La Roux

Do you feel like the live La Roux is a different entity to the studio – and why does Ben get to hang about at home while you travel the world on his behalf? Ben and I made the album together, in the studio. It was a combined effort. We play the parts on the record, but neither of us would describe ourselves as professional live musicians. Obviously, because Ben doesn't sing on the album, it doesn't leave him with much to do on stage. Also, Ben never wanted to be in the limelight and have to do interviews and endless promo days. I can see why as well now, the bastard. 

Are you an analogue purist when it comes to synthesiser technology? No. If you want half your equipment to be being repaired all the time it's a great idea! I prefer to use a mix of analogue and digital.

How separate is the visual aspect to the musical? Given the striking visual elements, are they conceived along with the songs, or does the music dictate the visuals? The visual identity of La Roux progressed over time and has definitely been influenced by the music. I knew I wanted the project to have a strong visual element but we didn't start out with an idea in mind. There are my own ideas in there; nothing gets done without my say so, but much of what you see is thanks to my artwork designer Alex Brown and my stylist Nova Dando.

Do you feel any kinship with other synth-pop performers such as Little Boots? I guess I feel some sort of kinship with other young female artists, just because we're going through similar things, but that's not specific to electro or synth pop or anything. We're all musicians – genre is irrelevant.

We have to ask: what do you reckon was the best period of The Bill? The bit with my Mum [Trudie Goodwin, aka, the series' long-serving Sgt June Ackland] in!

Given your obvious fondness for Depeche Mode: Vince Clarke or Martin Gore? In what context? Helping me redecorate? To play tennis with? I definitely wouldn't shag either of them, if that's what you mean. 

La Roux headlines the Barcardi Express tour, which hits Luna Park on Sat 27 Mar

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