Cats In Space guitarist and songwriter Greg Hart steps into The MetalTalk Lowdown, and it is fair to say he does not hold back. From playing to a man and his dog in Gravesend to opening for Deep Purple at The O2, setting his hair on fire (twice) and admitting to occasionally becoming a “pound shop Gene Simmons”, Hart takes us through the highs, lows and glorious absurdities of a life in rock ‘n’ roll.
But beneath the humour is a songwriter who still worries whether the next record will connect and, ultimately, believes it is all about one thing. The song.
What’s the most Metal thing you’ve ever done off stage?
I cannot say most of it, as I had a VERY crazy ’90s. I have had my hair catch fire not once but twice on stage with pyro.
What’s the worst gig you’ve ever played, and why?
Gravesend Red Lion 1985. Not one person came, aside from, and I swear it’s true, a man and a dog stuck their head round the corner but left after three seconds.
What’s the best gig you’ve ever played, and why?
Cats In Space playing The O2 in London with Deep Purple. And we smashed it. Why? Because we knew then our music worked a treat in the biggest arenas.
Would you choose a platinum record or one perfect, legendary live show?
A platinum record, purely as it would mean I might get some of the money back that Steevi Bacon and I have invested in the band.
What’s your greatest fear?
I always fear the new record will be hated, and I do worry over that more than I should. But our fans are just incredible, so I know I’m being stupid.
What’s the trait you most deplore in yourself?
I can sometimes ‘push the hard sell’ like a pound shop Gene Simmons [Laughs].
What’s the trait you most deplore in other musicians?
Musicians have it tough enough. But some of the other ‘types’ who litter the business can be complete wankers, with egos far greater than the musicians.
Describe yourself in three words.
My. Own. Boss.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
No such thing. If I like something, I don’t care if anyone thinks I’m a fanny.
What does a great riff feel like to write?
If it’s a goodie, then maybe I am getting one step closer to Phil Lynott?
What’s the worst thing a fan has ever said to you?
“I’m putting on weight.” That was rather cruel, especially as they were fat too.
What’s the worst thing a critic has ever said to you?
CATS have been very lucky to be honest with the press. Thank you!. Though years ago my band were called “Knock-kneed American wannabees singing about fast cars, so why don’t we just fuck off there.” Hilarious.
If you weren’t in music, what would you be doing?
Art, which I am lucky enough to say I also do for a living. Thanks, Dad.
What’s one album outside your genre you secretly love?
Lots!!! Any Carpenters record. Any Mud record. Kylie’s disco album. I could go on.
When did you last cry, and why?
I cry a lot. My girlfriend, a very, very good therapist, encourages it as an expression. I will say there’s a song on the new album that gets me every time because it is absolutely about me, and a true story. But it is joyous and self-deprecating.
What keeps you awake at night?
I am a shit sleeper in general. But I have to say our huge puppy Bunty is a guilty culprit too. She is as big as an Omnibus.
Riffs, royalties or recognition, if you had to choose?
Royalties, to be honest. God knows we have earned anything we get.
How do you want to be remembered?
If just one song I have written touches anyone for life, then that is good enough for me. It’s all about the song.
What’s the most important lesson the road has taught you?
Do not take yourself too seriously, and try to be kind to everyone.
What happens when the music stops?
It will never stop. I will go in the box playing The Boys Are Back In Town with my Les Paul still with me.
Cats In Space will release their seventh studio album, Suit Of Armour, on 6 November 2026 through Cherry Red Records’ Esoteric Antenna label, and a UK tour will follow in March and April 2027. Pre-order and tour ticket details are available via CatsInSpace.co.uk.
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Greg Hart – “It’s All About The Song” | The MetalTalk Lowdown first appeared on
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