Los Angeles alt-rock band La Luz return to the UK this week for a run of headline performances and a support slot for grunge legends Pearl Jam.

Following the release of their self-titled album last year, they have become one of the most exciting touring acts right now - we caught up with vocalist and guitarist Shana Cleveland to talk tour, their memories of the UK and more!

Firstly you’re heading to the UK for a run of shows next month – how does it feel to be preparing for these dates?

I’m excited about coming back to the UK as it’s been a while, since before-times, and I’ve missed your accents terribly.

There are some pretty cool venues on the schedule including Leeds’ Brudenell and Lafayette in London – are there any cities you’re particularly looking forward to perform in from past experience? How has your relationship been with the UK generally?

The last time we played London was a blast! We had an audience member sit in on drums for a song so our drummer could crowd surf. Alice dove into the crowd headfirst ... in retrospect maybe we all crowd surfed at that show. We did a couple BBC sessions that were really fun and met lots of funny people. Playing the UK always feels a bit like a home away from home in the middle of a Euro tour.

Alongside your headline dates you’ll also be playing with Pearl Jam – do you approach these shows differently or is it ‘business as usual’?

I think in the past when opening for bigger acts we’ve had a sort of biz-as-usual approach, but I do think it would be fun to pay homage to the greatness that is Pearl Jam as I was singing along to their songs as a kid!! I’d love to have a moment like in the 'Evenflow' video where Eddie climbs the walls of the theater and hangs from the rafters while everyone loses their minds!

Your latest single ‘Endless Afternoon’ was released recently and was picked up by the likes of DIY and Stereogum – does seeing publications such as these reassure you when promoting new music, or is it something you don’t really take notice of?

I don’t usually read reviews unless someone specifically brings them to my attention. Music, and art in general, is just so personal, it’s great when people take notice but I try to keep press out of my head.

The single follows last year’s self-titled LP – was there a difference between the writing or recording this time around?

No difference at all actually. These songs were from the same record session, we just didn’t think they quite fit in the context of the larger album so we have them their own release.

What else can we expect from La Luz across the rest of 2022 and beyond?

We just finished recording an EP that we’re really excited about, then more touring and some releases from side projects. it’s a busy time!