Tones and I - Vanfest
VANFEST isn’t too far away now and we can’t wait! The 2 day December event will see a new look, at a brand new location, and with a HUGE line-up of chart-topping, award-winning Australian and New Zealand artists and bands. MFA caught up with some of the acts to ask them all about Vanfest, what fans can look forward to and who their keen to see. Next up…the power house that is Tones and I.
You have been announced as one of the Artists to perform at VANFEST, happening in Bathurst, NSW this December, are you excited to be a part of this awesome boutique regional festival?
I am. Coming off the European festival season, I’m ready to pick up from where I left off there, and bring that same energy home to our own festivals, which is going to be incredibly special.
This will be the first VANFEST at its new home at the base of Mt Panorama in Bathurst. Have you seen the mountain before and what are you anticipating from this iconic Australian location?
I’ve never been to Mt Panorama before, and can’t say that I’ve watched too many Bathurst’s before. Apart from lots of people thinking they’re race car drivers, I am anticipating that a lot more people will be extremely hyped up to enjoy some live festival music.
Are you glad to be getting back to performing in front of real crowds after the craziness of the last few years?
Absolutely. As previously mentioned, coming off the European festival season, as well as my own headline tour around America, I’m certainly not taking for granted the fact that I’m back on stage. Especially bringing my show back to the home crowds.
“I like the opportunity to create lots of energy and put on the best show possible, in hope that they walk away as a new fan”
Do you enjoy playing festivals and being a part of that festival scene and atmosphere?
I do. I like the fact that some of the crowd might not necessarily be there to see me, so I like the opportunity to create lots of energy and put on the best show possible, in hope that they walk away as a new fan.
How do you prepare yourself for a huge event like VANFEST?
I bring a great team with me, and we go into the show together, build each other up and provide the energy needed. I also like to have a look at the crowd beforehand too to pump me up a bit.
What can fans expect from your upcoming performance at VANFEST? Any surprises planned?
A great show…
What's the one song from your catalogue that you always slip into a set for a festival event?
I enjoy singing Bad Child at festivals as it seems to get a good response from the crowd.
Apart from your own, who's set are you most looking forward to seeing at VANFEST?
I’m looking forward to seeing everyone perform, I did grow up as a fan of the Hilltop Hoods and Illy, so it will be good to see the boys live on stage again.
“I did grow up as a fan of the Hilltop Hoods and Illy, so it will be good to see the boys live on stage again.”
If you could collaborate with any artist off the huge lineup, who would it be and why?
All of them, they’re all great artists and I could not pick just one…
What are the best and worst parts of being on a multi-artist bill? Do egos ever get in the way or does it just add to the party?
I love a multi-artist bill, especially an Australian one. Most artists already know each other and it’s a bit more of a party atmosphere than anything else.
Do you find that festivals like VANFEST present your songs to a new fan base, including people who have never heard your music before?
Definitely. As mentioned in a previous question, festivals give you the opportunity to put on a great show with the hope that new fans can appreciate new music.
You've got two spare tickets to VANSFEST, who are you giving them to and why?
Whoever comes first and second in Bathurst this year.
Do you have a message for your Fans that are making the pilgrimage to see you at VANFEST?
I cannot wait to perform for you guys and all celebrate live music together again, finally!
Interview by Michelle Symes
September 2022