Paul Iwan is one of the local musicians who operates the contemporary radar, but to those who know of him and his work, he is very much appreciated and respected. Lyrically challenging and sonically ambitious, we caught up with the man that Ray Davies of The Kinks called “…a songwriter of considerable skill…”
Liverpool Noise: What have you been up to recently?
Paul Iwan: Since releasing Present in 2022, I’ve been busy gigging, mainly in Liverpool but I played in Camden just before Christmas which went really well. The gig this week at The Everyman is my first of 2024 as I’ve had a little break after Christmas, so I’m really excited to perform. The promoters, Mellotone, always put on great events, so I’m chuffed to be on the bill with Visions Of Albion and Me + Deboe.
I’ve been writing some new material too, I have a chunk of new songs that I’m thinking will make a great album but I’m a way off releasing them yet. I’ve recently collaborated with a few friends on their songs as well, some of those will come out later this year.
LN: It looks like 2024 is going to be busy for you then?
PI: Yes, I think the first project to be released is from my friend Matt Valance, he’s putting out an album called “A Crash Course In How To Land”. I produced the album for him, we used to be in a band together. It’s been a great project to work on because I’m exploring a different musical style to what I usually do, it’s a Power Pop album, so it’s a Elvis Costello, 10cc, Squeeze, Jellyfish… that sort of sound, just great pop rock songs.
LN: How would you describe the music you normally create?
PI: I’ve always put the singer-songwriter thing first as I think that’s my biggest strength and the most important thing. Put it this way, if you haven’t got songs you haven’t got anything at all have you really. I love Alt Rock but obviously being a solo artist there are limitations to how I can deliver that sound, so I use samplers, loops and synths to enhance that. I describe my releases as Alternative Electro Rock but really it’s all about the songwriting.
The gig at The Everyman on Thursday 29 February will just be voice and guitar, letting the songwriting stand on its own. I’m really excited to present the songs in this way!
LN: Paul, what’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
PI: To edit! It sounds simple, it’s one word but means so many different things. From a lyrics point of view, I can have a tendency to over-explain things without leaving room for the listener to put themselves in your shoes. Musically, I can go to town with arrangements, throwing the kitchen sink in! Editing is probably the most important thing… and that advice was from my wife. Thanks Vic!
Paul Iwan appears with Visions of Albion and Me + Deboe at Mellowtone Presents…Downstairs at The Everyman on Thursday 29 February 2024. Free entry. Doors 1930 hrs.
Sebastian Saint Morne
