Last month we caught up with Simon Nicol for a quick chat ahead of the bands much anticipated return to Sidmouth this August.

You’re currently in the middle of a huge 27 date tour across the UK – how has it been going? 

It’s always one of the year’s high points for us all. There’s a real thrill getting into the van for the first time and heading off to gig number one. All the setlists are in order, the strings changed, lyrics hopefully refreshed and the rehearsing complete. 2024 got off to a strange start for me as I got Covid ten days before the off so missed being present for the rehearsal period and missed the initial two shows – some improvising was necessary but as ever with Fairport, we share the load and all feel we’re pulling on the same rope!

Any particular gig you’re really looking forward to? 

The Union Chapel in Islington is a marvellous place to perform as well as being the largest venue on the tour. Sunderland’s Fire Station has become a firm favourite in our short experience of it not just for the sound and the warmth of the space, but the positive attitude of the staff overall. And of course my ‘home’ gig in Canterbury which is promoted by Folk in the Barn, in the person of my wife Debs Earl!

How has touring changed for you as a band over the years? 

Thirty years ago we were touring with our own lighting rig and full PA, with a sleeper bus for the crew. Nowadays we don’t need those forces, mainly as the theatres and halls have steadily improved their facilities, and we just carry our own desk, mics, monitors and backline, with a crew of three.
The important things remain unchanged though – a full evening with our own (always splendid) opening act and long enough sets to feel un-rushed and comprehensive.

Any survival tips for fellow touring musicians? 

Pace yourself, always be on time and don’t be a dick.

You’ve played at Sidmouth a number of times over the years. How would you describe the festival to someone who has never been before? 

Uniquely itself. I think the first time I visited, it was as a musician in the Albion Morris Dencers, in about 1973, and I expected to find it more an international dance festival with song and instrumental music as a bit of a sidestream. And I believe those roots are still there to be seen although the headline gigs have grown steadily in significance. Above all though, I feel the symbiosis between the town and the event is what makes it so special – and I see the same happy mutuality between the village of Cropredy and our own annual gathering.

What can people expect from your concert at Sidmouth this summer? 

Four excited pensioners, loving what they do and each other’s company. A band that respects our past and its former incarnations but is not a slave to either. A happy band of brothers. Come along!

Fairport Convention play a special Pre-Festival Concert on Friday 1st August, 3pm. Tickets available here.