Up-Load UK, Gigs News & reviews Brigade Download Interview

Prior to their appearance on the third stage on Saturday at this year’s Download Festival we did a quick interview with Andrew Kearton, the drummer from Brigade. Check out what he had to say to us.

Up-load	You have been booked to play the second stage at the Download festival this year. Are you looking forward to it and how did the booking come about ?
Andrew	Yes, I am really looking forward to it! Its been up there on my “things to do before I die list” for quite some time. I think Brigade have been in the running to get a slot over the last few years but something got In the way. This year however, we were asked by Live Nation to play so the rest is history.
Up-load	When did you know you were playing ?
Andrew	We found out a few weeks ago but had to keep schtum about it until It was announced in Kerrang the other day.
Up-load	Will you be spending the whole weekend at the festival?
Andrew	Yes pretty much, I think it would be a waste if I didn’t stay the whole weekend, given the amount of great Bands that are playing. My fiancé and I are going to rough it and Camp. I’m very much an outdoors person as is my fiancé…well I hope she is or I’m in trouble.
Up-load	Is there anyone else you are looking forward to seeing at the festival?
Andrew	In particular, Jimmy Eat World, Biffy Clyro, and Dillinger Escape plan. I want to see the fire breathing and awesome musicianship that those guys have.
Up-load	Have you been to Download before?
Andrew	I’ll be honest no I have not…. I guess I’m a festival virgin. Last year, my mates asked me to go but I couldn’t get it together, slack excuse!!! I’ve always maintained I wouldn’t go to festival unless I was playing it, which in hindsight is a very shortsighted view.
Up-load	What other bands would you like to share the stage with past or present?
Andrew	ell, Stone Temple Pilots have just reformed so it would definitely have to be them! Also, At the Drive in and Soundgarden. As for present bands it would have to be Oceansize and Every time I die .
Up-load	Have any of you ever had a stalker or over obsessive fan ?
Andrew	I don’t have fans! I’m a drummer!
Up-load	What has been the highlight of your career so far ?
Andrew	The highlight for me so far was doing our second album in Monnow Valley with Chris Sheldon. An amazing experience. It really pulled us together as a band. I’m pretty sure though this will be eclipsed by playing Download!
Up-load	If you hadn’t been in a band, what do you think you would have done with your life career wise?
Andrew	I often think what my plan B would be. Just before I joined Brigade I was going to enrol into the fire service. I was also considering becoming a personal trainer and pursuing a career as a Karate Instructor. I occasionally teach when my instructor is away and I really enjoy it.
Up-load	If you could change places with anyone for a day – who would it be and why?
Andrew	Elvis’ body guard, that would be a real eye opener, seeing some of things he got up to.
	Now for a few silly random questions ...... Jam doughnuts or iced ring doughnuts? Jam- warmed in microwave Playstation or Nintendo Wii? My last computer game was played on a commodore 64! Vodka or Beer Beer MacDonalds or Burger King? Vegetarian I’m afraid so I avoid those places like the plague! Women with tattoo?s or no tattoo?s? No tattoos Shoes ? slip on or lace up? Lace up Boxer shorts or briefs? Briefs- I like a bit of support!