COUNTDOWN TO MPF: BATWÖLF INTERVIEW

We’re stoked to bring Dutch punk ‘n’ rollers Batwölf back to Manchester Punk Fest in 2023. They tore up Zombie Shack with their energetic garage riffs back in 2019 and we’re glad they can join us again. You may also recognise them from a previous incarnation – Black Volvo – who played the second MPF in 2016.

Rumour has it that Batwölf may be releasing a full-length LP in 2023 but, in the meantime, you can check out their four-way split with Christmas, Haest and Electric Frankenstein, out on TNSrecords now. MPF sat down with vocalist/bassist Jaap Bard to ask 12 very important questions.

How would you introduce yourselves to a punk fan who’s not heard of you yet?

I always tell people that we’re a mixture between The Ramones and Motörhead. 

Which of your songs/releases are you most proud of, and why?

Our upcoming album ‘35 For Life’ because it’s our first full-length LP. Had a lot of fun recording with Tim (Big Dog Recordings) in Belgium. 

Tell us a secret about your band.

I am always too excited about band stuff to keep secrets, so if there’s one the rest of the band always tells me last. 

What was the first gig you ever went to?

My first gig was at our local youth centre, a Dutch hip-hop group named Osdorp Posse was tearing down the stage. Did my first stagedive there. 

What have you got in your pockets right now?

A pencil. 

If you were a biscuit, what would you be and why?

A limping one. 

Who’s your favourite Dave?

Can’t say, it’ll make the other Daves jealous. 

Red or blue?

Red. 

Oasis or Blur?

I was once drunk in an oasis. Can’t remember too much. It was all a blur. 

Too much ska or too little ska?

Too much ska rapapapapaah.

Help us settle the age-old bread debate. What do you call a roll / cob / bap / barm / batch / muffin / other (specify)?

Not bread. 

Finally, which bands are you most excited to see at MPF 2023?

I’m going to be excited about seeing everybody we’ve met over the years in the UK. I will probably end up hugging someone around every corner. I’m going to check out Youth Avoiders, Knife Club, Casual Nausea, Wonk Unit, Off With Their Heads and probably many more.

Pick up your MPF ticket here.