Introduce yourself...

Hi, I'm Adam Brown from The Adam Brown, Miracle Ice Cubes, Atonal Apples and a few others

Why do you play music?

I’m trying not to sound pretentious,  but it’s a compulsion.   It’s bigger than I am, and I’m just drawn to it.  It keeps me fairly poor and hungry,  but when it pays off… there's nothing better. 

What was a major influence on you as an Artist/Band?

When I was a little kid, my Dad taught me that I could write my own songs about whatever I wanted.  He'd always make up his own songs and sing them... so for as long as I can remember, I have as well...  In this respect, I'd have to go with Peter Brown.

What's your ideal festival line-up?

None? sorry.

Do you prefer the recording process or performing live?

Ok, check it out... There is no better experience than playing a mind-blowing, life affirming Rock n' Roll show.  There isn't.  But... Holy smokes...  For that to happen, everybody has to be on the same page, and that page has to be amazing...   If an element or two are off, then what's the point?  The show can become a disaster, or even just ok.. but ultimately a failure.   So, for that reason... most of the time, I’ll take the studio.

What would be a dream collaboration?

It was always David Bowie.  I don't know who to pick now...   I'd be in a band with Mick Jones where every song had a cheeky Queens Park Rangers reference.  It'd be cool if Paul Simonon was on bass.

Describe a favourite album.

So many.  One that never gets tired.  Filled with hits.  Sounds fresh every time. Cyndi Lauper's She's So Unusual?   The first side definitely.  You can tell it’s coming from a punk and new wave place, but it’s pop heaven, and it’s essentially being played by straight up rock musicians.  There isn’t much in the way of complicated arrangement, but what is there is vitally important.  It breathes, which is great for not being exhaustive.  It was recorded onto some dirty tape which is one of the reasons it has this wonderfully punchy midrange… But…. At the end of the day, the songs are incredible and Cyndi’s voice is the coolest.

What's your favourite local haunt?

I kind of like L'Esco on a weeknight.

What's your strangest experience while performing live?

We played what I thought was on it's way to being an exciting, kick-ass show in Edinburgh, Scotland... but after the first song, the crowd just stood there quietly... maybe eight people politely clapping, but pretty much like statues.  I ended the show early and nipped out to be a tourist around town.  It’s loaded with castles.

Any sage advice for young musicians?

Have fun, and don't turn down too many opportunities.  Try not to let your ego get in the way of a good song, or a good band.  Realize that a song can be anything and go anywhere.

www.theadambrown.com