SINGER/SONGWRITER Jake Clemons is a relative newcomer to Australia - but the bond the American multi-instrumentalist feels with fans Down Under means it already feels like "home turf".
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"Everyone was so warm and welcoming - even in August, your winter," he laughed.
"The connection I was able to have with the audiences, the story we're able to tell together was so intense.
"I've played all over the world; some places attach themselves to you."
Clemons, also known for touring the globe as part of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band as a saxophonist, will launch his world tour in Australia.
His performances will feature two sets - the first a solo acoustic offering affording Australian audiences the first opportunity to hear fresh tracks from his forthcoming album Bittersweet; and introducing his band for the second set and performing Clemons' previous songs.
Bittersweet is themed around a song of the same name, written during the 2014 Australian tour.
"The song deals with losing a father and the bittersweet process of reconciling that loss," Clemons said.
"So much of this record was inspired by experiences I've had in Australia over the last year, so it's incredibly special that I get to start the tour there."
Clemons was a vital part of the E Street Band's recent rejuvenation.
The saxophonist stepped into the large shoes of his late uncle, Clarence Clemons.
"Music was a very big part of our (family) identity.
"When I was about eight, I saw the E Street Band for the first time.
"Being surrounded by thousands of people all living in the same moment . . . I walked out thinking that was what I wanted to do."
Clemons said both performing in front of tens of thousands and playing intimate club venues produced a similar feeling - one was just far more intense.
"I did a string of living room shows in Europe," he said.
"There's something about being right in front of people, no barriers.
"Both have their place and are great, but I do like to see people's faces and have a conversation, I love that."
Although the music industry continually changed, Clemons said people were still hungry for an honest experience.
"Entertainment is like turning the TV on and zoning out - we need music to do more than that," he said.
"People want a raw and honest moment. The stage becomes a mirror sometimes, and enables people to see a reflection of themselves.
"That's why Bruce is able to do it into his mid-60s."
