His BRMC bandmates have slunk to the local pub, he's shattered from another night on stage (his nth this year, he says) and guitarist/bassisit/vocalist Peter Hayes is dutifully talking to us on the other side of the world.

"What time is it there," he growls.

"12.30pm - midday." I say

"Oh?" he says, "Oh. It's 1am here... I think."

The jetting around seems to be taking its toll on the team who are quickly riding to the top of the rock 'n roll favourites list with their new album 'Baby 81'.

Written on the road, Peter says 'Baby 81' is a "blend" of the past albums 'B.R.M.C', 'Take The On, On Your Own' and their latest, 'Howl'.

Citing Neil Young and T-Bone Burnett as big influences, the rollicking, bluesy, album was put together with Nick (drummer), and Robert (guitar, bass, vocals) having an equal share in the songwriting process... well, almost equal.

"Everyone seems to think they know what's best," he chuckles, "it's hard to know the hierarchy..."

This New Year they're coming to Australia to welcome in 2008 with us playing shows at Falls Festival alongside Kings Of Leon, Groove Armada and host of acts including Blackalicious (Pete's pick).

"Our side shows are different from our festival ones", he says, "at the festivals we pretty much try and give people a taste of the whole BRMC experience in 45 minutes. In our side shows, we take our time".

The phone operator cuts in abruptly to ask Pete where he thinks his bandmate Robert is - he's gone AWOL on a journo waiting for his call.

After a pause, Pete replies.

"I'm sure he's out drinkin'. Actually, I'm pretty positive about that."

Rock on.


'American X: Baby 81 Sessions' EP in stores this Saturday, December 15
'Baby 81' in stores now

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