Hero of 2004
I discovered Paul McCartney’s solo albums this year, and now he’s up there with Tom Waits for me. Two songs of his, ‘Junk’ and ‘Ram’ make me swoon. Genius.

Villain of 2004
Doesn’t take an Einstein to figure that one out!

Best personal moment
The day I found out I was playing support on the Supergrass and Graham Coxon tours.

Best movie
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser, an old Herzog film& but new to me. A true story that made me change a little bit.

Best record
Ah Ha Shake Hearbreak, Kings Of Leon, no interest in them until they released “bucket” and showed us all what a tune was...

Best book
Punk rocker Billy Childish’s book My Fault. He overcame a terrible childhood to become a poet, artist, musician, and has produced over 100 albums.

Best TV Programme
Curb Your Enthusiasm

Best thing about this year
Getting over my fear of gigging.

Hope for next year
To get another record out.

What tickled your funny bone
A reviewer’s comment that my hair looked like it had been hacked by a crazed 8-year-old. That made my day.