News Reading & Leeds 2011: Bedouin Soundclash

Canadians Bedouin Soundclash return to Reading and Leeds for a third time, this year’s set being half way up the bill on the Lock Up Stage. Answering our Reading and Leeds questions is bassist Eon Sinclair.

How many times have you played the festival before?
This will be the third time we play Leeds and Reading

What’s been your favourite?
My favourite time was the first time we played it. We played the Dance tent at both festivals and both were packed. After a great Reading, Jay lost his voice in Leeds and the crowd sang our single for us in its entirety, amazing.

Have you ever been as a fan?
Every time I’ve been thus far, it’s been to play, but that means I’m also going as a fan! I always try to catch a bunch of other shows during the day while we’re there.

Do you prepare for a festival appearance any differently from a regular gig?
The only real differences are in dressing for the weather and in playing a high impact set of tunes as we have less performance time than a normal show.

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?
If I was playing a mud stage in the rain, I might… No, actually, not even then. I can’t move the way I feel the music in wellies. But I would probably wear them as a fan.

Which artists are you hoping to catch live at Reading and Leeds?
I am looking forward to Mike Skinner (The Streets) and Muse for sure. Hot Water Music will be cool to catch live too.

What’s the secret to festival success?
Giving as much energy and positivity as possible, but the true secret is to have a good show and treat the crowd with respect.