As Ferocious Dog prepare for their final year on the road, we caught up with the band to talk about unforgettable festival moments, staying true to their independent spirit, and what it means to look back on more than 30 years of music.
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What’s inspiring you outside of music right now?
I’m feeling very inspired by nature and the outdoors at the moment. I’ve recently moved to the Lincolnshire wolds countryside, learning a new way of life and being amazed by the wildlife and living with nature.
What’s a song in your set right now that feels especially alive on stage?
Slow Motion Suicide, it’s one Ferocious Dog song that feels electric every time we play it… the interaction with the Hell Hounds is priceless.
What’s the most memorable crowd moment you’ve had at a festival or outdoor show?
That would have be playing “Gallows Justice” at HellFest in France. On the massive main stage, in front of a sea of thousands of people in unbearable summer heat, we got the whole festival crowd to get down low and jump up in unison when the music revs up and the mosh pit goes wild. To witness that amount of festival goers jumping up to FD was something to witness.
If fans could see one behind the scenes part of your touring life, what would surprise them most?
Probably how “not rock n roll” it is with Ferocious Dog in the green room back stage, what people think happens and reality are world’s apart.
What does summer touring unlock creatively for you that other seasons don’t?
It’s definitely the well being of feeling the summer sun at festivals and getting to perform in front of new audiences.
What’s one risk you’ve taken in your career that ended up paying off?
Probably walking away from signing a new deal with Graphite Records/Northern Music to go back to our Punk Rock ethos as a “stand alone” unsigned band in our final years!
How has your relationship with live performance changed since you first started playing shows?
Personally, my own performances and the bands performances have changed over the years. Primarily as the band grew, with playing much bigger shows came the added pressure and emphasis on providing shows and value for money for the audience. How we look on stage, the intensity of the show, the musical professionalism and coordinated set lists become a priority.
What’s one thing you’re bringing into this summer that feels new for you?
Having been in the music business with Ferocious Dog for over 30 years and 2026 being our last year I think that every show or festival will be savoured as if every show is our last.
If you could curate your dream three-artist summer lineup (dead or alive), who’s on the bill?
Very hard question to answer, but here goes! Bob Marley and the Wailers, Rancid, and The Pogues
What’s something coming up, big or small, that you’re excited to share with people?
It has to be our last ever Ferocious Dog Autumn Tour, with the last ever show being back in our home City of Nottingham at the World famous Rock City! Having sold the iconic venue out in 24 hours it really is remarkable for an unsigned band. The whole Tour is going to be emotional and memorable.
