A veteran musician known for his role as the frontman for Super Furry Animals, the quirky rebel might also be known to some as one half of electro-pop outfit Neon Neon. Always on the move, his collaborative efforts with other artistes and bands include Simian Mobile Disco (“Cream Dream”, Temporary Pleasure 2009), Mogwai (“Dial: Revenge”, Rock Action 2001) and De La Soul for Gorillaz’s track “Superfast Jellyfish” for their album Plastic Beach released in 2010. Aside from being a musician, Gruff also premiered his film “Separado” last year. Recounting his steps to meet members of his family whose ancestors had emigrated to Patagonia in Victorian times.

Before his gig to promote his latest solo album “Hotel Shampoo” -his third solo album and most ambitious yet- at Tab this 29th April, the artiste spared us a few moments for a couple of questions:

What was your inspiration for this album?
Looking back at 15 years of touring.

What can we expect from your upcoming work Honey All Over and the new track Xenodocheionology?
Slices of sunshine harmony pop.

Do you reckon your songwriting has evolved in any way over the years?
I hope so, I feel like I’m still learning different ways to write songs.

With the repertoire of artists you have worked with, are there any artists you’d love to work with?
Singing with El Perro Del Mar on Hotel Shampoo was a great honor.

Any genre you would be experimenting in the future?
Futuristic Space Techno.

What is the most memorable experience for you on stage?
I once sang an open air show in Vancouver with a family of eagles looking down from a tree.

From the Super Furry Animals to Neon Neon, do these signal the expanding of your musical horizon or are they mediums for you to collaborate with different styles?
I almost feel it’s my duty as a musician to explore all possible avenues.

Where do you get your sources of inspiration?
Touring is an endless source of unexpected inspiration and new records!

Lastly, how about a status report on where your head’s at right now?
I haven’t toured much for a few years, so I’m enjoying playing live again and taking my music to new places.

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P.S.!!! Wanna Catch Gruff live? 8FloMusic has 2 pairs of tickets for giveaways courtesy of TAB! Simply email us at editor.music@8flo.com with the answer to the following:

Gruff is _______-handed and plays the _______-handed guitar with his ______ hand.