BEN MATTHEWS INTERVIEW 17th May 
(part two) 

Being a piano / Hammond player yourself, how would you comment upon Iain's style of playing?
There is a difference; Iain is a real player whereas I just busk.  

From your observations what can you tell us of Iain's contributions to the MA picture?
He seems to be an integral part of the band with well thought out musical opinions and an eternal optimist. This optimistic outlook mustn't be underestimated as it really helps set a good atmosphere in the studio, when he had to leave I kinda missed him!

How would you describe Heather as a vocalist and in her approach to a studio situation both technically and artistically?
Very professional on both levels, there is not much she doesn't know or understand about studio recording, this makes my job so much easier and we got some really great vocals from her.

Were you present for any of Bryan's solo work and if so, as a fellow guitarist how would you describe the experience?
Bryan is a real feel player which makes solo's great fun to record, he basically closes his eyes and lets rip, playing whatever comes naturally. I love working like this as it makes for an exciting result

Was the mixing process a similar experience to what you are used to or different?
It was basically business as usual for me, I really enjoy mixing and this album was no exception.   

Do you think Bryan, Heather and Iain work as a collaborative team?
To a certain extent they do, some of the arguments between Heather and Bryan were very amusing though - I am not sure if you could call them collaborations though. 

How do you see them as songwriters?
I have never been present at writing session so it is hard for me to judge.

You recorded some of Angela's flute playing on the final day of mixing. What can you comment on this experience and Angela as a player?
She is a fine player with a very good musical ear it was a shame we couldn't have done a bit more.

What kind of atmosphere was there in the studio when the project was drawing to a close sensing all deadlines would be met?
I have no idea as we spent more evenings in the pub

Were there any highlights? Humorous moments? Moments of madness?
The whole experience was a lot of fun with numerous moments of madness. 
 
How did working with Mostly Autumn differ to working with Thunder?
Working with Thunder I am working as a musician not usually engineering as it can be very difficult to wear both hats at the same time.

Did their music float your boat?
I think it would be difficult not to like them if you have the same background in rock as I do! 

Do they argue?
Only all the time, non stop between Heather and Bryan - it's hilarious for the rest of us. 

Have you heard the finished article?
Yes

If so what do you think of Ray Staff's mastering of Storms? 
First class job. 
 
Would you like to work with them in the studio again?
I can't wait, next time I would like to start the record with them instead of coming in towards the end.

Do you think MA has any unique or special qualities, if so what are they?
They have a strong belief in their own abilities and direction. It's a pleasure to see and work with.

MA has been going for several years now whereas Thunder has a big following in many countries outside the UK, MA's audience is still predominantly UK based. What do you think helped Thunder stretch far and wide and could the same strategies be applied to MA?
The vast machine that was EMI certainly helped Thunder internationally, but the rest was down to touring both as a support act and as headliners. I am sure MA could do the same although it can be a very costly exercise.