1). You have a new album, “Thrift Store Troubadours,” coming out on June 2nd. What can you tell us about that?

We do indeed. We’ve been locked away in the recording studio making a lot of noise and working on what we believe to be some of the strongest songs we’ve written. Our previous album, ‘Homesick For Our Future Destinations’ did well for us, so we knew we had our work cut out this time round, but everything has fallen into place and the new songs are sounding great. Anyone who’s followed us so far won’t be disappointed, but there are some surprises in there, for sure. There’s some big guitar kind of stuff, some pop, some folky, acoustic kind of songs. Martyn, Mikey and Danny have played their hearts out on this one, and in turn that’s made me push myself that much harder. We also have the legendary Peter Holsapple (of The dB’s, REM, Hootie & the Blowfish) guesting on three of the new tracks. We can’t wait for you to hear this record. We hope everyone’s going to love it as much as we do.

2). You’re also on a new label, and one that is very familiar to listeners of my show, Futureman Records. What led up to your joining forces with them?

We’ve been on the Kool Kat Musik label up till now, but just thought it was time for a change. We have only good things to say about Ray and Kool Kat, but it just felt right for a move. I know Futureman Records has a great reputation and release some great music, so we’re in good company and looking forward to working with Keith and Futureman. 

3). You’re going to celebrate the album’s release with shows at the International Pop Overthrow Festival at the Cavern Club and Cavern Club in June. You’ve played here before…what are your impressions of performing at these venues?

To play such iconic venues as The Cavern Club and Pub is always a thrill, it doesn’t get much better, to be honest. And the Liverpool audiences are always so very welcoming and enthusiastic. We couldn’t think of a better way to release the new record to the world than playing International Pop Overthrow Liverpool. Thank you to David and Rina for having us.

4). “Thrift Store Troubadours” is your thirf full-length album. The pandemic is still with us, but has calmed down quite a bit since its beginnings. Do you find it easier to get things done these days, or are you still taking precautions?

Covid’s certainly still around, it never disappeared. We’re not in lockdown anymore, but still have to be sensible about it all. It’s certainly easier to all get together, but we’re always aware this thing is still with us and probably will be for some time. The last album, ‘Homesick For Our Future Destinations’ was our covid record, I guess. The songs were written during lockdown and everything else that was going on at that time. You can hear the uncertainty and claustrophobia in that record. ‘Thrift Store Troubadours’ is kind of like finding a light at the end of the tunnel; there’s a definite sense of relief with these songs, we made it this far together.

Visit Futureman Records on BandCamp.