Following appearances at both Reading and Leeds festivals, Blaenavon were at the Wedgewood rooms as support to fellow indie lads The Sherlocks. Taking time out to speak to Mr Teeth about their current tour, playing Iceland and reminiscing on their schooldays:
So tell us about the band, how long have you been together?
“Since we were at school, about 6 years now I think.”
Prior to Blaenavon what were you involved in musically (or otherwise)?
“Not much – we were 14 when we formed the band! Ben used to play in a band with his brothers, Frank used to be an awful footballer, and Harris was an aspiring golfer.”
I believe you’re based around Liss/Liphook way, how would you describe the local music scene?
“I think Liss Junior School has a wind ensemble, and on Christmas Eve the whole community joins in for a round of “O Come All Ye Faithful” at St Mary’s Church.”
And the name, given you’re fairly local why are you named after a town in Wales?
“Mr. Maidment, our history teacher, took us on a school trip to the town of Blaenavon to learn about the beginnings of the industrial revolution. We fell in love with how the word looks, but quickly learned that people just pretend to hear when we tell them our name.”
How far have you ventured on tour before now, anywhere in particular you love playing?
“The furthest away from home we’ve played would be Austin, Texas, at SXSW festival earlier this year. But the most beautiful place we’ve played could be Iceland – that place looks like Mars!”
Having just done Reading/Leeds how did those sets go, how did the two festivals compare?
“There were more people for us at Leeds (maybe because we were in a tent and it was raining), but I think that more people knew us at Reading. Seeing the kids go mad was a great feeling, it wasn’t that long ago that we were at those festivals, loving freedom from GCSE’s and parents, lapping up loud music and canned fosters.”
Did you get to see anyone else play – any highlights?
“Hinds! Whitney! Great, fun bands – and they’re only getting better. Missing Superhans will forever be my sorest regret…”
As for this tour have you crossed paths with the Sherlocks (or the Hunna) before?
“We toured with The Sherlocks earlier this year, so it was mega nice that they asked us back. Still yet to meet The Hunna, but have been following their social media – so we already know which emojis they like.”
What can people expect from seeing Blaenavon live?
“Exceptional dance moves – some choreographed, some improvised. You really don’t want to miss a second.”
Is there anything on the upcoming album that differs from the live experience?
“The album is thoroughly eclectic, and there’s a lot of things on there that we don’t represent live yet. We treat our tunes differently live, too, to how we make them in the studio. The stage is just such a different forum – you gotta put on a rocking show.”
When is the album due out?
“Early next year! Expect more music leading up to it, too. We can’t wait to have this record out in the world, it’s been a long time coming for us.”
Finally, although the tour has only just started what’s next for Blaenavon once you come off the road?
“More road – and more across the pond too, hopefully!”
Thanks for your time, enjoy the rest of your day and indeed the rest of the tour.
“Thank you, Mr Teeth!”
Blaenavon
