The Cork art-punk band get a grilling

Pretty Happy are an Art-Punk three-piece from Cork with a growing reputation for their dynamic live performances and electric eccentricities.

Abbey Blake, Arann Blake and Andy Killian have established themselves as one of the most exciting acts on the Cork music scene, using a combination of absurdist lyrics, demented emotions and idiosyncratic melodies to create an all-consuming noise rock sound.

They recently released their new single 'Salami', so we caught up with guitarist Abbey to learn more about the band.

1. What's the music that you listened to growing up, that you still listen to today?
Cat Stevens/Yusuf. Cat was a big staple of my childhood. Anytime I hear his music play, I’m transported back to my kitchen with my mom, singing along on a sunny day. I just have such warm memories associated with his music. Another artist would be Joan Armatrading, one of my Dad’s favourites. It was probably one of my first times seeing a woman playing guitar and wow, what a player. Still in awe every time I listen to her. Honourable mentions: U2 and Fleetwood Mac. I owe my delay sound to The Edge, don’t come for me.

2. In three words, describe the minute before you walk on stage.
Hope guitar works.

3. How do you wind down after a gig?
I always find winding down really hard after a gig but it’s usually a sweaty pint and a chat with Andy and Arann.

4. What’s the one song you wish you’d written first?
'Sink In' by Lowlek. It’s a banger. Such a bouncy light song that always cheers me up. It would make anyone want to dance. If you ever get the chance to see Lowlek live definitely do. Bláithín performing this is something else.

5. What’s the last thing you watched on TV?
'The Haunting of Bly Manor'. It was my second time watching it. Well written queer characters in a ghost story, what more could you ask for. Any gardeners out there, hit me up.

6. Name one record and one film that everyone should hear / see.
For the record, I would say 'Fetch the Bolt Cutters' by Fiona Apple. Listening to that is like hands pulling the insides of your stomach, in a good way. The raw power of Fiona Apple does something to me. Just unbelievable!

For the film, I really love 'The Favourite'. The shots, the look, the acting, the costume; everything is amazing. I cannot fault that film. Olivia Coleman! I would simp for you.

7. What's your biggest pet peeve?
Meanness with money. If someone buys you a pint, buy one back. Just be sound!

8. Who's the most famous person saved to your phone contacts?
I think I have a picture with Dáithí Ó Sé on my phone somewhere, does that count?

9. You’re ordering take-away, what do you get?
A burrito bowl from Burritos and Blues of course! A Cork staple. Extra guac, no compromise.

10. Describe your perfect day off.
Being on Rossbeigh beach, coming out of the freezing ocean to a bowl of chowder and a pint of Beamish. Oh bring me to Tir na nÒg!

BONUS QUESTION: Recommend a podcast and tell us why we should subscribe to it.
'The Break it Down podcast' is one of my new favourites. Two of the loveliest Cork girls talking about everything from the Boybands of the Celtic Tiger to LGBTQ+ representation in Irish media. They do it all and they do it very well.

Another one would be 'Loose Patterns'. We were recently featured on there and the girls are just having a blast! If you have the lockdown blues, this podcast feels like having a warm cup of coffee with pals. Check it out!

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'Salami' is out now.