Q+A

Q: Do you like the music of Björk?

A: Yes I particularly like her new record. The first time I listened to it I lay on my own in the dark wearing headphones and it was a beautiful, moving experience. Even though musically its complicated, what she’s singing about is so relatable and powerful and I found it really resonated with me in relation to some of the things I’ve experienced these last couple of years.

Q: sheep-pyjamas said: As you are often very coy when questioned about the meaning of your lyrics, I wondered how you feel when people place their own interpretation upon them? I know some interpretations have spread without ever having been so much as implied by yourself - does that frustrate you, and do you ever long to correct people's interpretations of your words? Thanks =]

A: I actually don’t mind people getting my lyrics wrong, I find it funny. Alex my drummer thought I was singing the line “Beverly Knight’ in one of my new songs. I’ll have to make sure I enunciate better!

Q: Hi Anna, my question is, where and when did you meet Patrick Wolf? Your collaboration at your Show in London last year was really fantastic!

A: When I was starting out being a solo artist I found Patrick’s vision really gave me strength and fire when I felt unsure on what I should be doing. We did the same festival a couple of years ago and I shyly watched him from the side of the stage, not quite having the courage to go up to him afterwards. And when I was thinking of guests for my show at St John’s church I had this feeling our voices would be great together. So I got him along to a rehearsal and it just sounded magnificent. He’s a really lovely guy.

Q: What is your worst musical nightmare??

A: hmmm Simply Red

Q: do you like the band austra?

A: I LOVE them. We got to hang out a few years ago at Laneways festival, I remember having a midnight swim with them in an amazing hotel in Singapore. They’re like the electronic version of the bad seeds, you want to be part of the gang but you fear you’ll never be quite cool enough!

Q: barioland said: I think that a lot of your fans fight with themselves to find a way to express and sometimes to pass you the passion and feeling they prove for you and your art. Someone thorugh music, paint, sculpture...what effect does it have on you ? Any suggestion ?

A: I’m always incredibly moved when someone creates something as a response to my music. I’m honoured.

Q: Hi Anna, some time ago I asked you a question about loneliness and I still hope to get the answer, but there is yet something else. I wonder how judgemental are you, as an artist, towards yourself? Are you always satisfied with your music and art? Don't think it's a tricky question. I'm often disappointed because images in my head are not as good as the ones I transfer onto pieces of paper.. xx Aga

A: this is the eternal problem of the perfectionist- once an idea is put down on paper it becomes mortal and has the risk of failure. But it’s worth the risk, trust me. I really like a new idea I’ve done, then I hate it, then if it’s actually ok, I think it’s alright again, but I don’t like it as much or with the same innocence as the first time I heard it.

Q: Hi Anna, when you have nothing pressing, where does your mind drift?

A: I like to find circles in things, or I like to notice natural circles in people’s hair when it’s curly. It’s a life long obsession.

Q: Dearest Anna, When you were a child, did you want to grow up?

A: No I really didn’t! I accept it now though.

notyourbirthdayanymore said: Q: Hi Anna, I want to thank you so very very much for your work. I'm a Morrissey fan but was first introduced to your work in an altogether different context. However, I'm curious about what you think of Morrissey's solo work, so: Have you had the chance to see his set during the tour? If so, do you have a favourite among the song he's been performing on this tour? Thanks again amazing artist, you.

A: I was a big fan of Morrissey so it was such an honour to support him. I really love some of his new songs, he’s got such a great voice and an ear for a beautiful melody. We met at the beginning of the tour and after that he would send me cards and notes, saying he was really liking my music, and I would send him cards back. I got to have Morrissey as a pen pal for a few weeks which was pretty amazing!