EP9: Devin Townsend // AUS Tour Nov 2023 // Scott Kay // Voyager // @AndoVocals

OMFG! What an incredible opportunity to sit down with two of the deepest thinking musicians I have the pleasure of listening to! After first seeing the iconic ‪@dvntownsend‬ in the video for Strapping Young Lad - Detox, way back in 1998 on Channel [V]'s Heavy Shift, and following his career ever since, I actually never thought I'd get to talk to the great man!

And what an experience to ride in tandem with Scott Kay on this interview. He's a HUGE Devy fan, and a prominent figure in the international heavy music scene as a guitarist of ‪@voyageraustralia‬, Onslow, the now defunct Statues, and other incredible musical acts. Scott's achievements with Voyager include representing Australia at ‪@EurovisionSongContest‬, a sold-out homecoming tour, many incredibly successful international forays at festivals, the 2023 release of magnum Opus 'Fearless in Love', plus multiple groundbreaking synth-metal albums featuring his countless bone-crushing and ambient riffs. Scott's presence in the interview features his trademark deep thoughts and entertaining perspectives on life as an artist.

Known for his remarkable versatility, Devin Townsend has consistently pushed the boundaries of music throughout his illustrious career. From the heavy intensity of Strapping Young Lad to the ethereal beauty of Casualties Of Cool, he's showcased a remarkable range of musical styles.

Devin's ability to seamlessly transition between genres is a testament to his unique creativity and deep connection to music. With each album, he invites listeners to explore the depths of his artistic soul, offering an authentic and intimate look into his inner world. His music is a journey through intricate and awe-inspiring landscapes of sound, leaving a profound emotional impact on his audience.

The interview delves into various aspects of Devin's life and career, offering valuable insights into the mind of a musical genius. Devin discusses the challenges of creating content in the age of social media and the pressure to constantly produce. He shares his perspective on the online world and the need for artists to navigate it while maintaining authenticity.

A significant portion of the interview centres on Devin's special connection with the Australian audience. He reflects on his earliest tours to Australia, where he was met with a warm and enthusiastic reception that contrasted with his experiences in other parts of the world. Devin's memories of those early Australian shows and his interactions with the audience left a lasting impression on him. The unique cultural connection between Canada and Australia, coupled with his personal experiences, has fostered a deep affinity for the Australian audience that he eagerly anticipates reconnecting with.

The conversation also touches on the concept of scale in music, which is a fundamental element of Devin's creative process. He discusses how his perception of music as a means to represent vast landscapes and grandeur is influenced by his geographic background. Growing up in Canada, a country characterised by vast expanses of land, he internalised a sense of scale that has become an integral part of his music. His ability to capture this grandeur through reverb and echo effects has set him apart as a musical visionary.

As the interview progresses, Devin provides insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind his music. He shares personal anecdotes, such as how multiple severe flu experience in his youth influenced his perception of music and songwriting. This relatable and humanising aspect of his artistry underscores the authenticity that has endeared him to his audience.

In a lighthearted moment, the conversation touches on the quirks of the digital age, where social media and internet culture have become dominant forces. Devin playfully speculates about the future of content creation and the challenge of keeping up with ever-evolving trends.

The interview concludes with a discussion of Devin's upcoming Australian tour, featuring two notable support acts. Caligula's Horse will join him on the eastern side of the country, while Chaos Divine will support the Perth show. Devin shares his excitement for the tour and hints at what audiences can expect, promising a diverse setlist that spans his extensive discography. He emphasises that this tour represents the best representation of his music to date, and he looks forward to sharing it with his dedicated fans.

On November 8, 2023, Devin Townsend is set to take the stage at Metropolis Fremantle in Perth, Australia. This performance promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring fan-favourite songs and providing a glimpse into the multifaceted artist's creative process. Devin's ability to capture the scale of emotion and create immersive atmospheres in his music sets him apart, and this show is a celebration of his legendary career.

Snap up the last few tickets here: https://tinyurl.com/devy-tix-perth