the sunday mail

mail music: 60 second interview with john douglas

by avril cadden
september 4, 2005

OUR NEW ALBUM WAS A BIT OF A HAPPY ACCIDENT.. WE'RE BLESSED BY THOSE

Glasgow-based Trashcan Sinatras are about to embark on their September Tune Up Tour of Scotland. Guitarist John Douglas spoke to AVRIL CADDEN about their new album Fez, released tomorrow.

What's the story behind your new acoustic album?

There was no plan. A year or two ago we played in New York at a place called The Fez. Jasper our sound guy recorded it but we didn't know. When it was played back to us, it seemed to capture the whole atmosphere of the night. It was a bit of a happy accident. We seem to be blessed by accidents. You can stumble upon some good opportunities if you are patient.

Has patience got you through the difficult times as a band?

We learned early on sometimes you need to wait for songs. We don't twiddle our thumbs but good things are worth waiting for.

Did last album Weightlifting give you a new lease of life?

We were in the wilderness for a while. The reaction to Weightlifting has been great. With it being on our own label we were doing everything ourselves, sticking it in envelopes and sending it out. And just meeting people around town, they'll come over and shake your hand. It makes it all worthwhile.

You do a lot of touring, what's the best parts?

We love it. We've spent the past two years on the road. We've got our Scots tour this month. We're playing places a bit off the beaten track. We're really looking forward to it.

What's been your worst gig?

Probably the Tartan week in Inverness a few weeks ago. We played in Leicester the night before and had a long drive up. It was sunny but raining when we got there. We were inside a tent and the PA system was going on then off again, the electrics were a nightmare and some of our gear was affected by it. But the crowd was still great though.

Are you doing a new album?

Yes, we're regrouping and seeing what we've got. We're playing some new songs on the tour this month. During winter/ early New Year we'll be starting to make another record and do more writing. We're hoping The Fez record will bring new fans.

This review originally appeared in The Sunday Mail