Australian “disturbed folk” guitarist Jeff Lang returns to Shanghai after last year’s sold-out tour. Check him out at Yuyingtang this weekend.

How did you enjoy playing China in 2009?
It was a bit of a blur, but really interesting. I had five days here playing back-to-back shows. One night I’d be in a Beijing rock club, the next I’d be in a traditional opera house.

Did the crowds get into your “disturbed folk” sound?
Most people didn’t know my music, but it’s interesting to play for virgin ears. There were no preconceived notions of what I should sound like, which is a useful barometer of how I’m doing. China is the most “off the map” place I’ve ever played.

You play slide and lap guitar. Did you pick up any Chinese instruments when you were here?
I got hold of a sanxian, a three-stringed instrument made using snake skin. I had a hell of a time getting it through customs back to Australia. I wouldn’t claim to be able to play traditional Chinese music, but I can get a good sound out of it–out of almost anything with strings that you can pluck. I’ve used it on one track that I’m going to release soon.

This tour, your bassist Grant Cummer-ford is joining you. How does that change things?
It means there’s a conversational element to the performance. I don’t tell Grant what to play. He just works around what I play and the dialogue between us creates spontaneous energy on stage.

DETAILS

What: Jeff Lang

When: Sept. 4

Where: Yuyintang,

Contact: 5237-8662

Tickets: (RMB50)

Did you catch Jeff Lang at last years tour? What songs are you eager to see him perform this time round?