Chris Difford
Fresh from their Dublin gigs last October, Squeeze co-founder Chris Difford is back on these shores to play a string of Irish acoustic dates next week.
As a member of one of London’s best-loved bands, the Squeeze guitarist has made a lasting contribution to English music with hits such as Cool For Cats, Up The Junction, Labelled With Love, Hourglass and Tempted.
Singer and guitarist Difford was due to kick off his Irish tour tonight in Castlebar but due to severe weather the show has been moved to March 12.
The Beat: What’s new?
Difford: Me being on tour is new, and I have a new suit. I’m so excited to be playing some shows with The Outer Limits from Cavan and with my very good friend Boo Hewerdine.
The Beat: What has been your best gig so far?
Difford: There have been so many, all of them are great for one reason or another. The last time Squeeze played in Dublin was pretty amazing.
Squeeze (pictured below in 1978) played all over America and as ever that was much fun, but small tours like the one I’m on now is what I think I prefer.
The Beat: Tell us about your new/ latest record?
Difford: Pants is a record 33 minutes long, or short, it’s really honest. I like it. Boo Hewerdine and myself have written many songs but this collection really brings out the best in both of us.
The Beat: Describe you music in one sentence.
Difford: It’s like chocolate, it’s difficult to describe but addictive in some ways, like me.
The Beat: What Irish acts do you rate?
Difford: I like Cavan and therefore I love The Strypes, playing there is like being at home for me.
The Beat: What has been your favourite moment as a musician?
Difford: Playing at Croke Park with U2 in 1982. They were so kind to us.
The Beat: What’s in store for you for the rest of 2018?
Difford: My tours, some Squeeze shows and more songs. A busy year and more writing of books. I really want to grasp the nettle and write for the stage. It’s a passion of mine.
Difford’s Some Fantastic Place tour visits Whelan’s, Dublin tomorrow night, next Tuesday; Ballyhane Studio, Birdhill, Co Tipperary, March 8; Monroe’s Galway, March 9; and Ballymaloe Grainstore, Saturday, March 10 before hitting Castlebar on March 12.