Interviews: Coughin’ Vicars

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Punk band Coughin’ Vicars from the UK. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, did you plan it or come out just like that?

We like to put words into the world that are unique and eye-catching. There is a short and long version but even the short version is a bit long and confusing, so I'll leave it to the imagination. I can confirm it was thought out and planned.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

That is out of our control...I'm not sure we are too aware of genres. Coughin Vicars gather in a room once a week and grind out whatever music they can with our instruments and abilities. If we all agree it’s got a flow or a certain form that we can get our hooks into it becomes a song.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

Yes, we've all been playing music in various different circles for years. Liverpool's scene is pretty small and it’s not hard to pinpoint the like-minded do'ers and makers.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Xui Xui, Christian Death, Melt Banana, The Mars Volta, Trampled Flower

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

The other 'Vicars inspire me! It might sound obvious but we each have a duty and responsibility to each other in the songs we create. As individuals, we bounce off each other and in turn, each song sort of feeds off the next. As far as writing lyrics it’s all from reading, listening, and observing. I don't drive so I walk, cycle, and use public transport. In these spaces generally, I encounter the majority of people being shut off with huge headphones on or twiddling with phones. They’re not really present at the moment to experience the subtle details and oddities that I use to form a CV. lyrical structures.

6. Where was your last gig?

On the floor of a Vegan Burrito Restaurant in town (Liverpool) called Guac and Roll. We played with Mince Meat and Bloody Head. It was Bloody Excellent!!

7. Where would you like to perform the most?

I have my sights set on a public bandstand next to the beach in Southport, but I guess dream shows are Gilman St, Vera Groningen, Osaka, K-town, New Zealand, Stone Henge and Biarritz would be nice...

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Any band with the same backline would be convenient…let’s keep bands with live drummers alive! We're grateful for any stage and not too fussy. We're anti-faction. I think most of our heroes are dead. Opening for a Holygram of Roky Erickson and the 13th Floor Elevators would be sick.

9. Whom not?

Any racist or homophobic narrow-minded pr*cks…no tolerance no brainer. We want anyone who comes to watch Coughin Vicars to feel safe and part of the music.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

Alcohol helps...if that’s not your thing try mouthwash. If that fails try Espresso followed by Haribo. Slap yourself in the face and remind the mirror that the person looking back at you is a different person to the one that will be on the stage. The more performative and enthralling you are the better. The performer's number one job is to transmit energy and excitement to the audience. If this still doesn’t move the room you’ll fall flat on your face safe in the knowledge you gave ‘em a memorable live show!

11. What artists' careers have inspired you the most?

Penny Rimbaud, Guy Debord, Tim Kerr, Alan Moore, Kathleen Hannah, Wim Wenders, Siouxie Sioux, KLF, Daniel Higgs, Jonathan Mathias, Rick Froberg, Cosey Fani Tutti, Alex Cox, Janis Joplin, Mark E Smith, Beastie Boys.

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Signing records is probably the weirdest...

13. What do you think of your fans?

They age between 15 - 50 and are all very respectable humans. The Coughin Vicars 'High Fidelity Casket Sound' is broad and inclusive. In a live setting, it can connect with all those who can appreciate what some might traditionally call Rock and Roll.

14. What do you think of our zine?

You seem to be shedding light on a stack of intriguing artists who operate thousands of miles away from planet Liverpool. It’s making me want to book some gigs off this island.

15. Something to add?

It’s not the coughing that carries you off, it’s the coffin they carry you off in. Come see us live! F*ck genocide, grow plants, use bins. Don't overthink, just DO…