In this exclusive interview, we delve into the world 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 creative process and his reflections on the state of the world.
The Concept
'A Man Of Two Worlds' is divided into two distinct parts, each with its own unique charm. The first half, 'World One: Music', consists of eight instrumental pieces, a departure from Ure's usual song-based repertoire. This section was inspired by Ure's lockdown experiences and his exploration of instrumental music through his radio show, 'The Space'.
The second half, 'World Two: Songs', brings us back to Ure's anthemic rock/pop style, with a mix of new songs and nods to his Ultravox past. This dual approach is a bold statement, and as Ure himself puts it, these two halves are like 'brother and sister', created simultaneously and belonging together.
The Creative Process
Ure's creative process is an intriguing blend of self-doubt and meticulousness. He admits that aging and self-doubt are significant factors in the long gap between albums. He explains, 'Every artist lives and breathes on self-doubt. It's a constant battle to create something new and unique, especially when you have a wealth of material to live up to.'
The instrumental pieces, in particular, were a challenge. Ure had to rely on his own feedback and ideas, without the usual collaboration and immediate response from a team. He describes it as a 'lonely' process, but one that allowed him to explore his own headspace and create reflective, cinematic music.
The Music
'World One: Music' is a sparse and cinematic experience. Tracks like 'Blues and Greys' and 'The Pictures You Carry With You' are hauntingly beautiful, with a melancholy undertone. Ure's use of keyboards and guitar synths creates a unique sound, and the melodies are often based on personal experiences, like the lullaby he sang to his children.
'World Two: Songs' sees Ure return to his anthemic roots. Tracks like 'Just Words' and 'World Away' showcase his signature sound, with a mix of electronic and rock elements. Ure's lyrics on this album reflect his concerns about the state of the world, particularly the abuse of power and the rise of charlatans. He believes that music can be a powerful tool for unity and change, as seen in tracks like 'Shouting To The Moon'.
The Future
Ure's upcoming tour promises to be an exciting experience, with a unique concept of blending old and new material. He plans to take the audience on a journey, using instrumentals as segues between well-known hits. This approach is a bold move, and Ure is excited to see how it will be received.
In terms of future projects, Ure is working on reissues of his solo material and plans to explore the Ultravox catalog further. He is also open to the idea of delving into his past, rearranging and remixing old tracks, a process he found fascinating.
Conclusion
Midge Ure's 'A Man Of Two Worlds' is a testament to his creativity and resilience. It's a bold statement, showcasing his ability to create both instrumental and song-based albums simultaneously. Ure's reflections on the creative process, self-doubt, and the state of the world make this album and this interview a fascinating insight into the mind of a musical legend.
