How would you describe the sound of the band on the new album (‘Love and Peace and Sympathy’) and was there anything different in the recording process this time around?
The album was recorded live with very few overdubs. 5 of the tracks were recorded take one and the rest we had 2 or more goes at. The whole thing was done from start to finish in about a week. The sound of the band is expansive but inexpensive. It felt like making a first album again.
Who designed the striking butterfly album cover?
Paul Barton. I think he builds posh sheds.com
The band originally formed in 1996, seventeen years later, what still drives you on?
The music.
You have a gig at London’s Bull & Gate on 01 May as part of the venues closing celebrations. As another landmark venue falls by the wayside are there any special memories you have of the Bull and Gate you can share?
We did a 'secret' album launch for our third album there. The actress Thandie Newton came to see us. There were paparazzi outside and I stood and watched them and thought it was hilarious. A bit like the Yardbirds guitar neck scene in Blow Up. I was worthless on the street standing next to the press waiting for the film star but then I was the centre of attention inside whilst on stage.
You have a tremendous about of experience in the music industry. Has it been like joining the army and seeing the world or how would you sum up your career so far?
A tragedy of sorts! I don't think I have that much experience with the music industry because I have spent all my time trying to make and sell music from outside of it!! The Army would have been better. At least I could have killed people legally.
How would you describe one of your other projects ‘Twelve’ and do you write for both bands?
Yes. Twelve is just me though!! It's electronic and sounds a bit like Kraftwerk having a party with John Carpenter.
Listen to the awesome 'Fall Into Your Arms taken from the new album HERE
You have a photography website with pictures of 92 football league grounds, are there any funny stories from you time collecting these photos?
Not really, unless you think getting up at 4 in the morning is funny to be in Torquay by 8 am, then hit Exeter, then Bristol City, Bristol Rovers over the bridge to Cardiff, completely drenched on the way to Swansea then breaking down in Monmouth before going to Hereford and Burton on Trent. All on a 500cc bike. That was just one leg and there were many others like it. I still don't know how I motivated myself!! I did it all off my own back and without any funding. I took me 2 years.
What was the music you listened to back in School/College days that blew you away and do you still sing those songs in the shower today?
Neil Young, The Stranglers and Heavy Rock/Metal. I don't listen to much metal anymore these days.
You have toured or come across many other musicians during your career so far, was there anyone you particularly learned anything from, that stuck with you?
Yeah, Julian Cope, never let your ego overshadow your music. It's ok to create a bullshit fantasy world around you but the moment you start to believe in it you'll lose your band and all your mates.
Where is the closest record store to where you are now based?
There's still a couple left in Nottingham! We still call 'em shops up 'ere tho me old duck!!!
Nottingham’s six.by seven will be heading out on the road this July to promote their new album, Love and Peace and Sympathy - out 8th July!
UK Dates:
Tuesday 23rd July - Bristol, Louisanna
Wednesday 24th July - London, Lexington
Thursday 25th July - Exeter, Cavern Club
Friday 26th July - Manchester, Soundcontrol
Saturday 27th July - Notingham, Rescue Rooms
Sunday 28th July - Leeds, Brudenell Social Club
Before then though you can see the band at a farewell to the Bull & Gate gig in London on Wed 01 May. Tickets are HERE
