serve every night. Awesome. We have just got back from our tour supporting Bury Tomorrow, which was amazing. It felt like such a privilege to play those bigger venues every night.
So you’re playing 2000trees soon – have you been before?
We have played 2000trees twice before. Everyone is always so happy and up for a party. It’s our favourite UK festival.
What’s your favourite thing about playing festivals like 2000trees?
We love playing festivals like 2000trees. The vibe is always great, and everyone is so open minded about seeing different genres of music. The smaller festival sites have much more of an intimate feel, and you don’t have to walk too far to see everything!
Are there any must-have items you try to take with you?
Aside from the usual essential festival must haves, I guess biscuits? I have a bit of a habit – rock n roll I know! When the music finishes, a pack of cards and rum with my boys is never a bad idea…
Are there any bands on the line-up you’re looking forward to catching up with, or seeing play?
There are so many! Black Foxxes, The One Hundred, The St. Pierre Snake Invasion and our pals, Tigercub, Bad Sign and Jamie Lenman!
Are you going to hang around all weekend to soak up the festival atmosphere?
We always stay for as long as we can at ‘trees!
What do you think makes the perfect festival set?
We spend a lot of time discussing this at rehearsals. I think finding a balance between playing what you want, mixed with playing what you think the audience wants to hear is the best way forward. If you are having a good time, then chances are the crowd will too.
What else have you got coming up this year?
We are heading out to Europe for the whole of June to play festivals, some headline shows and will be supporting both The Dillinger Escape Plan and Architects on a couple of their shows which we are super excited about!
2000trees takes place at Upcote Farm from 6th-8th July. Visit twothousandtreesfestival.co.uk for details and tickets.
