London band, The Invisible play a selection of dates this week in support of their latest album, Patience.
Comprising Dave Okumu on guitar and vocals, Tom Herbert on bass and synthesizer and Leo Taylor on drums, the band’s eponymous titled debut release was nominated for the Mercury Prize and selected as a critic’s choice for iTunes album of the year in 2009.
Ahead of their date at Bristol’s Louisiana on September 27, Andy Howells put questions to Dave Oklumu.
How did you get into creating music?
I’m the youngest of 8 and my siblings are all music lovers so I absorbed a lot through them, but the turning point was the day my brother came home with a guitar, put it in my hands and taught me the chords to my favourite song.
What inspires your music?
My greatest inspiration has come from those around me. My contemporaries are so gifted and have led the way by example. These beacons of creativity have also been illuminated by numerous majestic satellites such as Prince, Bowie and Grace Jones. These are all people who channeled something divine in my opinion.
Can you tell us about your latest release, Patience?
Like all real albums, it’s a document of where we’re at, where we’ve got to. It documents a journey defined by perseverance and patience. It’s about coming to terms with the fact that true consolation lies in our deepest wounds and it is possible to transcend the difficult things in life with joy. Writing it in the balmy sunshine of LA really helped!
Are you looking forward to your forthcoming UK shows?
We’re really excited about touring. Playing live is such a huge part of our identity and the opportunity was taken from us after we made our second album as I suffered a near fatal accident on stage.
What can people expect from your forthcoming Bristol show?
All my favourite musical experiences are transportive. We plan to take audiences on a journey.
What are you currently listening to?
Last weekend I was the musical director for a tribute to Prince and Bowie, so I’ve been immersed in their respective catalogs. I’ve also been listening to Frank Ocean’s Blond, Jesse Lanza, Jamie Woon, Dark Star, Radiohead and Kendrick Lamar.
What else are you currently working on?
I’m building a studio, writing with loads of incredible artists and touring with a project playing music from the films of Jim Jarmusch.