Matt Berry. ‘Witchazel’
Well, if this isn’t the oddest bit of music news I’ve heard in a while then I’m a laughing daffodil.
Matt Berry has released a bloody psych-folk album. Yes, that Matt Berry- the awesome comic actor who played smarmy Dr.Sanchez in ‘Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace’ (in my view, one of the finest and most underrated comedies of the last 10 years) and Douglas in ‘The IT Crowd’.
Strangest of all, it is in fact his third album, originally released as a download in 2009 ( Why didn’t anyone tell me?) and now getting a physical release.
Better still, Berry has kindly agreed to perform tracks from the record at London’s Rough Trade East on Tuesday 27th September (at 7pm).
Wonder if he’ll play ‘One Track Lover’?
Surprisingly, the LP (which is called ‘Witchazel’ if don’t already know) has been showered with critical acclaim. What the fuck? Comedians aren’t supposed to make decent records, it’s not allowed.
Try telling that to this lot though:
“…the result is a revelation…” - Q ****
“An actor/comedian breaks convention by making a good album.” - Mojo ****
“…psych-folk genius.” - The Times ****
“The music is ambitious and compelling.” - Uncut
“…a luxurious intro into his musical world.” - Clash
“…brilliant? Yes. Funny? No.” - NME
“Witchazel is enchanting…genuinely impressive.” - The Guardian
I NEED to head over to Rough Trade East on Tuesday just to see whether I can sit through his set without smirking. Or without seeing him smirk.
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