The Best Of The UK Music Scene: Foy Vance

Wednesday, 30 January 2013

When Folk meets Soul you get Foy Vance

With the current US tour of newly established, British superstar Ed Sheeran underway it's the perfect time to introduce North America to one of the opening acts, Foy Vance. This North Irish singer, songwriter and guitarist is definitely getting attention, and fast. The incredible thing about Foy Vance isn't just his voice (which instantly puts you at peace), it's how he mixes folk and soul so well. Few singers can mix genres and come out with something worth listening to. Foy Vance comes out with something ingenious.

Aside from his ability to create a new genre, Foy Vance also does something magical with his guitar. He has figured out how to use the guitar to enhance the song, not to overwhelm it. The guitar is always secondary to the lyrics and vocals; it's never the core of the song.

Two of his songs have been featured in episodes of Grey’s Anatomy (Gabriel and the Vegabond and Homebird). That should tell you what to expect of this musician. If you want a song that gets deep inside you and makes you feel something you can’t explain, this man is the one to do it.

So, I have added one of his greatest songs Guiding Light for you to hear for yourself. Foy Vance has already established himself back in Ireland, now it’s time for North America to jump on board. This is one artist you have to know.

Who am I?

I am a lover of music. I am slightly obsessed with the UK. Nothing makes me feel better than listen to my favourite songs (well, maybe my dog does). I'm Kayla, and I'd love to tell you about all of the incredible bands coming out of the UK that you may not know about.

My passion for music started when I was very little. My father used to blast the Eagles, Three Dog Night, Journey, Bryan Adams, Tom Petty (really I grew up listening to the best of the '70s and '80s). There was nothing I enjoyed more than sitting in the car with my father, listening to those songs and singing along. That's where I learned to love music.

As I grew up I continued to love music. I sang as part of my school's choir, took vocal lessons (in school and out of school), sang solos at after hour school events and assemblies. I also started writing lyrics. That love of lyrics is what you will see in most of the bands I recommend. Some people love the music, I love the lyrics. Don't get me wrong, the music matters, but I look at it more as a way to carry the important message of the song.

So, now that you know why I'm writing this blog, here's the boring information that people sometimes care about. I have a BA (Hons.) in Political Science with a minor in Canadian Studies from Western University, as well as a Certificate in Public Relations from Niagara College. Other than music I love to read about politics and history, hike, watch movies, do anything with animals and volunteer.

That's who I am and why you should listen to me. Hopefully I was convincing enough. If you have any suggestions or critiques email me at kwalterc@gmail.com.