When playing Patrick & Eugene’s debut album for the first time, get ready to raise some eyebrows. It starts with a simple ukelele melody, followed by some sweet vocals, then a thumping dance beat, a horn section, and next thing you know … you’re probably dancing to it (and that’s all before the saxophones and whistles come in).
Yes, Patrick & Eugene’s style is a bit off-beat, but the UK band makes no apologies for their relentlessly optimistic music, and this might explain why the duo has done as well as they have, with their debut album Birds, Bees, Flowers and Trees receiving all sorts of raves while the track “The Birds and the Bees” has been spotted in a national VW ad. Toss in a cover of Kylie Minogue’s “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” that wouldn’t sound too out of place on the Borat soundtrack and some ridiculously playful live shows, and you the recipe for something genuinely special.
Now, the one and only Eugene Bezoids takes part in PopMatters’ 20 Questions feature, discussing how good he’d look in an ellipsis, why setting Patrick’s hair on fire may or may not be part of a magic trick, and his unabashed love for … cider.
1. The latest book or movie that made you cry?
Books and films don’t generally make me cry. I am a ‘MAN’.
2. The fictional character most like you?
King Kong.
3. The greatest album, ever?
My photo album aged 0-6 months.
But seriously I would recommend: Kind of Blue by Miles Davis, Saxophone Colossus by Sonny Rollins, Gorilla by The Bonzo Dog Doo-dah Band, Abraxas by Santana, Hot Rats by Frank Zappa.
I haven’t included any Patrick and Eugene albums as that would be showing off … but Birds, Bees, Flowers and Trees, the new album, is available in all good record shops and online now!
4. Star Trek or Star Wars?
I don’t know about them but I always look out for Star Buys when I’m in the supermarket; last week 4 cans of cider for only £1.99.
5. Your ideal brain food?
Cider.
6. You’re proud of this accomplishment, but why?
Being a full time musician, why? Because I get to spend time with my friends who also don’t have proper jobs.
7. You want to be remembered for …?
For being honest and decisive. Should I say that? I don’t know if it’s really true.
8. Of those who’ve come before, the most inspirational are?
I was going to say Beryl and John. Then I realized no one would know who they are.
9. The creative masterpiece you wish bore your signature?
Stonehenge or the invention of the saxophone.
10. Your hidden talents . . .?
Magician, one of my better tricks resulted in setting fire to Patrick’s hair during a live performance.
11. The best piece of advice you actually followed?
To be perfectly honest, I don’t think I’ve ever actually followed anybody’s advice about anything. My friend told me to say this.
12. The best thing you ever bought, stole, or borrowed?
The best thing I ever bought is my first saxophone. The only thing I’ve ever stolen is kisses but I always gave them back so I guess you could say they were borrowed.
13. You feel best in Armani or Levis or…?
Definitely dot dot dot, I have many clothes with dots on them.
14. Your dinner guest at the Ritz would be?
My mum would love it and would be my guest for sure (do the people at the Ritz read this?).
15. Time travel: where, when and why?
Let me think about this one, I’ll give you my answer yesterday.
16. Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac?
Cider.
17. Essential to life: coffee, vodka, cigarettes, chocolate, or..?
Cider.
18. Environ of choice: city or country, and where on the map?
Anywhere, as long as the facilities are hygienic and there is plenty of paper.
19. What do you want to say to the leader of your country?
Have you bought the new album, Gordon?
20. Last but certainly not least, what are you working on, now?
I am working on my first solo album, which is due for completion this year.
I am also working on my complementary invitation to the Ritz where I will be drinking cider with King Kong six years ago.