It’s 9am in Budapest, Hungary, where Justin Sane of Pittsburgh-based Anti-Flag is calling from, having played a massive gig to over 30,000 fans the night before. From the chirpy welcome, it’s hard to believe he’s as tired as he says he is. “We’re touring Europe at the moment. Always a great place to be. Last night was such a great gig, but we all had a late night.”
The arm of the Anti-Flag tour machine has reached many places this year, including Russia. “Russia was incredible – not only was it a country that we had yet to tour in the past, but it was a prime example of how music can bridge cultural and language divides. Anti-Flag do not believe in segregation – we’re all one people.” Sadness creeps into his voice as the Russia/Georgian conflict enters the conversation. “The way things are now, makes it so much more inspirational to have been there to spread our message. I mean, who knows how many have been killed or displaced?”
On a happier note, Anti-Flag released their seventh studio album this year, titled Bright Lights of America, which has enjoyed success worldwide. “It’s been a mixed response, actually,” Sane laughs. “Some people love it, some hate it. I guess some people fear change.” Bright Lights is the most diverse album to date, with the band bringing in additional instruments, including brass, horns and keyboards to add a more accessible element to their usual punk. “It’s certainly a record that we’ve been most proud of and excited by. It’s a record where we put our best foot forward, and took a chance at experimenting – it’s like life: to not be afraid of change. In that respect personally, the record has been an amazing experience, and brings some really exciting moments when we perform it live.”
Anti-Flag are gearing up to bring those moments back to Australia. Having embarked on a mini-tour at the beginning of the year alongside their Big Day Out commitments, December marks a return to our shores. “We’re so excited about coming back. We had such a blast last time we visited. We’ve been meaning to return, but it’s an issue of fitting it into our schedule, which, as you know, is quite hectic,” Sane gushes. “We’re in the midst of the European tour at the moment, as we’re going to be working on our new album in October and maybe November, hopefully having it completed before coming to Australia.”
The Australian tour this time operates along similar lines to the January Big Day Out tour. Shows are planned in all major capital cities, as well as a quick visit to New Zealand. There’s a fair mixture of all ages shows too, as well as the typical 18+ dates. “Trust me; you’re never too young to get into music. We believe in getting our message out to anyone and everyone! The more the merrier,” Sane laughs.
“Don’t get me wrong though, Australian crowds are special. They bring that extra element to each live show. It’s something we all enjoy, and we hope that we can give something back when we’re there later this year.”
Anti-Flag play the following headline shows in December:
Friday 5th – Hi-Fi Bar, Melbourne (18+)
Saturday 6th – Hi-Fi Bar, Melbourne (all ages)
Sunday 7th – HQ Complex, Adelaide (all ages)
Tuesday 9th – Capitol, Perth (all ages)
Thursday 11th – Tivoli, Brisbane (all ages)
Friday 12th – Coolangatta Hotel, Gold Coast (18+)
Saturday 13th – UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney (all ages)
