In this exclusive interview, we delve into the world of Midge Ure, the iconic frontman of Ultravox, as he prepares to release his first album of new material in over a decade. Titled 'A Man of Two Worlds', this double album is a captivating journey through Ure's musical mind, offering a unique blend of instrumental and vocal pieces.
The Creative Process
Midge Ure's creative process is a fascinating blend of self-doubt, nostalgia, and a deep connection to his past. He reveals that the gap between albums is largely due to his own critical nature, fearing repetition and seeking to create something fresh. This self-doubt, he believes, is a common thread among artists, driving them to constantly innovate.
The instrumental half of the album, 'World One: Music', was born out of Ure's lockdown experience. With time to reflect and a deep dive into instrumental music, he created cinematic and reflective pieces, drawing on his own memories and the sounds of his youth. Tracks like 'Blues and Greys' and 'The Pictures You Carry With You' are hauntingly beautiful, capturing the essence of autumnal melancholy and the power of instrumental music to transport us to different worlds.
Collaboration and Inspiration
Ure's collaboration with Ty Unwin, a fellow musician and fan of his work, brought a new dimension to the album. Ty's technical prowess and creative input helped shape the 'World Two: Songs' side of the album, adding a layer of complexity and a unique sound. The two worked remotely, utilizing technology to share and refine their ideas, resulting in an album that Ure describes as having a 'bigness' without being overly grand.
Thematic Exploration
The songs on 'World Two: Songs' explore a range of themes, from the abuse of power to the importance of unity and the impact of technology on our lives. Tracks like 'Just Words' and 'Shouting to the Moon' are powerful anthems, reminding us of the impact our words and actions can have. Ure's observations on the state of the world and the role of technology are thought-provoking, highlighting the irony of our hyper-connected yet isolated society.
A Journey Through Music
'A Man of Two Worlds' is not just an album; it's a journey. Ure's decision to incorporate more instrumentals into his live shows is a bold move, designed to take the audience on a musical adventure. He understands the challenge of engaging an audience with new material, but his concept of seamlessly blending instrumentals with hits is an innovative way to keep the energy high and the experience unique.
The Future and Reissues
Looking ahead, Ure is excited about the prospect of reissuing some of his solo work and exploring the potential of 'U-Vox'. He reflects on the fascinating process of rearranging and remixing his older tracks, uncovering hidden gems and forgotten moments from his musical past.
In conclusion, Midge Ure's 'A Man of Two Worlds' is a testament to his artistic evolution and a celebration of his musical legacy. It's a must-listen for fans of Ultravox and a captivating exploration of the power of music to transport and inspire.
