A long-awaited collaboration | Jeffrey Galea

Jeffrey Galea of Xtruppaw speaks about his band’s upcoming collaboration with ska-rockers Fakawi, this Saturday at City Theatre, Valletta.

A feat of horrific genetic engineering? The poster for the upcoming Xtruppaw/Fakawi gig blends the faces of both bands into one.
A feat of horrific genetic engineering? The poster for the upcoming Xtruppaw/Fakawi gig blends the faces of both bands into one.

Why did you decide to perform on stage together?

It was an inevitable cooperation really. We've known each other for a while and we've tossed the idea around countless times. In a way this event has been unofficially in the pipeline for many years, but somehow, something always came in the way... like Fakawi being too snobby to share the stage with us. Now, well, let's just say we've made them an offer they couldn't refuse.

What can your fans expect from this on-stage collaboration?

A night to remember surely (hopefully for the right reasons)... unless you've had one (or ten) too many beers, then you might not remember much. Those who can handle their booze can expect to remember a few surprises on top of the usual good vibes both bands give during their performances.

Do you love each other? How deep does your love go?

We respect Fakawi and love them, both as a band and also on personal level. Some members of both bands know each other and have been friends for years. And we also realise that by asking how deep our love goes you're simply putting words into our mouths, so we won't indulge you by saying that our love goes deep, very deep.

In spite of any love you may feel for each other however, you're bound to have a bit of an ego about performing together. How does this pride manifest itself?

Certain Fakawi members can be quite the prima donna. Popularity can go straight to some people's head which can cause unnecessary drama. Just saying. Still, we'll do our best to give a great show nonetheless.

Which band has the coolest fans, and why?

Malta being so small, most fans are probably common to both bands... However, if you asked them who they prefer, they'll probably say Xtruppaw, which makes them the coolest fans ever.

What have been some of your favourite gigs - or 'live moments' in general - by the other band?

Difficult to say as they've admittedly done some good shows. We do like their gig openings at the beer festival in Ta Qali... It's something that people look forward to every year.

Would you ever record a song together?

Never thought of that, but it could be a great idea. We'll have to check Fakawi's schedule as they're probably busy recording their third album... or is it the fourth?

Doors open at 21. Tickets at €10 can be purchased online from www.ticketline.com.mt.