You’ve established quite the reputation within Melbourne’s buzzing music scene. Tell us a bit about how you got into music.
It was through a common rite of passage around these parts – an ad for a band singer on the wall of the Swoppie in Fitzroy. They knew what they didn’t want — specifically an Elvis Costello wannabe — and some of them didn’t like the Doc Marten boots I was wearing. But when I got in a room with these beautiful people, magic happened and they let me stay. The Stiff Kittens became the band and we had a blast and a half there for a while.
Your new album, Le Rayon Vert, is as textured instrumentally as it is lyrically. What drove you to create something so deep and multifaceted?
That’s a lovely question. I don’t know really, but I’m pleased you find it so. I do think there’s no time anymore to deliver something average – there’s plenty of that everywhere in everything. It’s got to be about something you believe in.
What has the response been from the album?
Quite super, although some have been a little strange. “Like John Mellencamp on drugs” was an interesting take from a German magazine.
What can we expect from your upcoming show at The Old Bar alongside The Dufranes?
Some fine, convivial alt-country madness, sweet tunes and a bit of fun. It’s a free show in a ripper of a venue, and I don’t reckon you’ll do better on a Saturday afternoon anywhere in Melbourne. Just saying.
Catch Rich Webb at The Old Bar on Saturday May 11. Free Entry.
