They’re a mess of Kappa-clad townies from Sheffield, barely out of their teens, if at all, and their urban tales set to post-Libertines music have earned them the status of a buzz band. Sound familiar?
Milburn are hot on the heels of the Arctic Monkeys, yet before the town-criers level accusations of bandwagon-jumping let it be known that they helped teach Alex Turner’s mob how to play their instruments. Milburn’s story in fact starts six years ago, when the average age of the band was 14.
“We did covers to begin with, and then started taking it more seriously,” is how guitarist Louis Carnall justifies their late entry to the fray. Having created a buzz locally, with the Monkeys even supporting them back in t’day, their reach has now extended further afield. This summer’s Oxegen appearance was the first of many festivals, including dates in Europe and Japan. They’re adamant, however, that they’re able to cope with the touring lifestyle.
“We don’t mind it at all,” says frontman Joe Carnall. “It’s boring, sat in a house twiddling your thumbs, watching This Morning.”
That’s not to say that they harbour any negative feelings towards their roots – in fact the bright lights of London don’t faze them at all.
“London’s horrible,” vents Louis.
“It’s not horrible,” corrects Joe in a gallant diplomatic intervention. “We always have a good time in London.”
Sounds like they’ve a touch of the north/south divide?
“It’s natural,” Joe shrugs. “There is a north/south divide and you can’t get away from it. All the major cities in the north have got an affinity with each other and I’m sure it’s the same in the south.”
What’s their favourite town besides Sheffield?
“It depends what you’re looking for really,” mulls Louis. “If it’s fit birds, Liverpool. A good night out is probably Newcastle. The people are great, they’re right up for it. The gigs we’ve done there have been mad.”
The question of whether they’ve encountered any over-enthusiastic fans prompts nervous fidgeting at first, and then this admission from drummer Joe Green.
“I was on Channel 4 last night and said that I’d shagged this lass,” he smiles sheepishly. “I didn’t mean to. I said it in jest and now we’re not talking. But I’m not bothered.”
Louis’ eyebrows shoot up.
“You’re not bothered? You bloody will be if she reads that in the press!”
Taxi for Mr Green...