Bristol-based folk-rocker Eve Appleton beat some 3,500 (!) other acts who submitted demos to the annual Green Man Rising contest, to win the main stage opening slot on the Friday of this year’s festival in Crickhowell. Buzz’s Emma Way caught up with Eve in the aftermath and found her still in an ebullient mood...
How was yesterday for you?
Eve Appleton: It was amazing being on stage, looking out into the audience and seeing way more people than I thought I would see, including my family down the front. It was really lovely.
And that was you opening the Mountain Stage – was that the biggest stage you’ve ever played?
Eve Appleton: The biggest stage and the biggest audience we’ve ever played to.
Is it right that you’ve been going to Green Man since you were young?
Eve Appleton: Yes, I was four on my first one. It was its second year [in 2004] and it was at Baskerville Hall. I’ve been to all of them since. When Green Man started it was more folk music-centred. A lot of electronic music as well, but I had that influence growing up – listening to artists here who I’m a massive fan of, like Martha Tilston and Joanna Newsom. Joanna played [Green Man] a couple of times when I was really young. I’ve had those artists influence my songwriting a lot.
What’s one year that sticks out in your memory?
Eve Appleton: It was 2014 and First Aid Kit played – I met them, and they dedicated a song to me and my friend when they performed on the main stage.
So that’s a full circle moment for you, what with First Aid Kit headlining the Mountain Stage on the Sunday this year.
Eve Appleton: Yeah – I’m really excited to see them tomorrow!
What are your plans for the rest of the year?
Eve Appleton: Hopefully a lot more opportunities. We’re working on an album very soon, just to put some music out there and have fun.
Who else are you looking forward to seeing this weekend?
Eve Appleton: I’m really looking forward to seeing Lankum tonight.
Info: eveappletonband.com
words EMMA WAY
