How does it feel to be part of Aelius Alternative Music Festival?
Amazing. I love being involved with any festival. But playing local ones are always a stand out.
For anyone coming across you for the first time at the festival, how would you describe your sound?
Energetic. I perform as a solo artist but at my feet I use a loop pedal which repeats every sound I make from my guitar and second mic to produce a live band sound. It’s all done live on stage, nothing is pre recorded.
Think Ed Sheeran. But without his bank account
What was it about Aelius that made you want to be involved?
It’s a festival known for showcasing local talents. I’m always happy to pay festivals that are in it for the live feel rather than just putting on their mates cause they can
What can people expect from your set on the day?
I’m unsure, it’ll probably be the crowd favourite of mine. At my live shows I have creds singing word for word certain songs, so probably the ones I think will hook you ASAP
Are you changing anything up for a festival crowd compared with a normal show?
Nope. All my shows are as energetic as possible. The difference with festival slots and headline slots is the set length…
Is there a particular track in the set you think will hit especially well live?
I used to think ‘Come and kiss me’ was my signature song. But over the last year ‘Dance in the rain’ has been my most popular song. People dance and sing and whistle from first hearing it, so maybe that one.
What do you want people to take away from seeing you perform?
I want to be memorable. One of the stand outs. I want a crowd to say ‘That one with the guitar and loop was alright, I’d go see him again’. Festivals for musicians are all about building our fan bases.
How important do you think festivals like this are for artists and the wider North East scene?
Touched on his above. Festivals are huge. Regardless the size of the capacity. There’s great chance to play your music to people that want to be invested. People that want to be invested tend to find a new favourite act or two.
Are there any other acts on the lineup you’re especially looking forward to seeing?
Truthfully. I know 4-5 of the acts. And I’m still finding new local acts. If I get the chance. I don’t mind who I see. I know they’d all be great!
Are you bringing any new material with you, or working on anything at the minute people should keep an eye out for?
I have a new song out 10th April. It’s a collaboration song with a cha named ‘Harrison Rimmer’. I’ll possibly add that to the set list…
What has been the biggest step forward for you as an artist or band recently?
I’ve recently started producing my own music. I never had this from school or prior. I’ve usually used studios to record. But I’m learning and personally think I’m getting there quickly. Still long to go. But the hope is to be able to record in tap rather than waiting on someone else’s schedule and avoid some of the huge finances
Once Aelius is done, what’s next for you?
Skipton!
During this festival slots I am in the middle of a UK tour. And I’m due to play in Skipton at 19:00. So I will be out the door and a hundred miles south ASAP. Not what I enjoy. I’d rather stay and watch the festival. But that’s the musician life. Play everywhere. Build new fans. And go again!