In this exclusive interview, we delve into the creative mind 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 unique and personal journey, offering a glimpse into Ure's musical evolution and his reflections on the world around him.
The Concept
'A Man Of Two Worlds' is divided into two distinct halves, each with its own character and purpose. The first, 'World One: Music', is an instrumental exploration, a cinematic and reflective soundscape. Ure describes it as a product of his lockdown experiences, a time when he delved into the world of instrumental music and curated a radio show, 'The Space', on Scala Radio. This half of the album is a testament to the power of instrumental music to evoke emotions and create vivid mental images, a concept that Ure explores with a modern twist.
The Inspiration
Ure's inspiration for the instrumental pieces draws from his childhood memories of listening to artists like Santo & Johnny and The Shadows. He explains how instrumental music transported him to different worlds, offering an escape from his tenement slum in Glasgow. This nostalgic element is a recurring theme, with tracks like 'Blues and Greys' and 'The Pictures You Carry With You' carrying a sense of melancholy and reflection.
The Creative Process
The album was largely recorded in Ure's studio in Bath, with some songs from the second half recorded at BooBoo Studio in Oxford. Ure worked closely with Ty Unwin, a talented musician and fan of Ultravox and Visage, who brought a fresh perspective to the project. Ty's influence is evident in tracks like 'Just Words', which builds from a sparse backing to a powerful stadium rock anthem, and 'Ordinary Man (Precious Moments)', a sparse yet emotive piece that pays homage to Ure's past collaborations.
The Message
'A Man Of Two Worlds' is not just a collection of songs; it's a commentary on the state of the world and the human condition. Ure addresses themes of power abuse, unity, and the impact of technology on our lives. He reflects on the troubled state of the world, noting how charlatans have risen to power and how technology has created a sense of isolation, despite our increased connectivity. Tracks like 'Shouting To The Moon' and 'The Man Who Stole Your Soul' carry a sense of hope and a call for unity, a reminder that collective action can bring about change.
The Future
As Ure gears up for his UK tour, he reflects on the challenges of performing new material to an audience primarily there for the hits. He plans to incorporate more of the instrumental pieces into his set, taking the audience on a journey through his musical worlds. He also hints at future projects, including potential reissues of his solo work and the Ultravox album 'U-Vox'.
In conclusion, 'A Man Of Two Worlds' is a testament to Midge Ure's artistic vision and his ability to create music that is both personal and thought-provoking. It's a must-listen for fans of Ultravox and anyone seeking a deeper connection with music.
