Hitting the road: Scott Towers (Fat Freddy's Drop)

What is your preferred mode of travel for the summer tour?

If I had a choice, it would be helicopter; I've never been in one and am desperate for a ride. But let's face it - I am a musician, not an America's Cup skipper, so such indulgences are beyond me.

Who's in charge of the stereo/iPod, and what's on it?

Whoever is in the front passenger seat; position is 9/10ths of the law on any road trip. And they'll put on whatever they feel like - which mostly seems to be classic afrobeat, early 90s house or recently released techno at the moment.

Favourite place to grab a feed while out on the road?

We're sticking pretty close to the coast so anywhere that does fine fish 'n' chips.

Your favourite summer venue?

Mangawhai Tavern is great, as it's small and you play under an awning of massive pohutukawa trees. We're not actually there this year though.

Where else are you looking forward to visiting along your tour route?

The many golf courses scattered around New Zealand; we have a healthy competition running and it's always a good laugh.

Best spot for a quick dip in the ocean, or an inviting swimming hole?

Nelson, Takaka, and Blenheim - the northern tip of the South Island has so many treasures.

What song will you be playing to really get the crowd going?

We've been dropping a mean version of Shiver Man in our set this year - that never fails to get people in a lather. And there's a song on our new record called Never Moving which has become a big extended funk jam.

What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

Beat DJ Fitchie on the 18th hole, eat some whitebait fritters, swim, soundcheck, nap, eat some fresh fish, drink some rum cocktails, play a great gig and get to bed before the sun comes up. Actually, first thing aside, this may well happen.

Do you have any New Year's traditions?

My only tradition is that I try not to adhere to any traditions. My mum has always told me, "You're just being contrary". I keep saying, "No, I'm not".

Do certain styles of music make more sense during the hot and sweaty months of summer?

Yes, good music makes more sense. But not just in the steamy months.

Is it tough having to work over the summer break when everyone else is on holiday?

You mean, is it tough travelling around the beaches of New Zealand all summer, hanging out with your friends, eating and drinking too much, and doing something I love? You're right, I should be paid danger money.

Ideal summer music fest dream team line-up?

Prince, the Doobie Brothers, Little Dragon, Chic, Grace Jones, Mr Scruff, and Erykah Badu - and me having the the day off.

Fat Freddy's Drop play Coroglen Tavern, Coromandel, Dec 29; Brewer's Field, Mt Maunganui, Dec 30; Waihi Beach Hotel, Dec 31; Matakanaval, Matakana, Jan 2; Riwaka Hotel, Jan 3; Lower Hutt Station Village, Jan 4; Rippon Festival, Wanaka, Feb 1; Homegrown, Wellington, Feb 15.

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- TimeOut