Basement Jaxx: From beans on toast to Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

Basement Jaxx star Felix Buxton can’t wait to perform at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay – after spending last year at home with a plate of beans on toast.

His pregnant wife was in hospital battling Covid during the festivities, leaving Felix alone eating food he couldn’t taste as he recovered from the virus himself.

He’s hoping this year will be different, though, with the electronic music act due to bring in the bells before a reduced 30,000 capacity crowd.

Felix told STV current affairs show Scotland Tonight that he plans to make the most of the occasion as the Brit and Grammy award winners perform hits such as Where’s Your Head At, Do Your Thing, Romeo and Oh My Gosh.

“I definitely feel like celebrating, because last Christmas and New Year my wife was pregnant in hospital with Covid,” he said.

“I had my Christmas dinner, which was beans on toast, by myself at home, which I couldn’t taste because I had Covid.

“That was the most unique festival time I’ve had, so I’m looking forward to this one being warmer and more beautiful and with people, in a kind of sensible way.”

After last year’s pandemic-enforced cancellation, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations are also set to feature Scottish DJ Arielle Free as part of a four-day festival.

As well as a torchlight procession, plans include a return of the traditional street party on Princes Street and musical performances at Greyfriars Kirk featuring the likes of Dougie Maclean, Eddi Reader and Breabach.

Bill Murray via SNS Group

Felix and Basement Jaxx bandmate Simon Ratcliffe will provide a special soundtrack for the world-renowned midnight firework display.

“We’ve had a bit of to-and-fro about how we are doing the music for the apex of the whole situation,” Felix said.

“I’m sure it will be wonderful, I love Edinburgh and I know Scottish people are great at celebrating life.

“We’ll be playing music to make you alive, dance, and feel good to be alive.”