Steve Mason

MEATY BETA BIG & BOUNCY

What music are you currently grooving to?

Sons Of Kemet, Ill Considered, Sault, Oliver Nelson, Fimber Bravo, Rev Utah Smith, Natalie Bergman and Melissa Carper. What, if push comes to shove, is your all-time favourite album? Colors by Ken Nordine. I love the fact it started life as a commercial endeavour for the Fuller Paint Company but was too artistic to be held back by commerce.

What was the first record you ever bought? And where did you buy it?

Oh Bondage Up Yours! by X-Ray Spex. I ordered it from the local record shop in St Andrews in 1980. When it finally arrived I was very disappointed it was not the picture cover but a generic white sleeve, but my punk journey had begun. Which musician, other than yourself, have you ever wanted to be? John Williams. The ABBA of the classical world. Huge hooks, reprises, waves of joy and shards of heartbreak. He breaks down the barriers between the classical and rock/pop music world using melody.

What do you sing in the shower? Wired For Sound by Cliff Richard. The video was like an advert for Sony Walkmans but made by your dad, 1981 I think. But it’s a song that’s always fascinated me. Massive chorus.

What is your favourite Saturday night record?

Brüder Des Schattens by Popol Vuh. We have a five-year-old and no near family, so Saturday nights don’t exist the way they used to. I don’t mind, but I like to pop this on to remind me at least I’m not locked in Count Dracula’s castle with Die Kinder der Nacht baying for blood outside! And your Sunday morning record? Jungle Juice by Electric Cokernut. Sunday mornings should be reserved for two things. 1) A very long breakfast. 2) A glam rock soundtrack to everything that happens before midday. Don’t get Sundays wrong, Mondays will thank you.

“At least I’m not locked in Count Dracula’s castle.” STEVE MASON