Playing Ziggy Stardust: Even

Do you remember the first time you heard Ziggy Stardust?
I think I was in my early 20s when I heard the full LP.

How has the album influenced you?
It reminds me that good rock'n'roll has the power to transport you into a world where life's mundane tasks are irrelevant and the spirit of individuality is paramount.

What songs off it are you most looking forward to covering?
All of them – they are all classics

What are the ideal conditions in which to listen to the album?
Being 17, living in London in 1972 with a crummy day job, pining for the weekend or that coach trip up north to see Bowie & The Spiders at some university… or being alone at home in 2012 with headphones and absolutely no distractions.

Where does the album sit in your list of all-time favourite records?
As far as Bowie albums are concerned it is alongside Hunky Dory as one of my faves.

Which track do you think will provide the biggest challenge?
Rock'n'Roll Suicide.

Are you roping in any special guests for your interpretation?
Yes. Mal Pinkerton from The Ronson Hangup, Bruce Haymes and Marcel Borrack from Minibikes.

Have you ever seen the artist you're covering live?
I've seen Bowie three times and each time he was great. I saw him perform Low and Heathen in London when Even were there in 2002. Rod Laver Arena in 2004 was a massive highlight.

Should we expect any surprises from your interpretation?
No radical reworkings, that's not our schtick. Faithful without being a tribute band, one hopes.

Any other classic albums you'd like to have a crack at covering?
Mate, the old noggin is full of Bowie tunes at the moment so we'll see after that. Maybe Free Kicks by Even deserves an airing!

What have you got coming up after the Cherry show?
We have more shows with The Fauves in Tasmania and Adelaide playing songs from our new LP and a run of shows in WA so it's all happening… again. Ziggy Stardust 40th Anniversary Celebration