AS they prepare to play Brighton Noise’s city showcase at Bleach tonight, Esben And The Witch’s Rachel Davies talks about leaving the city and working with legendary producer Steve Albini.

“It's hard to say at this stage what affect Berlin is going to have on our future records. We're currently living in a weird, family house in the middle of a suburban compound. Rather apocalyptic. It's got a huge basement where we've set up all our equipment, which is a real luxury for us.

“We were on a big tour of the US two years ago where we really started to think about A New Nature and what kind of record we wanted to make. Thomas [Fisher, guitarist] took the lead quickly after and started writing sketches that he presented to Daniel [Copeman, drums] and I so we could start fleshing the songs out together. We then practised like crazy before we even went into the studio to make sure the songs were as tight as they possibly could be. Since then, we've taken every opportunity to play them on the road - that's when they really come alive.

“Setting up our own label [Nostromo] was always been something that we've been intrigued by. From the very start, we've wanted to create a whole world around Esben And The Witch and creative control is essential. [Previous label] Matador were incredibly supportive of our endeavours but it just felt like the right time to branch off and have a go at doing it ourselves. We're also pretty excited about the prospect of releasing other artists work in the future.

“Working with Steve Albini was amazing. He prides himself on the role of engineer rather than producer, to facilitate a band's vision by letting them do exactly what they need to. I really respect that. He's a formidable man but one that definitely deserves the admiration he receives.

“I do miss Brighton. I lived there for a decade so it will always be home to me, really. I'm looking forward to toasting a few beach beers with old friends, for sure. It's been a while since I've been woken up by the sound of seagulls, too.”

Esben And The Witch play Bleach, in Preston Circus, Brighton, tonight, May 22, from 8pm. Also on the bill are Abi Wade and Merlin Tonto. Tickets cost £8 from www.songkick.com/concerts/23265168-esben-and-the-witch-at-bleach For more information: n Visit www.facebook.com/esbenandthewitch n twitter.com/WEAREEATW n www.esbenandthewitch.co.uk