AS a child Jenny Bailey would often dream of a make believe place called Vandeville Falls. Now it’s the name of her band. The 26-year-old singer/songwriter can stop pinching herself as she prepares to release her debut album Ten Years of Talk in Mexico, which was produced by Ian Grimble of The Manic Street Preachers fame.

Inspired by her vision of Vandeville Falls as a “dusty old Deep South town” the London-based group’s folksy Americana sound poetically compliments Jenny’s natural story telling charm, a blend they will be taking to a number of festivals across the country this summer.

We caught up with Yorkshire lass Jenny in the week the six-piece band release their second single When I Fall and ahead of their Leyton performance to ask her some probing questions.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Neighbours.

What was the first single you bought?

Song for Whoever by Beautiful South

When was the last time you told a lie?

Yesterday. I’m constantly lying I don’t know what the truth is anymore.

When was the last time you cried?

On Sunday, when Andy Roddick lost Wimbledon, his little face. I always root for the underdog.

Who are your three ideal dinner guests?

Lucille Ball, Jack the Ripper and Liam Gallagher

What did you learn at school outside the classroom?

To swear, and I haven’t stopped since.

Where are you most happy?

I know it’s corny but on stage. I love it.

How would your friends describe you?

A short pain in the bum.

Who is your secret crush?

James Dean, it’s got to be! Rick (Hornby, guitarist) and I went to LA recently and visited the Griffith Observatory where Rebel Without a Cause was filmed and some guy came up to Rick and asked if he was Jimmy Dean and I thought, ‘God, is that why I have him in the band, because he looks like James Dean, do I fancy my bandmate?’

Vandeville Falls perform on the bandstand in Coronation Gardens, Oliver Road, Leyton on Saturday, July 11. Details: www.london.gov.uk/rhythmoflondon or www.vandevillefalls.com