Gig preview: Saul Williams at Belgrave Music Hall, Leeds

Saul Williams, hip-hop artist, poet and actor, will be heading to the Belgrave Music Hall next month to perform his eclectic mix of rap, rock and dance to an loyal Leeds crowd.

After a few years absence from releasing material, Williams returns on fire with his new album MartyrLoserKing. He spoke to us about his dreams, ambitions and inspirations.

You played Leeds HiFi Club some years back promoting your Niggy Tardust album and played a passionate and intimate set. What’s in store for fans at your gig at the Belgrave?

Call the police. Now.

What’s more fun to play live, the rock based songs or the pop/dance material from the Volcanic Sunlight album?

As long as it’s loud it all rocks.

You’ve released your first album, MartyrLoserKing, in five years to critical acclaim. What topics have fuelled this album?

The death & brutal murder of our conscience. The technology of awareness. The 3rd gender.

In your absence from studio based releases, who do you feel has being putting across or carrying the torch for your message musically and who is influencing you?