You recorded your new single with Mel C – how did that come about?
We’ve bumped into eachother a load of times over the years at various shows and charity events and we both really wanted to work together, so I asked her if she’d do a duet and she was up for it.
What was Mel C like to work with?
She’s just cool as hell. She’s fun to be around, a good laugh, she doesn’t take herself too seriously… It was just great.
Your album’s out on October 28th – was it easy for you to write and record?
No, not at all! I’ve been writing this album for a long, long time – it’s by far and away the best work I’ve ever done. I’ve been writing this since we finished the second album, so there was a lot for me to write about. We just need to finish off the recording process! We’re nearly there with the recording now (or so we keep telling ourselves), but we’re all just really excited to get it out there.
Is it closer in sound to your first album or your second album?
It’s different to everything I’ve done so far. I’ve been working with some great writers and producers and we did a lot of it in LA, which was nice. More to the point, I just had a different set of experiences to write about this time..
What’s your favourite track on the new album?
There’s a track called The End that I’ve been writing for a long time which has finally made it onto an album, so that’s probably my favourite right now.
Who are your main musical influences?
I don’t know to be honest, it’s just what I’ve been doing all my life. I’ve been influenced by everything from the music I’ve listened to throughout my life to the people I’ve worked with in the last few years.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a musician?
I’d be skateboarding or snowboarding somewhere, for sure.
You played an Unplugged tour earlier this year – do you prefer playing your songs solo or with a band?
I’ve been playing acoustically by myself ever since I was eleven, so I really enjoyed it. I can’t decide whether I prefer playing by myself or with a band to be honest, I love them both!
When can we expect a full UK tour again?
Early next year, hopefully!
What’s your favourite song to play live?
Probably Lately, from my last album. It’s quite long and it’s got a lot going on musically – it’s a real builder, which is always fun to play.
Which song do you wish you’d written?
Speed of Sound by Coldplay. It’s flipping genius – if I could choose anyone to work with it’d be Chris Martin.
Let’s talk about your writing process – where does it all start?
It varies, to be honest. A lot of the time you’ll just be sitting there with a guitar and something will come to you, and occasionally something will happen to you that you feel that you want to write about it.
Who’s your ultimate musical icon?
Probably Eddie Vedder. Legend.
Describe yourself in three words?
I don’t know…