The Pipettes and So So Gay go back a long way – a whole 16 months. When we first met, we were still getting off the ground and they’d just released their brilliant second album Earth vs The Pipettes, and were kind enough to drop in for a chat - our first ever music interview. Since then, asides from us getting a bit older (and none the wiser), The Pipettes have toured their album across the UK, bringing the synth-charged production of iconic producer Martin Rushent to audiences far and wide. Sadly Martin passed away during the summer and with their latest single (his last piece of work), a irrepressible toe-tapper called ‘Boo Shuffle’ out now, we decided to give the band’s Ani Saunders a call to reflect and find out what they’re planning next.
SSG: You have the rather sad honour of being the last act that Martin Rushent worked with, and it seemed like you’d really grown close. What was it like working with him?
Amazing and ridiculous! We weren’t sure who we’d have with our last album as we had lots of sessions with lots of different people to begin with. We were really pompous, but he really brought us down in a lovingly rude way. I think we needed that after losing and gaining members. He steered us in the right direction and it was a real honour having him on board.
How much had you recorded with him since the last album?
As well as the new single ‘Boo Shuffle’ – which he’d mixed – we did a few tracks. They’re not mixed though, so we’re not sure what we’re going to do with them. Something will come of them I’m sure!
Does ‘Boo Shuffle’ indicate that your new material goes back to your original sound?
That song was written in-between the two albums. It didn’t fit with the new stuff but we knew that the fans liked it. In terms of new material, The Pipettes will keep on going with whatever madness we come up with!
Having joined the band after several line-up changes do you finally feel properly part of The Pipettes?
Yeah, I do now. It’s been 3 and a half years. Martin really believed in the band when we were insecure about ourselves and I think that’s really stayed with us.
How did you end up working with dance troupe The Actionettes in your new video?
The guy who runs our label’s girlfriend is part of them and after hearing about them we said that we definitely wanted them in! Martin’s daughter was there as part of the video too, we gave her a little honorary Pipettes certificate as something to remember the day by.
Are your backing band The Cassettes still around too?
Of course they are! It’s about logistics, some are in London, Paris, Cardiff – they’re all over the place. Whenever we can all team up together we seize the opportunity.
When can we expect to hear more new material?
There’s nothing planned right now. Releasing ‘Boo Shuffle’ was part of closing a chapter from the last album. We’re all about songs and ideas. It’s all very spontaneous which is why I love it!
\’Boo Shuffle\’ by The Pipettes
‘Boo Shuffle’ the new single by The Pipettes is available to download now. The girls are performing a special Christmas DJ set ‘Screw You Santa’ at the Snooty Fox in London on December 21, more details available here.
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