Former Searhorses frontman Chris Helme is back with his second solo album ‘The Rookery’.
It’s been four long years since his solo début ‘Ashes’ was released, Saranne Murray caught up with Chris to talk about how he has grown musically in that time, what fans can expect from his new album, and what the future holds for the musician.
What can fans expect from your new album ‘The Rookery’?
The unexpected I guess. Loud and quiet noises? Catchy tunes that make you want to whistle? World peace? The best thing to do would be to have a listen and make your own mind up. You can all have a listen at www.chrishelme.co.uk and make your own minds up.
It’s your second album as a solo artist, did you succumb to the difficult second album syndrome or did you find it easy?
None of the above. It was frantic and fun making this album. If you remove expectation and approval from the equation, life gets a whole lot easier. It is what it is. There was no plan. We gave ourselves room to stretch.
Are you satisfied with the overall outcome of the new record?
Sure. So much so, I want to make another one. People seem to like it more than any of the other stuff I’ve done.
Which song are you most proud of?
I like them all. Everyone did a great job and I’m proud of everyone involved. Anyway, isn’t pride one of the deadly sins?
Do you prefer being solo to being in a band?
I like both. This all very black and white isn’t it? Solo is easy but lonely. Playing with the band is louder and more social. There’s more hangovers with the band.
How have you developed personally through your career as a musician, from your early days with The Seahorses or The Yards up until now?
I suppose I’m a wiser, less patient, more brutal and happier. I have played and still play alongside some incredibly talented people. I’ve learnt a lot from them and I’m very lucky.
If you could collaborate with one act in the world who would it be?
A Burlesque Queen, if only for the amazing view. Or maybe a dancing dog. In all honesty, I’m more than happy playing with who I play with at the present, thank you very much. All my heroes are dead
What’s the most rock n’ roll thing you have ever done?
Dress up as Elvis when I was 5. All that other silly stuff isn’t rock and roll. That whole ‘LOOK AT ME! I’M A GOLDEN GOD AND I’M ON DRUGS!’ thing never really makes you many friends.
How would you describe your music to people in 5 words?
Hunger is the best sauce
What is next for Chris Helme?
Keep touring, writing, recording, keeping going, I’ll keep doing my best.