There is simply no other festival like Rotterdam’s Left of the Dial. Taking place annually in October it’s quirky, relaxed vibe overflowing with quality new, emerging and independent artists, has the care of not only attendees but the performers themselves at it’s very core. From producing merchandise onsite to save on costs for the artists to having an unofficial strand to the festival, from having bands perform on a band travelling on the river to providing an opportunity to “Dine Like A Star” at the same place as the artists, quite simply the list goes on and on. Having attended the last three editions, it is also obvious that the festival does not intend to stand still. For the first time this year a conference programme was introduced with the opportunity to hear from industry professionals. All of this takes place in the fabulous venues around the beautiful city of Rotterdam, staffed by the friendliest individuals who must have been on a training course with just a couple of points to learn, be nice as well as informative. There is simply no downside.
With artist applications now open for the 2025 edition, what does all this mean for the artists who take part? I gathered some viewpoints from a number of participants, beginning with Harry Hanson (lead singer, synths) of Adult DVD.
Adult DVD played Left of the Dial in October 2023. Can you briefly describe your experience.
Left of the Dial was our first time playing outside of the UK, we did 4 shows over the 3 days. And although we have been on EU tours since Left of the Dial, it honestly still remains my favourite festival and set of shows to this day. There is something very special about that festival. I think that it is partly because the bands that play there are all of a similar level, and are all just as excited as each other. The staff are nothing but nice, the venues all sound great, the artist bar is free and Rotterdam is very beautiful. I think you would struggle to have a bad time to be honest.
I understand a European Booking Agent saw you play there. What was the outcome of that?
Ben, our EU agent used to work at Left of the Dial and booked us for one of the stages so we met him through that. Then soon as we got back from Rotterdam, we kept chatting and he then came on as our EU agent, and still is! Ben’s a legend.
Any advice for UK bands perhaps nervous of playing outside the UK for the first time?
Don’t be, it’s much better than playing in the UK. You’ll have the best time.
Chris Bainbridge of Man of Moon also shared the following on the duo’s experience of playing Left of the Dial this year:
“It was incredible, we absolutely loved it. Rotterdam is such a cool city and we are definitely gonna go back to play there again. The festival was really well organised and ran smoothly. We had a really good show too at a venue called Perron and we were really Buzzin to walk out onstage to a packed out venue. There must have been 300-400 people watching us which we didn’t expect so that was class. It’s always nice when loads of people come to see you far from home. I’d highly recommend the festival to other bands.”
And as Left of the Dial likes to describe the artists in 3 words, I decided to turn the tables!
Left of the Dial in 3 words?
Adult DVD: “Nothing but fun.”
AK/DK: “Fun, friendly, fantastic.”
Bruise Control: “Loud, fun, friendsfest.”
Man of Moon: “Organised, chaotic, fun.”
Wax Head: “Unparalleled, hospitable, mind-melting.”
For more information on Left of the Dial, including ticket sales for the 2025 edition, please check out their website, facebook and instagram.