Simon Thompson of Alvarez Kings on The Hard Rock Kevin Says Stage Photo: Halle Rogers
This summer the progressive indie pop band, Alvarez Kings, joined the Vans Warped Tour for the second time. During their first Warped outing in 2013, the band traveled from the UK and was plagued by bad luck. Their lead singer was detained in Canada due to passport issues and their bus broke down repeatedly. Their trials were documented on the FuseTV series, Warped Tour Roadies. After taking a year off they were eager to hit the road again in America.
It looked as if history was going to repeat itself when Visa issues prevented the band from joining the tour until a couple of weeks into the tour. Once they arrived, they wasted no time connecting with their supporters. They accepted every opportunity to get out on stage and play for their fans. On several dates the band played two shows a day. KTM caught up with them in Utah.
The Alvarez Kings are Simon Thompson (vocals), Paul Thompson (guitar/vocals), Sean Parkin (guitar) and Richard Walker (drums/tracks).
KTM: What can you tell me about your two sets today?
Paul: We play first at 11:15 a.m. on the Kevin Says Stage and at 3:05 p.m. in the Acoustic Basement Tent. We like playing to the big crowds when they get into it but the acoustic shows are more intimate. We are playing a surprise cover today in the Basement.
KTM: Warped Tour 2015 is coming to a close in a few days. What is your favorite Warped Tour memory?
Paul: It just happened recently in Milwaukee. We played a really good show and the crowd was huge. Everyone was dancing and really getting into it. It was just a really good show overall.
KTM: What advice do you have for the people that come to Warped and to see your band specifically?
Simon: Kids should drink a lot of water and wear sunscreen. Don’t get dehydrated. When you come see us be ready to dance and have fun.
KTM: You have had more than your fair share of difficulties while on this tour. Do you have any advice or tips for other bands that want to be on tour?
Simon: Work hard and if you get on tour pack a lot of clothes and plenty of underwear. You never know when your next laundry day might be. If you don’t pack enough, you might be wearing your underwear inside out.
KTM: What are your plans after Warped Tour?
Sean: We are going to be recording an album straight after here. Aside from that there has been a lot of talk about touring and different tours but we want to concentrate on the album.
Prior to Warped Tour, they enjoyed a stint opening for label mates Echosmith on their European tour. Alvarez Kings will be heading in to the studio after Warped Tour to record their first full length album since signing with Sire Records/Warner Bros Records earlier this summer.
Simon Thompson of Alvarez Kings in the Acoustic Basement Photo: Halle Rogers