Charlie Simpson has made a name for himself as a band member, firstly of Busted (just don’t mention that!) & secondly of Fightstar; now, he’s going it alone. This is someone who, in the past, has made a point of the fact that he wants to be making real music, the sort he feels passionate about, putting great onus on himself to ensure that what he produces is incredibly high quality. When he joined Fightstar he alienated a lot of people with his choice to pursue a heavier sound but with his solo work he has taken a step in the opposite direction, and it seems to be a good decision.
His debut video as a solo artist has been released today for Down Down Down taken from his free EP (available here) bringing with it a whole new sound for this once pop-centric artist. Full of acoustic guitars, perfect harmonies and sharp lyrics, this is folksy in feeling, and suits the deep tones of his voice fantastically. Anyone who has heard his version of Don McLean’s Vincent will know that he has the ability to make music mesmerising, so it is a pleasure to see him transfer that trait to his own creations. This track evidences the versatility of a man who clearly lives and breathes music, as he creates a sound that is incredibly current and universally appealing. Listening to his track Thorns, also available on the free EP, provides further affirmation that this is a style of music incredibly suited to him; it’s tender & absorbing in a way that will surprise so many who have come to view him purely as a rock artist. On the basis of Down Down Down and, in fact, the whole EP, going solo is an incredibly astute decision which hopefully should win him not only a whole new legion of fans, but also the credibility he deserves as a a musician but is all too often denied. I await the album with anticipation.
