We put a few questions to George and Queen on the eve of releasing their second album, The Wind is Up.
Been around since?
Early 2006.
Current line up?
Immi Paterson (Vocals, Guitar, Keys); Neil Newton (Guitar, Vocals); Rich Pharaoh (Drums); Pandu Samarasinghe (Bass).
Where are you based?
Auckland.
Musical history?
In 2007 we released our first album ‘City’. Our single ‘Didn’t mean it that way’ did well in the bnet stations and Kiwi FM (going #1). We’ve been on several national tours, touring with the likes of Pine and Onanon. In September this year our second album ‘The Wind is Up’ is coming out.
What were you listening to back in high school?
Immi: Stuff like Paul Simon, Front Lawn, Tracy Chapman…
Neil: I was listening to a lot of funk then. Parliament, Cameo, The Meters.
What are you currently listening to?
Immi: At the moment I really enjoy Woodie Guthrie and Joan Baez and that old folky stuff. Also I really like Rufus Wainwright.
Neil: Guitarists like Marc Ribot, Nels Cline and stuff like Yo La Tengo, and a lot of blue grass.
The state of music in NZ is…?
It’s alright.
What’s your favorite place to play?
Whammy Bar.
What was your favorite show?
The Auckland City Folk Massive. Opening for The Bats was pretty good too.
This is album number?
2
What is your recording process?
It’s been different for both albums. We recorded ‘City’ at home. ‘The Wind is Up’ was recorded with Dave Holmes in his studio, with more of a live feel – and with the band.
What's been your best recording experience?
Recording ‘City’.
What’s been your worst recording experience?
Recording ‘City’.
Biggest achievement thus far?
Touring 4 times now and not putting ourselves in debt! Or possibly being able to release a second album after only a year.
Favorite radio show/station?
National radio.
The Future holds…?
A few more tours, a few more albums…
