Ezra Furman: Care and Affection

      "I believe that queer individuals, feminists, and artists who embody freedom unlock the imagination of those who observe them." Thus, the unofficial tagline for Furman’s tenth album is not just an idealistic vision, but a heartfelt appeal for community and connection: A World Of Love And Care. Drawing inspiration from the album's second-to-last and final tracks, it represents “this confession of need” - the fundamental human longing to connect with one another, to comprehend and be comprehended. This sentiment is often most intensely felt at live music events. Introducing: Ezra Furman Presents A World Of Love And Care - an all-day event at London’s EartH featuring Furman alongside acts like Du Blonde, Modern Woman, jasmine.4.t, and Westside Cowboy. What better occasion to showcase ‘Goodbye Small Head’ live for the first time? “During these concerts, the person leading the event can really inspire certain behaviors and encourage attendees to engage in specific ways,” she reflects. “It’s not about enforcing compliance, but inviting a form of connection and interaction; you can define a space around this culture and [declare] ‘within these walls, we nurture love and care for one another’. Or foster passion, or embrace queerness, or cultivate expression and varying levels of awareness.

      “Having a band offers a chance to develop your own little micro-culture,” she adds. “It took me some time to realize that the more I expressed what I was passionate about, the more the audience transformed. Regarding demographics—people recognizing ‘oh, this is a queer artist and I identify as queer’—as well as the older, white British classic rock fans who continued attending, I noticed their hearts began to open up, with some even starting to paint their nails.”

      We share a laugh, but this anecdote goes beyond just a parallel of a 6 Music dad trying out a bottle of Barry M; it highlights the importance of concerts as safe spaces and avenues for growth, even for the most unexpected attendees. “I believe that queer individuals, feminists, and artists who demonstrate freedom unlock the imagination of those observing,” Furman states. “That’s what happens when I engage with my favorite music, view art, or read insightful authors or feminist literature. I feel a greater sense of freedom after absorbing the viewpoints of those advocating for liberation. I think this experience is nearly universal. The more encompassing that message, the more broadly it resonates."

      "There’s something about crafting a little utopia that I’ve only recently become more aware of. When you step back into the real world, that utopia fades away in the rain. But you’ve experienced it, and there’s something about it that doesn’t vanish; it leaves a mark on me, that shared experience with others—even if I’m just attending a concert or performing in one."

      What A Wonderful WorldEzra Furman shares her thoughts on the other acts in her day festival's impressive lineup. "I adore the four bands we're performing with—they were chosen with great care. I've always been enthusiastic about music, but there are so many fantastic new groups... You come across people online lamenting, ‘oh, I wish it were the '90s with those cool bands.’ And I’m thinking, ‘oh my God! You’re parched, leaning against a water fountain!’ It drives me crazy. Also, the water needs you to drink it for its value! The metaphor might be getting away from me, but you understand my point..."

      Ezra Furman Presents A World Of Love And Care will occur on May 18th at EartH, London. Learn more and purchase tickets here. ‘Goodbye Small Head’ is set to release on May 16th through Bella Union.