On Thursdays Del Osei-Owusu sits down with an artist on the FOTN radar and breaks out the tea and biscuits. This week it’s the turn of Max Bianco. They couldn’t decide which biscuits to go for so Max brought chocolate hobnobs and custard creams.

He’s a good lad.

Hello Max how are you?

I’m really well. Just been to the shop to buy some industrial carpet cleaner. How are you?

I’m great! I’ve just been to the bank. Rock n Roll lifestyle eh?

Congratulations on the release of “Sometimes” how does it feel?

Thank you! Yeah, it’s the most nervous I’ve been about a song release. It’s something personal I guess, and I hope people can relate to it to some degree.

What’s the story behind the song?

It depends on what day of the week you listen to it.

You recorded it at The Albion Rooms in Margate what was that like?

Fantastic studio. I love Jason Stafford, he brings the atmosphere to anything you record. I don’t think it would be the same without him

What’s your favourite memory of those sessions?

I don’t really have many, I’d stayed awake a day too late but I didn’t let that get in the way. I think we watched the rugby at one point…

You are a singer songwriter from the North east of England how did it all start for you?

I stole my brothers guitar, then I realised I had to move away. I love my home town but at that time, it didn’t offer the answer to many dreams.

What did you listen to growing up?

Libertines, babyshambles, Bob Dylan? Townes Van Zandt, Johnny thunders, the clash. I’m a sucker for anything good.

You were handpicked by The Libertines to support them, describe getting *that* call in three words.

Fasten.
Your.
Seatbelt.

You have played the Roundhouse And Fiddlers Elbow with them now, what’s it been like playing those iconic venues?

I’ve played fiddlers elbow before but I’m yet to play the roundhouse. I always imagined myself playing that stage one day, and I get to do that supporting the band that made me write songs in the first place. I wouldn’t be a songwriter if it wasn’t for seeing those boys on TV. I’ll be playing on the 30th of October 🙂

Tell us a funny story from the road.

The road is funny. Everything about it is homely and funny. I can’t tell you too much as it could be libellous

What are you listening to at the moment?

Imlac, Josh Robins, Sammy Vincent, Evan Williams and WEZ KING

What’s next for you?

I hope to keep recording and playing shows. I think a tour would be on the cards next year. Maybe head off the continent to Japan or the US.