Gareth Dunlop’s Latest Album: A Journey into the Heart of Music
Introduction to ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know’
Fresh off the success of his acclaimed Northern Ireland Music Prize-nominated album, ‘Welcome To The House Of I Don’t Know,’ Gareth Dunlop has returned with ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know.’ This latest release features stripped-back, live renditions of his previous tracks, inviting listeners to connect with the songs in their most personal format.
In Conversation with Gareth Dunlop
In this honest conversation, we discussed revisiting the songs, the recording experience, and what lies ahead for the artist.
How Are You, Gareth?
Doing fine and dandy!
Revisiting the Songs
Your new album, ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know’, is out now, featuring reimagined versions of tracks from ‘Welcome To The House Of I Don’t Know’. What inspired you to revisit these songs and create new renditions?
When we were crafting the studio album, we spent our evenings in the Strangford house, using it as a base to discuss production ideas for the next day’s studio work. I often had a guitar in hand as we explored concepts together, which led to the idea of returning to that space for something special. Initially, we intended to film some live sessions of the album tracks, but it quickly evolved into its own release.
The Experience of Reworking Tracks
What was the experience like returning to these tracks, and how did you approach them differently this time around?
It turned out to be an incredible experience, but I was quite nervous at first. I wasn’t sure if it would work out. The constraints of recording live in an untreated living room required a different approach. With mic bleed, everything had to be played at a lower volume, leading to a ‘less is more’ philosophy that had a significant impact on the arrangements.
The Influence of a Secluded Environment
Each song was recorded in a single take, live with your band in a house overlooking Strangford Lough in County Down – a space described as having a worn-in charm. How do you feel that secluded environment shaped the album’s overall atmosphere?
Life by the coast has a slower tempo, with fewer distractions and just the soothing sound of the waves. The living room’s acoustics dictated our approach; anything too loud would clash with the space, which certainly influenced our creative process.
Finding the Right Take
While the goal of the record is to feel raw and stripped-back, did it take time to land on the perfect take for each song?
We spent most of our time problem-solving and experimenting before committing to a take. Once we found the right approach, we typically recorded 4-5 takes of each song and chose the best one.
Emotional Depth of the Album
By breaking each track down to its essentials, the emotion and personal lyrics feel even more exposed. Do you think this highlights the album’s core themes of self-reflection, love, and loss?
I believe it does—or at least I hope it does. Stripping everything back allows the lyrics to be fully exposed, bringing the songs closer to their original written form.
Touring with Duke Special
You’re currently on tour with Duke Special across the UK – have there been any standout moments or favorite memories from the road so far?
It’s been an incredible tour! Duke has some of the kindest fans in the world, and every gig has been lovely. A memorable moment, albeit for the wrong reasons, was breaking down on the M6 and being towed 60 miles in the opposite direction. We made it to the gig just in time!
The Northern Irish Music Scene
You’re becoming a prominent voice in the Northern Irish music scene, recently earning a nomination for Album of the Year at the 2024 Northern Irish Music Awards. Which Northern Irish artists are you currently listening to and loving?
I’m really enjoying a band called Vera right now! They have fantastic songs and production. Another local band I love is Polar Bolero; I played a show with them recently, and they blew me away!
Emotions to Take Away
What main emotion or feeling do you hope listeners take away from ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know’?
For those who have heard the studio record, I hope this live album allows them to rediscover the songs in a new light. That’s how I felt during the recording—I noticed things I hadn’t before and uncovered new meanings in the lyrics.
Looking Ahead
And finally, what’s next for you after this release?
I have some festival dates lined up throughout the summer and I’m gearing up for a tour with Crash Test Dummies in May. Additionally, I’ve set aside a couple of weeks in the studio to work on new songs before we start preparing for a UK tour in November.
Conclusion
Gareth Dunlop’s ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know’ is a remarkable exploration of his music, offering fans a fresh perspective on familiar tracks. With an emphasis on vulnerability and authenticity, Dunlop continues to solidify his place in the Northern Irish music scene while looking forward to new musical adventures.
FAQs
What is the concept behind ‘Live From The House Of I Don’t Know’?
The album features live, stripped-back renditions of songs from Dunlop’s previous album, inviting listeners to engage with the music in a more personal way.
Where was the album recorded?
The album was recorded live in a house overlooking Strangford Lough in County Down, Northern Ireland.
What themes are explored in the album?
The album delves into themes of self-reflection, love, and loss, with a focus on the emotional depth of the lyrics.
Who is Gareth Dunlop currently touring with?
Gareth Dunlop is currently on tour with Duke Special across the UK.
What can fans expect from Gareth Dunlop in the future?
Fans can look forward to festival appearances and a tour with Crash Test Dummies, along with new music in the works.
