The Pretty In Pink movie soundtrack introduced all kinds of exotic music to this writer’s Californian ears. Mysterious, beautiful tracks by British bands that so succinctly seemed to capture the endless possibility of youth. I used to argue with one of my best friends, Brett, about which was better – The Bunnymen’s Ocean Rain or The Smiths’ Strangeways, Here We Come (my obsession at the time). These songs, these albums, have travelled with me around the world, taking on different meanings, shades of nostalgia and that same evolving idea they encapsulated all those years ago.
When we arrive at Bunnymen guitarist Will Sergeant’s house, it’s a beautiful, sunny day. Potted plants and herbs line the wood deck, with a sprawling garden behind. The front door is massive and gothic, as if it could have been lifted straight from the pages of Bram Stoker. We’re not surprised when Will reveals that the residence was once a mausoleum – Killing Moon, indeed. We settle down with our cuppas, and get down to the business of talking records, Lost Boys and top tips for a beautiful yard.
Music played a big role in Will’s life from an early age. “I’ve been collecting records since I was a little kid”, he explains. “My life is represented by my vinyl! My first vinyl memory was probably when I was about 10, 11. I used to hang around with this lad called Richard. His brother had the Magical Mystery Tour gatefold double single. He also had an album by Gustav Holst called The Planets. We were fascinated by it. It’s all about the Solar System; each planet has its own section on this orchestral LP. Later on, I started watching Top Of The Pops.