Y Not 2014 | Interview | The Natterjacks

The Natterjacks are an indie folk band from Derbyshire, consisting of long-time friends Freddie Bingham and Mark Evans.

Having released their debut album ‘Highlands’ in 2013, the Natterjacks are carving a name for themselves as ‘one-to-watch’.

I caught up with Mark and Freddie at Y Not Festival ahead of their set at the Saloon Bar on Sunday 3rd August to find out a bit more.

It’s quite a unique sound you have – where do you draw your influence from?

M: I’d say it started, as many people will know, as Mumford and sons.

F: We’re kind of moving away from that now a bit. They’re still a great band, but we’re listening to newer bands like London Grammar and taking influence from them.

How did The Natterjacks come about?

M: We both went to school together, so we’ve known each other since year 7!

F: Then we just used to jam together now and then. We just got it together in the last couple of years.

It has been said, for your sound, it is hard to believe there’s only 2 of you – how do you manage to make your sound so complete?

M: I think, the multi-instruments…the both of us playing a foot instrument helps.

F: We have plenty of bass on the acoustic and try to pack it out on the harmonies and stuff.

What’s next for the Natterjacks?

M: We’re nearly finished recording our EP.

F: We’re hoping to get it out on the 18th of August. Well, we’ve said 18th of August.

M: But lets see what happens!!

If you could pick anyone, who would you tour with and why?

M: After yesterday – Dizzee Rascal! (Dizzee headlined the main stage at Y Not Festival on Saturday night). Hmmm…I dunno! There are so many entertaining people around…

F: Jimi Hendrix would be good!

M: I’d love to do a collaboration with Mumford & Sons.

F: Ben Howard would be good too.

Sum up the Natterjacks in one sentence…

M: A species of toad….?

F: Hahahahaha…Lively, banjo-driven, foot-stomping noise.

How on earth did you start playing the banjo? It’s not really an accessible instrument…

M: Well, Freddie started first…

F: Then Mark got better than me…

Anything you’d like to say to the readers of LMLL?

F: Come see us!

M: To experience the lively gigs! We’re at Hideaway Festival and then we have a couple of gigs coming up around Chestershire and Derbyshire over the summer.

You can find out more about the Natterjacks here:




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