Rachael Hutchings speaks with blues rockers Federal Charm before their gig at Cardiff’s Clwb Ifor Bach.
BBC Radio 2 had once claimed you were “probably the hottest nu-blues outfit to have come out of the UK in the last 20 years”, what do you make of such high praise of your genre?
It’s extremely humbling to hear such praise. You never really know what you are gonna hear after submersing yourself in your own project. We hope we can live up to the praise for many years to come.
What artists inspired you?
Personally, Led Zep, Purple, Bowie, Hendrix, Skynyrd. After supporting acts from Michael Schenker to Rich Robinson, how did you know when you were ready to become a headlining act?
I think we knew after we’d finished last years Joanne Shaw Taylor tour. We played 36 shows in 40 days and it really did gel the band and honed us in from a live point of view. The reception was fantastic and after playing 30 minute sets for two years you kinda feel it’s time to show your fans what you’re made of.
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What is the most exciting gig you’ve played so far?
There’s been many exciting shows, I think playing the sold out show with Ian Hunter at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire was high up there.
Are there any festivals you would be really interested in playing at?
We are still waiting for the Download call! That would be a special moment for the band.
What is the meaning or influence behind the name of your band?
There is no meaning, it’s a verbal agreement between me and Nick that is very private and if I divulge the information it could destroy the band.
Have you written or recorded any new music since the release of Across the Divide last year?
I believe we have all been working consistently on new material. We will be hitting a writing retreat in North Wales in July to cram. We can’t wait to put this stuff together.
words RACHAEL HUTCHINGS
Federal Charm, Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff, Fri 8 July. Info: www.clwb.net