| Brakes in Manchester | - Brakes support Belle and Sebastian at the Ritz on Sunday 29 and Monday 30 January
- They return to support Editors at the Academy on Monday 27 February
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You’ve been touring for ages. When did you last get a break?
 | | Eamon playing with Brakes at Night and Day in 2005 |
"I’ve just came back from Morroco actually, I had seven days there all by myself, but before that, it’s been three years since I last had a break!" It must feel like you live on a tour bus… "Yeah, that’s very true. Last year was very punishing, but it’s good fun to play live, especially with bands like Belle and Sebastian. I’m really looking forward to that. And I quite like being away. It saves on housework!" You’re playing Manchester three times in the next month, twice with Belle and Sebastian and once with Editors. Are you a fan of the city? | "The fact that it’s got a sprung dancefloor makes it really fun and that plus the sound and people combines to make a really great place to watch bands" | | Eamon on why he loves the Ritz |
"It’s superb. I’ve always had fun when I’ve gone there. And I love the Ritz (Brakes support Belle and Sebastian at the venue). When I was 16, I went to a Goth night there and I remember thinking that I’d really like to play there. The fact that it’s got a sprung dancefloor makes it really fun and that plus the sound and people combines to make a really great place to watch bands." It’s been a year since you recorded Give Blood. What do you think of the response to it? "I’ve been surprised by it. It’s flattering, really, and we’ve really enjoyed it. We never expected such a massive reaction." The album was recorded very quickly. Is that something you’d recommend to other bands?
 | | Brakes |
"Definitely. It was brilliant. There was a certain magic to it. It was a challenge, but a lot of the time in studios, you’re just sitting round listening to a snare drum, but if you only give yourself five days, you have to work as quickly as possible." So what’s the future for you as regards the two bands? "For the whole of the last year, it was mad. I’ve been trying to be in both bands, and I’ve had to leave British Sea Power. Brakes is just taking up too much time and Sea Power couldn’t gig when I was away. It’s pretty sad, but also a relief. Hopefully, I won’t play as many gigs as last year." Is that it for you and British Sea Power?
 | | Eamon with British Sea Power |
"Well, I still share a house with Hamilton, so I’ll still see them. They’re some of my closest friends." So are there any plans for you to slow down? "No. Definitely not. No brakes, just on and on until I burn out (laughs)." | 
