Damon Albarn, musician, talks with Zane Lowe about his new album, collaborating with an orchestra, and recording in old barns. They also discuss funny stories of finger mishaps, the process of finishing a record, the music scene in the late 90s, and a unique performance at the Shakespeare theater. They explore the album's ties to poet John Clare and reflect on love, memory, and the difference between amateur and professional musicians.
Damon Albarn's latest solo album combines elements of nature and music to create a unique and powerful experience.
The album 'The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows' reflects on themes of sadness, rebirth, and the role of nature in the human experience.
Deep dives
Damon Orban's Diverse Career and Fearlessness in Pursuing Passions
Damon Orban is a prolific and accomplished artist who has achieved great success in various music projects, including Blur, Gorillaz, and The Good, the Bad and the Queen. His creative endeavors extend beyond music to include work in opera and stage productions. Orban's fearlessness and dedication to pursuing his passions is evident in his wide-ranging artistic contributions. He has seamlessly translated his achievements and experiences into his latest solo album, which combines elements of nature and music to create a truly unique and powerful experience.
The Inspirations and Collaborations Behind Orban's Latest Album
Orban's latest album was born out of a collaboration with musicians from the Ensemble Intercontemporain orchestra in Paris. The project initially involved having the musicians visit Orban's home in Iceland to play and create music inspired by the natural landscape. Over the course of two and a half years, workshops were held, resulting in captivating music that captured the essence of the changing seasons. Despite facing challenges, such as recording in unheated barns during winter, the album showcases Orban's ability to create an atmosphere of both calm and tension, with the inclusion of old analog instruments and a unique recording environment.
Embracing Curiosity and Exploring New Artistic Avenues
Orban's artistic journey has taken him to various corners of the globe, exploring different cultures, landscapes, and artistic disciplines. From his early beginnings with Blur during the Britpop era to his current work as a solo artist, Orban has continuously pushed boundaries and embraced new challenges. He has remained curious and committed to lifelong learning, recognizing the importance of different environments and experiences in shaping his creative output. With upcoming projects such as creating a ballet and working on orchestral music, Orban's passion for exploring new artistic avenues shows no signs of waning.
The Reflective and Emotional Nature of Orban's Music
Orban's latest album, 'The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows,' delves into themes of sadness, rebirth, and the profound insignificance of individual existence. The album takes inspiration from a poem by English poet John Clare and evokes a sense of introspection and connection to the natural world. The record, characterized by sweeping instrumentals and emotive compositions, encourages listeners to immerse themselves in the profound beauty and complexity of life. Through his music, Orban reflects on the passage of time, memory, and the essential role of nature in the human experience.