Steve Ignorant is a man who really needs no introduction

…but we’ll give him one anyway. Mr. Ignorant was born in Stoke-on-Trent and grew up in Dagenham, East London. He’s a singer-songwriter, an author, a puppeteer, an artist—and was once a full-time crew member of a lifeboat. He’s also remarkably funny, approachable, kind to his fans, loves animals… and just happens to have fronted some of the most important musical groups in punk history: the Stratford Mercenaries, Schwarzenegger, Current 93, Conflict, Paranoid Visions, Slice of Life, the Steve Ignorant Band, and another one I can’t seem to recall … Cra-something.

Please introduce yourself.

Hello, I’m Steve Ignorant, and I used to be in a band called CRASS.

That’s the one I was thinking of! What year did you start playing Rebellion and how did you feel about it?

My first time at Rebellion was in 2010 when Penny Rimbaud and I were interviewed by John Robb. I absolutely loved it.

How many times have you played at Rebellion and do you have a favorite performance?

I came back in 2013 and played with Slice Of Life and with Paranoid Visions. Apart from 2015 and the pandemic years, Slice Of Life has played at Rebellion every year. I played with Paranoid Visions for five consecutive years. The last time was in 2017 at the outdoor Casbah Stage on a hot afternoon.

In 2022 the Steve Ignorant Band played for the first time at Rebellion performing a full CRASS set on the Club Casbah stage.

I think my favorite performance is the first time Slice Of Life played at the Opera House, it’s a great venue with a superb sound and the audience can sit down.

What is your favorite thing about Rebellion?

I think it’s the feeling for once in my life to be part of a society. You walk around Blackpool during Rebellion and every pub and every café is full of punk rockers, skinheads or whatever and they're all together and we’re all on the same wavelength and it’s really nice to feel that sometimes now, rather than the shit we live in.

Which veteran band or artist are you most looking forward to seeing play or talking with and why?

The Cockney Rejects because we’re mates.

*Sadly neither the* *Cockney Rejects* *or Ashcan are on the bill this year. All Photos courtesy of* *©dickslaughter.com*

Which newer band or artist are you most looking forward to seeing play or talking with and why?

If they're playing, a band from Italy called Ashcan. I saw them at the semi-acoustic last time and they just rooted me to the spot so I’m hoping they’ll be there again. Otherwise, I’ll be going downstairs to the RIS (Rebellion Introducing Stage) which is where I usually go anyway to see unknown bands.

Where are you coming from and how long will it take you to get to Rebellion?

I’m coming from Sea Palling in Norfolk and it will take us about 7 to 8 hours to get there.

Do you have any fond or funny Rebellion memories?

I think it was when I was standing there having a good time, I didn't have to do anything, and all of a sudden Gary Bushell came up and asked if I’d jump up on stage and do a Q&A. The person who was meant to do it hadn’t turned up. Then I realized they had scraped the barrel because they couldn’t find anyone else. Everybody was too busy in the backstage bar. The only mug they could find was me.

What was the best performance you’ve seen at Rebellion?

Me of course, but for other bands, I’d have to say Ashcan. There’s just something about them I couldn’t leave. I had to watch them. It’s very rare that this happens.

Do you have any new merch made especially for Rebellion?

We have a new book about the Steve Ignorant Band with wonderful live and behind the scene photographs by Simon Balaam, including pictures of Rebellion. It’s called ‘Doing It Our Way’.

We also have some new t-shirt designs which are created by Flesh and Bone Design and printed by Carry On Screening all on organic, climate-neutral t-shirts using water-based printing ink and solar-powered energy.

Are you on tour now? Where will you go after Rebellion?

After Rebellion we’re off to the US to do a couple of gigs and play at Riot Fest in Chicago. The week after that we’ll be playing in Manchester and then North East Calling Festival. Beginning of October we’ll play in Colchester, Bilston (Near Birmingham), and Sheffield.

How has Rebellion changed since you first played or attended?

Rebellion Festival is constantly changing. There is always something new and exciting to look forward to. Over the years they have had different types of stages, introduced the Punk Art Festival, Literary Stage, and lots of stuff for the kids to do. What hasn’t changed is the ethos and the feeling of being part of one big family.

Do you have any projects that you want to mention? New records, books, or anything else?

The new book, which will be launched at Rebellion, ‘Doing it Our Way’, and the new Live album: Live In Bristol 2023. It will be out on CD in August and later in the year on vinyl. This is the second live album by the Steve Ignorant Band and has some different songs on it than the previous one

How many bands are you playing in this year?

Two. Slice Of Life on Thursday 16:50 at the Opera House and the Steve Ignorant Band on Friday 23:30 at Club Casbah. On Friday I will also be joining Peter Jones on his Anarcho Punk Panel 15:10 at the Literary Stage.

Who is the person or band that comes to mind first when you think of Rebellion?

TV Smith. He’s everywhere. A very nice man.

Thank you for your time and participation.

That’s alright, it’s a pleasure

If you are unfamiliar with Steve Ignorant's Slice Of Life , it’s a complete departure from his previous work with a sort of punk folk feel. The songs are personal and moving and very much showcase how Steve has matured as an artist and songwriter. Do yourself a favor and check it out.

If you have not witnessed this incarnation of the Steve Ignorant band performing the songs of CRASS, I can assure you that you won’t be disappointed. It is truly an emotional experience with Steve Ignorant and Carol Hodge on lead vocals, Jay Bagnall-drums, Pete Rawlinson-bass and backing vocals, Pete Wilson-guitar and backing vocals. Carol’s distinct singing style, keyboard work and samples, Jay's masterful drums, and the two Petes’ unique take on these beloved classics make the songs feel as fresh and powerful as the first time you heard them.

The songs often evoke profound reactions from the audience. I have witnessed fans in an almost trance-like state, tears and the entire audience with jaws dropped in disbelief. Don’t miss it.