Why Palumbo’s Songs Feel More Relevant Than Ever
Punk Head: More Tales From The Big Smoke revisits stories from your previous album. Which of these songs feels like it was written specifically for 2026?
Palumbo: I would say, 'Whatever'. It goes out to our world leaders. Most people just want to work consistently and have a nice life with their family and friends. But it seems no matter how hard we work, the cost of living is exponentially increasing at the moment, post covid is even worse, mostly due to warmongering.
Punk Head: Many of your songs are about endurance and resilience. Do you see this as documenting personal experiences, or more as storytelling from the broader world around you?
Palumbo: A bit of both. Life is better since I've been married, and the problems I felt I had when I was younger and single aren't as bad now. I think we all have to endure & learn how to deal with our own feelings of worthlessness and depression. Everything shall pass, as the Buddhists say. In the wider world, it feels like conflict has ramped up. Post-COVID, the world's politicoeconomic systems seem to have more ruthlessly evolved. Profit at the top is ever more important than the lives of the majority of citizens. I suppose it has always been this way throughout history. We have the tech, surely life shouldn't be so economically hard for so many people. Affording a roof over one's head should be a human right IMO.
Punk Head: You’ve said these songs feel more relevant now than when you wrote them. How has your perspective on these stories evolved over time?
Palumbo: I think I have had a long-time frustration with how society works, but now I feel I can better articulate. The stories about enduring hard times, political polarisation and apathy dividing communities and the effect of socio-economic power on the human condition see more relevant now than 5 years ago. Except 'Know That'. This was written as a satirical ode to my relationship with wifey.
Punk Head: Americana, blues, art rock—you’re blending genres like a musical cocktail. Which influences snuck into this EP unexpectedly?
Palumbo: So much amazing music has been created. I am most attracted to authenticity in any genre.
I suppose as songwriters & composers we interpret different genres and moods of music and then spin it in our own way. Without naming specific tracks, there is some 'Thin Lizzy', 'Iggy & the Stooges' & 'Tool' in there.
Punk Head: Touring internationally and performing at major festivals like Glastonbury and the Paralympics must shape your songwriting. How do those experiences filter into your narratives about everyday life?
Palumbo: Those opportunities were very much unexpected at the time, but looking back are experiences I am very proud to have been involved. The main thing I think shapes my narrative these days is trying to be appreciative of what I have rather than what I think I don't have. I also believe that as musicians & songwriters, we have a role in the community to bring people together & inspire with the vehicle of art and music.
