THE INTERVIEWS: Desertfest London 2026

I will always take the opportunity to interview bands when I work press at festivals. It's a chance to not only network but also learn an insight or two into the inner machinations of bands I look up to, listen to, or will soon be listening to. The community is arguably what makes Desertfest London, and when a band is not on stage, laying Camden to waste with riffs, fuzz and heavy beats, they are just like you or I. The performances might be larger than life, but those that play this festival are often another down-to-earth face when you catch them in a more normal, casual environment.

I was able to interview a band on every stage at Desertfest this year, which really offered perspective. Enjoy your listening!

My first chat of the weekend was the iconic, red-pointy-hat-wearing stoner/proggers in Gnome, who talked about their rich history with Desertfest festivals, how to write the way they do, and who might appear at their own festival. Many thanks to Claire from Purple Sage PR for hooking me up with them on this interview.

I also spoke to prog/psych wizards Elephant Tree, who are regulars at this festival. It was great to have a relaxed chat about music, London, and how Desertfest has changed over the years. Once again, thanks to Claire from Purple Sage PR for setting up this interview.

Birmingham's Meatdripper have generated a hell of a buzz over the last year or so. Shortly before headlining The Dev, they talked about their ascent, their unique sound and busy touring plans. A must-listen for fans of somewhat whimsical psychedelic sludge.

I also caught Witchsorrow for an extended chat after their set. Looking to the future of the band, they talked about their new album on Church Road Records - which conveniently came out today! - as well as trad doom, their new lineup, and being a Hampshire band.

Bobby Ferry from Californian sludge legends 16 gave an insightful interview about touring through the years, coming to Europe from the States, and his outlook on live music shortly before his band headlined The Underworld. Again - thank you to Claire and Purple Sage!

My final chat of the weekend was with stoner/grunge quartet Okay You Win, whose new album 'End Of Days' has been out for a week on Blues Funeral. As local boys, they had a lot to say about fellow London bands, earning their slot at this festival, and Woody's Grill.

MN