INTERVIEW: Mark Vennis & Different Place discuss origins and influences alongside new album ‘Goodbye To All That’

For over a decade, Mark Vennis & Different Place have stood at the intersection of punk defiance and roots rock reflection, but with their latest album ‘Goodbye to All That’, the Hampshire four-piece deliver their most ambitious and politically resonant statement yet. Grappling head-on with the contradictions of British identity, the album channels the spirit of Orwell, Graves, and The Jam to interrogate the myths and legacies of empire, power, and nationalism.

Hot off the back of teaser singles ‘Empire Road’ and ‘The Beating of the Drum’, the new record blends chaotic energy with sharp social critique, refusing to let history be forgotten or romanticised. It’s a bold, necessary work that asks uncomfortable questions with both urgency and poetry.

As the band gear up for another year of fiery live shows and uncompromising music, we sat down with frontman Mark Vennis to discuss his origins and influences over the years.

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What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?

Going Underground by the Jam.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?

The Jam and Paul Weller, The Clash, The Kinks, REM.

Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?

Loads of reggae musicians and folk and blues musicians. 

A few like:

Linton Kwesi Johnson

Dennis Bovell

John Martyn

BB King

What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?

Life and how to live it.

The interaction between the personal and the big picture. 

Films and books

Fighting injustice

What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share?

The buzz, the audience, the band playing on top form.

What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?

Playing live at the Cannes Film Festival. Worshipping at the alter of rock n roll and films at the same time. 

How would you define success as a musician?

Writing and creating great songs. Making people think about life, love and the universe.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?

Stick to your guns and make sure they are loaded. 

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Listen to Mark Vennis & Different Place’s new album ‘Goodbye To All That’ below.