It’s been a whole 13 years since The Lightning Seeds released an album. In our Q&A, the band’s leader Ian Broudie tells us about the best day of his life and his dreams to be a magical dolphin. 

^{Picture: Tom Oxley}

Who would you like to see playing you in the movie about your life? 

Who do you think the casting people would choose? Gary Oldman. I’m not sure who the casting people would choose, but I always really enjoy his films.

What’s the punchline to your favourite joke? 

And the next Prime Minister is . . . 

If you were to return in a future life as an animal, what would it be? 

A dolphin with superpowers. That would be fun! 

If you were playing in an escape room, name two other people you’d recruit to help you get out? 

James Bond and Sherlock Holmes. I think between them they could figure out a way to get me out of there!  

When was the last time you were mistaken for someone else? 

It’s happened so many times that I can’t even remember the last time or the circumstances around it but it’s always David Baddiel. 

What’s the best cover version ever? 

I can’t think of many better than ‘Twist And Shout’ by The Beatles. One of my favourite vocals ever. 

Whose speaking voice soothes your ears? 

David Attenborough’s.

Tell us something you wish you had discovered sooner in life? 

Guitar tuners!

Describe your perfect Saturday evening? 

A good Italian meal followed by playing a gig followed by Match Of The Day. 

If you were a ghost, who would you haunt? 

I can’t think of anyone I’d haunt. That is a tricky question. I wouldn’t want to upset anyone like that! 

If you could relive any day of your life, which one would it be? 

The day my son Riley was born. 

What’s your earliest recollection of winning something? 

England winning the World Cup in 1966. One of my earliest memories, although I can’t claim any credit for that one. 

Did you have a nickname at school that you were ok with? 

Kingbird. I went under that name for a while as a record producer too. 

If you were to start a tribute act to a band or singer, what would it be called? 

Nick Cave & The Lightning Seeds.

When were you most recently astonished by something?  

Every time I switch the TV on and see what’s happening in the world. 

What tune do you find it impossible not to get up and dance to, whether in public or private? 

‘I Feel Love’ by Donna Summer. Such a great track. 

Which famous person would be your ideal holiday companion? 

Jürgen Klopp.  

As an adult, what has a child said to you that made a powerful impact? 

Never listen to grown-ups!  

Tell us one thing about yourself that would surprise people? 

I didn’t play live until the third Lightning Seeds album. I love playing gigs now and I’m really excited to be back on tour later this year.

What’s the most hi-tech item in your home?  
I’d say that would have to be my new recording desk. It’s still in my house but I’ll be taking it to the studio very soon and I’m very excited to record new music through it. 

What’s a skill you’d love to learn but never got round to? 

Swimming. I’ve never been able to swim but wish I could. Maybe there’s still time to learn. 

By decree of your local council, you’ve been ordered to destroy one room in your house and all of its contents. Which room do you choose? The spare room. All the stuff I’m meaning to throw away always ends up back in the spare room, so they’d be doing me a favour. 

When did you last cry? 

I’m sure it was probably at some point this season watching Liverpool FC. It’s been painful so far, but I’m hoping they’ll improve soon. 
 
If you were selected as the next 007, where would you pick as your first luxury destination for espionage? 

I think it would have to be Mexico. We played a festival there last year and I loved it.

The Lightning Seeds’ new album See You In The Stars is released by BMG on Friday 14 October; the band play Old Fruitmarket, Glasgow, Sunday 6 November.