News Reading & Leeds 2011: Frank Turner

It’s been another massive, massive year for Frank Turner, with fourth studio album, ‘England Keep My Bones’ reaching the Top Twenty. He makes the step up to the Main Stage at Reading and Leeds this year, sandwiched between Taking Back Sunday and The View on Friday at Leeds and Sunday at Reading.

How many times have you played the festival before? What’s been your favourite?
This will be my fifth year in a row as a solo artist, and Million Dead also played in 2004. So, uh, loads. Favourite, hmm, probably 2009 on the NME Stage, it just felt like a huge leap forward for me in my career.

Have you ever been as a fan?
Many times. I first went in 1995. I went as a punter a bunch of times, and more recently I went with the Frog crew who used to run the club nights at the Rivermead Centre in 2002-2005 or so.

Reading and Leeds is known as a ‘rock’ festival. What’s the least rock ‘n roll thing you’ve ever done?
Uh, I’m not really sure what counts as rock ‘n roll or not. I volunteered to defrost a friend of mine’s freezer the other day when I was staying at his house, because it was annoying me. I did a thorough job, but I was listening to the Slayer discography as I did it, so I’m confused as to where that rates.

Do you prepare for a festival appearance any differently from a regular gig?
You have less actual time to prepare the stage, which can be stressful for the band and crew; and there’s a slightly different mindset, maybe a slightly different setlist. But in broad terms, I’m still just doing what I do, entertaining a crowd.

A few rainy festivals this summer have seen artists going on stage in their wellington boots. Is this something you’ve done or would consider?
I’ve worn them up until the moment of going on stage, but I’d find it quite hard to do a show in wellies. They’re pretty restrictive, haha.

Which artists are you hoping to catch live at Reading and Leeds?
The Descendents. One of my favourite bands and I’ve never seen them live before.

What’s the secret to festival success?
Playing the hits and not outstaying your welcome, if you’re playing. As a punter, plan your exit.