Photo credit: Isaac Watson @Whammoth
We were delighted to have the opportunity to connect with Joe Hicklin and Callum Moloney of Big Special following their outstanding performance on the King Tut’s stage at TRNSMT. After their set, our own Karen sat down with the duo for an engaging conversation, delving into their experience at the festival and discussing their musical journey.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Good afternoon, everyone. My name is Karen, and I’m delighted to be here today on behalf of Scottish Music Network. I have the pleasure of interviewing Big Special. Thank you for joining me.
Big Special:
Hello, Karen. It’s great to meet you.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Likewise, it’s wonderful to meet you both. So, you are Big Special?
Big Special:
Yes, that’s us!
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
How has your day been so far?
Big Special:
It’s been fantastic, thank you. We’ve been treated to a rare and beautiful sunny day here in Glasgow, which has been a real highlight. We’re definitely making the most of it.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
It’s certainly the perfect day to be here – almost hard to believe how quickly the weather has changed. Yesterday’s rain seemed to keep some people away, but today the atmosphere is completely transformed. The festival grounds are buzzing with energy.
Despite the challenging weather yesterday, I noticed the spirit remained high. The audience in the smaller venue was wonderful – everyone seemed genuinely happy and energetic. Nothing seems to dampen the mood at this festival. Welcome again! I’m curious, how did the name ‘Big Special’ come about?
Big Special:
The name actually has several layers of meaning. It began as a bit of an inside joke between the two of us – since we’re a duo, we’d joke that we’re ‘not big and not special’, which led to using the name ‘Big Special’ with the asterisks for a touch of irony. We also liked how ‘big special’ could refer to a big event or even a classic order at a chip shop. And, to be honest, one of us is a bit on the big side and the other is, well, quite special – so it just seemed to fit perfectly.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
That’s a fantastic backstory. I love how much thought and humour went into it. You performed earlier today – how were you feeling before you went on stage?
Big Special:
Mostly excited, with just a touch of nerves. Playing an early set means there isn’t much time to overthink – you have breakfast, head out, and it’s showtime before you know it. The energy felt really positive.
Absolutely, the welcoming atmosphere helped calm any nerves. Everyone backstage and in the audience was so supportive.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
And now that the performance is over, how do you feel? Did everything go as you hoped?
Big Special:
Definitely. The sunshine brought out a fantastic crowd. It was really special to see people wearing our merchandise in the audience – it felt like performing for friends and family. We had a great time and are looking forward to enjoying more of the festival ourselves.
It’s a nice change not to have to rush off immediately after our set. We’re planning to catch some other acts this afternoon.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Have you had the chance to explore the festival yet?
Big Special:
Not much so far. We did catch Madra Salach on our stage, and they were incredible. After this interview, I’m definitely heading to try some of the amazing food on offer – it all smells delicious.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
The food options here are always impressive. Did you debut any new material during your set today?
Big Special:
Interestingly, we’ve just released a new record, but we didn’t include any songs from it in today’s set. With only a 30-minute slot and three releases to choose from, it’s always a challenge to decide what to play. We try to tailor our setlist to the vibe of each show, which keeps things fresh for us and the audience.
To be honest, I often mix up the order anyway! I’ve stopped bringing a written setlist on stage because it’s more fun to go with the flow.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
That’s one of the joys of live music – the audience never knows what to expect.
Big Special:
Exactly! Only the sound engineer might notice, but for us, it keeps things spontaneous. If I don’t know what’s coming next, I can’t make a mistake.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Are there any other festivals you’re performing at this year?
Big Special:
Yes, we have several more coming up. Boomtown is a definite highlight for us, and we’ll also be at Beautiful Days, plus a few shows in Europe. We’re taking things a bit slower this summer after three years of non-stop touring, so we’re focusing on one or two festivals a month to give ourselves time to write our next album.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Are there any upcoming headline shows or other notable gigs?
Big Special:
We’ll be returning to Scotland later this year – our Edinburgh show in December is nearly sold out! I can’t recall the exact venue at the moment, but we’re really looking forward to it.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
That’s exciting news – we’ll be sure to keep an eye out. Do you prefer writing music on the road or when you’re off tour?
Big Special:
For us, songwriting happens off the road. Touring is so fast-paced that it’s difficult to find the time and headspace to write. We do collect ideas while travelling, but we need proper studio time to focus on developing them. Writing is a very deliberate process for us.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Who are your main musical influences? Any favourite bands or styles?
Big Special:
We’re both massive fans of The Fratellis. In fact, they’re performing at the festival today. Their music played a significant role in bringing us together as a band – their style, energy, and even their choruses have inspired us. Our dream is to write the next big anthem, something that connects with people the way their songs do.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
It’s important to have those creative aspirations – it keeps you motivated.
Big Special:
Absolutely, having goals gives us something to strive for.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
We’ll avoid talking about football today!
Big Special:
Agreed! For the record, we’re from Birmingham, not Morocco, and we were sorry about yesterday’s match – perhaps things would have turned out differently if Scotland had won! We really felt for everyone here.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Thank you so much for your time today. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and I hope we’ll see you back here next year. Enjoy the rest of the festival!
Big Special:
Thank you, Karen. It’s been great chatting with you.
Karen (Scottish Music Network):
Thank you again. And don’t forget to treat yourselves to something delicious!
Big Special:
We certainly will. Enjoy the festival!
Interview by Karen Edmond
