Currently on tour in the US with Megadeth as part of their Gigantour trek across the country, Job For A Cowboy guitarist Bobby Thompson told R13 about his three days partying at Download Festival last year and why he’s excited at playing the main stage at Donington this year and just how intimidating it is to be Megadeth’s tour mates.
R13: You’ve been supporting Megadeth on their Gigantour trek across the US, how’s it been going so far?
BT: This tour has been amazing. Its probably one of my favourite tours that we've ever done. The bands are amazing and all of the people working on this tour are completely awesome. The crowd responses have been surprisingly good so far so we're really happy to be a part of this tour.
R13: Have there been any tour pranks or antics yet or have you got some planned for later on the tour?
BT: I’m not really too sure actually. I don’t remember anything in particular so I guess that means ill have to plan something.
R13: Is it slightly intimidating supporting a band with such as Megadeth who have such a strong back catalogue and fan base?
BT: Yeah it definitely was intimidating at first. The crowds have been very receptive so that has made it a lot more comfortable.
R13: You made your Download Festival debut last year, how was the whole experience for you and what memories do you have of it?
BT: Download was amazing. That was an amazing experience. We stayed for all 3 days and partied, it ruled. I don’t really remember a whole lot because I partied ridiculously hard that weekend.
R13: Last year you played on the third stage but for 2008 you’ve graduated straight to the main stage, has this made you a little nervous or are you excited about the chance to play to a bigger crowd?
BT: I’m not very nervous really. I’m just really excited to play in front of so many people. It’s a really good opportunity for us.
R13: There’s been a slight backlash about the festival this year, particularly on the forums concerning the line up with many metal fans feeling that Download is becoming less of a metal festival, do you think this is actually the case?
BT: Well it’s a very diverse line-up which I think is a good opportunity to play in front of a lot of people that would normally have nothing to do with seeing bands like us.
R13: If you could pick three bands out of the entire weekend to see which ones would you make sure you right down the front for?
BT: Well I’m not really into being in the front for shows but if I had to pick a few to make sure I see it would be Dillinger Escape Plan, Kiss, and Judas Priest.
R13: Any Download survival tips you’d like to share?
BT: Make sure you drink a shit ton of water. And if you’re American bring a ton of cash because the ATMs at the venue don’t take American debit cards.