Chris Cleverley

Date: Saturday, 14th October 2017
Time: 7:00 pm

“An impressive debut album from the Midlands musician, who has a neat fingerstyle technique and a sweet voice” – The Telegraph ★★★

 “Any tune could warrant a mention given the accomplishment displayed on Apparitions” – R2 Magazine ★★★★

Award winning Songwriter and guitarist Chris Cleverley is renowned for his ability to draw audiences to the edge of their seats with hauntingly delivered tales of ghost women, lonesome clock towers, lovelorn mariners and hospital beds.

Chris has crafted a reputation as a songwriter of singular ability with characteristic original and traditional material that has resonated deeply with audiences up and down the UK. His unique brand of contemporary folk contrasts the calming, pastoral influence of a childhood spent roaming the foothills of the Brecon Beacons and Cornish coastlines, with the anxious frenzy of an urban mind shaped by 29 years in the UK’s bustling second city.

The raw and at times unsettling honesty of his lyricism is said to sit curiously over the delicate intricacy of his fingerstyle guitar and banjo. 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 and John Renbourn his playing style faithfully captures the essence of the folk revival and its musical heavyweights.

Chris’ critically acclaimed debut album ‘Apparitions’ sailed into The Telegraph’s top 70 folk albums of 2015, while the leading publications of the national music press such as Acoustic Magazine, fRoots, R2, Maverick and Folk Radio UK encouraged readers to keep a close eye. Since winning Bristol Folk Festival’s 2014 ‘Isambard Folk Award’, Chris’ national presence has grown exponentially, gracing BBC radio airwaves and the stages of top UK folk festivals.

Chris can be seen touring the UK Folk Clubs, Arts Centres and Concert Venues with his dynamic solo live sound as well as part of a high profile songwriting project, The Company of Players, which includes such rising stars of the national scene as BBC Radio 2 Folk Award winner Sam Kelly.

“A deeply personal, meaningful and enjoyable debut album from a promising British artist” Maverick ★★★★

“Sheer Stylishness” – fRoots

“The Sublime guitar playing of Chris Cleverley; One of the highlights of this year’s festival” – Stroud Folk Festival

“Album of the week” – Cherrie McIlwaine, BBC Radio Ulster 

“Lovely singing and guitar playing” – Martin Simpson

Tickets £10 available at the Cafe online at https://www.wegottickets.com/event/416089 (10% admin fee applies) or on the door on the night.