How did you get the job of press officer for The Bluetones?

Well, Hall or Nothing used to share an office with Jam X so we knew Neil Burrow (similarly nuts about music) from there. He invited me and Terri (Hall) round to their offices and told us about The Bluetones, he was clearly smitten, his enthusiasm was infectious and so was the demo tape he played and then we were smitten. We did 'em for beer and stamps to start with. They are a one off, I can truly say they are ALWAYS a pleasure to be with as they have such good karma. All the gigs are so special that I*d have followed them whether I was working for them or not. I suppose The Bluetones, Jam X and Hall Or Nothing are all on the same vibe and that*s how I got the job! I also try to be a good girl as much as possible though, so maybe my karma brought good luck! Who knows?

What does your job envolve?

Mainly public relations (i.e. representing lovely people and trying not to make cynical people twist what they are about) and promotions (i.e. making sure that as many people in the media get to hear and see them so that the public don't miss out on a good thing). If there is a single or album release I have to ensure that there are reviews and features in as many different types of publications as possible so that as many people as possible are aware of it. If there is a tour then I have to ensure that papers mention the dates in advance so that people know how to get tickets. If a paper are reviewing the show then I often have to look after the journalist and photographer (travel, gig, nosh, booze etc) like I do when they are doing an interview. I also have to ensure that before the above, we have a fresh and plentiful supply of up to date photographs, there's quite a lot of arranging and attending photo sessions. Much of the time is spent on the phone talking to newspapers and magazines about the band, their latest release, their tour, checking that the latest news or mail out has been received. There is quite a lot of photocopying (press kits and press releases) and mailing out involved, to get one release out takes up most of a day, even with help. These are the basics but who knows what each day will bring?

Best thing about your job?

That I am a besotted music fan who really appreciates how fucking fab it is to get paid for my hobby (following bands!)

Worst thing about your job?

It has to be the cynics, and talking to people who couldn't give a flying fuck about music and all the bullshit and bare faced lies that appear in print. False media. We don*t need it. Don*t believe the hype.

What's the most important quality you need for PR work?

In all honesty, I*m not sure. I, personally would say (1) genuine enthusiasm for what you are doing (2) common sense (3) good karma.

What other bands would you like to work with?

Well, being independent, we already do our favourites (Manics, Stereophonics, Beta Band, Bis, Radiohead, Feeder, Mansun, Shampoo, The Dandys, Ooberman, Experimental Pop Band etc etc) but Remy Zero, Asian Dub Foundation, Super Furry Animals would be among my fantasy p.r. league!

Describe the following in five words:

you: a music and peace lover

your job: long, hard, throbbing and satisfying

the band: talented, sound, loveable, dishy, sorted

lucky I didn*t get my descriptions of my job and the band mixed up eh!

What do you think of Bluetones' fans?

Never met a rotten one in all these years, often end up dancing with complete strangers who could be best friends. In general I know for a FACT that many bands would kill to have such a dedicated following. When the Bluetones play the Blue Army could quite as easily be called Parties Are Us!!!

Favourite album: "Return To The Last Chance Saloon" (too many fave songs to pick a particular one).

What advice would you give to someone interested in a career in music PR?

Firstly….GO FOR IT! Be prepared to start off a bit skint. Use initiative and enthusiasm to get ahead. Be nice. The main thing is really getting a foot in the door, sometimes work experience is worthwhile slavery if you are really serious. People who go to a lot of gigs seem to get feet in doors sometimes too. Once in, a little charm and a lot of style….