News Idiot Glee

What’s the best way of finding out lots and lots about a new artist in quite a short period of time? Just ask them lots of questions really quickly.

We put our quickfire Q&A to 22-year-old James Friley, aka Idiot Glee, who will not only be touring with Women from the start of next week (click here for dates and tickets), but will release a single through Moshi Moshi on 4th October.

Why did you start making music?
My brother took piano lessons, so I wanted to. Which lead to composing. Later in life, because I started playing guitar, drums, bass like my brother did, and some friends wanted to start a band.

How did you first break into doing it professionally?
I don’t feel like a professional… I felt more professional when doing classical piano performances / competitions. I’ve got some serious drive… maybe obsession.

Are you working on a full-length album yet?
Yes!

What’s the best thing about being a musician in Kentucky?
The good musicians aren’t drowned out by the bad, it’s not an overwhelming feeling, it’s a close group. At least in Lexington. Louisville is ‘eh’.

What has been your favourite moment, as a musician?
Can’t pick one, but it’s always great when someone who you think is a talented musician applauds you.

When you first started to get into music, who or what was your favourite musical act?
Classically, Rachmaninoff. Otherwise, The Beatles!

Name one album that would appear in your Top Five of all time so far.
Pet Sounds.

If you had to learn a new instrument right now, what would you choose?
Clarinet or Oboe, no doubt.

What’s your favourite ‘being a musician’ perk?
Free sodas!

Where would you most like to be right now?
Right where I am.

What would your superpower be?
FLIGHT!

What’s your most unappealing habit?
Fidgeting… I’m so fidgety, anxious.

Who would you most like to go on a huge world tour with?
Hard one… Neu! or Ariel Pink. Or Sonic Youth. Or if they would re-unite, Duster.

Are there any parts of being a musician you’d leave out if you could?
Man… I can’t think of anything. Yet.

Would you ever join a band?
Yes. I already play with other bands here and there, but am thinking of starting a new one also… it’ll be loud.

What was the last album / single you bought?
Hannibal Buress ‘My Name is Hannibal Buress’ - great stand up comedian. Musically - Fleetwood Mac’s 1975 s/t album.

What is your music-purchasing format of choice?
I like vinyl the most, then cassettes or CDs.

What about your music-releasing format of choice?
Same.

Recommend us a new band.
The Jameses from West Palm Beach Florida.

What’s next on the cards for Idiot Glee?
UK / EU Touring, Moshi Moshi singles, a few short run cassettes, album!