Alan Parsons is returning to Mallorca for the first time in two decades, with a concert at the Velòdrom Illes Balears in Palma as part of the Mallorca Concert Series.
Same as ever
Parsons says he feels much the same as he did 20 years ago, both personally and musically. What he brings to the stage is still the music of the Alan Parsons Project.
A debut album in full
Alongside the hits, the concert will include a complete performance of Tales of Mystery and Imagination, the Project’s 1976 debut album, inspired by the stories of Edgar Allan Poe, to mark its anniversary. The band has rehearsed it on the island.
Orchestras and pop
Parsons welcomes the fact that younger artists such as Rosalía and Raye are bringing orchestras into pop. Orchestral work, he says, keeps classical musicians employed and gives modern songs a richer sound. He admits he does not follow the charts closely and says he listens mainly to radio stations playing music from the 1970s to the 90s.
Live music versus AI
For Parsons, nothing replaces a live concert. He is concerned that artificial intelligence could undermine authenticity in music, and regards AI-generated singers as more about commerce than art. But he is confident that as long as people value real performances, live music will remain strong — because, as he puts it, AI cannot do concerts.
A team, not a solo act
Parsons does not see himself as the sole frontman. The band shares the spotlight, with different singers taking lead vocals, including Parsons himself. Long-time member PJ Olsson has been with the band for more than two decades.
He considers production and songwriting equally important, and describes the Alan Parsons Project as a collective effort.
Gaudí
Parsons mentions the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death this year. He and his late partner Eric Woolfson made the 1987 album Gaudí, inspired by the architect, and he is looking forward to playing in Barcelona on 25 June, Gaudí’s birthday. He admires the architect’s lifelong devotion to his work — and when asked whether art can be a religion, he says that for him it is.
Life in California
Although he lives in California, Parsons says he remains proud of his European roots, and is enjoying the warm reception — and the food — in Spain.
