In a recent feature on TV it was revealed that Country Music
was, officially, the fastest growing musical genre in UK. The whole country, it
seems, has been embracing it. This one time niche art form has had over 1.4
billion streams over the last year. Apparently a 300% increase from 5 years
ago.
This is a huge surge in popularity. Country Music's distinct identity speaks
volumes to people. According to the listeners 'the songs resonate and are from the
heart'.
Country music is, and will always be, synonymous with Nashville. But the whole landscape, particularly in the UK, has progressed immeasurably from how it can be depicted.
British artists were clearly influenced by the American brand but in recent years it has taken on a life of its own. The music has slowed down slightly and aspects such as production and harmonies are world class.
The UK scene is led by bands like Ward Thomas, The Shires and Wildwood Kin. But recently they have been joined by local musician Guy Surtees who has just released his debut four track EP titled 'English Country Boy'. And what a great listen it is.
Guy has not simply jumped on the bandwagon. He has gravitated there. He first discovered Country during 1986 and stepped right in during 2009.
Locally, Guy was a member of Profile during the very early 1980s. Incredibly talented he taught fellow band member, Steve Barney, how to play bass guitar.
Guy went on to appear in Beachmantango alongside Anthony Harty. He also featured on the original Paradise West recordings where he played keyboards and harmonica.
During the 90s Guy moved to California where he played with a country band.
It now appears that the experience Guy has gained, from all his years on the circuit, are finally paying off.
The opening track on his EP 'English Country Boy' is a lively affair. I asked Guy if the lyric was a confession. 'Yes' he said 'it is autobiographical. I’ve loved Country music for many years but only recently started to sing and write in this style'.
But it is his treatment of the remaining songs on the EP that bring you out in
bumps. They are truly attention grabbing and these, I think will have enormous
crossover appeal.
Guy writes all the songs. Additionally, I think he plays all instruments as well. And there is much more to come.
Guy's songs are stories told in an earnest style. They are more a metaphor for life, picking yourself up and embracing what you have. Romantic and melancholy ballads accompanied by acoustic and slide guitars. The imitable mark of a man who has, at some point, experienced many emotions.
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