Pretty Pretty Pretty

Pretty Pretty People: Julia Deans of Fur Patrol August 14, 2008

Fur Patrol have been one of my most favouritest bands since they got together around 1996, and their front woman Julia is hella talented and hella hott. The band were originally from Wellington, but as is the way of the world, they’re now based in Melbourne. We’re stoked she took the time to answer our questions, ahead of their New Zealand tour that begins in Wellington on August 22nd. 

1. Did you always want to be a musician when you grew up, or is it something that you fell into?
Both, really. I think I was always a bit of a performer, from a very young age, and I guess my family and noticed my aptitude for music. When I was about 7, my grandmother asked me if i’d like to learn to play the piano. I thought it sounded like a good thing to have a go at… and next thing you know I’m a “grown-up” and music is my life.

2. Do you think that you have an on-stage persona, or are you the same on stage as you would be on the street?
I’m essentially the same goofball, but I have control of the microphone. which means I’m louder and less easy to ignore. I’m much more shy on the street.

3. Having lived in both cities, how are Melbourne and Wellington different (or the same), stylistically?
I’ve always found melbourne and wellington to be kinda similar. They’re both a bit grungey, lots of art, music, theatre going on, everyone wears a lot of black…

4. What do you wear/do to make yourself feel good?
Tonight it’s cold and actually raining here in Melbourne (doesn’t happen much). We’ve just finished rehearsing, and I’m really tired with sore feet. I have pulled my boots off, and am snuggled up in front of the heater with Ramone (the cat) and a cup of tea. Right now, that’s all making me feel pretty damned good!

5. How would you define pretty?
Pretty, to me, has a sense of gentleness and grace about it. It’s something soft and natural, not manufactured or contrived. It’s a sight or a sound or a smell that makes you feel like you’re five again, drawing lovely clear lines on clean white paper with a big yellow crayon. It is simple and satisfying and safe.

Fur Patrol play:

• 22nd August – Wellington, Bodega with Grand Prix & The Friendly Barnacle
• 23rd August – Christchurch, Dux De Lux with Flip Grater
• 29th August – Hamilton, Flow with The Naked And Famous
• 30th August – Auckland, Dogs Bollix with The Naked And Famous