The Hollyoaks Music Show with Matalan

[Editor's note: For reasons unknown, we started this interview with Paloma Faith serenading me with a version of 'Sexy Chick' by David Guetta featuring Akon. Perhaps she was trying to tell me something...]

Paloma Faith, some people, certainly not me, presume that you're just a reliable version of Amy Winehouse, but I think you're more than that, Paloma. For the doubters out there, what is your unique selling point? What's your USP, Paloma?

The only similarity between us is something to do with the timbre of our voices, which is influenced by vintage songs and vintage ways of singing. Other than that I would say there’s nothing similar. I come from a theatre background, I've got a Masters in directing and designing for theatre and that plays a big part in what I do. I take an active role in my performance. For instance, I turned up with all the clothes for my band today. The way I deliver myself is as an entertainer as oppose to Amy's pure talent. I'm more comfortable on stage and experienced in being on stage.

Infamously, you used to be a magician's assistant. Have you ever used your powers for evil?

I think everyone has in some way! No, I try to be nice. I say what I think a lot. I'm quite opinionated, but I never want to upset anyone. I'm not nasty, I just stick to my guns.

You're half British, half Spanish. Which half is British and which half is Spanish?

Torso up is English. The bottom half is Spanish.

You've appeared in the St Trinian's film. Didn't Russell Brand star in that? Did he seduce you?

I was a goth in that, so he didn't fancy me, but then we went to the premier and he saw me with my normal hair and make-up. He was a little bit trying, but I managed to take the absolute piss out of him for it. I like to feel like I’m the only woman in the world, so I wasn't tempted!

You're now appearing in the new Terry Gilliam film 'The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus'. Where have these acting gigs come from?

I started acting and singing around the same time. I trained as a dancer and decided that was awful and I didn't want to do it. So I thought I'd try my hand at acting and singing and see what happens, but now I'm just wanting to do both.

Would you like to act in Hollyoaks?

No. I don't think I could do a Terry Gilliam film and then do Hollyoaks! I do like Hollyoaks though, I just don't want to be in it!

Paloma looks like some sort of new for 2009 Addams Family matriarch in our Episode Three Gallery!

Exclusive interview with episode three's Hollyoaks mentor, Claire Cooper available on the Matalan microsite...