The concept is old and for some people the idea of a lonely singer and his guitar equals the helpless attempt of wannabe-musicians to be taken seriously in their creative self-fulfilment. Simon Knighton finds himself among the vast group of the somewhat stereotypical singer/songwriters but luckily succeeds in standing out in the crowd. In his case this factor does not mirror oustanding innovation but reflects mere musical talent which purifies the simple parameters of his art.
The debut album Leave my bones, distributed by Kazimier Records in Liverpool, centres on the prevalent and characteristic guitar plucking, strumming and slapping, which Simon has already mastered during his young career. The accompaniment of his singing is exquisitely apt and vibrant, the charismatic songs never fail to provide a straightforward guitar-line, which always thrills and never bores. The range of sound-varieties, complemented by subtle percussions and additional instruments such as the accordion or a trumpet (leave my bones), meets a reserved and earthly voice. Never trying too hard to please, Simon possesses a natural tone and grainy timbre, which meets the listener with a disarming honesty and must charm even critical folk-ears.
This chap aims to be professional without letting it show and he is on the best way to achieve what he is striving for. Sometimes marching and stomping energetically, sometimes taking a stroll through poppy acoustic soundscapes, Simon hops between melodramatic storytelling and danceable, bouncy off-beat tunes, sometimes resembling the early Noah and the Whale (hold you down). This is true campfire deluxe.
Artist Links
http://thekazimier.co.uk
Myspace