Finger On The Buzzer Q&A - Farah Elle: "I'm in the middle of a wildly exciting tornado of change"

Where are you now and what are you doing?

I’m with my family in the middle of a wildly exciting tornado of change. Preparing to move out, getting ready to spread my wings and super excited about my headline show in The Workman's Club.

First record to send a shiver up your spine?

‘Natural Blues’ by Moby. That whole album is a work of art. Preserved tapes from cotton fields in the 1920s and ‘30s, transformed into a timeless reflection of a time nobody should ever forget.

First gig you attended?

Paloma Faith when I was 15! My brother’s girlfriend at the time bought me a ticket. I didn’t really know who she was and I was so excited to be there. It was in Marlay Park.

First gig you played?

It was in a place that used to be called The Pint when I was 15 years old. It’s called the Wiley Fox now on the Quays in town.

Most memorable gig?

Knockanstockan 2016. The whole crowd gave me a standing ovation, my bassist cancelled 40 minutes beforehand, and I had to get a different bassist at the very last second, who absolutely smashed it. A super-emotional and unforgettable show.

What has been the most ‘pinch me’ moment of your career so far?

Collaborating with a hip-hop group called CunninLynguists, who I love so much and was always a huge fan of growing up.

Most embarrassing thing you’ve done either drunk or sober?

I am forever that person who thinks someone is waving at them. But they are always in fact waving at the person behind me. In fact, I am the God of Cringe. It’s an art that I have really honed in on…

What shite jobs have you had in the past?

I wouldn’t say “shite” because I really enjoyed it at the time, but I remember being amazed at how exhausting waitressing was. Physically. I loved it to be honest, but oh my days, you put up with some unbelievably cruel people along that path. Manners are important, yo.

Last record you bought, borrowed, or blagged?

Marvin Gaye's What’s Going On. I bought it at Big Moon Records in Drogheda, which is actually my favorite record store. The dude Jay in there is a total soundie and loves to promote local bands.

Who’d be in your dream band line-up?

I’ll take Danny Carey from Tool on the drums and Esperanza Spalding on the bass. Sylvia Massy or Rick Rubin can be my producer(s). Thanks a million guys, see you at band practice.

Sexiest musician on the planet?

Me. Always me.

What song would you have played at your funeral?

Ooooh, I get really weird about making funeral plans for people who are alive. I don’t think it’s a good omen to talk about my funeral, so I’m 100% not going to answer this question because yes, I am superstitious.

FATIMA is out now.