If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be and why?

Depends how long it was going to be stuck - five minutes to three hours: Ramblin’ Jack Elliott the great American cowboy raconteur - over three hours: six tiny silent people made of beer.

What is your biggest fear?

Being trapped in a lift.

Do you have any superstitions?

I knot my fingers while passing on the stairs.

If you could have only one song on your iPod, what would it be and why?

War Is Over by Prince Far-I.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve brought, not including property?

A great hairy reversible winter coat that doubles as the top half of a gorilla costume - essential for the Chicago winter.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Tony Maimone, the bass player in Pere Ubu, once told the Mekons to “Get the money, don’t leave anything behind” which is sound advice and became an anthemic closing singalong at my recent performance at Busk On The Usk.

What’s your indulgence?

A nice lump of Newport Tasty (a fine cheese available in Newport Market).

What item could you not live without?

I’d like to say guitar but a pencil might be more accurate.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would be less far away because the plane fares are currently mental.

Where are you next going on holiday?

We may go hiking in New York City at the end of August but I need to bring my sons to Wales really soon so that’s being planned as well.