Former Slowdive and Mojave 3 frontman Neil Halstead has just released his third solo album, Palindrome Hunches, recorded over a weekend in a primary school with access secured by way of a bribe for the caretaker. He’s a straightforward, understated sort of fellow – something that comes across in the simplicity of his music and in the quickfire answers he gave us below. You can also enjoy a first look at the video for ‘Loose Change’.
Hello, please introduce yourself and your music to the uninitiated.
I’m Neil Halstead I write wispy folk music.
Tell us a bit about your latest release.
My latest album is called Palindrome Hunches.
What was your best ever gig?
I just played a bunch of shows in the States. They were all, without question, the best gigs ever… apart from Eugene, Oregon.
What’s the worst thing about being a musician?
Eugene, Oregon.
What inspires you?
Crosswords and complications.
If you won a billion pounds what would you do with it?
Pop it under the bed.
Which of your songs is your favourite and why?
Currently enjoying playing a song called ‘Wittgenstein’s Arm’. It tells a good story about a one-armed pianist and his crazy war-torn family.
What are you plans for the future?
I have some touring to do and a house to rewire.
Finally, we’re always looking to expand our musical horizons. Do you have any recommendations of bands or artists we should be looking out for?
The Peaking Lights album Lucifer is a bit of a fav right now…
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