MARK HARRISON
MARK HARRISON – CRANBROOK HIGH STREET – SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER – 8:45 PM
here is no one in music quite like Mark Harrison. With his band, or in solo or duo form, he is widely considered one of the most original and interesting artists currently operating in the UK. His highly individual, all-original music goes down very well with audiences of all kinds, and it has taken him and the band to some of the top venues and festivals in the UK, attracting acclaim wherever he goes. Recent appearances on BBC Radio 2, as guest on Cerys Matthews’s show and on Anneka Rice’s Pick Of The Week show, have further added to his growing reputation.
Described at BBC Radio 2 as ‘quirky’ and an artist who ‘makes you think afresh’, and by one eminent reviewer as ‘approaching national treasure status’, Mark is a totally original songwriter, a stunning guitarist, and a master storyteller.
Mark is a songster, and his songs cover all manner of non-standard subjects. With catchy tunes, lyrics than intrigue and engage, and striking rhythms, they make you smile, think and move. He takes elements of roots music, including folk, blues and gospel, to create something new that is very much his own genre. Each song is a snapshot of life or has a story to tell, like a 3-minute film or novel.
Mark’s live shows are well-known not only for the music but also for his introductions and explanations of the songs, and audiences frequently comment on how big a part these play in their enjoyment of the shows. Delivered in a manner often described as ‘wry’ and ‘dry’, these mark him out even more as a unique artist.
Mark is a thrilling, rhythmic finger-picker and slide player, with a very distinctive style and sound. He plays a 1934 National resonator guitar and a 12-string guitar, as well as singing.
An in-demand live performer, Mark tours extensively. He has appeared at top festivals such as Celtic Connections, Bearded Theory, The Great British Folk Festival, Lakefest and Jazz FM Love Supreme and at prestigious venues all over the UK, including theatres and arts centres.