After cementing himself with his vibrant debut LP 'Back To The Start' last year, self-taught multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Rob Lalain is back on the grind once again to deliver his stunning sophomore album 'Life'.
Featuring the previously shared outings 'Coming Home', 'Never Going To Walk Away From You' and 'Bulletproof', this new fourteen-track collection makes for an incredibly rich and alluring listen. Filled with immersive textures, a soaring atmosphere, and mesmerising hooks layered throughout, 'Life' continues to establish him as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The guitar. I remember we had a yamaha acoustic guitar in the basement and I would have a tough time playing it because I learned quickly that I played left handed. So, one day I got the tool kit out and removed all of the strings and restrung it upside down. What a difference!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I discovered The Beatles on the 20th anniversary of their arrival in the USA. Prior to that I had listened to a few of their albums via an old 8-track player my Dad had in our basement. I remember also listening to an Eric Clapton 8-track as well. But it was February 7, 1984 that changed my life forever…
What was the first album you remember owning?
I had singles (45’s) not albums to start off. I remember having Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall” as well as “It’s Still Rock N Roll To Me” by Billy Joel. My first album was The Beatles 20 Greatest Hits.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
“Yesterday” by The Beatles as it may be the greatest song of all time.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not really as I typically start with a guitar or piano and build from there. Lyrics are usually the last thing I do. I never go into the studio with a plan as I love the whole creative process of writing a brand new song.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Paul McCartney, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Liam Gallagher, and U2 are what I am listening to right now.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Paul McCartney
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Writing a song that people enjoy and can relate to.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Being a solo artist who plays all of the instruments and does all of the vocals make it hard to ever just jam like a band could do.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Always finish a song that you are working on.
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Rob Lalain's new album 'Life' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.