Festival Q&A: Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman

Who else are you excited to see?
Kathryn: It’s been a while since we have seen what Jim Moray has been up to, so hopefully we can catch his set. We love his latest album Upcetera and we are keen to see how he can pull off the songs in a more acoustic way.

What’s your best festival memory?
Kathryn: Playing an outdoor festival in Detroit after the great Dr John had just wowed 20,000 people.
Sean: Playing alongside my brother Seth at a festival where we were in a line-up between McFly and Iggy Pop! Bizarre but probably a first for British folk music.

What are your festival essentials?
Kathryn: Baby wipes. Can’t get enough of ’em. Just remember – don’t flush em!
Sean: A Pot Doodle diet, to clog oneself up, otherwise you can spend a whole summer visiting chemical loos. Urrrghh!

How does playing a festival differ from playing your own gig?
Sean: It’s a chance to have your music heard by people who may not be aware of you, so your choice of material should show off a little bit of everything you can do. Festival performances tend to be a bit of a whirlwind as you’re on, then you’re off so quickly. It’s good for the adrenaline.

What’s your favourite part of playing a festival?
Kathryn: Definitely making new musical discoveries. Over the years we have seen so much incredible stuff at festivals. There is definitely a good-time vibe that gives those memories a sheen.

Read more about Kathryn and Sean in our Music Q&A here