Crazy P speak to Skiddle ahead of their album launch party this weekend!

Ahead of their album launch party this weekend we chatted to Danielle Moore - the voice of Crazy P - about coffee-fuelled jam sessions, touring the US, and her excitement at returning to Manchester.

Could you describe the sound of the new album?

When We On has various influences ranging from orchestral to disco. It's house music with a pop and soul flavour, laced with vocals and coming from warm hearts!

How has it been working with label 20/20? What made you decide to get on board with them?

Working with 20/20 has been great so far. They've been very supportive of everything we've done and we're like a family now. It works both ways. We have creative license to make music we love. Of course if we suddenly made a death metal track, eyebrows would be raised!

It seems like When We On is a departure from the disco euphoria, song-based style of Stop, Space, Return to a more reflective, sample-centric feel. Would you agree?

Yes it's fair to say... our music is honest to our emotions and to the members involved with making the songs. This time it was myself, Jim and Chris that got together and were more experimental - swapping instruments and using vocal phrase loopers. It's changed organically. It's not been a conscious thing.

Just heard the Keep Shelley In Athens mix of WeCanOnlyBeWhoWeAre, which is pretty sweet. Are there any remixes of your recent tracks that you're really into?

Both Jim and Toddy's [Chris Todd's] mix of Open For Service are superb, you should check them out. Also Craig Christenson's mix of Twisted is wonderfully indie. There's a few, and for fear of missing anyone out... visit our website for the full list!

I've read that Loop Station played a pretty important role in the writing of the new album. What did it allow you to do that you hadn't done before?

It allows me, as a vocalist, to experiment at the beginning of ideas, to create harmonies and record immediately anything that comes into my head. It's easier than trying to remember melodies until the lads are ready to record. They can get on with their own experimenting then too.

I see that 2020's Debukas has had a go on the new single, Beatbox. Are there any upcoming collaborations or new projects you're excited about?

The lads have been working with Little Boots, she's got some new stuff out. Wolf + Lamb - who we love - are due a remix. We were lucky enough to play with them in Miami last week. We've been so busy recently… It would be nice to have some time off to collaborate. Mainly with my boyfriend!

Which artists are making you smile right now?

Wolf + Lamb, Soul Clap, Little Dragon, Double Hill and Jerome C., Tornado Wallace, Wagon Cookin', and anything by The Cure.

Five US shows in one week is pretty impressive. Are eye matchsticks needed or do you guys thrive on a hectic tour schedule?

At the minute, Toddy and I are sat in Vancouver after travelling 14 hours to do a show that starts in 6 hours. We feel like shit but we'll have a full house tonight - I'm sure once we've slapped ourselves round the face and jumped in an ice-cold bath we'll be fresh as daisies! It's great working, but it does take its toll. It would be a misconception if people thought travelling the world was a breeze. It plays havoc with my skin!

What's the difference between Crazy P Soundsystem and Crazy P Live?

Live is the full band with guitar, bass, keys, drums and myself. The Soundsystem is the three of us DJ-ing, with me singing over backing tracks which are incorporated into the set. It's a party, with us playing our favourite music and whipping up the crowd. Sometimes when live venues aren't available the Soundsystem is a great option.

Could you recount a typical day while recording When We On?

Sleep, brekkie and coffee from the little deli in Nottingham. Power-walk, led by Jim, to the studio then working 'til 2, then lunch. Back to work after a "banger" - an extra-strong coffee famous with us. Then usually Jim or Toddy instigate an idea and jamming commences. Around 6pm we go for a pint, discuss the day's work and whether we pursue the current idea or start another. Down to the shop for some red wine then back to the studio for the evening shift, often culminating in half-hour jamming marathons of total indulgence, finishing around midnight. We always listen back in the morning. Usually we're pleased and sometimes it's a winner!

How does the 'MTS' EP differ in concept from your LP and its singles?

It's basically an opportunity to do something slightly different than what's expected from Crazy P… An avenue to experiment musically.

Your album launch is at Manchester's Soup Kitchen next week; what are you looking forward to most about going back?

Well, I live in Manchester, so it's great to have the guys come join me and party with all our mates in my home town. It's always nice to come home after you've been away travelling. It's going to be an introduction to our full live gig in Manchester next February. Also there'll be a full range of merchandise available on the night including signed copies of the album. We're so excited about playing the Soup Kitchen - they've hosted some wicked raves!

Interview: Sam Edwards

Crazy P play the Skiddle Tent at The Wickerman Festival on Saturday 21st Jusly 2012 - Buy Wickerman Festival Tickets 

Tickets are no longer available for this event