Ramble on

What happens when the frontman of a punk band falls in love with the acoustic guitar again? Shame? Disgrace? Embarrassment? Perhaps, but for Jay Bones it's led to a successful folk alter-ego, Rambling Bones, whose shows are as intimate as Fuzigish's are raucous.

We speak to Bones about going out alone, the influence of Frank Sinatra and selling stainless-steel pots.

Why did you feel the need to create the acoustic alter-ego? Were there certain things Fuzigish as a concept wouldn't let you fulfil?

I spend a lot of time with my acoustic guitar — I write all my songs on the acoustic first - and it just seemed a natural thing to do. I was listening to a lot of acoustic songs and I liked the idea of doing something that I could be completely selfish with. I think it does let me explore some new territory that Fuzigish would possibly not, but essentially the songwriting process is the same.

Do you remember your first solo show? How did it feel to go out there without the safety of the band?

My first show was a nervous one. I suddenly felt really exposed and alone. Years ago I used to play at "buskers night" at Wings Beat Bar. I think it was every Monday, and basically you would get up on stage and play a few songs, open mic style, and that was probably my first show ever in a club or bar.

Was there any "prejudice" or "backlash" when you started performing as Rambling Bones? What was the initial response of the other guys in the band when you said you were planning to go acoustic?

Everyone in Fuzigish has been really supportive, and been cool about it. It is different to Fuzi, so I think it doesn't clash.

But I think it surprised some people and they either liked that or maybe not. For me it was about challenging myself, getting out of a comfort zone and meeting some new faces. I have been really glad to see a lot of people who support Fuzi have been coming to Ramblin' shows.

And, you know, if you're not into the whole acoustic thing, that's cool, 'cos there was a stage when I would never have thought of playing acoustic music. That's cool because I surprised myself and I am really enjoying it.

Jay talks about his influences and the next genre he wants to pursue on page two...