Brett Dennen has a knack for breezy, feel-good folk-pop. He also has a new record coming out on Tuesday, October 22, called Smoke & Mirrors. Touring in advance of that album, Dennen will stop by the Barre Opera House in Barre this Sunday, September 1. So we shot him a few questions via email about the new joint and some other random stuff. Here's what he had to say.  

SEVEN DAYS: When Loverboy came out you said in several interviews that it contained some of your most personal songwriting and storytelling to date. Did you continue in that vein on Smoke & Mirrors or did you take a different approach?

BRETT DENNEN: Yes. I went further. Even more personal. I figure the best way to reach people, or to ask them to relate, is to be totally honest.

SD: Otherwise, what can audiences expect from the new record? 

BD: I think that people who are fans of my early music will appreciate some of the songs. I also think that those who appreciate my more breezy upbeat songs will be happy as well. It is a nice mix of feel-good and intimate music.

SD: You're often on the road and must see a lot of interesting music. Who are some artists you've come across recently who made you perk up your ears?

BD: Deer Tick. I got to play a few shows with them recently. Totally got on great with them and dig their whole vibe.

SD: On a similar travel note, what is the one thing you absolutely have to have with you when you're on tour? (Aside from gear and such.)  

BD: I like to take a NutriBullet Blender. It's great for smoothies. I put a lot of greens in there to stay healthy. Also, running shoes. The best way to check out a town is to go for a run in it. 

SD: If you could perform with any musician, living or dead, who would it be and why?

BD: Van Morrison. He's the king. I'd love to soak up some of his mojo.

SD: Who is your guiltiest musical pleasure? 

BD: Sade. Love the quiet storm. She created a whole genre.

SD: As a fellow redhead, if you were going to to start an all-redhead all-star band, aside from yourself, who is in it? (Bonus question: What do you name it?)

BD: Willie Nelson. No one else. Just Willie. We can even call it Willie Nelson. I'll just be in his band.