I speak because I can

Ask Henry Rollins a question about any subject and he’ll offer you an unflinching answer.

The escalating conflict in Libya, the music of Dinosaur Jr and the merits of turning 50 are just some of the topics that Rollins will wax lyrical about if prompted. We are to be thankful then, that his verbosity is matched with an uncompromising honesty and a strict moral code.

Rollins likes to talk, and talk, about his favourite subjects, which include punk rock, human rights and the world at large.

The former Black Flag singer will once again be bringing his one-man spoken word show to Edinburgh this August, a visit he always enjoys.

“There’s nothing not to like” he says. “It’s different because it doesn’t really feel like a festival. At least not the ones that I am used to with all the fields and people.

“This one is in a city setting, so you have access to stores and whatever else. It’s a great idea. I have seen other shows every time I have been and it was always worth it.”

Born and raised in Washington DC, Rollins has worked variously as a punk rock frontman, record label boss and published author. Many will be familiar with his eloquent, often passionate contributions to numerous programmes, films and documentaries. He’s now turned his back on performing music, preferring instead to concentrate on his activism and spoken word performances.

He does, however, still enjoy touring with other musicians, something he did earlier this year with Dinosaur Jnr, a band with similar career longevity to Rollins. He credits the key to sustaining performance levels is knowing your audience.

“You have to always remember what the job is, why you’re there, where you came from.” He continues: “It’s not easy to do that for everyone. I think Dinosaur Jnr is somewhat rare in that they keep making great records decade after decade.”

Does he have any other future music projects planned?

“No.”

There are, however, no uncharacteristically short answers when the issue of American and European involvement in Libya is raised.

“It comes at such a horrendous human cost” he reflects. “I think it’s about time people started standing up. They are very brave. I have been to some of these countries and always got the feeling that all was not well. It’s not like I am an expert but you can see that these places want to modernise because anywhere anyone can, they do but it’s hard to get ahead when your government shoots at you.”

It’s been a landmark year in many respects, especially for Rollins, who turned 50 in February.

“I don’t know what choice I have in the matter,” he shrugs. “There’s no one to blame but myself. I think it’s been a good ride. I wouldn’t mind a few re-dos but that’s life. I don’t know what I will be up to at sixty. I would like to think I could still be out there, doing things.”

If he keeps his voice, then there is little doubt. That's an honest opinion.