- Music
- 29 May 15
The Speakeasy tent was packed for the arrival of Norman Cook, AKA Fatboy Slim for a chat with Hot Press' own Roisin Dwyer. There was revelations, promises and surprises along the way...
Cook began by explaining to the huddled masses, of which there were many, just what he feels it is that constitutes a good 'banger'. Can't be too ravey apparently!
He went on to talk about the famous 'Weapon Of Choice' video and its star, Christopher Walken. Cook explained that Walken had relished the chance to get his dancing prowess down on tape. Next up was a discussion of his work with David Byrne on Here Lies Love, and on working with Iggy Pop who is, as it turns out, everything you'd want the unhinged rock legend to be and a thoroughly nice guy to boot.
Cook told us that one thing on his bucket list is production duties on a film soundtrack. He cites Wim Wenders' Paris, Texas as an influence. Up until now, he told us, he has only had tracks on film soundtracks, like Moulin Rouge, but would relish the chance to do a full score for a film with someone like the Coen Brothers or his 'Praise You' director, Spike Jonze.
Of his set tonight at Forbidden Fruit, the 'Rockafeller Skank' legend promised, "If you're not high I'll try and get you high. If you are high, I'll do my best to get you higher!" Pulling up to the RHK for Forbidden Fruit reminded Cook of the last time he played Ireland, at Marlay Park, and he remarked that if tonight is anything like that night it is going to be one to remember.
The chat then ranged to confessions Norman had shared with Hot Press scribe Stuart Clark about a night spent sharing alcoholic milkshakes in Dublin's Bloom's Hotel Bar with the Edge. While joining the U2 guitarist for some ABBA karaoke, as you do, Cook was taken aback to see Irish icon Van Morrison enter the late night establishment.
Cook was also enthusiastic to talk about the recent Marriage Equality Referendum in Ireland saying, "We were watching and cheering you on".
Commenting on rumors circulating that he was approached for the new XFactor style DJ Academy, Cook told the crowd, "Simon Cowell knows jack-shit about DJ culture."
And then there was a marriage proposal!