The Stranglers Prepare for a Unique Performance at Forest Fest
The Stranglers, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, are set to deliver an unforgettable performance at Forest Fest in Emo Village next weekend. Known for their raw energy and rebellious spirit, the band is preparing to “get weird” during their 60-minute set, showcasing a side of their music that fans might not expect.
Formed in 1974, The Stranglers quickly became a defining force in the punk movement of the late 1970s. Their no-nonsense attitude and unique sound resonated with audiences, and even after more than five decades, the band continues to thrive. This year, they celebrated 51 years of musical excellence with the release of The Stranglers 51, a tribute to their legacy as creators of the legendary hit Golden Brown.
Singer Baz Warne, who has been with the band since 2000, spoke about the enduring appeal of The Stranglers. Despite having only one original member left, the band remains as strong as ever. “We never played to less than full sold-out houses,” he said. “There’s still a mystery and an interest in us and what we do.”
Warne emphasized that while the band respects its history, it refuses to be trapped by nostalgia. “If you get on the nostalgia treadmill, that’s anathema to us,” he added. For their Forest Fest performance, the group plans to mix classic hits with some of their more obscure tracks. “People need to know that there’s a weird, obscure side of The Stranglers,” he explained. “We can manage to put a couple of quite strange tunes into an hour set. That’ll keep the odd balls happy, the obscured!”
A Legacy Built on Friendship and Music
The Stranglers have faced their share of challenges over the years, including the loss of two key members. Keyboardist Dave Greenfield passed away in 2020, and drummer Jet Black died in 2022. Both were integral to the band’s identity, and their absence is deeply felt.
Baz Warne shared heartfelt memories of both men. “Jet Black took me under his wing when I first joined,” he recalled. “He could say that I was like a rabbit in the headlights.” He also spoke about Dave Greenfield, describing him as “a whacky older uncle” and “a total one off.” Despite their passing, Warne believes the band remains as strong as ever. “Although we miss the pair of them massively, as people, as a band, as a unit, The Stranglers are as strong as ever.”
A Journey Through Time
Baz Warne’s journey with The Stranglers began in 2000, and over the past 25 years, he has become an essential part of the band’s story. Initially playing guitar, he studied every aspect of the group, from relationships and business dealings to work ethic and creative processes. “I just soaked it all in,” he said. “Then when they asked me to do it, it was like, ‘Okay, well, you need to step up.'”
As the band ages, Warne acknowledges that their future is uncertain. “JJ is in his early 70s,” he said. “Now, how long can we continue? I don’t know. It’s up to him, really.” He believes that a legendary band must have at least one original member to maintain its authenticity. “You can’t have a legendary band without at least one original member. I just don’t think it works. It becomes a parody of itself.”
Excitement for Forest Fest
Despite these reflections, the band is eager to perform at Forest Fest. “We’re flying into Dublin, I think a day before, and then we’ll drive down,” Warne said. “Everybody’s just jazzed.” He described Ireland as “stunning” and praised the warm, friendly people. “It’s beautiful, full stop. But you get there, and the people are warm and friendly and always happy to see us, and we’re always happy to come so, looking forward to it!”
The Stranglers will take the stage at Forest Fest in Emo Village on Saturday, July 26. They will share the bill with other big names, including Manic Street Preachers, Orbital, Billy Bragg, Franz Ferdinand, and many more. Tickets are still available, with weekend passes costing up to €240.
