Belfast band Robocobra Quartet have released their new album, Living Isn't Easy. We asked band member Tom Tabori (soprano sax/keys/sampler) the BIG questions . . .
Living Isn’t Easy is their first full-length release in four years and the band have also released lead single, Wellness.
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Speaking about the single, drummer-vocalist Chris W Ryan says, "There’s a song by The Fall called Dr Buck’s Letter where Mark E Smith reads out an interview by Pete Tong and there's a beautiful absurdity to it so I thought I should just repeat this article verbatim as it didn't need any fictionalising at all."
Ryan adds that the album "is all about aspiration - the things we aspire to and the things we are told to aspire to work, success, family, health and wealth."
Robocobra Quartet play Kasbah Social Club, Limerick on 15 September, Whelan’s (Upstairs), Dublin on 17 September and Empire Music Hall, Belfast on 7 October.
Tell us three things about yourself?
I’m Tom - usually found playing soprano sax, keys and sampler. I’m the tallest member of the band. And I won’t eat cheese unless it’s on a pizza.
How would you describe your music?
A hybrid of six different music tastes, with nods to punk, jazz, spoken word, and stand-up comedy.
Who are your musical inspirations?
It depends on the day, but Matthew Tavares, James Blake, and Robert Glasper come to mind.
What was the first gig you ever went to and the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
Klaxons/Simian Mobile Disco at the Brixton Academy in 2007 - yes, new rave was big growing up in London. As for first record, if we skip past the embarrassing childhood purchases, then The Roots’ Do You Want More?!!!??! Mellow My Man was a favourite track for a long while.
What's your favourite song right now?
Still spinning Confessions Pt. III (feat. Colin Stetson) by BADBADNOTGOOD.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"One great big, small thing, like pollen in the spring breeze; a speck of dust in this vast universe. It’s just like a raindrop in the sea of consciousness." - All Matter by Bilal Oliver.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Round Midnight - Thelonious Monk.
Where can people find your music/more information?
All of our music can be found on Bandcamp, as well as the usual streaming services. And @robocobraquartet on Instagram if you crave content in between shows.
