Los Campesinos! redefine independence with Vicennial Cringe tour
After more than 20 years in the music industry, Los Campesinos! embark on a significant chapter with their Vicennial Cringe tour, marking their evolution from cult indie band to a more mainstream presence, reports BritPanorama.
The band, known for its socialist ethos, has experienced a resurgence in popularity since parting ways with their previous label and management team. Lead singer Gareth Paisey reflects on this shift: “Since that’s not been the case, it’s enabled us to do everything completely on our own terms. I think that’s the band that we were always meant to be.”
Los Campesinos! are set to perform at venues such as Troxy in East London, where they have sold out shows to crowds of 3,000. Their music, which has matured from the hyperactive twee pop of their early work, still grapples with themes of millennial despair and personal connection, underpinning their ongoing relevance.
Significant milestones for the band include the self-release of their seventh album, All Hell, which reached number 14 in the UK charts, marking their most successful album to date. They credit a newfound interest from younger fans discovering their music through popular platforms, including gaming streams, for this resurgence in ticket sales and streaming numbers.
Paisey notes the band’s determination to circumvent traditional industry structures, stating, “It’s crazy that we can do better as an independent band… All of those markers are really legitimising and rewarding.” Their approach has led to a more vibrant community among fans who feel a deep connection to the band.
Los Campesinos! have resisted pressures to conform to the conventional music industry practices that often lead to unsustainable financial models. They opted for transparency regarding their tour finances in order to highlight the often-overlooked challenges that independent bands face, revealing that ticket sales alone would have resulted in a loss from their recent US tour.
As the music industry increasingly sees rising touring costs and declining artist revenue due to streaming platforms, Los Campesinos! have taken a different path. They operate independently, prioritising community engagement and a more equitable approach to live performances. They commit to only playing venues that align with their values, including those that uphold accessibility and inclusivity.
Beyond their music, the band actively engages with social issues, including support for trans rights and other progressive causes, often donating proceeds to relevant initiatives. Their ethos is not just about music but creating a supportive environment for their audience. “For every person that we upset because of our forthright opinions, we make hundreds, thousands of our fans feel safer,” says Paisey.
While only Paisey works for the band full-time, the remaining members draw a regular income that, while not sufficient to replace their day jobs, represents significant progress compared to the early years of their career. This financial independence has enabled them to control their artistic output and decisions.
Paisey’s reflections on his 20-year journey with Los Campesinos! illustrate a deep investment in the band’s identity and future, stating, “And it’s something that I still feel has a lot of legs left in it, in terms of what we can do creatively.” Their journey represents a continued commitment to not only their music but also the wider industry landscape, hoping to influence change through their example.
Los Campesinos!’ Vicennial Cringe tour continues on 4 June.
