Hitting the road: Louis Baker (Brockaflowersaurus Rex)

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

Definitely the van life! It's the full touring experience.

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

Who ever is riding shotgun as a general rule, however, sometimes there is a unanimous vote for a track so we listen to that.

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

Bob's Fresh Fish Market, Tauranga. The fish and chips there are absolutely mind blowing! Especially the oysters.

Your favourite summer venue?

Leigh Sawmill Cafe.

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

I love the friendly vibe in New Plymouth.

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

Scorching Bay is pretty dope - if it's not too windy.

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

My latest single Birds.

What are your plans for New Year's Eve?

I'll be playing down at Rhythm and Alps with full band, and soaking up the atmosphere!

Do you have any New Years traditions?

I'm a relaxed person, so I don't set up any expectations. I leave New Years fairly open and try to enjoy the moment, where ever I may be. Another year around the sun! No traditions as such.

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

Being a person who listens to all kinds of music, I don't find I'm ever very dissatisfied. I love hearing Motown and soul in the sun!

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

I spend my time playing music, teaching music, and landscaping in Wellington. So whether I'm doing shows, with the students, or with the earth, I have a great life and don't miss out on much!

Ideal summer music fest dream team lineup?

D'Angelo, Electric Wire Hustle, The Roots, Thomas Oliver, Tame Impala, Common, Gary Clarke Jr., Doyle Bramhall II, Matt Corby, and many more!

Louis Baker is performing at Bodega, Wellington, Dec 21; Rhythm and Alps, Cardrona Valley, Dec 31; Festival of Lights, New Plymouth, Jan 23; Rippon Festival, Wanaka, Feb 1; Splore Festival, Tapapakanga Regional Park, Feb 14-16; Homegrown, Wellington, Feb 15.

- TimeOut