My West London Life

Barry Gorey from Black Soul Strangers on musical success and the most romantic place in London

Posted on 31/08/10

You launched your debut album, Animate, this year to rave reviews. Were you expecting the reaction you’ve had?

We knew we had made something special. We spent so much time working on the album, and we are very proud of it. The reviews have been great; it adds fuel to the fire.

Did you feel that a move from Donegal to London was necessary for the band to succeed?

Since we first started playing music together we said we would live in London. Ireland has an enormous amount of great music, but we have seen so many of our friends in bands struggle to get the rewards they deserve. We knew when we made the album that we needed to move here for it to stand a chance of success.

What was it like working with Tom McFall (producer and engineer for the likes of Snow Patrol, Bloc Party, Editors and REM) and John Davis (has worked with Led Zeppelin, REM, Primal Scream, and Florence and the Machine)?

It was amazing to work with Tom. He has so much energy and passion. He knew how to get the best out of us and exactly what we wanted the album to be. We were so lucky to get the chance to work with him and even luckier that he now lives in London and we will be starting to work on new songs with him soon. John Davis was on our wish list for mastering the album. It was luck again that made it possible for us to work with him.

Who are your musical heroes?

Damon Albarn, Josh Homme, Roy Orbison, Neil Young and Arcade Fire.

You’ve played plenty of London gigs. How do west London audiences compare to east?

We love audiences that get involved, that's what a show is all about. West London audiences are definitely more lively and exciting. Some east London crowds are too afraid to move in case they break a sweat or mess up their moustache.

What’s been your most memorable performance so far and why?

We released our album on Sunday 4 July and played a show in Proud Galleries, Camden. It was our first sold out show and the crowd were fantastic, definitely memorable.

What’s your favourite west London late-night hangout?

We love Death Disco in Notting Hill Arts Centre. It's a usual haunt for us and we have played there a good few times. Danny is a great guy.

What’s your tipple of choice?

Very stereotypical.... Guinness.

What’s currently on your iPod?

Stop Making Sense by Talking Heads.

Where do you eat or shop when you’re in west London?

Portobello Market has some great record stores and nice places to eat.

What do you miss about Ireland?

We all get home quite a bit so there can't be that much we miss, but our family and friends.

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Phil loves a good science fiction novel.

What’s the capital’s most romantic spot?

Southbank food market at Christmas, Alexandra Palace at Halloween or Brendan's bedroom.

What’s your philosophy on life?

Make every day count, make a difference, have fun... Do what you love and f**k the rest.

Black Soul Strangers will be playing West London Living’s 1st birthday party on Wednesday 15 September; blacksoulstrangers.com