Clever Chris’s bid to ‘re-sculpt’ folk music
CHRIS Cleverley has emerged as a writer, performer and character who defies comparison, delivering a unique re-sculpting of 21st Century folk music.
With guitar-playing ancestry pulsing through his veins, Chris is fast gaining the accolade of being among the most masterful players on the scene.
Continuing the legacy of his heroes such as Nic Jones, John Renbourn & John Martyn, the essence of the folk revival abounds in his memorable music.
Since winning Bristol Folk Festival’s 2014 Isambard Folk Award, Chris’ national presence has grown exponentially, with his critically-acclaimed debut album Apparition entering The Telegraph’s top 70 folk albums of 2015.
Additionally he forms one tenth of a high profile songwriting project, The Company Of Players, alongside eight rising stars of the national folk scene.
Chris is taking his dynamic solo live sound on tour of the UK’s folk clubs, arts centres and concert venues.
Audiences can expect to hear exclusive first airings of material from his forthcoming album, as well as his famous contemporary arrangements of traditional folk song.
Spanning multiple counties across England, Scotland and Wales, Chris is leaving few corners unturned.
These dates offer the chance to see Chris in numerous intimate and unplugged environments, in which audiences can capture the true essence of his heartfelt singing and the warm humour of his storytelling.
Alongside touring, Chris is currently in the pre-production phase of his eagerly anticipated second album. Working with award winning producer Sam Kelly, Chris will bring together some of the finest names in contemporary folk.
This project of great magnitude promises to be a groundbreaking body of artistic work.
Chris’s live set is beginning to unveil glimpses of new material that indicates a pronounced departure from the sound for which he is renowned. ●
These complex new arrangements, while grounded in a traditional style, often transcend the boundaries of the folk genre.
Covering broad and challenging imagery of deteriorating anxious minds, damaging gender constructs, literary heroines and struggling public services, Chris’ new material reflects a keen intellect and strong social conscience. The planned 2019 release is set to embed Chris’ reputation as a true innovator.
He plays Frodsham Folk Club at The Conservative Club, Frodsham, on Friday, November 16 at 8.30pm, and tickets are £5.
Telephone 01925 740 422 or visit www. frodshamfolkclub.co.uk