20 Questions You Didn’t Know You Wanted To Ask... Joe from Superbird

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Ian from The King Rooster

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

Heavy , Hard ,Raw , Real FUNK

No not like 80's cameo or late kool and the gang , id say proper dirt 

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?musically i would say has progressed fairly nicely and got to a position where my writing has got half decent and i know , have worked with , can call on, enough of the right musicians to make whats in my head into records. financially tho i would say like a tea making apprentice still 

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why? 

of ours , either swamp donkey or on the corner . hard heavy raw and manic . not ours , probably Doin the thing by the lefties soul connection , coz its just proper funk with the same 4 ingredients 

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)? 

wow , hard to answer musically, bass playing wise i would say Ernie mckone , for the amount of stuff he was involved with etc when i first got into that "acid jazz" era scene and his pulsating bass lines. jonathan maron, his bass work on the Repercussions Earth and heaven album made me realise i need to up my game and is probably some of the best bass work i've ever listened to. also Dale davies for sheer groove his trills and feel etc (check out esperanto ` - all good things and see what i mean). 

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

ha , when i was a kid , being in my dads car meant being subjected to his meat loaf & queen tapes , both obviously had a lasting impression as i still secretly (well not secret any more lol) like them and they are what made me want to play bass in the first place , i used to zone out and tune into the bass lines , listening to john deacons melodic bass lines weaving around the vocal lines , pure class , but the one that really did it for me and still does to this day is the way the bass comes in on meatloafs 2 out of 3 aint bad , the 2 intro notes so simple but the slide into the 3rd note was a serious moment at 10 / 11 years old and still is today 

6. What are you most proud of?

getting 45's out on detroits funknight records (along side the likes of will sessions etc) playing some of the venues i used to go to way back to watch bands and think wow would be sooo cool to play here (jazz cafe has to be the top one for me especially when the getup played it with the legendary Linda Muriel (acid jazz legend) doing vocals for us) that was cool 

and the king rooster album, from a plan in my head to the finished article in a short space of time and sounding and looking pretty good 

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted? 

NO - coz i know what i want things to be like and sound like and if a label , for example, start the old "yeah can we just do that or this" er , if it aint a good idea then my answer is "NO" they either like and believe in what your doing or if they dont and wanna change things then , er fuck off. 

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?Actually havent been asked anything ridiculous to be honest , apart from a few "promoters" and "djs" who noone has ever heard of wanting me to send them every release on vinyl for free coz they can make things happen for me and the band . i try not to be rude , mood depending , might just email a reply telling them the price or directing them to shops who stock/ juno/ the labels to buy direct. 

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians? 

work with the musicians you want to and respect their ideas , if someone has a vision try get into that and do what they want rather than pissing all over it with your own ideas.if its your own project then get people in who you know sound like the sound you want. be fair , if you all do the gigs , the travel and the work then split the dough. there are a few bands ive heard of where the kinda main person takes x amount and the rest have to share a tiny amount between them , peop;e talk bout shit like that. most people ive met and worked with along the way are really nice and cool 

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why? 

hmmmm , so many to choose from er maybe I NEED YOUR LOVE - JOY (coz its one of my fave bass lines ever) , Actually FORGET ME NOTS - PATRICE RUSHEN (amazing b-line and the amount of radio plays that gets would make life easier) or JOHN HOLT - YOU BABY (as its one of the best tunes ever written) 

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities? 

I dont lol , the music does seem to take over , particulaly when ideas are flowing , no matter what im doing or where then ill be constantly humming ideas into phone or dictaphone , writing lyrics and arrangements down , running off upstairs to grab bass to work out a bass line then next thing i know im getting moaned at cos a couple mins turn into a couple hours then , all the little jobs round the the house havent been done blah blah , its all consuming, but hey thats music 

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience? 

without a doubt , plus the money for musicians is a bit shit , particularly spotify , i dont even use it for that reason , my kids tho , thats all they know , itunes is ok as at least most of the money goes to the artist but yeah the buying experience can never be enjoyed by the kids coming through, that joy felt when a record thats been on your wants list , in your actual tattered and torn notebook , turns up in the racks after 6 years of searching , all the records you used to buy had memories attached . even getting the records now is kinda instant with places like juno so , although amazing , still not as fun. but the record shops are coming back in a good way , soul proprieters in brixton is a proper shop , like the old days , stacked with enough to financially destroy you on every visit. just how it should be.its a shame. 

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band? 

my motivation is making the kind of music i wanna make, if that every brings success (which is looking less and less likely as time ticks away lol) & financial reward that would be cool and a bonus , so far it hasnt and doubt it ever will. the game plan for The King Rooster is to keep turning out heavy hard raw real funk. get it out there on wax for the small minority of proper funk heads and ourselves to enjoy 

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved? 

good old skool djs with turntables and wax, in my opinion are just as skilled and deserving as musicians , the turntables are their instrument. they have learned their craft. but the ones with the computers with the software that beat matches and mixes for them should probably just fuck off i guess. mind u i wouldnt mind a job where u get paid mega money for doing nothing. 

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)? 

as a fan either James mason (sometime in the nineties if my memory serves me correctly, a monday niight at the jazz cafe) he played the whole classic rhythm of life album and it was mesmerising. or The new fast automatic daffodils at brixton academy , who were one of the lesser known manchester indie bands for some bizzare reason because they were fucking brilliant and live completely insane. 

As a performer playing the jazz cafe with the getup with Linda Muriel (yes the acid jazz legend) on vocals , also the saint paul soul jazz festival gigs in south of france (put on by Fabrice / Stefan Garcia)that both the Getup and The King Rooster have played are always memerable due to the place , the people , the bands and just how you are looked after and appreciated while you are there , brilliant. 

16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)? 

Dont really get them , but on the odd occasion a bit of indie style shoe gazing for a couple of tunes and the thought that thank fuck im not a singer does the trick. 

17. When did you last write something? 

last night,yesterday,today , all the time . it never reallt stops , alwys getting ideas popping into my head , humming bass lines into phone recorder, grabbing bass to work out a line that popped into my head, scribbling lyrics and arrangement ideas down , working on demos, it really never stops. 

18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?No because i do it coz i just wanna make the music i wanna make, not to get an army of fans or a garage load of ferraris tho both of those would be a nice bonus, i cant imagine ever stopping as its just part of who i am. i dont get disillusioned because im way past the stage where i think something big might happen etc i quickly realised that proper FUNK dont make paper lol 

19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instruments during recording? 

Well in real funk that doesnt happen anyway coz it just cant , mind u im not against it if its needed , some styles of music no doubt are better for it. but if an artist is doing it to cut costs , ie getting the keys player to bang out a bass line or whatever to save a bit of dough then thats just stupid coz the music suffers and i cant understand why you would sacrafice the end product like that. 

20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions? 

cool , no probs . well you dig proper music , the questions were cool and i hardley ever get asked to do this sort of thing so its kinda nice to get a lil bit of recognition for the music that myself and the band are putting out because theres years of hard graft behind it . cheers

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Sam Q

John Coltrane.... Charlie Parker and The "Blue Note "Records artists spanning from 1958 to 1963..

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...Eddie Piller

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

not really, i have very broad musical taste and appreciate most things from Thomas Tallis and Carl Orff to Dan le Sac and Scroobius Pip and just about everything in between. Not a big fan of techno or metal, although i love the sound and spirit of the first heavy rock bands, just not the kerrang! type of thing

blimey - loads of things, signing and developing Jamiroquai, persuading terry callier to come out of retirement, the blue note club, which was the epitome of my career, acid jazz and all that the label has achieved, loads of shit

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

i would have played bongos on the long version of Move On Up by Curtis, from his first album. the part is amazing and sounds like the percussionist had a great time...one of the best tracks ever - yeah, id loved to have been there

no, I have been massively rich and successful and massively poor and a real failiure. I just do what I do, if success comes great and as i said above, you have to survive and pay your way but I would be doing this regardless. I have done since I started my fanine at 15, thirty years ago

gergory isaacs sleevenotes for the Private Lesson reissue on roots records, about three months ago. i produced the album back in 95 and its out next month as an expanded reissue. i loved that record

don't care. if a record is good then its good. i used to have a big thing about analogue and valve based equipment when I was producing but you cant escape digital processing in the end so it;s pointless. as long as people can play or sing, it;s all good

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Mike from The Mike Lenson Band

 20 Questions You Didn’t Know You Wanted To Ask... Justin Likwid Anderson

      20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...
 Mark from Village Green Machine 

How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

Village Green Machine is a mixture of my favourite mid 60's influences. RETRO loud and proud, we record the music ourselves onto tape, through valves. 1966 is a key year. So many genres were at their peak, folk rock, pop, uptempo soul and r&b. What we do is shot through with a strong English sensibility, informed by the early Floyd, The Kinks, and The Zombies Odessey and Oracle LP. So it's a psychedelic brew, quaint but not twee I hope. I'm never quite sure what's in the tea urn.

Where would you say you are with your career right now?

 The last gig we did was a headline slot at The Cavern. Since then I have been looking after my mum who has Altzheimers, so not much has been happening but I'm on the cusp of getting things rolling again. I badly wanted to be a rock & roll star, but now I just want as many as possible to hear and enjoy what I do. I would like people to find the music, it 2 LPs are on ITunes, there's a video on Youtube. It's not about money or being a star, I see it as an arts project and part of that is creating something I'm happy with (although I'm never satisfied with anything I do) and part of it is about people enjoying it. That validates my life, music has been my life.

Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

Sartorial Of England, is my immediate reaction but that's still unreleased. I like that one because it's about clothes, dandyism and style. Wonderous Place by Billy Fury, is pre beat boom but it resonates with me on a deep level, because it is pure soul, wonder and beauty, pointing to somethng so deep it is beyond my understanding. Marvin Gaye's Baby Don't You Do It, on the fade out, it sounds like God really does exist, it's from another dimension.

Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

Biggest musical inspiration, gosh. Probably a musician called Dave Kusworth. I was in a band with him years ago; he meant it so, so much when he got onstage. His performance was rivetting, compelling. His songs could be delicate, like Syd Barrett or Nick Drake, but when he played rock &roll on electric guitar he was just the best performer in Britain I should think. We had a band called Rag Dolls, but then one called Jacobites. No 1 LP in German Indie charts. There's a documentary being made about him, a MOJO feature a while back. It has to be Dave.

Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

I think people might be surprised that I am influenced by Del Shannon, especially on the material I'm writing now. John Leyton is another one, and briefly I was influenced by Tiny Tim. Re Del, his mid 60's stuff was a mixture of the best mid 60's influences, 12 string guitars, tambourines and Farfisa organs, but it is below the radar, best place to be. Then he did Charles Westover, a psychedelic masterpiece.

What are you most proud of?

What am I most proud of, musically? Getting on BBC radios 2 and 6 without a plugger with my first LP, England's Dreaming Spires. Also MGMT releasing the Jacobites song Hearts Are Like Flowers on their Late Nite compilation. Tom Waits wrote about Jacobites in his autobiography, I suppose I am proud of that, to be truthful it gives me some self esteem.

In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

Have I ever done anything I've regretted to get my music "out there". To be truthful yes, playing poxy little gigs. Visiting the A&R man Saul Galpern years back was a mistake, he wasn't a pleasant guy to meet. I think, chasing people when I was desperate to be a rock & roll star was a mistake. It's degrading. I don't want to feel like a beggar anymore, I've grown up now. In all honesty, the majority of people in the music business are windbags who promise things, then let you drop. That is a rollercoaster of hope and despair, if music is your life.

What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

 Being asked at a gig if I knew any Simon and Garfunkel stuff lol.

What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

The secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians, probably has to be a mutual respect both musically, and personally. Also dependability, is this person going to show up to rehearsals, photo shoots etc.

If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

 I would very much have liked to play on a Morrissey record, and produced it, come up with the guitar line. 3 of The Smiths are on my FB "friends" list, Andy Rourke played a song of mine on his NY radio show. But the fourth member is, ofcourse, an elusive beast.

How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

At the moment my social responsibilities are geared very much towards looking after my mum, the poet LA Lemon whom it grieves me to say is suffering with Altzheimers. Her beautiful nature poems are on her Facebook page. I am virtually housebound but this works in favour of the music, in as much as I am writing at home, it's a productive period. But I can't get to rehearse. I'd really like to play the International Pop Overthrow event at The Cavern again, but it's hard to get care for my mum who has special needs.

In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

When I was a kid, I'd go into town on the bus just to buy one 45, I remember coming back with a copy of Bigmouth Strikes Again, and it was everything just to have that one 45, a real thrill. I get a similar thrill from tracking down a great 50's/60's 45 on Ebay, or, say, a Del Shannon LP. As Johnny Marr said, listening to an LP is a limited experience, you listen to it, it ends, and it's part of the day, whereas with downloads it can go on forever, like my answers:) Vinyl is tactile, literal and visual, it takes up space. The Cramps had to move house it took up so much space:) Downloading has broadened musical experience, but it has come at a price and I would be surprised if people value music as much now they can get everything for next to nothing. Vinyl sounds so amazing, especially on an old radiogram or Dansette.

Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

 Success for me now is about getting as many people as possible to hear Village Green Machine. But actually my main motivation is the music and the style associated with that, the clothes, the hair, the shoes. It sounds superficial but I have a great passion for all that.

DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

 I think a DJ's reputation should be founded upon the quality of the music he or she introduces people to, if t.hey can bring great music to people who have never heard it before, then plainy they deserve cudos. Unfortunately some very famous DJs have pllayed rubbish to people, sometimes for years on end.

To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

My most memorable gig was probably playing at The Cavern bar. I arrived late, stressed and sober, and just got up there. But when they had sorted the monitors out, we blew the roof off and people were dancing, it was great. I enjoyed Hamburg, a lot of people there.

How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

I have played live so much now I don't really get nerves. It is a very natural thing for me to perform, I love it. I'm a bit on the shy side. I find it easier to be onstage than to say hello to the neighbours quite honestly.

When did you last write something?

 I wrote a song yesterday. I never plan to write, but if there is a trauma in particular, a song can appear. They tend to be the best ones, when you're a little emotionally offkilter, and ofcourse this is a silver lining to a bad experience. The deeper shit you're in the better the song lol.

Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

 At one point I told my band, that's it. I'm leaving music. It was at the end of a rehearsal, I packed my stuff away and left. I was tired of being let down by jackass two bit nobodies (and famous record producers}, my personal life was in tatters, and so was I. But ultimately, my enthusiasm came back. I feel recharged now. I don't know what I will do live, but there is new music to release and I'm writing. I would like to say to musicians, don't make music your 100% emotional investment in life, it is not everything. Keep in in perspective. Yes, it really matters but so do other things and actually those things are what can inspire songwriting. All eggs in one basket, then the bottom falls out, that takes a big chunk out of you. Making music and enjoying style and fashion ultimately won through for me, plus the realisation that a creative approach to promotion can bring returns, is what turned my disenchantment around.

What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?

 I think an audience can feel if they are being tricked by electronic intervention when a band is supposed to be playing live. People want to hear their heroes as they are, not propped up. There was an incident years ago when Victoria Beckham dropped her microphone but her singing carried on. The poor dear.

Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

I answered these questions because I am very enthusiastic to get things moving again. My dad died just as we released The Likely Girls album in 2014. We had done some promotional work, but only really getting the album out to radio DJs. So things stalled. Also Matt I much appreciated your response to my FB post. Can send some decent photos. VGM is mostly me playing the parts on the recordings, the band have been a backup to this. Please do keep me posted, I'm really looking forward to the article and hardly need say I really appreciate your support.

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted to Ask.... Billy from The Spitfires!

How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

I'm the frontman and songwriter in a band called The Spitfires. 

Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

Just getting started. Our debut album is out in August and I'm already looking to what we will do next. 

Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

 I think our track 'Stand Down' best sums up us as a band. It's loud, opinionated, unapologetic, energetic and youthful. 

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

 The inspiration for picking up a guitar was from The Jam. But bands like The Specials, The Clash, The Smiths e.t.c they all had the gang mentality and 'if you don't like it, you can fuck off' way of thinking - which is attitude we have. 

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

 Not particularly - I listen to a few different styles of music but I'm won't make apologies for not having a real eclectic range of tastes. I'm into what I'm into and that's that.  

6. What are you most proud of?

 The debut album. It really sounds exactly the way I wanted it to. We spent 6 months getting it to the standard it is and it was worth every second. 

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

 No. We've always done it the way we think it should be done - always stick to your guns. 

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

 To play for free. Which happens more than you would think. There's this whole attitude that we should be grateful for opportunities. It's bollocks - we have to pay for the van, equipment, roadies, accommodation. It costs a lot for a band to be able to tour and you still get these promoters who think £100 for a gig is acceptable because they can't be definite of a crowd. They should do their job and leave us to do ours. 

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

 Having a clear vision. There's far too many bands sitting around thinking about doing things. Just get out there and do it man. 

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

 I don't know. I don't think in that sort of way - I'm more interested in writing and playing my songs. 

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

You keep them separate. It's almost like you live two lives to a certain extent.

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

 Yes I do think fans are missing out on that experience. However we're of a different generation and the Internet and downloading has opened a lot of doors aswell as shut them. Being able to discover a band or song instantly on a phone is a great thing I think. However not paying for their songs or going to see them live isn't. Cos then there's no personal connection. 

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

 If there's one industry where you can't have a game plan at the moment then it's music. Cos no one knows what's happening! They don't know the next phase of music, fashion e.t.c. They'll wait for one band to be successful then create a scene around it. Then it'll all be forgotten about within 5 months. What is success? People buying tickets, buying albums and coming to gigs? We've already achieved that. We just need the scale of people to keep going up and up. 

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

 The DJ thing has never been my thing so I can't really answer that. I only see one side of it. 

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

 We've played some great gigs as a band and I've been lucky to see some great gigs as a fan. The Stone Roses at Heaton Park stands out for me - they were just superb.

My Management

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Joel from The Last Of The Troubadours! 

 1.     How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

 Quite simply, I try and write songs and make music that I enjoy. Using the many influences I have to try and and write the kind of tunes that get me going, that I like. I really think that is a great starting point. Then hopefully they appeal to one or two others too

2.     Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

The Last of the Troubadours have evolved and the current line up has a new edge and energy. After a few live shows airing a new crop of tunes we are now in the process of recording what will become the new album. I am really happy with the direction the sound of TLOTT has gone and can't wait to see what others make of it

3.     Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

Hmmm. That's a tough one! I think I would be better summed up by music as opposed to a lyric. Maybe the riff of The River Boat Song?  It's positive, driven and has a slight edge to it.. Ha. I think the same of the band, whilst I don't liken us to either band, I think the mix of the spirit sound and energy of The Faces and Kasabian. We just love playing together, making music and hope that comes through in what we do?

4.     Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

 I am constantly inspired, by so many things. I'm continually inspired by London, growing up and living in London. The sights the sounds. Musically I am slightly obsessed with George Harrison. Both Beatles and post Beatles. But there are some many great musicians and song writers that I am inspired by its hard to narrow it down

5.     Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

Michael Jackson and Kurt Cobain. In equal measure 

6.     What are you most proud of?

Musically, I am proud to see other people sing my tunes back to me at live shows. Even if it's only one person in a crowd, that's an amazing feeling

7.     In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

 I've been quite lucky on that front. Nothing. So far....

8.     What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

I was asked to cover 1 Direction recently.

9.     What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

I think you need to make sure you have a laugh and enjoy hanging out. Also, you need to be open to suggestions and ideas from others

10.  If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

 That's really hard to answer as there are I many.  I would loved to have played on Hear me Lord from George Harrison's All things must pass. It always gets the hairs on the back of my neck going. 

11.  How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

 It's not always easy but like so many bands trying to have a go, it's a lot of work to keep a band going. Again as so many unsigned band know, rehearsing, recording and dashing up and down the country for live shows costs a fair bundle and requires a lot of commitment.

12.  In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

It could be argued that it is far easier for fans to explore and discover new music with all that the modern world offers. I'm a huge vinyl fan personally. I like to read every inch and love album artwork. I think that would be my only negative of the download. 

13.  Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

 I would say the main motivation is to create good music that hopeful interests others. The plan at the moment is to get the record finished by the end of the year, then get out with some live shoes to promote it in the new year

14.  DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

I know I upset a few with my view on this, and I regularly have this debate with DJ mates of mine. Whilst I respect the skill and creativity of DJing and the fact that any form of getting music to people can only be a positive thing, they are glorified juke boxes as far as I am concerned. I mean, it's like crediting Stephen Fry for the Harry Potter series because of the Audio books..

15.  To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

As a fan it is without doubt bunking off school to get a train to Manchester for the 1996 Main Road gig. It was just magic!! It just had everything!! It was the first time I saw OCS as they supported and it quite simply blow my mind and changed my life. As a performer, it would be The Isle of Wight festival, The 100 Club, and being invited to support The Real People, who are big inspirations of mine last month

16.  How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

 I'm fortunate to not suffer from nerves. I normally have the challenge of reducing the beer consumption level of the boys to take my mind off it

17.  When did you last write something?

 This week. I'm hoping it becomes part of the record. Has a good feel to it

18.  Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

As I said, it takes a hell of a lot of hard work to keep a band with zero financial support going so I would be lying if I said I had never had those moments. More often than not it's when a promoter is being a div or when another band on a bill is being all "Shirley Bassy" about not agreeing to sharing back line resulting in a last minute flap to get the show sorted. But then when you are sat at home and haven't rehearsed for a while and you can't wait to get back in there with the boys

19.  What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?

Music is such a vast varied medium that there is space for everything. It's a merry go round of styles, trends etc and after all it has to keep evolving to keep it fresh and interesting. 

20.  Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these question?    

No problem at all, the main incentive was the £5k fee :)

2O Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...
 Garry from Button Up!

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

hello beat collector thanks for asking. I'm Garry John Kane, musician and independent record label all combined bringing out my own music as Button Up and other artists i like. The label is Button Up Records.

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

in a very productive phase with three releases coming out next few months, "Button Up - Beat Street", "The NewStarts - Vote Yes" and a funky mother from "The DT6 feat Paul Mills - Gotta be the change" track. keeps me busy and excited in my old age haha

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

Button Up - Its A Trip" we got it spot on there.

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

James Brown and Booker T and the MGs

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

Toots and the maytals

6. What are you most proud of?

Button Up - beat street was a fine moment but all recordings i do are special to me and label.

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

we once "button up' agreed to play between two heavy metal bands, wasn't my best decision never sold one cd haha 300 people there. but played a blinder 

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

someone asked if he could bring his son from america to visit button up records HQ. i sent him photo of the small room in my house. he never replied sorry dad

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

i wouldn't know as i have been through a lot of line up changes in past 7 years. when your on it everyones together but sometimes people want to explore their own music without me breathing done their necks. try and stay friends but its an emotional thing music so hard. i try my best and have some loyal musicians who enjoy what i do. the rest i wish them well x

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

Green Onions -  Booker T and the MGS

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

 you just have too family come first but music is also my family?

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

perfect world people go back to buying albums and enjoying the whole record on Vinyl Cd and even i-tunes etc. its not going to happen as i think peoples attention spans are now close to 1minute long. i have to endorse downloads and streaming as it does get your music everywhere but not much revenue back to invest in next albums. its a lot tougher now but we all love a challenge and this is on going

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

success/motivation to me is making the music after its out there its in the hands of the public and up them to make it a success or not. every record you make has ambition and dreams but it hard to breakout unless you get a touch of luck with an advert/film or radio play. pluggers are great for getting your music to the right people but it a lot of money to hire them. £1500 a week average and no guarantees. so i have to get the albums to everyone. just part of the independent labels work 

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

DJs that make their own records deserve as much as anyone but some playing other peoples music and getting more than the writer/band never sits easy with me. i Dj Northern soul sets on vinyl but get enough to buy another few records. Again the public love the big DJ nights and good luck to them and wish them well.

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

my favourite recent go was "king khan and the shrines" in Glasgow waited so long to see them and blow me away thankfully. My Favourite Button Up gig ... theres been a few but the last one at the cavern club in liverpool March 2014 was special to me.

16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

two lines and bottle of whisky haha only kidding. i like to get away have a quiet cig then I'm calm to go on. nerves are good for you and i always get them.

17. When did you last write something?

i just finished wiring Beat Street so on a wee roll just now. my dictaphone is full of little songs and i put them all together  at various time. my next release is a group of friends called The NewStarts and a song i wrote about the Scottish independent debate out 4th of August

18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

haha good timing as after beat Street i was drained. a few members left and i had to replace them in two weeks to complete our gigs. but its all worked out for the better so I'm not stressed anymore and have the mojo back thanks to the new musicians in Button Up. they saved me and can't thank them enough. 

19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?

thats been going on for too long. accountants run things now and its all budgets and shit rather than quality. you can't beat a musician playing his instrument. Theres always something unique comes out of it. digital drumming/ bass sounds rubbish but thats my opinion others would diagree. 

20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

caused you asked nicely haha cheers  

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...Suzi Chunk

How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

I sing in bands n that

Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

I don't really class it as a career as such as I have a "proper job" - but I'm really happy with the projects I do and the people I work with/for - I try to always have fun with it

Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

'The light At The End Of The Tunnel Is The Light Of An Oncoming Train' by HMHB nah - only messing!

Tough question!

Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

The Beatles & Simon & Garfunkel taught me about singing and harmony growing up I guess, but vocally

people like Aretha Franklyn, Otis Redding, Al Green, Janis Joplin,  Etta James, Dusty Springfield and suchlike I aspire to.

Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

I'm a big fan of Dr Hook & The Medicine Show - which people tend to write off as cheesy. 

But they have some fab songs,

some of which are really funny and daft, and others really melodic and beautiful.

What are you most proud of?

I get to work with some of the best musicians around.

In the quest to get the music 'out there' have you ever done or agreed to anything you've later regretted?

Done some shocking gigs in awful places where you just think "why on earth have they even asked us here?"

What's the most ridiculous request that's been asked of you/the band?

Been asked to do loads of random not-in-any-way-funky tunes whilst gigging with my funk band 'Monkjack'. ACDC, Van Morrison etc.

What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

Mutual respect and a sense of humour. Wanting the same things.

If you could have played on one song (that you don't), what would it be and why?

Pretty much anything by Parliament-Funkadelic - hugely under-rated band in the UK I think.

How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

By not getting booked for as many gigs as I'd like :)

In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

There's definitely something lovely about vinyl, but youtube is a fantastic way of discovering new stuff, so I guess it works both ways.

We can't go back, so I guess you just have to make it work - the music industry is undergoing massive changes - we just have to ride with it.

Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

Obviously you want people to hear what you do, so a certain amount of success is necessary, and the more successful you are the easier it

is to continue doing what you love. But I don't think I have the same hunger to "make it" (whatever that means these days) as I did in my early/mid 20's.

DJ's are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it's deserved?

I think it's a mixed bag, there are some really brilliant DJ's, and there are some people getting paid wads of cash for playing other peoples records. Good and bad.

To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

As a performer it was playing Glasto dance tent with Dark Chunk, as a punter probably seeing Graham Central Station in London - awesome!

How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

Always get nerves!! I just use them as an energy once I get on stage. I think I need them.

Have you ever reached a point where you've thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

No, never! It sounds really pukey - but singing and making music feeds my soul.

What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?

I think for those that have the resources and the money - real musicians and real instruments is a must. I understand why people do stuff DIY in their home studios and such-like though.

Synth horns *shudder*

Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

Cos I'm dead nice n that - and cos Groovy Uncle and me have a single out in July on shiny vinyl *nudge nudge*

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Miss Modus!

1.       How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

I am a multi style vocalalist /top liner fiction writing psychiatrist who tributes as Debbie Harry in her spare time .

2.       Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

 Right on track!  My job as a psychiatrist is perfect- diverse and specialised , I love being a doctor- at work it’s a cerebral, ‘non me-based’ life which is good respite from being a persona/Miss modus/Dirty (Debbie Harry)

With music , the past 2 years has just been so exciting. I quit a band I felt was stifling my options to express my new interests and passions in music and performance but  it was a devastating move- like leaving a long relationship. I decided to start up a ‘true to gig’ Blondie tribute act which has been more successful than I could have hoped-( The BBC is  airing a documentary about us in September , prime time slot which is awesome ) Alongside this band – which entirely about the performance as opposed to  invention I hooked up with Italian Hammond player extraordinaire  Paolo Apollo Negri. It was thanks to my previous band that he knew about me and we recorded one song in separate countries. I finally met him when we recorded another in Italy in 2012…we hit it off personally and artistically. I proposed we do something new- a  Space musical with his music and he ran with it. April 2014 saw release of Hotel Constellation. I visit Italy every 4 months or so to record /gig/eat cheese- perfect!

I am now working with song writer Glenn Prangnell AKA Groovy uncle – collaborating on his new album but will release a single under Miss Modus later this year- the music is very authentically retro, non digitally recorded, its been lovely being invited to sing someone else’s work- I’ve had to relinquish control and just let him take the music forward which has been surprisingly relaxing .

I am very excited, happy but not content as yet. I associate contentment with high risk of boredom so best avoided in my book

3.       Which song (not necessarily yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

It depends. I see myself as more of solo artist now as im involved with a lot of different projects but if I had to pick a song which sums me up…probably Cheese Song by Eternal2Warrior (you tube doing its finest)

4.       Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

I really can’t pick 1.

 Vocally Julie Driscoll, Minnie Riperton, Donna Summer, Shirley Bassey, Bill Withers , Karen Carpenter, Kate Bush , Ruth Copeland, Prince They all have very unique voices and use them in really disinhibited styles whist still paying acute attention to the songs they are singing. In terms of attitude and performance I think performers such as Madonna, Kate Bush, Hugh Cornwell, Ralf Hutter, Debbie Harry, Prince are all inspirational figures- its sometimes easy to forget live music is as much about entertaining your audience as feeling the need to express yourself.  

5.       Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

Madonna, …and a bunch of stand up comedians such as Daniel Kitson, Russell Brand, Billy Connelly. I think the same principles of striving to perfect what you do as a singer/musician and then risking doing it live and being spontaneous apply to comedy and music. I have other academic figures who have been influential but this is about the music right ?!

6.       What are you most proud of?

Im proud of over coming some difficulties in my 20s which could have prevented me achieving what I have in my psychiatric career and musically. Im proud that ive managed to persue both passions without a huge amount of compromise. Im proud of my relationships with my loved ones and im proud that my house is always very very ,very clean!!

7.       In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

I stayed in my last band about 5 years too long. I felt id invested too much to leave. I learned a lot about myself because of that experience so I take a lot of positives out of it too.

8.       What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

I have to do a gig in ice skates later this year…..

9.       What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

Don’t be an arshole. Surround yourself with musicians you like as well as rate. Be professional and treat others with that same respect . Reciprocate good deeds and supply nice booze  and snacks post gig- even the wildest muso’s love a cheese wine hotel room party.

10.   If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

Either sang the female vocal part (Merry Clayton) in Gimme Shelter by  The Rolling Stones or sang The Medal by  Ruth Copeland – the band were made up from members of  Funkadelic and Parliament with George Clinton at the centre- wow what a tour that would have been !

11.   How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

It just comes naturally now. Neither work if the other camp isn’t doing okay so its quite a symbiotic thingy

12.   In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

No. I think it just a different experience. Fans of music will do both – so long as music brings pleasure its up to the listening fan to select. There is so much music around it would be impossible to physically buy /afford the access to hearing all this great stuff that’s current and historic. I love holding a record, love browsing record shops and like meeting new folk doing the same  but if I had to have everything I listen to at home it would be living in a 1m squared space. Its also really great to find stuff online that’s obscure at 2am- times have changed- its all good.  

13.   Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

I think it would be difficult to convince myself that being successful isn’t a motivating factor- if you want your music to be listened to by, have opportunities to tour and fund future projects its important to achieve some level of popularity/financial success. When you’re in a band you want your whole band to benefit from hard work , long hours , crap gigs, tireless promoting so a bit of recognition and reward , for me, has to be up there as a goal.

14.   DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

Im not sure its s totally different profession. like comparing successful venues or promoters to musicians. I love a great DJ!

15.   To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

Most memorable was my first ever gig with my first band. We were awful and hated every second - I was as rigid as a stuffed fox- memorable for all the wrong reasons!

16.   How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)

I mess about with the band- have a meal and a laugh then I clean my teeth about 3 times ….OCD channelled  nerves!!   

(To Be Continued...Potentially)

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Paul from The Superminx 70 

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

POS: I sing and play guitar in The SuperMinx’70, my "MODPUNKGLAM" band, our own foot stomping songs with catchy choruses and sloppy guitar solos!

2.    Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

POS: Doing quite nicely with The SuperMinx’70…plenty of live work and some recording in the pipeline, which we release on Plastic Pop Records in the summer. Got our own club night "The BuzzClub" off to a great start down here in SW19. Sponsored by Merc clothing. Lovely!

3. Which song (not necessarily yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

POS: The band…Our closing song "The Waltzer" is a pretty good picture of The SM70…captures a certain Englishness in a most jolly and jaunty way. I like Jolly and Jaunty.

Me? "Reasons to be Cheerful" by Ian Dury.

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

POS: My friend, Rob Symmonds, original guitarist with Subway Sect, with The Fallen Leaves now.Inspirational musician, lovely, lovely man. When I was a kid, my friend Roy Ward, drummer with City Boy (of 5-7-0-5 fame) probably saved me from becoming a complete bleedin’ yobbo!

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

POS: I’m a bloke of a certain age so lots of influences from David Bowie to Max Bygraves (honestly, his version of "Underneath the Arches" is quite beautiful). I am surprisingly fond of the Ohio Players album "Angel" which I got about 30 years ago and it’s still a groovyfavourite.

6. What are you most proud of?

POS: My kids. And my Church’s brogues!

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

POS: I mostly regret NOT doing stuff I should have done when I was a young chap, like working harder!

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

POS: "MORE!!"

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

POS: Be nice.

10.         If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

POS:Spacemen 3, "Losing Touch With My Mind"…Jason and me were pals at school and it’s just an awesome piece of sonic art, wish I’d been on that.

11.         How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

POS: …it’s important to take your responsibilitiesseriously isn’t it? I love my music but I love my missus and my kids more.

12.         In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

POS: Nope. Lot of my pals are a bit ‘stuckist’ about their vinyl and that. Maybe it’s a generational thing but I think if you can move away from having to own the object it’s liberating. I’ve got tons of vinyl but I love Spotify and I’ve been able to access more new music through that than I would be able to any other way.

13.         Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

POS: Well it depends on your definition of success. My motivation is to keep having a nice time with friends. I have a plan for SM70, which is on course.

14.         DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

POS: Good ones make people happy. Fair play to ‘em.

15.         To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

POS: Linda Lewis at The Jazz café a couple of weeks ago gave me goose pimples. I shed a little tear when Brian Wilson did his first comeback show at The Festival Hall it was so beautiful. Spiritualized first show at Brighton Pavillion back in ’91. Meeting Mo Tucker and Sterling Morrison at Mo’s gig at the Zap Club in Brighton also ’91 was special…

16.         How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

POS: I do get ‘em and I don’t know how you overcome them other than getting up and doing the business.

17.         When did you last write something?

POS: Couple of weeks ago. "Do you remember 1974? Kicking a tin can against a garage door, I was Stan Bowles and you were Bobby Moore, and the summer days went rolling on forever…" new SM70 song, ‘1974’.

18.         Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

POS: I did! Gave it up completely for 15 years, didn’t even play my acoustic at home. Got totally bored with it all. Rob Symmonds persuaded me otherwise a couple of years ago and I’m loving it.

19.         What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instruments during recording?

POS: All good. I love my Mod so it’s disappointing that "Mod" has become a term that describes a sort of turgid retro-traditionalism. Weller getting stick for his ‘experimental’ stuff? Daft. I love his electronic business. "Keep On Keeping On" means move forward doesn’t it? Our DJ at the BuzzClub, JeffreyMunday was telling me he played some mod record at a do once and they complained. He said "but it’s the original vinyl" and they said"no mate, you’re playing the stereo, we want the mono version"!!I love electronics in music as long as it keeps the soul. Joe Meek or Kraftwerk or Bowie or Basement Jaxx all do that. There’s a smashing band now called Mountain of Love who mix trad blues with techno and dub and they’re fantastic. Can’t stand soul-less music, electronic or otherwise.

Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

 POS: Your winning smile! Cheers Matt! 

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Paul from The Theme

  How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

Traditional 5 piece band with a wide variety of influences that shine through in our music. 

Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

We are all on a high after releasing our ep "Hits the Sky" which has seen us attract interest from distribution/record labels all over the world. So we are in a good place right now! 

Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

All or nothing by The Small FacesBecause we put 100% into everything we do.

Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise).

I'm inspired by all the great bands of the modernist 60's but Ocean colour scene have got to be my biggest inspiration. From picking up the guitar to starting my first band.

Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

My first love of music came around the Time of Acid House Music and a song called 'Take me away' by 2 in a room.  Which inspired the theme song of the same name. 

What are you most proud of?

Selling out the 100 club in Oxford Street for our debut album launch. 

In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?Not yet! We're all pretty much on the ball and enjoy getting involved in the running of the band. 

What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

To put a big Deposit down to play a gig and if we didn't get a large number of people to come to see us then the deposit was lost. That kind of request is killing live music for aspiring bands.

What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

Always agree with the songwriter!!!!

If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

Won't get fooled again by The who Because they were at the top of their game both musically and as a live band. 

How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

It's never easy juggling the two but having a very understanding and supportive family helps.

In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

As a band or musician with Internet downloading you can get your music to a wider audience. But as a fan of buying music on vinyl, you get that sentimental attachment to the albums and a buzz when taking that record out of its sleeve and making them not just another song on my computer or iPod. 

Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

No gameplan for us! When me and Gary Davis (Vocals) started The Theme in my loft at home just jamming to our favourite songs. Playing gigs and recording music couldn't have been further from our minds. So we have completely exceeded our expectations. 

DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

I'm all for keeping music live but this all depends on the genre of music you are into and DJ's can get a big crowd going just as much as watching a live band. 

To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?Supporting secret affair on the Isle of Wight August 2013 was a great night. 

How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

Drink plenty of strong polish larger! No, personally I don't suffer from pre-gig nerves. 

When did you last write something?

I'm continually writing songs and 2 days ago was the last one. It was called 'Such a Thrill' 

Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

No never! We all get along as a band, most of the time anyway!!

What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording?

Music is changing but it doesn't mean I have to go with the trend. I'm keeping my music completely conventional. 

Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer 

You  asked me!! And it might introduce new people to The Theme.  

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Michael from The Truffles

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

Smoove: Primarily its modern soul music we make with a touch of hip hop production to it. john is the soul and I’m the funk but we tend to drift between many styles like jazz ,disco , Latin, rhythm and blues and northern soul etcTurrell: For me it's all about the live presence most soul bands try to be as slick as possible suites to boots, I like to think we are more about the music the energy, soul with a punk ethos. 

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

S: Probably a lot higher than i ever imagined I would be but when you reach your goal, the goal posts always seem to move a bit further away!T: I've got to admit without my Smoove or his Turrell we would still just be plodding along under the radar but  I think and hope we bring the best out of each other. Its import an to constantly re-evaluate your goals though it keeps you on your toes, hungry.

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

T: It's got to be Beggerman, i think this is what we are about, creating a lot with very little. We are not a band that has had luxury and money thrown at it, the lads do it for very little cash but we have a great time.

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

S: There’s too many to list really but top of the list for me is James Brown , The Pharcyde, Pete Rock, Large Professor, Tribe , De La Soul, Quincy Jones, Marley Marl ,Jazzy Jeff and Cash Money. T: Its the good old hardest question in the world, the great thing with music is that depending what mood and surroundings your in your inspiration can be completely different even on the same record from one listen to the next. I love everything from Tom Waits to Led Zeppelin and further anything where there is craft really.

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

S: I collect vinyl and have over 20,000 records so there’s plenty of stuff in there to surprise myself, never mind other people.T: I really like a bit of KD Lang she's got a great voice. 

6. What are you most proud of?

S: My new baby boy Floyd he’s proppa mint and every time I complete an album is a very special feeling!

T: Much the same as Smoove its got to be my three lovely daughters Isla, Charlie and Georgie.

never ...S: I don’t regret anything I just move on. (Apart from question 8)T: You can't regret things you've just got to learn from them and believe me i'm constantly learning day in day out haha

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

S: To play a cover version of Bruno Mars for Simon Gregson’s wedding (Steve in Coronation Street)...we did it anyway hahahaha!T: The band done it, I sloped off and let Simon and his lovely wife sing it so I think I am vindicated of the Bruno Mars saga!!! haha

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

S: Generally in the studio we tend to work on a one to one basis that way there is no distractions. Most of the musicians I work with are very open minded and willing to exchange ideas and make sense of my bad mumbles.T: I think we try to be as fair as possible from how much the lads put in and what credit they get to the wages they get from shows, if everything is clear the rest is easy.  

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

S: Don’t stop till you get enough! The orchestral elements are so sick!

T: White Room by The Cream these lads knew how to play!!!

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

S: As a self employed label owner/producer/dj it’s a fine balance to keep swimming above water but being a husband & father helps keep my feet on the ground!T: Its hard, I don't think I've stopped for the last 5 years, away working every weekend then back to full time work on Monday and family life on top it leaves very little time to create music so I'm over the moon at what my self and Smoove get done.

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

17. When did you last write something?

18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instruments during recording?

20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Lack Of Afro 

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated? I'm a record producer, remixer, musician and DJ. A jack-of-all-trades I guess...and master of none. I'm always learning.

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now? I'm in a good place. After a lot of hard work, I think I've finally got the right approach to the processes that go into making the music that I want to make. I'm producing other artists, got side projects on the go and am collaborating with some amazingly talented individuals. Yeah, I'm definitely in a good place.

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why? "I Got Ants In My Pants (And I Want To Dance)" No explanation needed...

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?Musically I cant look much beyond James Brown. His sound, energy and 100%, balls-out commitment to the cause y'know? I also get inspired reading about old jazz musicians, struggling to make ends meet in what was an amazingly creative time. The hours they put in and the sacrifices they made, just to do what they loved to do were incredible.

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why? It may seem weird but I dont actually listen to a lot of funk in my spare time anymore. Its overkill for me and then it becomes detrimental to what I'm trying to achieve when I produce tracks. I need that freshness. Actually I probably listen to more electro, soul and jazz in my spare time and they have been big influences recently. I keep my ears open.

6. What are you most proud of? I'm proud of everything that I do. I've got to be, otherwise I'd be cheating both myself and the people who buy my records by putting it out. Currently, I'm most proud of the album thats just about to hit the shelves, "This Time". Its the best record I've written.

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted? Absolutely. I was persuaded by a label-head (who shall remain nameless but he knows who he is) to "produce" an album by a new signing of theirs. He convinced me it'd be good exposure at that point in my career. I worked my bollocks off on it, and he paid me next to nothing. He knew all along that it would do me no favours, but suckered me right into doing it anyway. I was naive, I should never have listened to him and I learnt my lesson.

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band? I get ridiculous requests all the time. However, it is as a DJ that it really gets stupid. I lose count of the number of times people request "something we can dance to". I'm a DJ who plays funk/soul/latin/beats - you'd think that the whole point would be to get people on the floor right? I did a wedding recently and I must've been asked for "anything by the Black-Eyed Pes" about 8 times. I've been known to get a bit angry...

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians? Mutual respect - you can hear it come through in the music.

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?"Stupidity" by Solomon Burke. One of my favourite soul tracks of all time - it makes you feel real good.

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities? Its always tough. As many people will tell you, music is all-consuming and consequently it can be hard to achieve the right balance. Fortunately I have a very understanding girlfriend and an amazing family who know how important it is to me. That said, I think I'm pretty good at seperating the two most of the time.

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience? Definitely. I dont care what people say - holding a physical copy of an album that you've just spent your hard-earned cash on is SO much more rewarding than just hitting a button and downloading a load of one's and zero's. Its the way of the world I guess, and I cannot deny the conveniance of mp3s. However, you'll never convince me that downloading is better than actually buying a physical copy. Apart from anything else, I feel you get so much more out of an album that you've bought as opposed to one that you've downloaded. Its just the way it is.

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band? It depends on how you define 'success' I guess. If I wanted my music to be heard by millions of people and have riches beyond my wildest dreams, then I wouldnt be writing the kind of music that I do! I know funk & soul is a niche market, but for better or worse its one that I am incredibly passionate about. It exists because the poeple who love it support it to the full and I'm very grateful that they do. You get the bullshitters and timewasters that you get in any other part of the music industry, and that makes it hard sometimes, but ultimately my gameplan hasnt altered: to make the best music that I can and to be the best producer that I can be.

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved? I used to think DJs were over-hyped and over-paid. To a certain extent some still are, but being a DJ myself, I can appreciate the amount of hard work that goes into putting a good set together. Not only that, but all the travel and waiting around in airports and hotels can be a killer. At the end of the day, its entertainment, its showbusiness, so if they pull in the punters and make a shedload of money for the promoter, then they deserve to be paid well for it. I always have more respect for DJs who produce their own material mind you.

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)? Its hard to split them, but coincidentally they happened at the same festival. DJing at The Big Chill was amazing, then I saw The Black Seeds at the same festival. I didnt think they'd be as good as they were - they blew me away.

16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)? I dont think there is a cure. If you get nervous, you get nervous - simple as that really. The only way to get rid of them is to start playing. Dutch courage can work, but it can also backfire spectacularly...

17. When did you last write something? Today. I try and follow John Williams's advice of writing something everyday, even if its just a few bars. Its amazing what can happen when you're not feeling creative.

18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)? Frequently - doing this as a full-time job can be soul-destroying at times - its a hard business, your mind is active 24/7 and sometimes there's no escaping it. There have been times when I think about going back to a regular 9 to 5. But then I remember - I love doing what I do and I'm very lucky to be able to do it. When its good, its 100 times better than any 9 to 5 can possibly be!

19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instuments during recording? Everything in its place - if thats what the track needs, then I dont care whether its made by animal, mineral or vegetable! I listen to a lot of electro anyway so its all good with me, you're probably asking the wrong person! It really does depend on what music you're producing and what is right for the track.

20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?No problem - its always good to talk :-)

20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask... Neil J. from Stone foundation

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

          The sound of the small town soul.........

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

           Our adventures in the underground seem to be coming up for daylight, thing's are on the up.

3. Which song (not necessarily yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

           Tracing paper "United we stand, divided we fall" always strikes me as the bands call to arms, and a great song to play live.

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?

           Pete Williams (dexy's ex bass player) and an inspirational gig some years back in Birmingham, thanks pete.

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?

           Song's from the studio sound system can include anyone from - Family to Kokomo, Frankie Miller to The Sugar Hill Gang, Van Morrison to The Fairfield Four, Love and the Amorphous Androgynous.........I could go on and on, our taste's are wide ranging.

6. What are you most proud of?

           To Date, i'd say the new record "The Three Shades of Stone foundation", working with artist's like Nolan Porter and Joe Harris (The Undisputed truth) was a great thrill for us.

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?

           To quote Mr Walker "No Regrets" we never compromise the band or the music

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band?

           Joe wanted us to cover "Fear of the dark" by Iron Maiden, that was a step to far :)

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?

           Understanding and friendship

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?

           Syl Johnson's "Concrete Reservation" at the moment anyway, taken from "Is it because i'm black" an astonishing record, to sit in on any of those soul records would have been amazing.

11. How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities?

           We have very understanding families, we're very lucky in that respect.

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience?

          I would always want the physical experience that vinyl or cd's give you, the credit's, the artwork, the sleeve notes, our new record has sleeve notes by one of our favourite authors Paolo Hewitt (you wouldn't get that with a download) and record shop's, we spend hours in those places, looking for that hard to find gem. I understand the need for downloads, but we all seem in too much of a rush nowadays.

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have  a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

          I think writing, recording and performing is our main motivation, what comes along with that, comes along. As for gameplans, thing's are that busy at the moment we're just going from gig to gig really, the next big thing on the horizon is supporting The Specials on their UK tour in october, we're all really looking forward to that one.

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved?

           We live in a celebrity culture these days, and their doesn't seem to be much back bone to anything in the mainstream, i can't blame people for getting it while they can, but who really wants to hear a dj who plays hardly any records and just talks about themselves for hours, i listen to very little mainstream radio.

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)?

           As a fan Bruce Springsteen and the e street band "The rising tour", as a band the last time we played the 100 club was especially fantastic, that's a wonderful venue.

16. How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)?

           When the light's go on they always seem to disappear.

17. When did you last write something?

            Yesterday

18. Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)?

            At the moment we seem to have to much on to think straight, The new record's out in september, the specials tour in october/november and we're already putting plans together for bringing Nolan Porter back over in 2012 along with a few other collaborations we have in the pipeline, it's a really exciting time, and some of the dark days of SF seem a million miles away.

19. What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instruments during recording?

           As long as it's a Monotron we don't mind

20. Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions?

  20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask....THE BONGOLIAN!

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?         100% Heavy Bongo Vibes, Big Beats with Vintage keyboard sound scapes

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?        In the Garden

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?     If you want to some it up in one song I guess Its The Riviera Affair from the new album but the best and nicest way Ive heard the sound described was form a review in a magazine that had all my heroes in one band playing together, I think it was Brian Auger, Ray Barretto and Jean Jaques Perry all on psychedelic space Holiday freakin out. 

4. Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)?  Bernard Perdie and Colin The Caretaker

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why?    Elvis because most people dont know Ive been to Gracelands

6. What are you most proud of?  my new Loafers

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted?  If there were more Ladies in the music business then I would have gladly done anything but they are mostly men so sadly no.

8. What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band? where a headset mic (like Phil Collins wore) onstage

9. What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians?  Drink

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why?Bohemian Rhapsody as Ive always seen myself as a sort of lo budget Freddy Mercury.

(Apologies - the rest was lost in site transition)

 The Guest List: Pete Collison from The Fantastics - 'Pete's Mix'

 I Got A Thang, You Got A Thang, Everybody’s Got A Thang - Funkadelic

Attica Blues - Archie Shepp

Nuther'n Like Thuther'n - Willis Jackson

Shuckin' And Jivin' - Johnny Lewis Quartet

Confusion - Boogaloo Joe Jones

Loose Here - Kain

Funky Fire - Billy Larkin & The Delegates

Jumping - Charlie Antolini's Power Dozen

Listen Here - Brian Auger & The Trinity

That's Your Bag - Billy Hawks

The Guest List:  Natty Vader's 'SoundSystem Vol.2'

 Everything I Own - Ken Boothe

Stop That Train - Clint Eastwood & General Saint

Set The Sun - Breakestra

Hold On - Flevans

Let's Take A Walk - Raphael Saadiq

Ran Kan Kan (Thunderball vs.Fort Knox Five) - Tito Puento

Now That We Found Love - Third World

Mercy - Third Degree

Cordao Da Insonia - Ceu

Swan Song - Babyhead

Do You Love Me - Lee Fields & The Expressions

Peaches - Dub Pistols feat. Rodney P

The Gold - John Brown's Body vs. Dubmatix

Uptown Top Ranking - Althia & Donna

54 46 Was My Number - Aswad

Crazy - Alice Russell

The Guest List:  'A Message From The SoulSistas! - A Mix by HeavySoulBrutha

Intro

A Message From The SoulSistas - Vicki Anderson

Kissing My Love - Spanky Wilson

Boss Love Maker - The Emotions

Is It Love Or Desire - Betty Davis

What Condition My Condition Was In - Bettye Lavette

You've Been Gone Too Long - Ann Sexton

Break In The Road - Betty Harris

Light My Fire - Astrud Gilberto

Look What You've Done To Me - Sheila Skipworth

Let Me Be Your Lovemaker - Betty Wright

Funky Soul - Drummetts

War - Carla Whitney

An Earthquake's Coming - Black Velvet

The First Thing I Do In the Morning - Joyce Williams

Dirty Tricks - The Sweet Inspirations

Happy Fool - Belva

Make Me Believe In You - Patty Jo

Feelin' Alright - Lulu

Hang On In There - the Stovall Sisters

I've Been Turned On - Jo Armstead

The Guest List: Planet Mondo's 'Rockadoodledoo!'

Jack Ross - Mumbles

The Charts - For The Birds

The Earthworms - Mo' Taters

Roger & The Gypsies - Pass The Hatchet

Little Joe Hinton - Tired Of Walkin'

Richie Barrett - Some Other Guy

Hank Ballard & The Midnighters - The Hoochi Coochi Coo

James Brown & The Famous Flames - Tell Me What You're Gonna Do

Joe Tex - Yum Yum Yum

Sam Butera - Bim Bam

Thurston Harris - Do What You Did

Jack Hammer - Wiggling Fool

Bobby Christian - Enough Man

Barbara and the Boys - Hootie Sapperticker

Jimmy Heap & His Orchestra - Gismo

Barney Kessel - Honey Rock

Phil Upchurch Combo - You Can't Sit Down (Parts 1 & 2)

Syko And The Caribs - Do The Dog

Billy Preston - Midnight Hour

Lee Moses - Reach Out

Wynder K Frog - Sunshine Superman

Levon & The Hawks - He Don't Love You

The Strangers - Mary Mary

Favourite Sons - That Driving Beat

Bobby Rush - Sock Boo Ga Loo

Wynder K Frog - Green Door

Tom Jones - The Lonely One

Little Richard - Dance What You Wanna

Shirley Ellis - Sugar, Let's Shing-A-Ling

The Happy Cats - These Boots Were Made For Walkin'

Laurel Aitken & The Soulmen - Last Night

Wild Billy Childish And The Blackhands - Who Do You Think You Are Kidding Mr Hitler

The Guest List: Casserole Music's 'SciFi Sounds Of The Sixties'

Emphasis - Rocking Bird

Nino Nardini - Tropicial

Jonny Pearson - Flying High (Edit)

Nino Nardini - Shere

KhanGap Mangione - Boys With Toys

DJAZZ # 6 - Dudley Moore

Shawn Lee - Changing Times

Shawn Lee - Electric Tit

Shawn Lee - 26

Nino Nardini - Poltergiest

Cedar Walton - Road Island Red

Dieter Roth - My Kind Of Sunshine

Lo Fidelity Jet Set Orchestra - Modal Shopping Guide (Edit)

 The Guest List:  Melting Pot 3rd Anniversary Sampler

What Condition My Condition Is In - Betty Lavette

I Can’t Break The News To Myself - Ben E King

After The Laughter - Gene Chandler

They’ll Never Know Why - Freddie Chevez

I’m Gonna Leave You - Bobby Powell

Wrapped In A Dream - Lou Lawton

The Hurt - B B King

Bright Sound - Big Moose & The Jams

Let’s Wade In The Water - Marlena Shaw

He’s Coming Home - Beverly Ann

Cool Jerk - The Coasters

The Who Who Song - Jackie Wilson

Too Experienced - Eddie lovette

Sweet And Dandy - Toots & The Maytals

Give And Take - The Pioneers

Broadway Jungle - The Flames (AKA Dog War)

Things Have Got To Get Better (Get Together) - Marva Whitney, Lyn Collins & James Brown

What Have You Done For Me Lately - Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings

Love Addict - Honey & The Bees

Shot Down - Lee Fields & Sugarman & Co.

00-43GM - Marva Hodge & The Moody Sec

Now That You’ve Made Up Your Mind - Val McKenna

You Don’t Love Me - Gary Walker

I Don’t Need No Doctor - Ray Charles

Seven Days Too long (Demo) -Berry Tweed & The Chasers

   TheBeatCollector:  Guest Mix for Fajita Funk / Futurebeat Radio

Junkie Hustle - Earths Delight

Backtalk - The 2nd Amendment Band

Thinking Black - Ike Turner & The Kings Of Rhythm

Yeah, You’re Right - The Meters

The Big Apple - Uncle Sam

I Think I Made A Boo Boo - Rufus Thomas

Switch no.1 - Who (Ngubani)

You Can’t Go On - Lonnie Lester

I Dig Your Act - The Whatnauts

Jamos Soul - Jamo Thomas

Budos Theme - The Budos Band

There Was - The Naturall Band

Pick Up The Pieces One By One - A.A.B.B

You Said A Bad Word - Joe Tex

My Credit Didn’t Go Through - Freddie King

Who’s Making Love - The Commodores

I’d Rather Be With You - Bootsy Collins

 The Soul Chef presents‘Another Fufu Funk Fix’

 TheBeatCollector: Guest Selection for Parkdale Funk

Ooh Yea - Betty Davis

Sidra’s Theme - Ronnie & Robin

Comin’ From A Higher Place - Baby Charles

Hold It Down - The Quantic Soul Orchestra

The 900 Number - The 45 King

Outrage - Booker T & The MG’s

Wiggle Waggle - Herbie Hancock

Do What You Gotta Do - The New Mastersounds

Turn Off The Light - Larry Youngs Fuel

Koochie Koochie Koochie - Mavis Staples

Smiling Faces Sometimes - Rare Earth

Thinking - The Meters

Football - Mickey & The Soul Generation

Les Joies De L’amour - New Jersey Kings

Answer To Mother Popcorn - Vicky Anderson

Rough Out Here - Modulations

 The Guest List: Planet Mondo’s ‘Mondo Internationale’ Mix

Brigitte Bardot - St Tropez

Jimi Hendrix – Crosstown Traffic

The M & S Band – Egg Roll

Quantic Soul Orchestra – Panama City

Delroy Wilson - Funky Broadway

Jackie Mittoo - Juice Box

The Supremes - Bad Weather

Brand New - Earthquake Pt. 1 & 2

Chakachas - Jungle Fever

Assagai - Telephone girl

The 20th Century - Hot Pants

Joe Bataan - Latin Strut

Sandi & Matues - The World

Spanky Wilson – Light My Fire

Patti Drew – Fever

Sammy Davis Jr – You can Count On Me

Izzy Royale – Coronation Street

 The Guest List: Soulico’s ‘Archeology’ Mix

- Boaz

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask.... Chris Corsale (and Brendan O'Connell) from The Right Now!

How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?I'd say it's hard to just say we're a soul band with a straight face, but we're a pop band with a lot of soul. We're definitely part of the soul revival movement that's going on, but there's enough contemporary pop and R&B in our sound to make sure we don't get left behind when the movement wanes.

2. Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now?

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...Eddie from The New Mastersounds

1.How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated? 

It would be nice to not put a label on what we do.. it’s good music that is definitely aimed at making people dance, combining all the influences the four of us have had…musically and in life experiences..trying to create an honest and human expression of this.  

2.Where would you say you are with regard to your career right now? 

Right now we are enjoying the hard work of the last ten years.. playing to bigger audiences all the time and generally being respected and recognized for what we do.  All one could ask for really!  

3.Which song (not necessarily yours) best sums you/the band up and why? 

It’s impossible to summarize the band’s journey for 10years, and my own for 20… we’ve been hitting a point over the last two shows where we land on a groove and just sit there bubbling away …I realized and exclaimed..’the NMS definitive groove’, but I guess you’ll have had to be there!  I think the first time I realize I’d found my genre was shortly after I’d arrived in Leeds (from my Welsh homeland) and was given a cassette tape of various soul jazz tracks by some local DJ’s – this was the first time I heard Grant Green…and heard the ‘sound’ that made sense to me.  

4.Who would you say has been your biggest inspiration (musically or otherwise)? 

I’d say my older Brother!  He was the one who, from when we were 11 and 13 respectively, started the quest of musical discovery..and still to this day is still integral in my musical discovery.  I just had the pleasure of repaying him a little by not taking no for an answer for him to travel from Cardiff to Leeds, to stay only 12 hours, but to see Dr Lonnie Smith trio (also featuring Melvin Sparks) in my friends 100 capacity bar, Sela. We were floored by the experience..  

5. Is there anyone amongst your influences that you think would surprise people and why? 

It may surprise or not, but John Coltrane is a massive influence on me and on how the band works.  Musically quite different, but the way the John Coltrane Quartet operated…the ‘band’ sound, the communication and movement of ‘one’ that comes from them was a big part of what I wanted to achieve with NMS, and sometimes I really feel that we get there.  

6.What are you most proud of? 

I’m really proud of every show that really ‘happens’.  That may sound a bit pretentious, but in this game we say ‘you’re only as good as your last gig’!  

7. In the quest to get the music ‘out there’ have you ever done or agreed to anything you’ve later regretted? 

The first album ‘Keb Darge presents….’ All went a bit pear shaped with the label BBE.  I don’t actively regret it as it was a springboard in some senses..but it did make the band fall apart in the following 2 years, and we had to restructure the way we worked and the responsibilities.  It’s when we set up One Note records so we would be in control of our rights.  

8.What’s the most ridiculous request that’s been asked of you/the band? 

We do find ourselves in some crazy scenario’s…like when we played to 2000 boy scouts, or when we played the British Ambassador to Mexico’s garden party (in Mexico city)… or 10,000 feet up mountain in Colorado while the sun goes down.. sometimes you have to check yourself and realize that you’re there and this is actually happening. 

9.What do you think is the secret to a good working relationship amongst musicians? 

It helps if you all share a similar goal; are relatively easy to get on with, being able to hang out..without being bland!, and don’t have an untreatable body odor problem.  

10. If you could have played on one song (that you don’t), what would it be and why? 

11.How do you make the balance between music and personal responsibilities? 

12. In light of the internet and downloading do you feel that fans are missing out on the record buying discovery/experience? 

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band? 

14. DJ’s are now as famous as a lot of the bands they play, what are your views on this and do you think it’s deserved? 

15. To date, what has been your most memorable gig (either as a performer or as a fan)? 

16.How do you overcome pre-gig nerves (if you get them)? 

17.When did you last write something?  

18.Have you ever reached a point where you’ve thought about throwing the towel in and walking away (and if so, what persuaded you otherwise)? 

19.What are your views on electronics muscling in and replacing live instruments during recording? 

20.Lastly, thank you for your time. What made you agree to answer these questions? 

What? Talk about myself? Are you kidding! I could do it all day (and probably do) haha…  It’s just nice that anyone’s interested.

 20 Questions You Didn't Know You Wanted To Ask...Paolo Apollo Negri  

1. How would you best describe what you do to the uninitiated?

Well, I play the Hammond organ, of course!  I’ve been playing in several bands in the last 15 years, from The Link Quartet to Wicked Minds, Ray Daytona and many more! I’ve always tried to cover the wider range of styles, funk, jazz, soul, beat, pop, prog-rock, psychedelic, kraut, surf, garage, everything that I like!

I've played since I was 6 but music has become my job only for the last 3 years. I must say I’m really happy about how things are going now, there are a lot of projects going on, but I don’t really know "where" I am at the moment! To be sincere I hope to be at the beginning, I’m expecting much more to happen in the future! 

3. Which song (not neccesarilly yours) best sums you/the band up and why?

It’s very hard to name a single title simply because I love too many different things and styles to be summarized in a single song! I think that the A-side of my last 45 (which is titled "Paparazzi") is the one I would choose, it's a retro funk/rock soul song and there’s a lot of my musical influences in it… so, even if not completely, that’s the tune I would choose to answer your question…

When I was 12 my father moved his old vinyls to our house and I put my hands on Brian Auger’s discography… well, that day I decided what I would like to become in the future. So I think that Brian is my biggest inspiration even if my style is quite different from his one, I never wanted to be a clone!

As I said before I love many different things so probably there’s a lot of titles that people would not expect from me. I could name bands like Soundgarden, Beck, Morphine, Einsturzende Neubauten, Sonic Youth, Rage Against the Machine… there’s a lot of bands that I always liked and followed that are so far from what I play, but I think that they influenced me in some way…

Ah ah, my sideburns and my 1961 A-102 Hammond (it’s called Miss Cherry)!

No, I have never done anything like that. I always tried to play what I like, if something is not "good" to my ears then I think is not good for me! During these years I’ve met several people playing in bands which were trying to reach for success and I always had the impression that these people were not playing something they really enjoy, the were playing what "people" are supposed to like… the result is that people don’t like what they are playing simply because they are not enjoying their own music! Quite perverse I think!

All the times we have been asked - with reguards to different bands - to shoot videos! You know, if you want a "cool" video you have to spend quite a lot of money and so we have always been asked for "cheap" videos and everytime it has been so funny! The first I had was with an italian Dj and they made me wear very high heels shoes…and they were so small that I nearly got my feet broken, crazy! Then we had a video with the Link Quartet where we exchanged our instruments, so I was playing guitar and it was so ridiculous! The most recent one we had was with Wicked Minds. A friend of ours had to film me during the solo and he was standing right beside the Hammond. The song started, I playied the solo and he shot from the upper side, right above my hands…when everything was finished and we watched the video we discovered that he was using the camera upside down and so during the solo he filmed the roof, ah ah ah ah!!!

Well, it’s hard to say, every band has its personal point of equilibrium, I think it depends on who is involved in the band and I don’t have a universal recipe for how a band should behave. What I can say from my personal experience is that too many heads thinking in a band is not an easy deal to manage! Better to create a center, to have one main head thinking and the others to follow. It must sound rough - and I’m not saying that I am that leading head!! - but it’s the safer way I think. I've played in bands where 5 people try to do all the work together, it was like hell! In other projects where guitar players or singers were the leading figures we have never had problems, everything follows a more precise scheme and I think this is the best formula. Of course the ideal relationship is based on friendship I think but it’s hard to find such a situation! It's  happened to me at times in  bands where friendship was the base and these have been the best experiences for me! I’m talking about The Link Quartet and Wicked Minds, in both these bands we have had a very good relationship and we have had so much fun together, and still we are good friends! I think it’s a very rare situation and I can call myself lucky for having experienced it!

I’d like to be Leslie West playing "Missisipi Queen" with Mountains or John Bonham playing drums on "Whole lotta love"…or even Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar… ah ah don’t ask me why because I don’t know how to explain it!

Well, music is my job so, in the last years in particular, music has become a part of my personal responsibilities. Maybe too much I must say! You know, it’s easy to lose the pleasure in what you are doing if you do it as work. I’m trying to make this not happen and I think that the secret is not to give it too much importance…if you still have fun in what you are doing then everything is easier and lighter and even your personal responsibilities seem to be easier to manage!

I think that the internet and downloading has brought a wider range of people to music. Think about iTunes or even myspace, you can find almost everything you are looking for in a few seconds, this was fantascience just 15 years ago! And more and more people are approching music now that is so easy. Of course this resulted in a loss of sales for the record companies and indie labels too. I’m not sorry about this because it forced the majors to lower the prices and the indie labels to be very focused on quality, which I think is a good point! Of course things are changing very rapidly so I think it's too early to make a balance. Of course the music business will have to face other challanges in the near future. This is, as usual, scarey on one hand but very exciting on the other…I think nobody can predict what will happen with new technologies in the coming years but I feel that we have a great opportunity on our hands!

13. Do you think that success is your motivation and do you have a preset gameplan for your music/the band?

If success would have been my motivation I would have joined Madonna 10 years ago!  I’m joking, but I think that success is something that you can expect only in a second moment, it's an effect not a cause. If you try to plan and try to decide if a song is a good song or not, or a project is good or not - thinking if it can be successfull, I think you are wasting time! A lot of musicians and producers consider the listeners like they are stupid, like they will listen to everything that has been promoted correctly. I don’t believe this! I think that people, even those that don’t care about music and don’t have a deep musical culture, can recognize a good product from a bad one. You can have an immediate success making shit but in most cases you are gonna be no one in the next 6 months! Quality is what makes good music different from bad music I think!

So, if any success will come I’ll be glad (and I’ll give you a lift in my limousine), but if it doesn’t come it’ll be good anyway, because I’ll be proud of what I have done and I won’t have anything to regret!

Well, I must admit that Djs - the good ones of course! - have a musical feeling that many musicians are lacking. I mean, musicians are often related to their instrument, the way they feel the music is filtered through their skill and other things that make their musical sensibility very far from the "common" peoples taste and feeling. Djs - always the good ones! - have a more "general" feeling about music and this is why I’ve always found it interesting collaborating with them! It’s a more concrete approch to music, please pass me this word, but more effective from many points of view! Now depending on the genre you are playing I personally think that having a good Dj in the line with your producers is always a good plus to your work!

The one we had with The Link Quartet supporting Manu Chau had been amazing, 20.000 people or something, incredible!!! I think I smoked 50 cigarettes before and during the show, ah ah! Then I must quote the one we had together with Brian Auger, it's not hard to argue why! And the Burg Herzberg and Crescendo festivals we did with Wicked Minds together with Hawkwind, UFO, Wishbone Ash and many others, they have been really huge and amazing, I’ll never forget them!

Once I used to smoke but now I quit so it’s only about waiting  Anyway, having a drink is something that makes me cooler and relaxed so this is the way for me now!

Tracklistings from a selection of TheBeatCollector’s original sets ...

Push It Up -Cookin' On 3 Burners

Spooky - Mr.Day

Hotdoggin' - Nick Pride And The Pimptones