‘I’m still trying to make a living out of making music’
It’s the 25th anniversary of Dodgy’s Homegrown album and they arte heading to Nottingham’s Rock City this month. Singer-songwriter NIGEL CLARK tells us why he loves the venue
You’ve just released a re-recorded version of Staying Out For The Summer for Musicians Against Homelessness. Tell us a bit about that. We did a lot of gigs with the guys from MAH last year. We, like a lot of bands and musicians, want to help out such a worthwhile cause. The single was recorded and produced at Sawmills Studio in Cornwall (for free) with original Homegrown producer Hugh Jones also (for free). Hugh has been retired from the music industry for 10 years now but it’s very clear in this new recording that he still has the magic touch when it comes to production. All proceeds from the download go directly to Crisis to help on the frontline of supporting and helping the vulnerable – socially excluded and homeless. It’s the 25th anniversary of the Homegrown album. Any plans to re-record any more of the tracks from it? We have a busy year ahead, with the homegrown25 tour and then festivals throughout the summer. It would be amazing to work with Hugh again but nothing planned as yet... What can people expect from your upcoming Nottingham gig? Playing Homegrown live for the first time in its entirety since 1995. We resurrected some other old B sides from around that time and will also be playing some newer songs and a few other ones you might know. What experiences have you had of Nottingham before? Always had great nights at Rock City. It’s a great venue and one of the best crews in the country. How would you describe your sound in three words? Heavy harmonious pop. What do you like most about touring? Playing good music, meeting the fans afterwards. Having a good time. Repeat...
What’s been your best live gig appearance as a performer? Oh, I hate this question! I don’t really know! I become so focused that it’s really hard to remember anything after the show only if you enjoyed it or not. What are you enjoying listening to at the moment? Deerhunter – new album; White Fence – new album; Parquet Courts- new album; Fela Kuti – Best Of, Vol 2; Psychedelic Furs – Forever Now album; Lee Dorsey and the Meters Who was the first band/singer you saw play live? The Damned – The Black Album tour, produced by Hugh Jones... never thought about that before. What were you doing before music? I worked at Longbridge, the Rover car factory, for four years before I decided on a career in music. It’s the factory I talk about in Staying Out For The Summer. I have since been a music teacher, working with children with learning difficulties and special needs. Tell us something about yourself that fans may be surprised to hear. I’m still trying to make a living out of making music – happy most of the time.
Dodgy play Rock City on Saturday, February 16. Ticket price: £22 (inc fees). www.alttickets.com