VANT: "We're going to cause fucking havoc in America"

In Dork’s December/January issue (feat. The 1975, out now), we tackled a bunch of our favourite new bands - the ones whose gigs buzz with excitement, who inspire more devotion in their fans than Emmerdale does from our grans, and who will undoubtedly make 2017 special.

Hey Mattie, how have you found 2016? What was the most exciting thing that happened for VANT?

It's been a whirlwind of confusing consumerism and bad decisions, but on a personal level we've had a blast. Our trip to Japan was pretty amazing, we had our 5th consecutive Hottest Record in the World on Annie Mac last month, and our biggest ever headline show at Scala.

What do you think has been the biggest music-related news story of 2016?

David Bowie and Prince passing away because it was the realisation that one by one all of the greats are leaving us and that is pretty heart-breaking.

What song would you crown banger of the year?

The Lemon Twigs - 'As Long As We're Together', because I feel like if anyone can take on Bowie's legacy, it is this band. Check them out immediately.

What would you most like fans to take away from VANT’s music in the coming year?

The message is huge. We want people to use their voices more and talk about issues in the real world rather than just online.