ELECTRIC PICNIC: A visit from the bishop

Is this the first time you’ve played a music festival of this kind?
I suppose it is. I mean, I’ve done the Fringe Festival here in Edinburgh, which is kind of similar, so I think I have a good idea of what’s in store. I’m just expecting the big-tent, very-unfocused-but-still-fun-and-rowdy kind of crowd.

Have you any tips for people making the trip to Stradbally?
To be honest, I haven’t given too much thought to Stradbally, ‘cos I’m knee-deep in the Edinburgh experience. My only tip is to plan for every eventuality, because it’s not gonna be as sloppy as Oxegen; that’s part of the appeal of the festival. Obviously the most important thing is to bring some money for a few bevvies.

Any advice for the sheep on the estate where the gig is happening?
I can’t possibly answer that. My relationship with livestock is remote at best.

Would you prefer to go to a festival with your girlfriend – or without?
Definitely with! She’s making the trip with me.

What’s your all-time most memorable festival experience?
Playing the Cat Laughs for the first time was amazing. To arrive at the hotel and get your little welcome bag…it was the first time I felt that I was important. And the vibe was just incredible.

What’s your dream festival line-up?
Well, Jurassic 5 would probably be on there. My dream festival would actually be a hip-hop event in Castletownbere, Co. Cork. I’d like to have Mos Def, Mobb Deep, Nas and Public Enemy. And I’d be the host.

Is Stradbally the new Glastonbury?
No, I think it’s set up to be its own thing. I think they do boutique festivals in England, so I’m sure that there are comparable aspects. But I think the reaction to Stradbally has been greater than anticipated. Since I met with the organisers to discuss The International Comedy Club Stage – which I was originally supposed to have been involved with more than I have been – things have been gathering momentum, which has been a source of some gratification. And relief.

Will you go for a massage while you’re there?
I don’t think I’ll have time, but if I do I’ll make it there. Hopefully I’ll get a massage voucher as a result of performing.

Come clean – what’s in the Des Bishop rider?
I want a no-alcohol tent. That would be an, er, alternative entertainment experience.

Can we expect your Justin Timberlake tribute ‘Don’t Be So Quick To Squidgee’ to be released as a single at some point?
This seems to be something that people have picked up on. Apparently, when ‘Rock Your Body’ comes on in certain nightclubs now, some girls start singing ‘Don’t Be So Quick To Squidgee’, which is funny cos it was just this random thing that popped into my head which I sang for a couple of days. But no, there’s no plan to release it as a single yet. Although if we do, I’ll cut you in for 5%!

After playing The Electric Picnic, Des Bishop heads out on a nationwide tour during September