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Frank Turner is tuning up as just one of the incredible artists ready to play the sold out Kendal Calling. We caught up with him to chat about adoring fans and their tattoo portraits of Frank and what he thinks of UK festivals…
Hello, how are you today? Firstly we are so happy you are playing at Kendal Calling festival, it’s set in the Lowther Deer Park. If you could be any animal for a day which one would it be and why?
FT – I think I’d like to be a pet dog actually. I know that’s not very adventurous, but I grew up with a lot of dogs in my house and always thought they had a pretty peachy life.
Although you have played to thousands of people, do you ever get nervous when your family comes to the show?
FT – Very occasionally, but that’s more to do with me having written emotionally honest songs and worrying about what people might think about them, people who are close to me. I haven’t been properly nervous before a show for a long time now.
The UK has an amazing festival scene – there are over 400 taking place this year! What do you think of the UK festival crowds?
FT – They’re great. UK festivals have a feel all of their own, there’s really nothing like it elsewhere in the world.
What projects are you working on at the moment? Any special collaborations in the pipeline?
FT – Right now the new album is kind of monopolizing my time and brain, but I have some ideas on the backburner – I’m planning on making some louder, angrier music again sometime, plus I’m working on a book of tour diaries.
What encouraged you to first start making music? Who did you admire growing & your earliest inspirations, musical and otherwise?
FT – The first band I fell in love with properly was Iron Maiden actually, and right from the get-go I wanted to try and make music myself – I was never much of a passive spectator. Nirvana drew me towards punk and hardcore, bands like Black Flag and NOFX.
Tell us about your plans for 2011 / 2012?
FT – I’m in the USA and Canada in the Autumn, and then the UK and Europe at the end of this year. Next year is a little hazier at the moment, but I will be on the road pretty continuously, knowing me.
Who are your most revered musicians and what do you find so inspiring about them?
FT – Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young and Bob Dylan are kind of the big three for me – in different ways they personify dedication, artistic daring and entertainment for me. I’m also very inspired by Henry Rollins and his take on life.
You must have some pretty devoted fans; what’s the strangest thing a fan has ever done?
FT – Some of the fan tattoos I have seen are a little full on for me, especially if they’re portraits, but at base it’s a compliment I suppose. I get presents from people a lot of the time and they’re all ace.
What music are you listening to at the moment? Can you give us any tips on up and coming acts or hidden gems we may not have heard of?
FT – Recently I’ve been mainlining the two guys I was on tour with in the UK – Ben Marwood and Franz Nicolay – as well as a whole bunch of Townes Van Zandt.
What can we expect from your performance at Kendal Calling?
FT – Me and the band leading a celebration where everyone is invited.
Kendal Calling Festival takes place from Friday 29th – Sunday 31st July in a beautiful setting in the Lake District. The winner of Best Small Festival at the UK festival awards and Nominated for NME Best Small Festival, Kendal Calling is just 6 years old and has had a successful journey so far. Its high quality mixture of diverse live and electronic music, art and activities has captivated it’s attendees and artists alike.
Kendal Calling is the place to see a huge mix of musical genres from emerging local talent to world renowned artists. Kendal Calling isn’t just about showcasing the best in music, they also have a strong focus on unique site art, dress up Saturday and superb facilities and activities for children and families.
Tickets are now sold out.