Chris Farren (of Fake Problems and Antarctigo Vespucci) has just finished up his solo UK tour and we had a chat with him about how it went and how his year was. Being in so many amazing bands, and having just released a particularly great Christmas record, Chris is a busy, busy person.
How was your UK tour?
It was a great experience. I had such a good time playing and traveling around with Mark McCabe and our tour manager, Anthony. Before this tour it had been about 5 years since I’d been in the UK, so I was really excited and pleased that people were coming out and singing along. Fun, fun, fun!
How does it differ playing solo to with a band every night?
I mean, it seems obvious, but it really is a more intimate experience. Playing with a band tends to be a big blown out theatrical experience, and when you strip away all of that fanfare you’re left with just songs. I liked whittling everything down to the songs themselves and it made me a feel a little bit more connected with each audience.
How do you managed your setlists with so much material to choose from?
Basically there are a bunch of songs I want to play, and a few songs I know people might want to hear. It’s mostly just whatever I feel like playing though.
You’ve just released a Christmas record. What was the inspiration for that?
I’ve always wanted to do it and I took it on as an exercise in songwriting and also recording; learning how to be a better producer and self-editor. Also I just love Christmas and I thought it would be funny.
There’s a lot of guests on it; how did it all come together?
They’re all friends of mine, I just emailed or texted each person individually and asked them if they would be into it. Everyone said yes!
Will it see a physical release?
I’m hoping for next Christmas some sort of vinyl release.
Moving on to our end of year questions, how was 2014 for you?
PROBABLY THE BEST YEAR OF MY LIFE.
What was the best/most memorable show you played?
The first Antarctigo Vespucci show in April, the 2nd Antarctigo Vespucci show at FEST in October, and my solo London show.
What was the best show you went to?
Look Mexico 10-year anniversary.
What are some of your favourite releases of the year?
Alvvays – s/t
Honeyblood – s/t
Chumped – Teenage Retirement
Hard Girls – A Thousand Surfaces
What are your future plans?
I’ve got a lot of touring and recording in the early stages of development for 2015. It’s going to be another busy year.
