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.
Country music is not all brawling, drinking and wide open
spaces. Check out Guy at: