When I listened to the radio a bit more and read a few tweets to find out more about this chap, I soon discovered that he is a classical, jazz style pianist. My ears pricked up and my interest was aroused; I am an unashamed lover of anyone who can tickle those ivories - Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Jamie Cullum are particular musical heroes - so, naturally, I pootled across to Spotify (other musical broadcasters are available I'm sure, but they probably aren't as good) and gave his nominated album 'Good Days At Schloss Elmau' a bit of a listen.
My oh my. The album is just about as kooky and experimental as his name and the title of his works would suggest. While on the surface these pieces of music could be something you'd hear in any lift of a posh hotel or playing in the background in a fancy restaurant, possibly including a few candles and a glass or two of pinot grigeo, if you listen closely you can hear that he is more than slightly experimental in his composition. 'Gripper' in particular is an interesting track. The background chord 'rhythm' is a constant but the more playful overlay is beautifully eccentric. 'Plain Song', as the name would suggest, is a lot simpler and more classic.
Citing the likes of Keith Jarrett, John Taylor and Igor Stravinsky as some of his influences, the 29-year-old Perrier Award winner is definitely one to be looking out for as a dark horse at this year's Mercury Awards. Even if he doesn't win, the nomination itself is definitely doing to give his profile a bit of a boost.
Although if Adele wins, I may well weep. All those weeks of 'NEVERRRR MIIIIIIIND, I'LL FIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIND SOMEONE LIKE YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOU' at number one have scarred me a little. No offence intended, Adele. You seem like a cracking lass and you've definitely got talent. But... Well, y'know. Give others a chance.
(For more information on this intriguing fellow, check out his website. It certainly makes for some interesting reading >> http://www.gwilymsimcock.com/)
