News Reading & Leeds 2011: Three Trapped Tigers

Three Trapped Tigers appear only at Leeds this year, playing the Alternative Stage at 9.15 later today. The band released latest single, ‘Noise Trade’ on 8th August, and answering questions on behalf of the band is Tom Rogerson.

Have you played Reading & Leeds before?
Yes, believe it or not our third ever gig was at Reading through my flatmate who was booking a stage there. It was also our only ever gig with a different drummer as Betts couldn’t make it and we didn’t want to turn it down. And I think we ended up doing Leeds as well although I can’t remember, maybe that was the following year. Both times, they were kind of a favour so this time it feels like we’re playing properly in our own right, as it were.

Have you ever been as a fan?
Not personally, although I think Betts went to Reading a few times.

Reading and Leeds is known as a ‘rock’ festival. What’s the least rock ‘n roll thing you’ve ever done?
Well we’re all pretty un-rock ‘n roll as it is. Probably the least rock ‘n roll thing we’ve done as a band was playing a smooth set of jazz standards in the background for Betts’ friend’s wedding anniversary in a seafront restaurant in Bournemouth, with Matt on bass and Betts using brushes on a tiny kit. Suffice to say, it was the most musically fulfilling experience I’ve had in this band.

What’s the best thing about playing festivals?
The food.

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?
Yeah I’d consider it. Makes sense. I’m a country boy as it is, so got nothing against wellies. But I nearly always forget to bring them so that’d be an issue.

Which artists are you hoping to catch live at Leeds?
I think we’re going straight home. Is Nine Inch Nails playing?

What’s the secret to festival success?
God knows! I can’t say we’ve ever had any. Maybe finding out who else is on the bill is a start.