“I think re-development is a good thing as long as it’s been discussed with all the people immediately involved. Like tenants, shop keepers, tramps. ”
“I think re-development is a good thing as long as it’s been discussed with all the people immediately involved. Like tenants, shop keepers, tramps. “
Incendiary ask Michael Head some questions about the Pale Fountains…
I’m sure most people with a heart will know by now the Pale Fountains have reformed for a UK tour. Recently we got the chance to ask the legendary Michael Head of Pale Fountains and Shack fame some questions via the wonders of the internet… To be honest we were a bit over-awed and Mick’s laconic style had us beat at times… Still the great man always talks sense and we’d advise you to go and check out the Pale Fountains without delay… And if you have got tickets, then you are lucky beggars.
The Palies play Carling Academy Liverpool on the 2nd Feb, and Sherperds Bush Empire in London on the 3rd.
IN: The Pale Fountains… beauty above all costs… applicable or not?
M: The Palies used to take a lot of pride in their posters and sleeves. Also, we’d use smaller print so that they would catch your eye, but you’d have to get off the bus to see what it was all about.IN: What’s the story behind this reunion then?
M: To cut a long story short, it just seemed like a great idea and 25 years since we formed, which is scary in itself and to actually celebrate it is downright S/M but it sounds fantastic.IN: Is there something about the Palies that you feel is unfinished or unexplained creatively?
M: When the Palies and the record company decided to part company we were living in London at the time. The natural thing to do was come back to Loverpool (sic) and take it from there. We decided that the Palies had a good innings so it was time to move on. Nothing to prove to no-one and no anger. Just positivity.IN: Or do you feel that the band has more to say now than it might have done 20 years ago?
M: It’s not that we’ve got more to say, coz the feelin’ and the lyrics are the same. For me personally, it’s exciting to be playing songs we learned our craft on. I can’t wait.IN: And how far do you think you will go? tours of diverse continents, maybe?
M: Just a one-off should do it. There hasn’t been a big conception behind it all. Someone suggested it and it was ‘why not?’IN: What do you feel is discernably different between Shack and the Pale Fountains? Is it approach within or towards the bands? Or are they vehicles for a “dualism” in your writing style?
M: I think by the time Shack evolved we were obviously older, wiser if you like, and more accomplished. I personally never compare becauses it’s two different entities. There’s another band called The Strands within us and that question applies to them.IN: Slightly off topic, what do you think about all the redevelopment in Liverpool at the moment? I presume as a balladeer of the city you will at some stage comment on all this through your songs?
M: I think re-development is a good thing as long as it’s been discussed with all the people immediately involved. Like tenants, shop keepers, tramps. I often document particular situations that are happening in our environment, but tend not to directly address them cos I’m only a songwriter.
Words: Richard Foster