The Indie-Folk songwriting of Chris Cleverley has been likened to Lo-fi American greats Sufjan Stevens & Elliott Smith (Scottish National Express). This December sees the release of Gods Of All Things, a 5 track Winter E.P, and companion piece to 2024’s critically acclaimed festive collection In the Shadow Of John The Divine’.
In Cleverley’s characteristically unconventional style, this vibrant new body of work continues on his mission of flipping the seasonal genre on its head, offering a unique, alternative take on your standard Christmas playlist. With 5 brand new tracks, Cleverley promises audiences new original songs as well as explorations of the traditional British festive music which shaped his experience of the season in early childhood.
The body of work continues to bring something of the existential, highlighting the deeply reflective nature of the season, during which we wind down and enter into our own periods of hibernation. Here we often come up against a curious, ambivalent mixture of emotions, in response to a wave of activity that does not always serve us well:
“I sensed an irony, speaking with people when touring my Festive E.P in 2024; The structures designed to enhance our celebration of Christmas have imposed great barriers to the human warmth inherent in the season; Sensory onslaught of 24 hour media, veneration of excess, pressure of availability. So many of us are appealing to the Gods Of All Things to release us from it all. To embody the festival’s essence; rest, reflection, warmth, connection.”
… This exploration of self is reflected musically, as Cleverley reconciles diverse influences shaping his bold sound. With a pronounced return to his early Trad Folk roots, 60s Folk Revival reflections shimmer in the seismic nature of his intricate guitar style; ever-present footprints of Bert Jansch, John Renbourn & Joni Mitchell. In contrast sits 21st Century ambient, electronic production. The serenity & chaos of synths & programmed beats weave throughout, drawing listeners into the Contemporary Dream-Pop realms of Bon Iver, James Blake & Aphex Twin
And so the complex and wondrous ambiguity of the festive season is once again brought to life in a brand new form. Whether you love or loathe the festive period, this rare new collection of songs promises a welcoming, serene and reflective space for all to unwind in their own way, as the year draws to a close.
UK audiences are offered an exclusive chance to hear the new music prior to its release, during 12 UK headline tour dates, including Launch parties in London and Birmingham, with an exciting full band lineup including renowned guest musicians such as Sam Kelly, Awake Mother, Kim Lowings and Dan Whitehouse. Keep an eye out for the first single release ‘Lord Of Chaos’ on Friday 5th November.
Artist’s website: https://www.chriscleverley.com
From last year: ‘Snowfall, My Evergreen’ – official video:
Tour Dates
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