Bandicoot
Bandicoot are a band from South Wales. I interviewed them about their experience throughout the pandemic.
How were you affected as a music artist by the pandemic?
"We were quite lucky in many ways; the pandemic meant that we had a lot of time to write more songs, and we ended up coming out of lockdown with lots and lots of demos. We were also lucky in that we were already moving in together in August, which meant we could continue working together in the same space, which we're so grateful for.
Obviously, we've missed gigs like everybody, but it's been an amazing time for us in terms of finding our direction, finishing off our recordings, and planning ahead with our label"
What do you think will change with live music when concerts are allowed again?
"I personally will appreciate live music a lot more and never take it for granted! I think the live industry will come back with a lot of energy, and hopefully attention will have been drawn to important issues within the industry, like the problem of inclusivity, or sexual assault at live gigs- I hope those things are resigned to the past.
Has it been difficult to book gigs for when concerts open again?
"Thankfully our diaries are already filling up nicely for when things start back again! We're trying not to get our hopes up, but we've been invited to a showcase festival in Sweden, as well as headline shows closer to home in Le Pub, Newport in July"
What is your opinion on "bigger artists" being prioritised by venues?
"Whatever gigs are happening, big or small, that can only be a good thing. I think venues have to do what they need to do to bring crowds, sell tickets, make themselves financially secure. We've never personally had a problem with venues booking bigger artists, and if it means that smaller bands get support slots then that's even better.
As long as gigs are happening, then that's all that matters"