I feel like it’s my patriotic obligation to relay as much information as possible via this blog about amazing New Zealand artists (of all art types, of course). I’ve done that a bit already, without even thinking about it, but I think I might go out of my way to ensure at least a couple a week feature on here. Because, who knows, one day I might suddenly get actual readership. That would be rad. But I think it’s worthwhile that I exploit the fact that I have friends in the US/Canada/Europe who may read and learn something about New Zealand artists they wouldn’t otherwise know.
Which leads me to introduce todays Warrior Against Bubblegum Youth (as appointed by me) - Dudley Benson.
You have to listen to him to really have any idea what he’s going to sound like - I can’t really think of anyone to compare him to. I could see him opening for Joanna Newsom, perhaps. But really, he’s rather unique. I’ve heard him referred to as ‘indie choir boy’ and ‘pocket symphonies’, and there’s probably a plethora of other definitions laid on him by reviewers. His MySpace says ‘indie/pop/experimental’ which I guess sums it up as well.
Basically, he was a church choir boy, back in the day. He plays piano, he plays harpsichord. When I saw him play live (in a church, no less) he had a guest harpist for some songs, a six person backing choir, and a string quartet. His opening act was a guy who does New Zealand bird calls (it was odd, but amazing). Dudley and the choir did a cover of Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love. It was amazing.
I wish he had more of his songs from his album (The Awakening) on his MySpace, because it’s amazing and awesome, and I personally way way prefer the original of I Don’t Mind to the Casiotone remix that’s online at the moment. The moral of the story? You should find a way to buy the album, online or in an actual tangible form. Do it. He is awesome. Here’s his MySpace, if you didn’t realise that the hyperlink on his name the first time I typed it was a link to it as well.
