“Art Block: The East London Alt-Folk Sensation .”
NMR – Great synth Pop sounds and melodies all over this new release from a talented singer songwriter, get your quota of pop vibes right here .
Art Block, a multi-instrumentalist and alt-folk singer-songwriter from East London, has been making waves in the indie music scene with his evocative sound and thought-provoking lyrics. His latest single, “Poorer Than Ever,” features Marcus Hamblett, the talented synth player from the acclaimed indie folk group Bear’s Den. Hamblett, also known for his work with Nadine Shah, The Staves, and Villagers, brings a distinctive edge to the track, adding depth and atmosphere.
This release follows “The Ghost of a Wild Fox,” a collection of stunning piano instrumentals. Recorded at the iconic Premises Studios in London, these compositions were released exclusively on Bandcamp, showcasing Art Block’s versatility and deep connection to his craft.
Art Block’s unique sound and storytelling have not gone unnoticed. This year, he was listed on the prestigious O2 Music Mapper alongside legendary artists like David Bowie, Adele, and Dua Lipa.
His most recent EP, Dandelion, was produced by William Robertson and features the drumming of Raphael Bouchara and string arrangements by Joseph Lawrenson. The EP was recorded at the Royal College of Music in London, adding yet another layer of sophistication to Art Block’s discography.
In 2023, Art released his debut album, Stones and Fire, produced by Ian Barter—Amy Winehouse’s former guitarist and musical director. Supported by BBC Radio London, the album is set to be released on vinyl soon, further cementing Art Block’s growing reputation in the music world.
Art Block’s discography is rich with carefully crafted releases, each telling a story and pushing the boundaries of the alt-folk genre. A few years ago, he released The Basement EP on transparent violet vinyl, which was stocked in Rough Trade East, London, and independent record stores across the UK. His Seagulls EP, produced by modern classical composer Jay Chakravorty and mixed by Shuta Shinoda, featured internationally acclaimed cellist Jo Quail, further showcasing his ability to collaborate with top-tier talent.
In 2021, Art reunited with Ian Barter to release the self-titled Art Block Extended Play, which was well-received, enjoying extensive airplay and glowing reviews. His earlier work, The Basement EP, was even curated by the sound archives of the British Library, while Borderline EP, dedicated to migrants dying in the Mediterranean, was produced by the eminent folk musician Ben Walker, recognized as one of the top 10 acoustic guitarists in the world by Total Guitar magazine.
Art Block’s England’s Dying EP features arrangements by award-winning violinist Harriet Mackenzie and performances by rising jazz cellist star, Midori Jaeger, demonstrating his continued commitment to producing music that resonates deeply with listeners.
As Art Block continues to evolve as an artist, his work stands as a testament to his talent, passion, and ability to connect with audiences through his music.
Want to see a full article? Read it on the New Music Review website