James McCartney is entertaining fans
on his current tour with a blend of eclectic tunes from "The Blackberry
Train," his latest release.
Tunes
on the album feature a mix of alt-rock, folk, ballads and edgy-based
pieces. The last time James performed in the Chicago area was in
2013 when he brought his concerts to City Winery and Schuba's.
James
will perform once again at Schuba's at 8 tonight. The Times caught up
with James to
find out about the new album and his own artistic inspirations.
The singer/songwriter said "The
Blackberry Train" was a project that was, in a sense, inspired by many
things. His inspiration, he said, always varies.
"But
I usually start with music first, and then lyrics. I try different
approaches though because sometimes you can find something for a song in
a way you wouldn't have thought. Just singing nonsense words to a
melody, or bouncing between different instruments, for example.
Sometimes you can get a foothold in an unexpected way on something, and
suddenly it starts to take shape. I've often blocked the lyrics out or
written them in my notebook too, sort of like poetry. But in the end
it's about having as much emotion as possible for me, musically and
lyrically. Cathartic, heartfelt and true."
The
new album, which was released May 6, was engineered by Steve Albini,
who also has worked with Nirvana, The Pixies and PJ Harvey. McCartney
said Albini "was brilliant to work with."
When he sits back and listens to other artists' music, James said he's prone to listen to a blend of musicians.
"There are so many
influences for me ... Kurt Cobain, The Smiths, Radiohead, PJ Harvey, The
Cure, The Beatles ... 'Let It Be' is one of my favorite albums ... Neil
Young, Jimi Hendrix, Hank Williams. I could name so many more. In the
end, I don't really prefer a particular style, just great music, truly."
McCartney said he's looking forward to being back in the Windy City.
"It’s a lovely city and has some great vegan places to eat at," he said.
For James, touring is, overall, a pleasure.
"I
love performing live, and it's great fun. It can be nerve-wracking
sometimes, mostly because I get so pumped up for it. Ultimately though,
when you look out at the audience and see them connecting with the music
you've written, it's all worth it. An amazing and beautiful
experience."
James McCartney will perform at 8 tonight at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport
Ave., Chicago. Tickets are $15 for those 21 and older. For more
information, call (773) 525-2508. For more information on McCartney,
visit jamesmccartney.com.
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