"Monsters and horror have long served as representations of fears and anxieties. It's often simpler to conjure a creature than to articulate your fears directly." — Lara Minchin Your forthcoming EP, ‘BITER’, utilizes horror and vampire folklore to delve into themes of vulnerability and unease. What is it about these themes that captivates you, and why did they seem like the suitable way to convey the project's emotional aspects? Lara: The title ‘BITER’ primarily relates to wild, unruly children. The vampire element emerged while I was discussing the imagery of ‘Show Me Your Teeth’. At that time, I was experiencing one of my recurring nightmare phases: I’d have nightmares every night for months, and then they would just stop. There’s a certain uncertainty that accompanies that, not knowing what lies ahead. Monsters and horror have continually served as forms of expression for fears and anxieties, and nightmares provide a profound glimpse into all that troubles you, either consciously or unconsciously. It’s often easier to create a monster than to simply express your fears. You have recently begun sharing a series of live videos recorded in... a soft play center. To be honest, we are enamored. Whose idea was that? How did it come to be? Can we hire you for a child’s birthday celebration? Lara: The idea came from my friend Aoife. Our label, Big Scary Monsters, asked if we would create a live video, suggesting we could film it anywhere. This sparked a brainstorming process that lasted a few days. Aoife proposed laser tag, and while we attempted to make that work, soft play was the next best option. Aoife produced that video and did an incredible job, with her fiancé (Daniel) behind the camera (congratulations to them!). I ended up with carpet burn from the slide. Who would be your ideal collaborator (and why)? Lara: Johnny Logan; that man possesses an incredible voice and wears leather trousers. Share the best and the worst advice you’ve ever received. Lara: The worst advice – say yes to everything. The best advice has always come from my mother; I genuinely can’t single out one instance. She’s rarely mistaken and is an excellent judge of character. Lastly, DIY are coming over for dinner - what are you cooking? Lara: Well, DIY, we’d need to know a bit more about you! Any dietary restrictions? At present, I’ve been really enjoying soup since it’s quite dreary here in Ireland. My current favorite is a Czech garlic soup that has a lovely golden hue. It’s very straightforward: two heads of garlic, an onion, stock, white wine, salt, pepper, some rosemary, and a potato. I’m anxious about getting ill before touring, so I try to eliminate any chance of catching a cold with this magical concoction. It’s also apple season, and I have a substantial surplus of apples from home, so I’d make you an apple crumble topped with oats and homemade custard – because I love you, DIY x