Our Week 4 guest on the Twang Factor 2 is a singer-songwriter from Bury whose songs are characterised by sharp observation, an earthy honesty and a dose of wry humour.
Having fronted cult rockabilly outfit The Rhythmaires for over two decades, Stuart embarked upon a solo career whilst living in San Antonio, Texas. Although reluctant to categorise himself, Stuart’s solo-material leans towards what is generally referred to as ‘Americana.’ Varied audible musical influences include Texas country and ‘southern soul.’ That said, lyrically, there is a typically British approach which has invited comparisons to Nick Lowe.
After a couple of ‘false-starts’ and tracks being released on various compilations, the debut album ‘Telemark’ (recorded – as the name suggests – in Norway) was released in 2012. The album received widespread critical acclaim. Work is currently under way on the ‘difficult second album’ and Stuart, pandemics permitting, can also be found fronting the band Grain Electric.
You can contact Stuart for more information or to buy his music here.
Like to enter The Twang Factor yourself? or know someone else that might? Here’s how to get involved:
Send us a link to you performing an original song. Our email address is thetwangfactor@americana-uk.com We will then view it and if you stand out from the crowd, we will be in touch. Chosen artists will then be invited to make an exclusive recording, like the one above, for AUK which will appear on the site in one of our weekly slots.
A few things to note:
- This is aimed at new and/or relatively unknown artists.
- Despite the name, the feature is open to artists working in the broad americana/folk range – you know the kind of stuff we dig.
- Your material must be original – no covers please.
Good luck. We look forward to hearing from you – and tell your friends!