After a massive year for The Libertines, consisting of a gigantic Hyde Park gig, a hugely successful string of European shows and with a headline slot at T in the Park yet to come we got the opportunity to talk to Libertine, April Rainer and ex Yeti member John Hassall. After many years apart and rumour after rumour of a reunion The Libertines finally reformed in the summer of 2014 to an incredible reception. Many questioned the long term future of the band but The Libertines made their intentions clear by announcing the writing and future release of a new album and very recently confirming a festival headline slot. We spoke to John ahead of these exciting times.
1. What's it like being a Libertine?
Well... firstly it's really fun! I just find that we are all really enjoying being together more and more. I guess you come to appreciate things more once you've had a break for so long.
2. What, in your opinion is your favourite/best gig that you've ever played in?
Hard to say really. That's the great thing about playing live in my opinion... No two gigs are ever like each other. There's all so different. Hyde Park last year was pretty special though!
3. Can you tell us what comes next for The Libertines?
We're doing the new album next year so that's the priority really, but I believe we are doing some festivals in the summer too. Also, I've just finished recording a new album with my new band The April Rainers, which I'm really excited about. That will be released soon, so we'll be doing some gigs too!
4. What's your favourite part about what you do?
It's an ideal job really, you get to play music, travel, meet people. I think it's really exciting experimenting with music. You never really know what the end product will be like until it's done. And then it's really exciting to see what other people think!
5. Who are your main musical influences?
The Beatles, The Move, The Las, The Kinks, The Zombies, Donovan (not Jason) Buffalo Springfield. The Incredible String Band.
6. What did you grow up listening to?
The Beatles and all the bands I mentioned above! Also a few Britpop bands.
7. What got you into music in the first place?
The Beatles!
Listen to The Libertines with 'Don't Look Back Into The Sun' via Youtube: