Kevin Dehan Reflects on the Evolution of Cactus Lee
Caravan is the new album from Cactus Lee, an Austin based Americana project crafting modern music akin to the generation-spanning sounds of quintessential Texas music. Featuring ornate arrangements similar to the likes of Gene Clark, this is their most sonically expansive version of the project yet.
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Scroll down to watch Cactus Lee in Studio 1A
Below is our interview with the lead singer of Cactus Lee, Kevin Dehan:
Q: Where are you from?
A: I was born in Houston.
Q: How and when did you make it out to Austin?
A: I drove here in 1987 when I was 6 yrs old (I had a driver’s license).
Q: What got you into music?
A: My dad’s side is very musical. He’s one of nine from an Irish family. His Aunt played violin in the symphony and his Dad was in the choir. Anytime there’s a family get together people are playing instruments and singing— I started leaning old Irish songs to get the song slings going.
Q: What brought you to where you are in your music career now?
A: I’ve been playing music in Austin clubs since I was a teenager. I’m thankful for all of the players I have played with over the years, but mostly my wife.
Q: It’s Love Austin Music Month! Tell us about an Austin musician that you love.
A: Marcia Ball’s playing and presence is very powerful. She’s a classy woman and doesn’t ever seem like she needs to talk a lot or be loud to be heard. She lets her playing speak for itself. Besides that she carries herself with sophistication, which is something that I aspire toward and highly respect.
Q: What are you looking forward to in 2024?
A: Recording a new album in February, and touring in April.
Q: What draws you to make music specifically in Austin?
A: There’s a real community here. Also can’t leave out, Antone’s Records and Antone’s Nightclub.
Q: Tell us about your favorite Austin Music Experience.
A: My favorite Austin music experience was seeing Jerry Jeff Walker play in the St. Austin’s gym when I was in first grade. His son was in the grade above me and so he came to do Christmas songs for the students. I remember the teachers acting star struck but I just thought it was Django’s dad. Later I realized who he was and of course am a big fan.
Set List:
“Caravan”
“Kangaroo”
“Mother Neff”
New Album: Caravan
Credits:
Musicians: Kevin Dehan: vocals, guitar; Jon “Catfish” Delorme – pedal steel; Russell Hymowitz: bass; Adam Amram: drums; John Bush: percussion
Producers: Deidre Gott; Audio Engineers: Jake Perlman, Rene Chavez; Audio Mix: Rene Chavez; Cameras: Patricia Lim, Renee Dominguez; Video Edit: Renee Dominguez
