Into the Unknown. A chat with Rick Irregular about his new project, Multivox

Let’s start with a bit of background. What musical path has brought you to where you are today?

RI: I think becoming solo was an inevitability to be honest. I always found bands quite frustrating and I couldn’t communicate my vision to my bandmates. My ideas were often dismissed as far too quirky or just not mainstream enough.

Can you tell a bit about the Multivox project, how it came about and, as the name hints at, the idea of working with multiple vocalists?

RI: Yes the reason the multi vocalists thing came along was due to the first covid lockdown. I had become frustrated that I could not recreate the naivety and authenticity of my earlier songs.  I had become too proficient with guitars. So I impulsively sold all guitars and amps and replaced them electric musical equipment. I wanted to get back that feeling of experimentation and of travelling into the unknown. My best songs always happen when I am not thinking rather than overthinking. I live for spontaneous moments of inspiration and that’s when I work best.

Do you see it as a purely studio creation or, given the opportunity, could you see it translating to a live format?

RI: I am open to playing live but I didn’t have a plan when I started writing this solo stuff. I just wanted to create something new. Learning how to use all the electronic music gear was frustrating and exhilarating in equal measure.

Is there anything you are trying to do or say with the project?

RI: I definitely believe this is my most authentic and strongest body of work to date. I am incredibly proud of the songs and the concept. I lost my dad at the end of 2021 and throwing myself into creativity again has been a vital part of the grief healing process. I just wish my dad was here so he could hear the album.

Is this your only musical or creative outlet, or are there other avenues that you explore to express yourself?

RI: I have written off the wall comedy scripts in the past but I am definitely more into my music. I absolutely love lyric writing so I am often seen in my local cafes with a pen in hand.

And finally, what does the future look like both for yourself and the Multivox project in particular?

RI: It’s been a very emotional period whilst creating this album. Grief has made it tough to stay focused and positive but life goes on as they say. I was recently diagnosed with ADHD which explains why creativity has always been an important outlet throughout my life. I’m hoping that Multivox can help me heal, unmask and also bring pleasure to others.

Thanks for taking the time to talk to me, and best of luck with the project.