Solo Artists

I seem to have a prejudicial dislike for solo artists. I don’t why or when such a barrier built up between the solo artist and I, but it did. I get the feeling it is rooted in their over presence in the folk music industry. When such music is done right, I can find it very enjoyable, but I'm also very picky in this regard and so more often than not find it boring. When I actually stop and think about it however, there are plenty of non-folk solo artists out there, many of whom I love. Their sound can be as rich as any band and so I really have no rational reason to scorn at the mention of their name. That is, except for in the case of this festival. Because you see the slower, folksy artists are out in force and while their music may be beautifully crafted, it isn’t what I look forward to at a festival. So feel free to check some of these artists out, but more than likely I won’t be joining you.

Angus & Julia Stone – What better way to open a section on solo artists than with a pair of them. They are brother and sister and create some very pleasant music. But for reasons stated above, I strongly doubt I’d go watch them

Bob Evans (Nowhere Without You) – For those who don’t know, this is the solo project of the lead singer from Jebediah, Kevin Mitchell. I’m a pretty big Jebediah fan and while this work sounds completely different, I enjoy it also. The combination of his song-writing ability and great voice has allowed him to be successful in both careers. Despite this, I’m still wary of what he’ll be like live, so will have to mark him down as a maybe.

Tom Cooney – Great voice for sure. Meaningful song lyrics no doubt. He perfectly sums up the folk singer I have no interest in seeing

Toni Collette & The Finish – A solo artist with an accompanying band is nothing more than an over glorified lead singer, selfish enough to want their own name included in the band name. So many of the biggest bands revolved largely around one person, but this person had no choice but to share the glory. What makes Toni Collette so special that she transcends this ancient tradition? I hope by now you realise I’m not being serious (then again, perhaps my inner cynic is creeping out). Toni Collette does indeed make lovely music and I’m sure she’s a very nice person. On top of this, The Finish aren’t just your average bunch of street performers, containing the lead singer from Augie March among other accomplished musicians. But despite all this I still won’t be seeing them…

Jen Cloher & The Endless Sea – See above but switch names and remove Augie March cameo. I enjoy and respect both artists but a festival just isn’t the place to see them. I’d want to be relaxing in a small, dark room so that I could fully appreciate them. Homebake creates the complete opposite to such an atmosphere

Gotye (Learnalilgivininlovin) – I have mixed emotions for Gotye. Some of his music I find very clever and highly enjoyable. But then a song like Thanks For Your Time comes along which I absolutely despise. I’m debating whether to see him or not but it’s a definite possibility. Personally I’d prefer it if Wally de Backer (a.k.a. Gotye) devoted more of his energy towards his band The Basics (more on them later!) cause they’re pretty damn fine.