You wouldn’t know it by the way he plays the guitar, but Gary Clark Jr. is as soft-spoken as they come. Though have labeled Clark Jr. as the leader of the Austin rock movement, you could would never tell by his kind and humble demeanor. Signed to Warner Bros. Records, Clark’s The Bright Lights EP has been one of the most talked about records of the year, and it’s not even a full-length. Melding rock, soul and blues, with a distinct guitar sound and a falsetto trill, Clark is going to be one to watch in the upcoming months. He’s currently in the studio recording his first album and in between recording sessions, Bestnewbands.com caught up with the rocker to chat about his past, present and future.

DK: I read about your background and how you got started.  What was the impetus to start playing guitar when you were 12?

GCJ: It was always one of those things that I wanted to do. Ever since I heard people like the Jackson 5 and Curtis Mayfield, it was something that interested me. I’d see B.B. King records around the house as well.

DK: When did playing guitar evolve from a hobby into a potential career?

GCJ: Listening to records and running around in Austin checking out blues cats made me want to learn from them and made think I could do it as well.

DK: Here’s an open-ended question: what’s your favorite venue in Austin?

GCJ: When I’m around, I’m kicking it at Antones or the Continental Club. There’s always things popping off over on 6^th street.

DK: What’s so cool about those places?

GCJ: The music.

DK: As I’m sure you’re aware of, the EP has gotten a ton of critical acclaim. What does that mean to you that all of these people are digging it, yet haven’t heard what’s even to come?

GJC: It’s definitely awesome. Having all this love is something that’s reassuring.

DK: The coolest aspect, in addition to releasing two studio and two live tracks was that each song sounded different, yet remained true to your sound. Was that purposely done as a teaser to show people your songwriting abilities?

GCJ: Well…yes. I just wanted to put out a few tracks to let them know what I’m up to and where we’re coming from and showing the potential of who I am.

DK: Now that the EP is a thing of the past, what’s doing with the album?

GCJ: I’m going to do anything I can get away with. I’ve been recording in Austin at my house and in L.A. I’ve been working with Rob Cavallo. It was kind of weird at first because he didn’t say much to me. Then after we felt each other out, it’s been really cool.