In this TBI QnA we hear from Nelson based electronic music trio Neon - featuring Brendon Grant, Paul Hargreaves and Tim Wells.

Neon go back to the roots of electronic synthesis by utilising vintage analogue keyboards, vocoders and drum machines from the 1970s and 1980s.

In performance, their whole studio is brought to the stage, synchronised, sequenced and mixed, with visuals by Klaasz Breukel. They are influenced by early electronic pioneers such as Giorgio Moroder, Kraftwerk and John Foxx, but mainly by the sounds their unique instruments produce.

After performing at Light Nelson and in their Granary Gig at last year's Nelson Arts Festival, Neon are returning for an evening of electronic musical magic on 14 October, at Playhouse Cafe.

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During what hours of the day do you feel most inspired?

All hours of the day. We are an all - encompassing project. Music, studio, art, design, audio visual, and studio. We build and create.

How would a good friend describe your aesthetic or style?

Modern, Retro.

What aspect of your creative practice gives you the biggest thrill?

Live performance.

How does your environment affect your work?

We draw influence from everything we see.

Do you like to look at the big picture or focus on the details?

We have to do both equally.

What's your number one business tip for surviving (and thriving) in the creative industries?

We are in the business of creativity. Be strong and make sure each of the band members is fully engaged in the best they have to offer. Be supportive. Engage the Artistic community but be self reliant.

Which of your projects to date has given you the most satisfaction?

Performing in Nelson Cathedral with a full choir and timed to the bell-ringer in the cathedral tower, for Light Nelson.

Who or what has inspired you recently?

Our synthesizers.

Tell us a bit about your background

We each have wildly varying backgrounds. We have most avenues covered.

Tell us about some of your recent work and upcoming projects

Playing in Nelson Cathedral, six performances, each full. Last year's Nelson Art's Festival, and this year. Ongoing studio work. Performing at The Arcade, an art installation at Nelson's Refinery art space.

Tell us a bit about Neon?

We are a band that uses totally analogue synthesizers and electronics, combined with audio visual projections.

What are you planning for the Nelson Arts Festival?

A two hour show that is as good to look at as it is good to listen to and dance to.

If you could go back and choose a completely different career path to the one you've chosen, what would it be?

The one we are doing now.

What place is always with you, wherever you go?

Cornwall. Bali. London. Paris. Okiwi Bay. Nelson.

What's the best way to listen to music, and why?

In a live environment. With a full crowd. The connection is all encompassing. 

You are given a piece of string, a stick and some fabric. What do you make?

A projection screen.

What's the best stress relief advice you've ever been given?

Laughter.

What’s great about the Nelson Arts Festival?

The community awakening from winter, ready with anticipation to enjoy itself.

What’s your big idea for 2016?

Create more. Create a spectacle at 2016 Light Nelson.

• Nelson Arts Festival is on from October 14 to 26.