With Christmas approaching fast, we asked a few of our favourite musicians of 2009 for their tips, memories and stories from Christmas past.
Today Ben Power of Fuck Buttons, who’s ‘Tarot Sport’ made it to 2 in our Top 40 albums of 2009 (read their entry on the list HERE), shares his memories of bygone Christmases and plans for this year:
What was your favourite Christmas present as a child?
Always wanted a Mr. Frosty when I was younger but one never actually materialised under the tree. Although once I entered a competition to win a Sega Master System and I was 100% convinced I was going to win. When I didn’t win I was so shocked, but that Christmas one ended up under the tree for me
Which gift did you want but never get?
I want a husky dog but my lady doesn’t like dogs (BP)
How did you learn the truth about Santa Claus?
When my childhood innocence disappeared so did Santa
What was your favourite Christmas?
The one I mentioned before with the Sega Mastersystem.
What is your favourite Christmas song?
Christmas Steps – Mogwai
Did you take part in Christmas plays / musicals at school?
I did actually. Usually in the choir. I was lead solo once. Yes, I used to have the voice of an angel.
Which person would you most like to meet under the mistletoe?
My lady.
What would be your ideal Christmas party (venue, house band etc)?
It would ideally be like that party that they have in ‘The Matrix’ in Zion, but everyone would be wearing Santa Hats and listening to Slade.
What have you asked Santa for this year?
Nothing. Just gonna relax. If Santa could leave me alone this year to relax that would be just perfect. No bah’humbuggery intended.
Do you have any post Christmas hangover / detox tips?
All that leftover stuff you have from the Christmas dinner on Boxing day. With a bloody mary.
Favourite part of the Christmas meal?
The jokes you get inside the crackers.
Who’s on your Christmas list from this year and who’s getting a lump of coal in their stocking?
Hero – John Webb, Villain – Laurance Chalk.
Care to share any embarrassing Christmas stories?
One year I once got so excited about thinking i saw father Christmas when I was a kid that I fell out of my bunk bed trying to catch a glimpse of him and spend Christmas day in accident and emergency with a broken collarbone.
Brussel Sprouts – food heaven or food hell?
Not heaven, but good nonetheless.
Where are you spending Christmas this year?
Not sure yet. Whoever’s taking in the waif and strays. Can I come to yours?
What is your favourite Christmas film?
E.T.
Do you watch the Queen’s speech?
Nope. Don’t have a television. She can sent me a written copy though if she likes.
Words by Robin Murray
