AT just 27 years old, rising star Jose Gonzalez has the world at his feet. After having his song Heartbeats feature on a recent Sony Bravia television advertisement, the Scandinavian singer is becoming known for his eloquent classical guitar and a voice t
AT just 27 years old, rising star Jose Gonzalez has the world at his feet. After having his song Heartbeats feature on a recent Sony Bravia television advertisement, the Scandinavian singer is becoming known for his eloquent classical guitar and a voice that shows mature assuredness with poignant delicacy. His emotional melodies and thought-provoking lyrics combine in a manner at once familiar - think Nick Drake, Tim Buckley, Will Oldham - and exotic shades of Brazilian Tropicalia, flamenco, even the odd traces of Pampas tango. From these disparate sources Jose has conjured a unique and bewitching sound that is all his own. "I want the guitar to be more than an instrument," he said. "I've played classical music for some time, as well as flamenco. "The flamenco is special in its touch and rhythm, often with a monotonous feel to it. "My guitar playing is a mix of all that - bossanova, Beatles, flamenco and classical." Vocally, Jose admits to the influence of the likes of Chet Baker, Eliot Smith, and Geoff Farina. He's also happy to point out the positive effect on his music from listening to such artists as Cat Power, Tortoise, and Joy Division. - Jose Gonzalez is at the Cambridge Corn Exchange on Sunday April 23 at 7.30pm. For details call the Cambridge Corn Exchange in 01223 357851.
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