For more than thirty years Living Colour have created, recorded and performed their own brand of heavy rock that draws as much inspiration from yesteryear soul men and rock gods as they do from post-bop jazz and boulevard shaking hip-hop.
Earlier this month, the band released their first new record in eight years, and next week they arrive at The Craufurd Arms in Wolverton to promote Shade.
It's a hot ticket, and an even hotter night is planned when the New York City pioneers come play.
Drummer Will Calhoun talked music and inspirations with Total MK...
The song that first awakened your musical senses?
I don't Remeber the song, however the artist was Sly and The Family Stone. The music sounded like LIFE. It was visual, simple, brilliant and timeless. The first time hearing Bob Marley had the same effect.
Physical or digital - how do you take your music
Physical
The first time you thought 'Music - this is the job for me'
Age 16.
Your best on stage memory?
Heartfelt applause! Every time this happens it renews itself as my best on stage memory. Living Colour's ‘Stain’ tour in Italy also stands out. The shows were all sellouts, and the audiences sang most of the songs in English, loud enough to match the volume of our sonic output. It was powerful. I’ll never forget that.
And the worst gig you've ever done?
All gigs are fantastic. I’m playing music for a living and that’s a gift every time.
What made you take up drums?
My older brother played drums, the kits were in the house. Also the amazing drummer Steve Jordan was a neighbor.
And one - by yourself - which holds special significance?
Nothingness by Living Colour
Are there any current influences you look to?
Painters, writers, photographers, film festivals, fashion week, electronic media conventions, philosophers, chefs, and of course, musicians.
If you could step into the shoes of another musician, living or dead, who would it be and what would you do?
It would be Burt Bacharach and I would donate 45% of my income and savings to proper Music/Art/Academic education in the U.S. and another 45% to proper, safe and efficient solutions to resolving human conditions in selected war torn countries.
And any genre of music that you simply can't stand?
No, I love music in all shapes and forms.
Finally, plug your show in Milton Keynes - what can we expect?
Living Colour is looking forward to performing in Milton Keynes. Prepare yourself for one of the most unique experiences in rock n roll live performance. You will hear the classic Living Colour tunes, songs from our new recording ’Shade,' and a few rare cover tunes. It’s not to be missed!
> Never miss leisure news in Milton Keynes - Follow us on www.twitter.com/thisistotalmk
And on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thisistotalmk
- Will Calhoun, Living Colour
