With Christmas approaching fast, we asked a few of our favourite musicians of 2009 for their tips, memories and stories from Christmas past.
Today Faris Badwan of The Horrors, who’s ‘Primary Colours’ made it to 7 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?
The best thing I ever received was a pedal go-kart. My brother got one too and by the end of the day there were tyre-tracks indelibly imprinted into the carpet.
Which gift did you want but never get?
A toy shotgun. Every year I sneakily scribbled it at the bottom of my letter to Father Christmas and was baffled by its failure to arrive on Christmas morning.
How did you learn the truth about Santa Claus?
I was in denial for many years until someone at school told me.
What was your favourite Christmas?
I spent one Christmas in Jordan/Palestine with my Dad’s family – there weren’t any presents as they’re all Muslim. There were loads of kids running around and I wasn’t used to having family members my own age – we spent the whole time playing football and breaking various household ornaments.
What is your favourite Christmas song?
Margo Guryan – I Don’t Intend To Spend Christmas Without You
Which person would you most like to meet under the mistletoe?
Genesis P-Orridge
What would be your ideal Christmas party (venue, house band etc)?
Watching the Phil Spector Christmas album being recorded.
What have you asked Santa for this year?
A new set of vocal chords
Do you have any post Christmas hangover / detox tips?
Christmas is the most relaxing part of the year for me.
Who’s on your Christmas list from this year and who’s getting a lump of coal in their stocking?
Om deserve some sort of gift for writing such a great new album..
Brussel Sprouts – food heaven or food hell?
One of the few vegetables I can’t stand.
Where are you spending Christmas this year?
With family.
What is your favourite Christmas film?
Not a film but I always watch Fawlty Towers.
Do you watch the Queen’s speech?
No.
Words by Robin Murray
