It can be quite surprising to meet Anna Calvi in person for the first time. And to discover that she is nothing like the bold, fierce rock guitarist and singer of her live performances who first caught the attention of Nick Cave and Brian Eno (who hailed her the best thing since Patti Smith) in 2010. Although she and I have met before, when we shared Mercury Prize judging duties last year (when Alt-J won the prize). Calvi was petite and reserved, a thinker, carefully deliberating everything before she spoke. Just as she is today, when we meet at her record label’s offices.
“A scary, scary lady”, is how our reviewer described her at an intimate show at Wilton’s Music Hall, east London, in September. Calvi, a diminutive figure against the large sofa, despite her striking bright blue shirt and shock of red lipstick, laughs. “It is funny because I don’t see myself like that, but when you’re being really strong and forceful there’s a sense of wildness that perhaps could feel scary. But I don’t mind it. I’d prefer someone to describe me as that, rather than… boring.”
READ FULL INTERVIEW HERE