Chart topping Canadian fan favourites return to Newfoundland and Labrador to headline the 30th anniversary of Lewisporte’s Mussel Bed Soiree. Founding member Sébastien Lefebvre took time out of the band’s busy touring schedule to chat with The Herald, touching on NL memories, the bands fifth studio album and advice for aspiring musicians.
Simple Plan will be returning to Newfoundland this August to headline the Mussel Bed Soiree in Lewisporte, one of the fastest rising summer events in Atlantic Canada. Excited? I know you guys are no stranger to the island?
Very excited. We love playing for our fans on the east coast. We always have the best time when we tour in your neck of the woods, and we are really excited to come back with our new album.
Any particular memories of your past visits to Newfoundland and Labrador? I understand you have quite the fanbase here.
I know the shows are always great. I don’t really remember anything else, which I think is a good sign.
You guys released your fifth studio album, Taking One For The Team, earlier this year. It really felt like a return to form for the band to the real fun and high energy music you’re known for.
It was a really difficult record to make, and to have such a great reaction from our fans only means that we were right in working so hard on it. I’ve noticed that in general, the album that got you into a band will usually remain your favourite. But we’ve gotten a lot of messages that Taking One For The Team has become the new favourite for a lot of our loyal fans. There’s no better feeling.
Thoughts on your fan base? I’d argue you have some of the more passionate fans in all of Canada.
And the world! Our Canadian fans treat us like family. It’s such a warm feeling when we meet them and the conversations appear to pick up where they left off. There’s a genuine feeling of proudness from our home country.
What can fans expect from Simple Plan at the 30th annual Mussel Bed Soiree in Lewisporte?
We’ve turned the show into a Simple Plan’s greatest hit. We play fan favourites, old and new, and try to get everyone involved. High energy, party, good times.
What would be some advice you’d offer to an aspiring band or musician trying to kickstart their career in music?
Do what you love. Don’t try to do what’s cool, or what’s popular. Be honest in what you do and don’t take no for an answer.
What does the future hold for Simple Plan? I’d imagine more touring to support the new record?
Exactly. Lot’s of touring in the next year. Canadian tour, USA, South America, Asia, Australia … We still have a lot of places to go. After all that, we’ll get working on the next album!
Tickets for the 30th annual Mussel Bed Soiree are available at the Lewisporte Town Office and through announced local retailers.
For more information on Simpel Plan and the festival visit www.simpleplan.com and http://www.musselbedsoiree.com