At the end of May, Slam Dunk Festival, one of the UK's most beloved events in the festival calendar, will return once more. This year's line up features a combination of nostalgic favourites and rising stars from worlds of punk and alternative music.
In the run up to the festival we are presenting ‘Postcards From Slam Dunk’, a series of quick fire Q+A’s with some of the bands set to appear at the event.
This time we have Vinnie Caruana, vocalist of reformed Long Island punk band, The Movielife.
Firstly, how are you looking forward to playing Slam Dunk?
I’m pumped. I’m glad it’s finally working out.
What can fans expect from your set?
A lot of their old favourites. Perhaps some new ones (wink)!
You always seem at home in club shows, but do festival shows require a different kind of preparation?
Probably a bit more beer, also the set list is usually tailored more to songs suited for festival settings.
Are there any songs of yours that you find go over particularly well with a festival crowd?
‘Jamestown’ is always the biggest. ‘Walking On Glass’ and ‘Hand Grenade’ also seem to get bigger reactions. But we are lucky, everyone seems to enjoy our song selections.
Do you have any specific festival memories or experiences you care to share?
The Movielife shows at Reading festival in 2003, and Deconstruction festival in Finsbury Park 2002 were definitely two of the high points of our career.
The Movielife are no strangers to the UK, and you make no secret of your love of our country. What is it about the UK that you find so endearing?
The people, the music, the beauty , the football. I’m drawn to it. I miss it when I’m home.
You released your first new track in thirteen years last year, how did you find the reaction to it? Can we expect to hear some more new material soon?
I was very happy with the reaction . We have only scratched the surface. I’m confident that new music will with you all shortly.
Finally, given that there could be scheduling clashes, or some people at the festival who don’t know you, why should our readers make sure they don’t miss you at Slam Dunk?
I don’t believe we have to worry about that. We are happy to be alive and playing shows . We’re excited to share our experience with anyone who comes to hang out. Those who we’ve connected with all of these years won’t miss it.
Slam Dunk Festival takes place across the May Bank Holiday weekend at the dates and venues below. Tickets are on sale now from the official Slam Dunk website.
May
27 BIRMINGHAM NEC
28 LEEDS City Centre
29 HATFIELD The Forum