The Kinks’ Dave Davies discusses ‘toxic’ relationship with brother Ray

The Kinks‘ Dave Davies has described his relationship with his brother Ray as being “toxic”.

The pair have not played together since 1996, although recent reports have suggested that they are considering the possibility of reforming the band to celebrate their 50th anniversary.

Speaking to The Independent, Dave said: “The thing is, there’s healthy relationships, and toxic ones. And the older I get, the more difficult I find it being around Ray, because – I don’t want to use the word abuse, but I feel my energy seeping away from me sometimes if I’m with him.”

The guitarist added: “What’s that fable about Cain and Abel? I can’t quite remember the details of the dysfunction. But I don’t want to be stuck in there, having jealousy and hatred and envy and being unhappy. And being with Ray for too long gets me back in that cycle. But then, families are difficult, and you can learn from discomfort. Ray and I have been each other’s most important teachers. Maybe that’s the clue to the whole relationship.”

However, he also claimed that there was no animosity between the siblings, claiming: “It’s like some people prefer me and Ray to be at each other’s throats than to be brothers. In my thirties and forties, I resented the fact that Ray gave me so little credit for my input and creativity. But my love has always been relentlessly directed towards him.”

Dave Davies will play his first UK show in 13 years on April 11, with a gig at London’s Barbican Hall.

In the issue of Uncut on sale in January, meanwhile, Ray Davies said that a reunion of The Kinks is “as close as its ever been to happening”, claiming that the brothers had met in a pub in Highgate, London last summer to discuss their 50th anniversary celebrations.

Uncut’s The Kinks: Ultimate Music Guide is available to buy on line here.