Source: Promo Image
Much like America, we have our own collection of incredible festivals known worldwide and Slamdunk is fast becoming one of those with bands queuing up for a spot on the coveted line-up. This year see’s American based I Prevail heading to our shores to hit up the festival for the first time.
Now you may be more familiar with I Prevail because of their notorious Pop Goes Punk cover of Taylor Swift’s ‘Blank Space’ but more importantly the bands debut album Lifelines came out last October. With the album the band showed that there was much more to them than covering songs by pop princesses.
We had a quick chat with guitarist Dylan to find out whether the American’s know much about Slamdunk and what their expectations are pre-festival.
Mosh: There’s only about 2 months’ to go until Slamdunk Festival, how are you preparing for the festival?
Dylan: We’re preparing for a festival the only way we know how, by playing shows and really trying to keep the momentum flowing. I know for me personally, I enjoy going into festivals after being out on a headlining or support tour. That way our set feels super tight to us and we really focus on having fun with the crowds.
Mosh: As it’s your first time playing how excited are you to play?
D:Oh man, festivals are always like christmas day to me. I’m in such a great mood, wake up just a bit earlier you know? I’m particularly excited for this one because its our first step in a new country. So excited to play and share energy with so many new faces.
Mosh: Do you have any expectations of the festival int he lead up to the weekend?
D:Honestly, I’ve seen some videos online of the crowds going crazy. I’m curious to see if the crowds go harder in the UK than they do in the US ;)
Mosh: What does it mean to you to be asked to play Slamdunk?
D:It means a lot actually. I’m so honored to share the stage with bands I grew up listening to like Goldfinger and Less Than Jake. But its also encouraging to see us get paired up with bands from today that are making a name for themselves. Its makes me feel like we’re on a great path!
Mosh: The festival has come a long way since it’s inception just over a decade ago, what’s your knowledge of the festival from the US?
D:I had seen the festival title attached to a lot of youtube links, watching other bands play festivals live. I know theres a Midlands, North and South…thats about it. I’m really hoping this is the first of many for us so we can become experts on slamdunk fest!
Mosh: Are there any other bands you’re excited to check out over the weekend?
D:I know Eric and I are really excited to see Enter Shikari do their take to the skies celebration. I’m really excited to check out Don Broco for the first time, as well as see my boys in Neck Deep! Not to mention legends like Less Than Jake and Goldfinger.
Mosh: Are you planning anything special for the festival?
D:I havent been able to have a beer in a few months because of some health issues. But that will be resolved by then, so I’m planning on playing a kickass show, grabbing a cold beer and watching some awesome bands tear it up.
