Midge Ure, the legendary musician and former frontman of Ultravox, is gearing up for a new chapter in his career. With the release of his first album in 12 years, titled 'A Man Of Two Worlds', and an accompanying UK tour, Ure is set to captivate audiences once again. The album is a double album, divided into two distinct parts: 'World One: Music' and 'World Two: Songs'.
'World One: Music' is an instrumental masterpiece, crafted during Ure's time spent listening to instrumental music during lockdown and while curating 'The Space' on Scala Radio. It's a sparse and cinematic journey, with a reflective and melancholy tone. The hauntingly beautiful 'Blues and Greys' and the lullaby-like 'The Pictures You Carry With You' are standout tracks. Ure's use of keyboards and guitar synth creates a unique soundscape, blending different instruments to form a cohesive band sound.
'World Two: Songs' showcases Ure's versatility, blending stripped-down instrumentation with anthemic, stadium-friendly rock/pop. The first single, 'Just Words', is a powerful statement about the abuse of power and the importance of words. The album also features nods to Ure's Ultravox past with tracks like 'World Away' and 'Ordinary Man (Precious Moments)'.
In an interview with Sean Hannam, Ure opens up about his creative process, the influence of technology, and the state of the world. He discusses his self-doubt, the impact of lockdown on his music, and his collaboration with Ty Unwin. Ure's relationship with technology is explored, as he navigates the disposable nature of modern devices and his preference for vinyl and talk radio. The interview delves into Ure's personal songs, such as 'Caught In The Middle' and 'Ordinary Man (Precious Moments)', and his thoughts on the current state of the US, reflected in the song 'The Man Who Stole Your Soul'.
The album's release is accompanied by a UK tour, where Ure will perform a mix of new and older material. He discusses the tour concept, his love for live performances, and the technical challenges of seamlessly blending instrumentals with songs. The interview concludes with Ure's thoughts on the future, his outlook on life, and his plans for reissues and solo projects.
Midge Ure's 'A Man Of Two Worlds' is a testament to his artistic evolution, blending his past with new ideas. The album and tour promise to be a captivating experience, offering fans a unique blend of instrumental and song-based music. As Ure prepares for the release, his passion for music and his ability to connect with audiences remain as strong as ever.
