Drummer Philip Selway, founding member of the band Radiohead, recently spoke with Rough Trade about his love for certain albums and how they have influenced his career. Selway’s latest album, Strange Dance, showcases his talent as a musician, incorporating strings, brass, and synthesized sounds with the help of a handpicked group of musicians.
One of Selway’s favorite albums is Nick Drake’s Bryter Layter. He notes that Drake’s well-crafted and intimate songs inspired him when he was starting to create his own solo work. Selway was invited to participate in a project this year called The Endless Coloured Ways, where he chose to cover Drake’s “Fly” with the players from Strange Dance. Selway felt it was a milestone to be invited to do a version of one of his favorite artist’s songs.
Selway is also a fan of Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings, citing their incredible musicianship and Jones’ powerful voice. On his second album, Weather House, Selway had the opportunity to play on The Jimmy Fallon Show and decided to take a chance and ask The Dap Kings to perform with him. They agreed, and Selway describes the experience as surreal and amazing.
Fela Kuti Live with Ginger Baker is another album that Selway admires. As a drummer, Selway appreciates the incredible skill of the two drummers on the album, as well as Kuti’s adept political communication through music. Selway notes that the record is a lesson in finding one’s musical voice.
Finally, Selway looks to Can’s Tago Mago as an inspiration. He notes that Jaki Liebezeit’s drumming has a distinctive personality and versatility, and Selway believes that finding one’s musical voice is essential. Selway states that he has found his voice in his drumming, and it has translated to his solo work over the past 14 years.
Selway’s love for the albums mentioned above highlights his deep appreciation for music and how it has influenced his career as a musician
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