With his previous studio albums making it into the iTunes UK Top Twenty Blues Albums Chart, Dan Patlansky is once again heading to Wales touring his newest album Introvertigo. With likeness to his influences Audioslave, Patlansky’s distinctive gravely vocals have proven popular in the UK whilst touring with King King.
Ahead of his show at The Globe on June 7th, the South African guitarist chats to Ffion Riordan-Jones about what he has in store for the rest of this year.
How does it feel having released such an evocative album in comparison to your others?
I think in some ways it’s very similar to Dear Silence Thieves, but in other ways very different. I had 2 years to write new songs. That’s quite a bit of time to really concentrate on the writing and get what you really want across. For me it’s the strongest stuff I think I’ve written, but I don’t know if I’m just saying that because it’s a new album and its fresh but I never quite know. I think it’s got a rawer edge, maybe heavier edge. It’s definitely my favourite album to date.
How do you feel your preparation for shows has changed through the years?
It is quite different! I’m trying to put more of a show together than just a gig. We have really thought long and hard about the aura of the songs on the nights and how hopefully it takes the audience on some sort of a journey through the set. In the past, when I was doing more of the classic blues scene we didn’t even use set lists, we used to get up there and kind of wing it. I mean, it felt right for a certain period of time, but I think now I want to put more of a show together so that’s it’s something the audience can take back as really cool.
What are British audiences like in comparison to other countries?
I think they’re great man! I’m not just saying it! We have been fortunate enough to tour a lot of Europe, the States and back home here in South Africa, but there’s a really strong rock and blues support system in the UK. I’d say it’s the strongest I’ve seen anywhere in the world. They’re really devoted loyal fans, they really know how to behave.
Any fond memories of paying in Wales?
I’ve actually only played in Wales twice before. The first time was at St David’s Hall, what an amazing introduction that was to Cardiff. Such a beautiful venue and the crowd was fantastic. The second time was Rockstock, the audience really got into it and just let you get into it. It really is a beautiful country.
What emerging artists are you listening to at the moment?
I don’t know if you would call Rival Sons emerging at all but I’m really big into them. I think they’re an incredible rock outfit, their songs are great, like really great tunes. On the blues front, in the UK I’m digging Lawrence Jones.
What have you got planned for the rest of the year?
We are heading to the UK for about a month to promote Introvertigo, then heading to Eastern Europe to Slovenia. After spending a bit of time there, we are heading back to the UK for a club tour in November. Of course we are doing the festival circuit but we are planning shows for 2017 in the next few weeks.
Tickets: 19.25 / Info: here