Where are you right now?
Hello there, I'm in Philadelphia drinking coffee in a basement.
Prior to forming Villagers, you played in the Immediate, how did Villagers come about and how has your approach to songwriting changed?
I guess it all started after The Immediate ended - I began writing songs on my own and once I'd accumulated a certain amount, I put some songs up on the net and called it 'Villagers'. Then I asked some friends of mine if they'd help me play them live. My approach to songwriting changed simply because of the circumstances. It took me some time to gain the patience needed to write alone, but I got there. I'm getting there.
You performed SXSW this spring and are currently on a run of east coast shows, how have you been enjoying the USA?
The USA has been good to me. I feel like I should plant a tree the next time I'm over here. It's too hot at the moment. I can take it though. I can adapt.
Have any shows or cities been particularly memorable for you?
I enjoyed Union Hall in New York- there was something magical about it. All I could see was a big white light and every time someone in the audience said something to me, I imagined that it was the light talking. I adapted my conversation accordingly, but what do you say to big white light? Nothing; it already knows.
Have you found many differences between US, Irish & UK crowds?
I've found many differences between the crowds in each individual venue, but I've had neither the talent nor the inclination to assemble each show into a venn diagram of nationalities in my head. I currently live by my heart and my soul, whatever that means.
We've seen you play some fantastic sets solo, but you also play with a full band. Do you prefer playing solo and does it change how you approach playing your songs?
When I play alone I definitely play the songs differently. I have no control as to where they will take me, and this is reflected in the performance. When I play with the guys, the same is true, except it is reflected in the playing of five men rather than one. This can cause extreme moments of bliss. It is very simple. The whole thing is very simple and loose.
What were some of your inspirations while writing Becoming A Jackal?
I was listening to a lot of Neil Young and Nina Simone, and reading Herman Hesse (Narcissus & Goldmund, Steppenwolf, Demian, Siddartha) . I was also beginning to accept mortality.
Becoming A Jackal has found a great home with many college radio stations here in the states, do you have an affinity for radio?
I love radio. I love listening to a good radio show on a midsummer evening. Alas, too rare a thing it is these days!
You played every instrument on Becoming A Jackal, and contributed both drums & guitar to The Immediate. What was the first instrument you fell in love with and what is your favorite to play?
The first instrument I really enjoyed playing was the pots and pans. Then I fell in love with the electric guitar. At this stage I was playing piano, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I do now. Currently, my favourite instrument is my little acoustic guitar called 'Brrum', who was named after a small Dutch boy who was at a Villagers show recently.
Since 2008 you've opened for a variety of artists, including Neil Young & Tracy Chapman, did they give you any advice?
No, from what I can recall neither of those people gave me any advice. But I watched them from the side of stage and took advice like a sponge.
You'll be coming back to the USA later on this summer and fall, are there any artists you'd love to tour with?
I think I'd like to leave that to the hands of fate.
As you were deservedly named one of "The 50 Best Irish Acts Right Now"are there any Irish artists that are favorites of yours?
I'm currently digging Cathy Davey's new album 'The Nameless'. Although I must confess that I played some of the instruments on it. She is a truly great songwriter and artist.
What are you plans for the rest of the year?
I'm planning on touring until my head falls off, losing any remaining sense of reality or grounding and writing an overwrought and self indulgent album about it. I'm joking. I think that is more of a fear than a plan.
Who is going to win the World Cup?
Win is going to Cup the World who.
Any last words of advice?
Be careful on the stairs and love thy neighbour.
