Interviews

MUSIC INTERVIEW: Queen Kwong

This weekend Detroit rockers Queen Kwong will perform at LeeFest Presents: The Neverland alongside names including Lianne La Havas, Circa Waves and Everything Everything. We caught up with the band ahead of their appearance to talk about the festival, what you can expect from their show and more.

You play LeeFest: The Neverland this weekend, have you been before? What are your expectations?

No expectations except to have a good time seeing bands I’ve never seen and being in a place I’ve never been to. From what I’ve read about it, it seems like a unique, really cool festival.

The festival isn’t just about the music, there is also spoken word, comedy and more: is there anybody/anything on the line-up that you’re intrigued by?

I just like discovering new stuff by walking around aimlessly.

Festival sets are usually quite different to headline shows, but how do they compare for you?

I like festivals because it’s a good opportunity to play to new people who most likely have never heard of or seen QK. But of course that also makes it more nerve-wracking. So it’s less comfortable than a headlining show but more of a challenge.

When you play a festival do you like to get involved all weekend and camp?

No, no, no. I don’t do the whole camping thing. I’m too high maintenance.

Tell us your three top tips for being at a festival.

Avoid the outhouses.
Remember your Wellies.
Wet Naps. Do you have Wet Naps in the UK? Basically just wet wipes to clean your hands without needing a sink.

Do you have any outrageous festival stories that you can share with us?

Well last year at Reading I had to pee in the trash bin in our dressing room because the toilets were full above the brim. Literally. Hence, my comment above.

Finally for those going to LeeFest, why should they check you out?

Because I will steal your beer, jump on your shoulders, and violently thrash myself against you until you’re terribly uncomfortable. Sounds like a good time, no?

Interview by: Hannah Gillicker
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Queen Kwong perform at LeeFest Presents: The Neverland this weekend (28th-30th July) amongst a whole host of amazing acts including Everything Everything, Lianne La Havas, Circa Waves, Ghostpoet and We Are Scientists. Tickets are still available priced at £104 for the weekend (day tickets also available), purchase them via the festival website.

HannahGillicker
A 30-something year old journalist and freelance PR often found at a gig, a festival or holding a dictophone to a band and asking them all kinds of questions. I'm a sucker for whiskey and vinyl.