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 captivating journey through Ure's musical worlds, offering a unique blend of instrumental pieces and powerful songs.
The Artist's Journey
Midge Ure's artistic journey is a testament to the power of self-doubt and reflection. He candidly admits that every artist he knows lives with self-doubt, a sentiment that resonates deeply with many creatives. This doubt, he explains, can be a driving force, pushing artists to constantly evolve and avoid repeating past mistakes. It's a fascinating insight into the creative process, where self-doubt becomes a tool for growth rather than a hindrance.
The Concept: A Man of Two Worlds
The concept for 'A Man of Two Worlds' emerged during the lockdown period, a time when Ure found himself immersed in instrumental music and curating a late-night radio show. This inspired the first half of the album, 'World One: Music', which consists of eight instrumental pieces. Ure describes this half as sparse, cinematic, and reflective, with a melancholy undertone. One standout track, 'Blues and Greys', is a hauntingly beautiful piece that captures the essence of autumnal elegy.
The second half, 'World Two: Songs', presents a different side to Ure's artistry. Here, we find anthemic rock/pop tracks like the first single, 'Just Words', alongside nods to Ure's Ultravox past with electronic, filmic compositions such as 'World Away' and 'Ordinary Man (Precious Moments)'.
The Making of the Album
Ure's creative process is a solitary one, often lacking the immediate feedback and collaboration that studio engineers or band members provide. He explains how he would walk away from a song, work on an instrumental, and then return to the song with a fresh perspective. This method allowed him to analyze and refine his work extensively, ensuring each piece was unique and worthy of pursuit.
The instrumental half of the album was largely influenced by Ure's lockdown experiences and his radio show curation. He found inspiration in the works of 'neo-classical composers' like Oliver Arnold and Max Richter, and aimed to capture the essence of instrumental music's ability to transport listeners to different realms.
Reflections on Technology and the World
Ure's reflections on technology and the state of the world are thought-provoking. He discusses how technology, while connecting humans, can also create isolation, with people engrossed in their devices rather than engaging personally. He highlights the challenge of discerning truth in a world where information can be manipulated and distorted.
'Shouting to the Moon' is a song that speaks to the power of unity and the potential for change when people come together. It's a theme that resonates deeply in today's world, where collaboration and collective action are often the keys to progress.
The Tour and Future Plans
Ure's upcoming tour promises to be an exciting experience, with a unique concept that incorporates his older instrumentals alongside the new material. He aims to take audiences on a journey, enhancing the visuals on stage with a seamless blend of sounds and instruments.
In terms of future plans, Ure mentions working on reissues of his solo material and potentially revisiting Ultravox's 'U-Vox'. He also speaks of the fascinating process of rearranging and remixing older tracks, uncovering forgotten elements from his musical past.
Conclusion
Midge Ure's interview offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of a musical legend. His insights into the creative process, the power of self-doubt, and the impact of technology on art and society are thought-provoking and relevant. 'A Man of Two Worlds' is not just an album; it's a testament to Ure's artistic evolution and a celebration of the power of music to transport and inspire.
