Prior to the inception of the already notorious ‘The Music Knights’ panel, I’d always been dismissive of recommendations for new or even recognised artists. “Thank you, that’s brilliant! I’ll be sure to check them out ASAP!”- with no intention of ever doing so. If an artist was that good, surely I would have known all about them right? This naive and dim witted attitude meant I was missing out on some of the best music on the planet. Today, I’m far more open minded. I take great pleasure in admitting that the following was one of those very recommendations and I cannot thank you enough JM.
What’s astonishing about Ben Howard is not only is Every kingdom his debut set, as well a strong contender for my favourite album of 2011, the Devonshire native is still only 23.
Entertaining tirelessly at festivals the length and breadth of the UK over the past couple of years, the unassuming troubador has had the perfect platform to hone is skills and introduce himself to the nation. He’s quietly built a reputation as a serious player in the industry as well as a loyal and admiring fanbase. With his unique style comes a definite nod in the direction of late greats like John Martyn and Nick Drake. Ben Howard’s songs have a familar feel about them, but at the same time sounding original and complete. What’s painfully apparent is he writes and performs as someone of much greater industry experience.
Although The Wolves was the first song I had the pleasure of hearing, in reality I may well have chosen any track from his enthralling first album.
It begins delicately with Howard’s falsetto on fine form. Cue a sudden eruption of military style drumming, a chorus of chanting and some confident vocals. Though seemingly there is nothing regimental about the songs structure. The track surges forward at breathless pace, slowing momentarily, before erupting once more. This, the lengthier album version eventually settles with a stripped down acoustic session with the singer-songer demonstrating the true class in his musicianship and broad range in his voice.
The gifted musician has just landed stateside in a effort to globalize his appeal. My sentimental brain evokes an image of a young guy breezing through the terminal exit at JFK, (New York) dressed in a worn t-shirt, faded levi’s, guitar case strapped to his back on the look out for people to listen to his songs. I’m sure the music moguls and entourage at Island Records have other ideas.
This post is written by Andy Clarke. Andy is the soulful member of the panel, and loves his RnB, hip-hop, and well as his singer-songwriters. With a keen ear for unsigned artists, Clarke can often be found chatting to local buskers in the hope of getting them on the show.
