More singers announced and Skin Côntact's Alex Hunt reveals all he knows - and likes - about music

By Claret Pimpernel

Published: 03 February, 2015

If the thought of wine legends Joe Wadsack and Charles Metcalfe singing along to the sounds of the wine trade's very own rock band Skin Côntact, was not enough to get you to their one off gig on March 9 at London's Vinopolis, then four more singers have just been added to the line up.

Skin Contact Skin ContactWine trade supergroup bands together for Comic Relief

Yes we can now look forward to the operatic skills of Waitrose's Anne Jones, Wine Gang's David Williams, Wine Society's Ewan Murray and Square Meal's Lucy Britner who will all be taking it in turns to try and keep in step with the sounds of Skin Côntact, as they collectively look to raise money for Comic Relief.

The event is promising to be one of the must attend nights out of the year and will have added signficance as it might be the last time many in the trade get chance to enjoy Vinopolis - the mecca of all things wine and historical - as it is due to close later in the year.

Before then, though, the trade will get the chance to hear band leader Richard Hemming, on keyboards, Matt James, founder of Bordeaux Cellar and formerly of proper band, Gene on drums, Ben Smith of Concha y Toro and Curiosity Killed the Cat fame, Berkmann's Alex Hunt MW on lead guitar, and Anne McHale MW of Berry Bros & Rudd and PR star, Helen Chesshire on backing vocals for the big gig on March 9.

Tickets, starting at £22.50, are now on sale at http://www.skincontactlive.com/ and the whole thing is sponsored by Côtes du Rhône Wines.

To get you in the mood let's hear from Alex Hunt who shares with us his likes and dislikes from the world of music?

Kylie-loving Alex Hunt MW is on lead guitar Kylie-loving Alex Hunt MW is on lead guitar

ALEX HUNT MW, LEAD GUITAR

So, you're lucky enough to be in the greatest (and only) UK wine trade covers band of all time. How does that feel?

In the words of Tom Waits, it's a preasure and a plivilege.

What was the first album and first single you bought?

I've never been much of a singles buyer. My first album would have been the eponymous debut of either Iron Maiden or Kylie; I forget which came first.

And when did you start learning your instrument?

Learning is for wimps! Alright then, 12.

Who are your favourite musicians nowadays?

Laura Marling, St Vincent, Martha Argerich

Top three all-time classic albums?

Five Leaves Left

Kid A

Wine trade supergroup bands together for Comic Relief

Paul's Boutique

And your idea of musical purgatory?

The little I've heard of Ludovico Einaudi was enough to induce an incandescent coma.

What's been the most rock and roll moment of your life so far?

Headlining a gig in Riga's coolest indie club and being brought presents by groupies who had been convinced through nifty marketing that this particular band had existed for more than 48 hours, and that they were die-hard fans.

What song are you most looking forward to playing at Skin Côntact LIVE?

It Must Be Love by Madness. It features in my second favourite film of all time, and I get to play five instruments (sort of).

We should probably mention wine too, I suppose. What was the last wine you drank?

Deviation Road Loftia 2012. It's fizzy, it's from Adelaide Hills, and we're about to order it.

Any good?

Embarrasses most Champagne.

Is there a particular wine you've always wanted to taste?

La Tâche 1978, La Chapelle 1961, Latour 1961, Margaux 1953 (Withnail vintage) - I could go on. You're paying, right?

How about your fall-back, failsafe bottle to crack open when you have unexpected guests?

White Rabbit Riesling. Just screams "Drink Me".

And what are your favourite Rhône appellations / producers? (the sponsors bit again)

Hermitage for Sunday best, Cornas for a dirty Thursday night. Chave, Allemand, and of course my beloved Delas.