Person to Person: Cork singer says he's 'excited' to release third album

Tell us about yourself;

My name is Ruairi and I make music as Bantum. I have been playing music from a young age and making music ideas of my own since I started. I’ve been active as Bantum for 15 years now and I’m about to release my third album , Bantum, on October 3, preceded by a single called Bamboo.

Where were you born?

Cork city, and grew up in Bandon.

Where do you live?

Cork city.

Family?

Parents, brothers and sister, all in Cork, with a special mention to my little nephew, Scott.

Best friend?

Too many to mention!

Earliest childhood memory?

Watching Dr Who on the couch with Mum.

Person you most admire?

My grandparents. Grand persons.

Person who most irritates you?

The guy who invented panpipes.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Backpacking through south east Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South America

Favourite TV programme?

I think I watch The Last Dance on Netflix like twice a year.

Favourite radio show?

The Metal Show with John Kenny (bring that back!!). Special mention to Off The Ball and Mystery Train.

Your signature dish if cooking?

Monkfish curry.

Favourite restaurant?

The Bulman in Kinsale (bonus pub downstairs).

Last book you read?

Here, There And Everywhere. A book about the Beatles.

Best book you read?

Born Standing Up - Steve Martin.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Probably a Caribou or a Jungle song while I was mixing the album. I listen to a lot of music as mix references.

Favourite song?

No One Knows - Queens of the Stone Age

One person you would like to see in concert?

Gesaffelstein.

Do you have a pet?

Not now but soon! Shout out to Ted the golden retriever though. He’s a good boy.

Morning person or night owl?

Night owl slowly morphing into a morning person.

Your proudest moment?

Choice prize nomination for my second album, Move.

Spendthrift or saver?

I have been a mad saver over the years.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

More green everywhere. More primary colours everywhere. Cycle lanes and greenways. Outdoor seating.

What makes you happy?

Being creative and being active. And coffee.

How would you like to be remembered?

For being sound to my friends and family.

What else are you up to at the moment?

I have also recently produced an album with Suil Amhain called AthPhORT, which you should all check out now, and an EP by Callas called Days, which is also out now.

Stream / download single Bamboo at https://s.disco.ac/bbtsjteztrxo

Stream / download album Bantum (out on October 3) at https://s.disco.ac/osyylrxtpkbd