Words: Ryan Getz and Nate Allen / Photo: Destroy Nate Allen

Combine folk punk, DIY attitude, and the cotton candy hair of Nate and Tessa in the below video and you have a pretty good idea of the vibe that is Destroy Nate Allen. It’s less of a vibe and more of an in your face command to have fun with them, actually. My friend and fellow Tuned Up writer Sandeep Sehbi booked this duo last summer at Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint, a burlesque bar also known for it’s comedy and live music nights. I didn’t get a chance to go, but I’ve heard enough positive things about this band that I felt compelled to include them in Tuned Up’s Audiofeed previews!

[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vt1pq2357H0[/youtube]

Q: Summer festivals seem to be the in thing now, if you had your own, what would it be called? And who would you get to play it?

A: I actually think of this pretty often. I don’t know it would be called but names I’ve thought of in the past include Natefest, Weirdfest, and I’m sure many more.

I’d want to book all the crazy bands that you can’t ever forget. I like artists with distinct personalities each genre has a few weirdo’s those would be the ones I’d pick plus all my friends.

This festival is held over 4th of July weekend. What is your favorite 4th of July tradition?

I like fireworks.

Sweet tea or lemonade?

Sweat Tea. I grew up in Oregon – I still find it a very novel and insane concept.

Describe your band in 3 words.

Interactive, Sing-a-Long, Folk-Punk

If you have played this festival before what is your favorite thing about it? If not what are you looking forward to?

The best fests like this one are all about community. Getting to play is just a bonus and really an excuse to see some of my closest friends.

What’s your favorite fair/festival food? What fair food would pair best with your sound?

Elephant ears were my favorite growing up. Now it’s just so much sugar they make me feel gross. I’d say Destroy Nate Allen is best paired with coffee that’s consumed about 20 minutes before our set.

Is the band trying to send a message to the world? If so, what?

We have many messages we’d love to send out…. but the one that comes to mind is loosen up people. It’s ok to have more fun in your life.

What summer blockbuster has you most stoked? This can include movies that are already out.

Ant Man hands down. One of Tessa’s old co-workers is in it.

What’s the one band from your area everyone needs to know about and why?

Everyone should check out McDougall. He’s from Portland (where we used to live) but seriously he’s awesome https://mcdougallmusic.com/.

Who are you most excited to see on the Audiofeed lineup and why?

Insomniac Folklore and Flatfoot 56. Great friends and amazing live shows.