bis stormed both the charts and Radio One with their last single, 'Kandy Pop', becoming renowned for being the first unsigned band ever to appear on TOTP. Now, on the verge of their next single, we bring you an exclusive postal interview: Alison thought up the questions and Amanda bis provided the answers.
What did you think to Leeds Sound City?
Nice crowd, good sound'n'stuff, but pity we couldn't have played for longer.
I like Leeds a lot.
What was it like being on TOTP?
Scary first time round as I'd lost my voice and had to concentrate on it
really hard, so I couldn't really relax or jump about. Second time I loved
it 'cos my voice was back.
Have you got at all fed up of 'Kandy Pop', or wished you'd put another
song first on the single?
I'm fed up of it getting played so often, and I wish we could've played
'Secret Vampires' on Top of the Pops instead.
Are you surprised at how quick your rise to fame has happened and how
much hype has been generated around you?
It's not that quick, as we've had 4 singles out now, some bands are famous
after one. We've worked hard to get where we are.
Where do you buy your hair clips from?
Mothercare, Hamleys, Superdrug, Boots etc... I love hair clips.
Why are fanzines so important to you?
Fanzines got us to where we are today. Two fanzines put our first London
gig on. They support you no matter what happens, and are more honest about
opinions.
Is volume three of 'the bis(t) wee fanzine in the world' out yet?
Almost, it should be ready for our tour on 15th May.
What was the last record you bought?
The Fakes LP. At last I found it.
What are your immediate plans with regard to gigs/next releases?
Next single is a split 7" with Heavenly on 'K' records. Another proper
chartbound one is 'v.s. the d.i.y. corps', due for release on June 3rd.
Then touring 24 May - June 2nd or something, headlining around U.K. Reading
festival, Phoenix festival, T in the Park etc.... The tour isn't confirmed,
we'll advertise when it has been.
Where do you see yourselves in 10 years time?
Married, 2 kids, house, erm.... still doing the band though I hope!
Bis were talking to Alison, in June 1996.