James Warren, singer, songwriter and founder member of much-loved prog-rock eccentrics Stackridge and 80s pop duo The Korgis will present an evening of brand new songs from his recent album Innocent Bystander with his fantastic new eight-piece band when he visits Milton Keynes this week.
James will also be performing a fabulous selection of old favourites (along with some rarely-performed curios) from all phases of his 40-year career at Sunday's (June 24) Stables show.
James went On Track with Total MK...
Physical or digital - how do you take your music?
These days it tends to digital - downloading onto my Mac
The first time you thought 'Music - this is the job for me’
As soon as I started to learn to play bass guitar
Your best on stage memory
Playing at festivals; I love festivals
And the worst gig you've ever done
Performing at an army base in a covers duo. A fight broke out and we escaped just in time
What made you take up the bass?
I’m showing my age here: The Beatles track “ Rain" had a very prominent bass line, very boomy and sinuous and I copied it note for note.
I was utterly fascinated by the role of the bass in musical arrangements, providing depth, rhythmic foundation and having its own patterns different to the melody. Still love it.
Which one song by another artist do you wish you had written
I’m going to say “Yesterday” because its melodic development is so beautiful and simple. Perfection.
And one - by yourself - which holds special significance
There are two: Everybody’s Got To Learn Sometime and Love, Death And Photographs
Are there any current influences you look to
No-one specifically but I listen to all genres and like to stay open-minded
If you could step into the shoes of another musician, living or dead, who would it be and what would you do?
Paul McCartney. Just a handful people have incredibly lucky lives and he’s definitely one of them. Amazing talent and amazing good fortune - so rare. I would keep on keeping on.
And any genre of music that you simply can't stand?
Hardcore rap and thrash metal
Finally, plug your show in Milton Keynes - what can we expect?
Lots of tunes and lots of fun! A celebration of Stackridge, Korgis and James Warren solo stuff.
Look forward to seeing you there!
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