Kele Okereke is set to head down under this month, in support of his latest solo album ‘Fatherland’, ditching the fast-paced clubs for more intimate, cosy venues.
In honour of the arrival of his daughter Savannah, Kele has used this momentous experience as well as significant life changes to create a very naked and exposed album.
This is Kele’s third solo album, which has been met with critical acclaim setting a promising tone for unique performances in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.
Known for his bright performances, Kele strips everything back to perform a more intimate and delicate show fitting the image of his newest album.
'Fatherland' showcases Kele’s new life responsibilities as a father and his established relationships by employing delicate folk, sumptuous soul and a touch of cabaret. “The album is a more contemplative gentle album, it is a very intimate look into a part of my life,” Kele describes.
Kele believes becoming a father has given him a new perspective on life, which you can notice while listening to 'Fatherland'. “You start to notice [things].
"Like today I took her for a walk around the block and it was one of the first times she has walked outside on her own and watching her look at the plants and the railings, she is so excited about something you see every day and you don’t even notice; it is quite a humbling experience.”
Although taking the stage in a more intimate setting, Kele still likes playing in venues where the atmosphere features a big, sweaty crowd of people just dancing and feeling the music.
However, he is looking forward to playing to a cosier crowd where it’s just him and his guitar and the fans are listening to not just the music but the lyrics too. “Each, different type of performance or venues have a different feel and I feel lucky that I get to experience both; different types of worlds.”
If fans are looking for surprises during the shows, Kele jokes he is planning a sexy striptease for the right financial offer, of course. “I’m planning on doing a sexy strip tease if fans throw the right amount of money on stage, and when I say the right amount of money I don’t mean coins. I want notes.
“If I reach the target, I’ll do a sexy strip tease on stage,” Kele laughs.
Another thing the singer is looking forward to doing when back in Australia is heading to our city parks to observe the wildlife and taking in the atmosphere.
Fans of Bloc Party, waiting for the band to get back together, Kele says never say never believing when the timing is right, and everything aligns, that anything can happen.
Kele Okereke Tour Dates
Thu 29 Mar – The Old Museum (Brisbane)Fri 30 Mar – The Basement (Sydney)
Sat 31 Mar – Spotted Mallard (Melbourne)
