Classically trained violist, pop collaborator and composer John Metcalfe is a well-respected creative force in many areas of contemporary British music. Even if we haven’t heard his name, many of us have probably heard some of his work without knowing it, through his association with such big names as Blur, Peter Gabriel, Durutti Column and Morrissey. He is however an enigmatic figure, effortlessly moving between the worlds of classical music performance, pop production and his unique compositions. Many of these take the form of introspective soundscapes, mixing technically accomplished work on instruments of all kinds with electronica.
It will be an exciting treat for music fans to see and hear him at The Castle in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, an old-style small live music venue thriving at a time when many others are closing. High tech music of this character is usually staged in large venues with punitive ticket prices, so it will be interesting to see how the music works in a small and intimate setting like The Castle.
John Metcalfe website: http://www.john-metcalfe.co.uk/index.php
