James Taylor Talks The Prisoners, Returning To London and More
Words by Glenn Sargeant
Photo Credit: Photo Supplied By Hush PR
James Taylor (The James Taylor Quartet) reunites with his massively influential Brit Pop band, The Prisoners & former label boss Steve Lamacq who will DJ and compare the evening, for a very special one off show at The London Roundhouse, Camden in May 2024. James spoke to us about the show and more:
The Prisoners will be performing at The Roundhouse in London on Friday 24th May 2024. How are you feeling about the show and do you have any memories from performing at the venue previously?
No but I used to make albums next door in the now defunct Roundhouse Studios. I never played this gig before so really looking forward to it. I never played the Barbican in London either but I will be there on 2nd April 2024 with JTQ (James Taylor Quartet) Plus Orchestra so two new gigs for me in 2024.
Is it difficult picking a setlist and do you have a particular selection process?
It is something that needs thinking about, particularly with an orchestra in tow, everything needs to work okay next to the subsequent tune in terms of key, temp and rhythm.
Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?
Its Rochester – Small, tough, Dickensian, Beautiful, Loving.
Do you have any favourite stage instruments, effects, pedals?
Hammond C3 Plus 147 Leslie. It’s a beast of an instrument, massive heavy great fun to play though.
Who will be joining The Prisoners at The Roundhouse show?
The Masonics and one other famous band as yet not to be named.
Are there any plans to record the show for a possible future release?
No but great idea – I’ll put it to the chaps!
What was the story/inspiration behind the song ‘Melanie’?
That’s a sort of Mod tune. Just a lost love as I recall.
What music do you enjoy listening to?
JS Bach
Do you have any recommendations?
Lalo Schifrin ‘Dirty Harry’ Theme Soundtrack.
What are your memories from touring with The RAMONES in 1986?
Really interesting and wonderful that band, they were quite mad and all the better for it.
What makes James Taylor happy and what makes you unhappy?
Playing well, writing well, spending time with my family all makes me very happy.
Unhappy – Feeling lonely, but then I practise piano and cheer myself up.
Photo Supplied By Hush PR
James Taylor Quartet play at The Barbican, London on April 2nd with a full live orchestra and he has reunited with his band The Prisoners for a reunion show at The Camden Roundhouse on 24th May 2024. (Tickets to both events on sale now).
James Taylor Quartet With A Full Live Orchestra Tickets: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2024/event/the-james-taylor-quartet-with-orchestra
The Prisoners Tickets: https://www.roundhouse.org.uk/whats-on/the-prisoners
