Inside Anteloup: interview with Luis

It's time we delved into the history of Anteloup and got to know its inmates a bit better. First up is lead singer and guitarist Luis, who has contributed many of the band's classic songs.

Anteloup at the Maze

How did you come to join Anteloup?

Pat, Dave and I used to step up for a local covers band every now and again. Pat and I chatted about some original stuff and roped Dave in. We were called The Rubber Onion Band and never played a gig! After recruiting Pete and another vocalist we changed the name to Anteloup, before auditioning Gary.

Who's your musical hero?

Too many to list here! Gary Moore, Mark Knopfler, Prince, Bjork, Beck, Dusty Springfield, Nina Simone, Jane Weaver... The list goes on!

What's your first musical memory?

I used to have a Fisher Price wind-up pocket radio that played Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head. It would have been about 1973, I think. When I heard B J Thomas singing it on the proper radio I freaked out! In my defence, I was only 4.

If Anteloup were playing on Later with Jools, who else would you like to be on the bill?

Jane Weaver, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Erasure and Lady Gaga would be a good start.

If Anteloup were a food, what would it be?

Probably a selection of cream cakes; a little bit of everything, naughty and nice!

What was your weirdest experience playing with Anteloup?

We played Oxjam some years ago and I routed my pedal board through the PA, instead of my amp. Issue was, my guitar was NOT on the channel that fed my fold-back. I did the whole set without actually hearing my guitar! If you watch the vid of "Jodie" you'll see me mention to Pat that I can't hear my guitar solo!

If you weren't in Anteloup, which band would you like to be in?

Probably ELO (aka "Jeff Lynne's ELO"). One of my school friends was a cellist in ELO some years back. Be nice to catch up with her, too.

Favourite tipple?

A decent craft ale, a decent single malt, or a nice mug of coffee.

Favourite album of all time?

Too many to choose from again.... Delicate Sound of Thunder (Pink Floyd), Ten (Pearl Jam), Blood Sugar Sex Magic (RHCP), The Planets (Holst), The Silver Globe (Jane Weaver), Sam's Town (The Killers)....

Which was your favourite Anteloup gig?

I would say Oxjam 2021. It had been SO long without a gig and we really decided to make this something special. The whole band just stepped up and tore the arse out of the set. I don't think I've ever been so happy playing a gig. Everything just clicked up to 11!!