You probably haven't heard of surrealist psyche-country rockers Wet Paint yet but you are likely to hear their name this year. Inspired by the 90s power-pop grunge of Dinosaur JR and the guitar-shredding aesthetic of Sonic Youth the four-piece already count Radiohead amongst their fans and are soon to embark on a UK tour with Bloc Party. Tonight the low-key four-piece celebrate the launch of their album with a show at Rough Trade East. We caught up with them to talk guitars, whales and Bernard Madoff.

Q&A

What's

...so special about you guys, then?
We’re not convinced there's any way you could answer that question and not sound totally lame.

...the first line of your manifesto?
Be excellent to one another.


...so great about whales?
Herman Melville gave them a bad press – we're just trying to put the record straight.


...the best piece of advice you've heard?
Do not go gently into that good night.

...the greatest record ever made?
Melody Nelson by Serge Gainsbourg.


...better, analogue or digital?
Analogue.

...this year going to bring?
The fun is really in not knowing.

...at the top of your shit list?
Bernard Madoff's been a bit of a rascal.


...your music all about?
Unrequited love, bowling… all the important stuff really.

Wet Paint playing tonight at Rough Trade Brick Lane at 7pm. Free entry.