Audrey Tait Interview (Franz Ferdinand, Hector Bizerk): Glastonbury, Authenticity, & Wellness
Known to many as the powerhouse behind Franz Ferdinand, Audrey brings a rare mix of precision, musical sensitivity and grounded honesty to what she does behind the kit. I was really excited to meet her, especially after watching Franz Ferdinand's incredible Glastonbury performance.
From the outset, Audrey spoke about discovering drums through school programs and community access - a reminder of how vital those early opportunities are. There was no grand masterplan at the beginning, just curiosity, exposure and a willingness to say yes. That theme of openness runs through her story: being willing to try, to adapt, and to step into situations slightly outside your comfort zone.
Finding Your Musical Identity
One of the most compelling parts of our conversation was Audrey’s reflection on musical identity. She spoke about the difference between simply playing drums and understanding how you fit within a band. That shift - from thinking like an individual musician to thinking like a contributor to a collective sound - is where growth really happens.
Audrey’s approach to groove is rooted in feel and intention. Rather than overcomplicating parts, she focuses on what serves the song. That restraint, especially in a band with such a distinct rhythmic and dance-driven identity, is a skill in itself. There’s confidence in knowing when not to play.
She also discussed stepping into an established band dynamic. Joining a globally recognised group comes with expectations - from fans, from bandmates, and from yourself. But rather than trying to replicate what came before, Audrey approached it with respect and musicality. Learn the material. Honour the essence. Then gradually allow your own voice to exist within it.
That balance is delicate and she navigates it with intelligence.
The Physical Reality of Touring
One of the most important and underrated parts of our conversation centred around physical health. Audrey spoke candidly about dealing with muscular and physical challenges while touring. It’s something that doesn't get discussed enough in my opinion, but it’s incredibly common. Touring at a high level is physically demanding. Repetition, travel, lack of routine, inconsistent sleep, adrenaline spikes - it all adds up.
When something goes wrong physically, the pressure can feel immense. Tours are expensive. They’re planned months, sometimes years, in advance. Entire crews rely on those shows going ahead. If your body isn’t cooperating, it’s not just personal frustration - it can feel like you’re holding up a machine that can’t afford to stop.
What I appreciated most was Audrey’s measured approach - she treated the issue methodically with the correct assessment, support and adjustment. She spoke about listening to her body rather than fighting it.
Too often musicians are taught to “push through.” To ignore warning signs. To prioritise performance over wellbeing. Audrey’s perspective flips that. Longevity matters. Sustainability matters. If you want a decades-long career, you cannot treat your body as disposable. It was refreshing to hear someone at that level speak openly about it.
Consistency Over Flash
Another thread running through the interview was consistency. Audrey isn’t interested in overplaying for the sake of it. She’s focused on delivering the best possible performance night after night.
That consistency is harder than it sounds. Anyone can have a great show when everything feels perfect. The real test is delivering when you’re tired, when travel has drained you, when soundcheck was rushed, or when something feels slightly off physically.
She also touched on preparation - both musically and physically. Warming up properly. Understanding the set inside out. Being aware of energy management across a show. It’s these small details that separate good players from career musicians.
Growth Through Experience
Audrey also reflected on how her playing has evolved over time. Early influences shape you, but experience refines you. Touring internationally, recording albums, adapting to different rooms and audiences - all of that sharpens your instincts.
She spoke about learning to trust feel more. About understanding space. About recognising that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is lock in and let the music breathe.
A Model for Modern Musicianship
What I took away most from our conversation is that Audrey represents a model of modern musicianship that’s both aspirational and grounded.
She’s technically strong, musically sensitive, and professionally reliable. But she’s also realistic about the demands of the job. For younger players especially, that message matters.
Speaking to her was not only enjoyable but genuinely insightful. The conversation touched on resilience, adaptation and the quiet discipline required to stay at the top of your game.
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