Jason Isbell
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Jason Isbell

For Jason Isbell 2008 was a massive turning point in his life, it was the time where amongst other things, he bought a motorcycle took across the country and soon after made the decisions to pursue a solo career. He then managed to channel his experiences into heartfelt lyrics, poignant songs and becoming one of the finest musicians to arise on the American rock sound.

Hi Jason, thanks for taking the time to chat with Forte Magazine, how are you and what are you up to at the moment?

We’re on the road back in the states. Just made it out of the rough winter weather. Headed south now and doing very well.

You quickly head to Australia for a few shows before going back to America for another onslaught, you’ve said in a past interview one of your dreams is to be comfortable enough to continue to tour, do you think you’ve reached that?

At this point, yes. We are able to travel with our daughter (at least in the US), and that makes it a whole lot easier to be on the road.

Do you have any tricks if you’re feeling homesick to help you overcome it?

FaceTime and Skype help a lot. Staying in contact can be expensive sometimes, but it’s always worth it. I don’t get homesick though. The only things I miss are people.

Speaking of dreaming, we imagine it’s changed from dreaming to be a musician to becoming a solo one, what are the things that you dream of doing now?

At this point, most of my challenges are creative. I find that to be a great situation. My goal is to continue to push myself to make interesting and relatable music. It takes a lot of work, but I believe it’s possible.

You released Something More Than Free last year and it’s since had rave reviews and accolades, and while that’s incredible in itself, how do you measure the success of an album?

I can listen to the album and not cringe. That means it’s a success to me. I appreciate the accolades, but if I was tired of hearing or playing these songs, all the reviews wouldn’t mean much.

Would you say that in the grand scheme of things that music is something that sets you free – so to speak? Something that is a real cathartic process both in creation and performing?

Music doesn’t necessarily “set you free,” since some of the best music in history has been created by people who had almost no freedom whatsoever. That being said, it makes me happy to make music. It helps me explain the world to myself.

When & Where: Melbourne Recital Centre, Melbourne – March