WXPN Radio

The premier guide for new and significant artists in rock, blues, and folk - including NPR-syndicated World Cafe

XPN2 - XPoNential Radio

24/7 Musical discovery. A unique mix of emerging and heritage blues, rock, world, folk, and alt-country artists.

World Cafe Archives

Join the World Cafe through performances and interviews with celebrated and emerging artists.
Listen
  • font size decrease font size decrease font size increase font size increase font size

James Blake - March 2011 Artist To Watch

Though London's James Blake plans on releasing his debut record in March, the post-dubstep producer already has the fanbase of a seasoned artist after releasing a series of widely acclaimed EPs and singles. Hailed by BBC as the one of most promising new artists, this mere 22 year old is also our Artist to Watch for March.



As a classically trained pianist, Blake studied popular music at the esteemed Goldsmiths University in London where he studied popular music. Originally inspired by a range of classical, jazz, soul and r&b, his newfound appreciation for electronic and dubstep took over. But without abandoning his other passions, his work blends together the breadth of his loves and demonstrates a keen ear for complicated and beautiful arrangments. Though his early works thrived on arranged samples, he know proves that he is one of the most intriguing and capable singer songwriters around. Still rooted in composed electronic samples, his unexpectedly soulful voices breaks through intricately layered textures, giving rise to gems like "The Wilhelm Scream" and "I Never Learnt to Share" and most popularly, the cover of Feists "Limit to Your Love."

And unlike many songwriters,he is unafraid to let his songs breath in moments of intense silence, which are often lined with the mournful repetition of gut wrenching phrases. The result is dramatic and chilling, and requires a sensitive and patient listener. So while James Blake may seem like your average youthful artist, these are not your normal set of tunes- his work is the work of genius and merit the worldwide attention he's been getting.



Website: jamesblakemusic.com
MySpace: myspace.com/jamesblakeproduction
Recent Release: James Blake
Release Date: March 22, 2011
Label: Universal Republic
Hometown: London