Jesse Roper approaches his profession the same way he would make a mixtape.
With barriers down and volume up.
That philosophy is apparent on Access to Infinity, his upcoming third full-length due February 2 on Blue Heron Music/Warner Music Canada. Roper describes the anticipated album as “an evolved sound,” one that brings to a boil a disparate set of influences.
Jenn: Tell us a little about you?
Jesse: My name is Jesse Roper. I grew up in a small town called Metchosin. I’m a Toronto Maple Leafs fan. I nearly drowned in a pool when I was about 5. I was playing with a helicopter zip toy and stepped into the deep end. Luckily somebody saw me at the bottom and dragged me out of there! I’m a Pisces. My favourite food is chocolate. I love gardening. My garlic is poking up right now. I just had a conversation with all of them about how beautiful they’d turn out. I think if I was ever reincarnated I’d come back as a dog. I like dogs.
Jenn: Your new album Access to Infinity available February 2, can you tell us a little about the album?
Jesse: It’s my most original bit of work so far. It’s also the highest produced bit I’ve done. I got some help from Jedi master Ian Davenport on making it sound great. I hope I get to work with him again. I really like that guy.
Jenn: Do you have a favorite track off of it?
Jesse: #11 ‘Worship the Sun’. I think its some of my best work to date. It’s now the closing song to all of my live performances. I also really like #4 ‘Golden Eye’ a lot too. It’s a good song to drink beer to.
Jenn: You’re getting ready to hit the road with Big Wreck. Tell us about that?
Jesse: Well I couldn’t have asked for a better tour to release the CD on!!! Not only am I a huge fan I think our sounds and style are complimentary. I think its going to make for a great evening of music. Worst case scenario, nobody likes us, but we get to watch Big Wreck perform their wizardry every night. I’m stoked!
Jenn: What is one of your favorite things about touring? Any favorite places to perform?
Jesse: I just like being on stage. I love sound checking and getting all ready to rock. I love waking up in different towns all the time and trying to search out the good coffee spots. I love the feeling of happiness I get after a solid show.
I think The Neat Cafe in Burnstown has to be up there in my favourite places to play. It’s pretty unique and the owners are down to earth and all about the music.
Jenn: Who are some of your musical influences?
Jesse: AC/DC, Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan are probably my top 3.
Jenn: If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
Jesse: Jack Black or Jack White. I’m big fan of both those characters. Honestly though there are so many good ones out there. Adele. I’d like to sing blues with Adele.
Jenn: What are your plans for 2018 (after your tour in Feb/March)?
Jesse: Tour! Tour! Tour! I’m just buying a new van right now and if I don’t drive it into the ground in the next year I’ll be disappointed in myself.
Jenn: What is on your playlist these days?
Jesse: Jon and Roy’s Riverside album. It’s a good one. It keeps me relaxed while I’m playing ping pong.
Jenn: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Jesse: I have the best management ever.
Facebook: @JesseRoperMusic
Instagram: @JesseRoperOfficial
Twitter: @JesseRoperShow
Youtube: The Roper Show
