As September edges closer, JACK VALERO‘s EP ‘Not In Kansas Anymore‘ nears its release into the world. Taped Magazine submitted some questions to Jack as he heads into the second half of 2024 with his eyes set on his next move.

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What has the overall reception been like on ‘Always Something You Can Do’?

Jack: Been really good thanks. I think people have been connecting with the sentiment of finding the places in your world where you can still make a difference in the face of some of the challenges we’re facing today. We defo need some more hope these days to go on, I know I certainly do. Catchy tune doesn’t hurt either. 

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What can fans expect from the upcoming EP ‘Not In Kansas Anymore’?

Jack: A bigger sound for sure. Working with Jamie Webster has been amazing and we both share the love of a big attention grabbing sound. Doesn’t mean you have to throw in everything but the kitchen sink or be overindulgent, but the songs are gonna sound big. Still focusing on stories as well with the lyrical content. All from my own experiences, but some are sung from a 3rd person perspective like a narrator watching it happen.

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How does it feel to get continued support from the likes of Radio X and 6 Music?

Jack: Feels great! I hugely appreciate the support they’ve shown me and I hope I continue to show it’s not misplaced. Love John Kennedy & Chris Hawkins, they’ve not only show me so much support but are genuinely lovely people as well. 

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How did the conversation go about getting Jamie Webster on board?

Jack: Well this came about at Glasto 2023. He came along to one of my shows there and when I spotted him in the crowd my heart sank a little because we were having some equipment issues and thought I wasn’t doing a great job. But later on he approached me and asked if I’d be interested in recording a track with him as producer. Obviously I jumped at the chance and it went so well I then asked if he’d be up for producing the whole EP along with his Co-producer Tim Cunningham and the rest of the gang Jim Sharrock & Danny Murphy and to my delight they said yes. 

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Which show stands out to you the most?

Jack: I think at the moment that would have to be the Paradiso in Amsterdam. They not only looked after us so incredibly well, but the audience were packed in early, went mad for the whole set and then nabbed our set lists before the end of the last song. Never seen that before haha. Was my first mainland European gig and it did not disappoint. 

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Which band have you enjoyed performing with the most his year?

Jack: I’ve had an amazing time playing with lots of really talented people, but if I had to pick it would probably be The Lottery Winners. Being on the road with them was an absolute adventure. They made us feel so welcome, were hilarious to hang out with and was blown away by their show every night. I actually learnt a few things for my own show from watching them. Would go on the road again with those nutters in a heart beat. 

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What is the next step in terms of touring? Can people expect a headline tour around the release of the EP?

Jack: Absolutely! That’s certainly the plan. 

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What is your bucket list venue to perform at?

Jack: That would have to be Alexandra Palace. It’s such an iconic venue and I’ve made the pilgrimage up that hill so many times to see some amazing acts. So to be looking out at that view knowing I was gonna be one of those acts would be mind blowing. 

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What does 2025 hold for Jack Valero?

Jack: More music, more shows and probably more coffee and road side sandwiches

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Keep up to date with Jack and hear about the latest news including new shows and releases HERE.