’10 Songs’, the debut album by young Scotsman Aaron Fyfe, was released a few weeks back and it is definitely a grower. Co-produced by Teenage Fanclub’s Francis MacDonald, amongst others, there’s a nice warming feel from the album. And if early songs on the album like former single ‘Campfires’ seem a little dark for starting off an album, respect to him for not simply making it easy for the listener.
Over the course of the album, the mood lifts a little, rather like someone who’s coming to terms with things and starting to see a way forward. In a world of over-produced and over-played singer-songwriters (too many to list), there’s a sense of honesty and back-to-basics with the acoustic pop on offer here. We caught up with Aaron as he fielded our questions…
Where are you and what’s the weather like?
In Glasgow. Weather’s pretty shit to be honest.
What’s your favourite record in the charts?
Taylor Swift – pop gold.
What are your favourite films?
Love, Actually. Notting Hill. I love chick flicks.
What are your favourite books?
I read loads of different things. I’m reading Russell Brand’s book at the minute. Revolutions. He is on point.
What are your favourite TV programmes?
Don’t watch TV.
What was the first record you bought and where did you buy it from?
I think it was a Mike Flowers tape. ‘We’re all going on a summer holiday,’ from Virgin.
What is your least favourite record that you have made, and why?
I recorded an album I got a bit wrong. Just because you can have things i.e string section doesn’t mean you have to use them
Do you believe in God?
It would be a sad life if you didn’t believe in something. Humans can’t understand it. It’s like trying to teach a cat how to use the internet – it’s too big.
What is the strangest story you have read about yourself?
Nothing that strange. People get things wrong all the time – my age. I’m 27.
Tell us a joke
What cheese do you use to get a Bear from its cave? Camembert.
Which football team do you support?
I watch football. I don’t have time to follow a team.
Do you have any pets?
Nope.
What’s the worst song lyric of all time?
Happy Birthday.
Who do you consider to be the most overrated musical act of all time?
Phil Collins. I just don’t get it.
What car do you drive?
My motor home.
Who would you want to play you in the film of your life?
Johnny Depp.
Vinyl, CD, Download or stream?
All.
How will you vote in the next election?
I’m not a Tory, let’s put it that way…
When was the last time you cried?
Not sure. I don’t cry that often. When I’m working most of the time.
What’s the best cover version you have ever heard?
‘All along the watchtower’ – Jimi Hendrix
What’s the strangest thing that has ever happened at one of your own gigs?
I got hit in the face with a glow sick.
Have you ever been starstruck?
I had a piss next to Seasick Steve. Couldn’t really talk though, was weird enough me looking at him.
What is your culinary speciality?
BBQ.
The Royal Family: should they stay or should they go?
Stay. I think they’re funny. Share the wealth a bit and let them get on with it.
If you weren’t doing this, what would you like to be?
I would love to be a cobbler.
What were you like at school?
Much the same, really. Louder perhaps.
What’s your poison?
Lager.
If you could change one law, what would it be?
Not sure. People should be able to do what they want, within reason.
Which decade would you have most liked to have lived in?
1960s.
Have you ever seen a ghost?
No, but my mate Jim did, he said it was well strange.
10 Songs was released on March 16.
