It’s time to get to know Stu Larsen! We set Stu 10 questions about his musical likes, tastes and guilty pleasures…
How would you describe your taste in music?
I definitely like a variety of music, but am constantly drawn back into the singer/songwriter world. Always on the hunt for new music.
Who do you consider to be your favourite band and why?
My ultimate favourite artist in the history of the world is Ray Charles, he exudes soul. He is soul. You could feel that he put absolutely everything into his performances.
Who is the best live band you’ve ever seen?
I played a show in a little venue in Chicago a few years back, the support act was changed on the day for some reason and the band that filled the spot was called The Bros. Landreth, and they just captivated me and everyone else in the room. I’ve seen them again once since then, at Borderline in London and it was the same feeling again. Great guys, amazing players and they work so well together. I’m looking forward to the next time I happen to be in the same city as them again.
What is the one song that you could listen to forever?
Rainy Night In Georgia by Ray Charles. He lets out this alright groan after the four minute mark, it gets me every single time.
What album, if any, was a turning point in your ‘musical life’ and why?
O by Damien Rice followed incredibly closely by Ray LaMontagne’s Trouble. They are simply two of the greatest modern singer/songwriter albums.
In 3 words, what makes a good album or song?
Contagious / Emotive / Cohesive.
A festival or a gig? Why?
I love the intimacy of a gig.
Who would be your dream 3 festival headliners?
Damien Rice, Ray LaMontagne and Bon Iver playing through their first albums….
Who are the best new band you’ve discovered lately that everyone should know about?
I have to give you a couple here… The Teskey Brothers out of Melbourne, Australia are not going to remain a secret for much longer, their new album ‘Half Mile Harvest’ is currently the most played in my collection. I also want to mention Ken Yates from London, Ontario! He’s one of the best new songwriters I’ve come across lately, his work ethic is second to none and he’s also one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met.
What band or artist is your secret, or not so secret, guilty pleasure?
After searching through my iTunes just now, I have to be honest and say that it just doesn’t feel like Christmas unless I have listened to Mariah Carey’s ‘Merry Christmas’ or Hanson’s ‘Snowed In’……… ??
Check out Stu Larsen‘s Chicago SOng below;
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