With his debut EP, 'Hunter’s Heart', attracting its fair share of attention - thanks in part to radio play from BBC 6 Music and Radio 2 and sets at Green Man and Swn - Dan Bettridge finished 2013 high on the list of ones to watch in the coming year. Fortunately, 'Darker Days', his follow-up collection, has developed that potential further.
‘Hunter’s Heart’ showed off his impressive blues vocals, blended perfectly with picked acoustic guitar. Despite that, though, Bettridge perhaps wore his influences on his sleeve a little too much at times. On ‘Darker Days’, both the songwriting and production have noticeably moved up a level.
Drive, the opening track, follows a similar pattern to his earlier work, with a lyric that belies his 20 years and a rich vocal, but elsewhere, Bettridge is able to display his budding personality.
Home has an addictive quality, particularly its whistled bridge. Backing vocals from Bettridge’s mother, Clare, add extra colour, as well as embellishing the shy charm of a young man from the Welsh seaside.
Rosie Darling has already earned national radio play, and its folky bounce and beautiful violin line are helped by an upbeat performance from Bettridge. Increasingly, there is a real sense of an artist enjoying his work here, and it’s almost possible to see his smile coming through as he sings the closing chorus.
The title track defines ‘Darker Days’, though. Atmospheric piano performed by producer Charlie Francis - whose contribution is excellent throughout - is backed by haunting cello, and it’s the most powerful, emotive work Bettridge has put out out to date.
Tue March 04 2014 - CARMARTHEN Parrot
Wed March 05 2014 - CARDIFF Norwegian Church
Thu March 06 2014 - BRISTOL Birdcage
Sun March 09 2014 - LONDON St Pancras Old Church
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
