Just Jack Interview
In 2007, Jack Allsopp (a.k.a. Just Jack) took the UK by storm with his single "Starz in Their Eyes" that peaked at number two in the UK charts and was even featured in a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in 2008. Now, two years later, Jack is back. After the huge success of the single "Embers" from his new album, we caught up for a quick natter about what more we can expect.
What have you been doing since 2007, when we last heard from you?
I was touring all through 2007, then in 2008 I started writing this album, I've been mostly working and recording - I finished the album in January.
How do you think your music has changed since the last album?
The production is fuller and better - my music is technically better than before. It's also slightly darker. The world is a slightly more negative place than in 2007 I think.
What was your inspiration for this album?
The people around me. A lot of them have had kids and gotten married - it's a different kind of stress. I take inspiration from people around me and people in the street - I pick out little stories. The album is about love, death, betrayal and hope. I've thought a lot about mortality, life and death - all kinds of stuff.
Do you prefer writing, recording or performing?
Writing is hard, but it gives the best buzz. Recording is cool because you've already written everything so you can relax and get deep into it. Performing on the other hand - it's totally wham bam, mental! The adrenaline - you get such a buzz out of it, it's overwhelming.
If there's anyone out there who's never heard your music before, how would you describe it to them?
Meaningful. There's not a lot of meaningful music out there. It's all about drinking and partying. I try and make my songs about issues, without being preachy.
What should we expect from you next?
London 11 June the tour starts - then I'm doing Glastonbury, Bestival, Wakestock and loads of stuff throughout Europe. I'm not much of a long-term thinker, but I would like to keep writing and maybe produce for other people. I'd also maybe like to write a screenplay somewhere down the line. Who knows... The album "All Night Cinema" is out 24 August on Mercury.