Newton Faulkner live in Bristol on 28 November 2024 at Marble Factory

Posted on: 13 Nov 2024

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After taking time to write new music and collaborate, the acclaimed singer-songwriter Newton Faulkner is gearing up for a highly anticipated UK tour this November and he'll be at Bristol's Marble Factory on Thursday 28 November 2024.

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Newton Faulkner: A Journey Through Acoustic Innovation and Folk Rock

Newton Faulkner, born on January 11, 1985, in Reigate, Surrey, England, has carved out a unique space in the world of acoustic and folk rock. Known for his signature dreadlocks, warm stage presence, and extraordinary guitar skills, Faulkner has remained a distinctive figure in the British music scene since the mid-2000s. Combining intricate fingerstyle guitar techniques with heartfelt lyrics and soulful vocals, his music has struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

Here’s a closer look at the artist's journey, his influences, and what makes him such a compelling figure in contemporary music.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Newton Faulkner, whose full name is Sam Newton Battenberg Faulkner, displayed a love for music from a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Faulkner was encouraged to explore a range of instruments, eventually settling on the guitar as his primary focus. His early musical education was shaped by a deep appreciation for rock and folk legends, including Led Zeppelin, Joni Mitchell, and Nick Drake, whose influence can still be felt in his music today.

He studied guitar at the prestigious Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, Surrey, where he honed his skills in fingerpicking and percussive guitar techniques. This unique style, often characterized by tapping, slapping, and hammer-ons, became his musical trademark, setting him apart from traditional acoustic guitarists.

Breakthrough with "Hand Built by Robots"

Faulkner's big break came with the release of his debut album, Hand Built by Robots, in 2007. The album, which was met with both critical and commercial success, showcased Faulkner's remarkable skill as a guitarist and songwriter. It reached number one on the UK Albums Chart and was certified double platinum. The hit single "Dream Catch Me" became an anthem for a generation, receiving heavy airplay and propelling Faulkner into the mainstream.

Other standout tracks from the album, such as "I Need Something" and his cover of Massive Attack's "Teardrop," further highlighted his ability to blend genres, drawing on folk, rock, and pop influences. His intricate, rhythmically complex guitar work set him apart from his peers, and his emotive lyrics established him as an authentic and relatable songwriter.

Artistic Evolution and Experimentation

Following the success of his debut, Faulkner released Rebuilt by Humans in 2009, an album that continued his exploration of acoustic pop but with a more mature and introspective tone. The album’s title was inspired by a traumatic wrist injury he suffered that required surgery and months of recovery. Tracks like "If This Is It" and "Over and Out" demonstrated a deeper, more reflective side of his songwriting, touching on themes of resilience and human vulnerability.

Faulkner’s third album, Write It On Your Skin (2012), saw him embracing a more upbeat and optimistic style. It debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, affirming his status as a leading figure in the British music scene. His sound, which mixed folk with hints of reggae, blues, and rock, continued to evolve, keeping his audience engaged.

Throughout his career, Faulkner has maintained a reputation for pushing boundaries. Albums like Studio Zoo (2013) and Human Love (2015) showcased his willingness to experiment. Studio Zoo was particularly noteworthy as Faulkner allowed fans to watch the entire recording process via live streams from his home studio, providing a rare, behind-the-scenes look into his creative world. These albums featured an eclectic mix of styles, from folk-pop to electronic-infused tracks, emphasizing Faulkner’s versatility as an artist.

Signature Style: Fingerstyle Guitar and Beyond

Newton Faulkner’s signature guitar style is often described as "percussive fingerstyle," a technique that involves using the guitar as both a melodic and percussive instrument. He is known for his unconventional approach, incorporating slap harmonics, string bending, and body percussion into his playing. This technique gives his music a dynamic and rhythmic quality that has become his hallmark.

Faulkner's guitar playing is inspired by the likes of Michael Hedges and John Martyn, but he has added his own twist by incorporating pop melodies and rock energy. His percussive guitar style allows him to fill sonic space in a way that makes his solo performances feel rich and full, even without a backing band.

Live Performances: A One-Man Band Experience

Faulkner’s live performances are renowned for their energy, intimacy, and technical prowess. He often performs solo, using a combination of guitar loops, effects pedals, and his distinct playing style to create the impression of a full band. His live shows are a testament to his skill as a musician and his ability to connect with audiences, blending humor, storytelling, and music into an engaging experience.

He is also known for his improvisational skills, often playing requests from the audience and performing unexpected covers. This spontaneity and warmth make his concerts a memorable experience, earning him a dedicated fan base.

Recent Projects and Continuing Legacy

In recent years, Faulkner has continued to release music and tour, remaining a beloved figure in the British folk-rock scene. His 2017 album Hit the Ground Running marked a return to his acoustic roots, offering a mix of introspective ballads and upbeat folk-pop tunes. The album was well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing a more mature and refined sound.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Faulkner released The Very Best of Newton Faulkner...So Far, a compilation album that included fan favorites and a few new tracks. The album served as both a celebration of his career and a reminder of his enduring appeal.

A Unique Place in Music

Newton Faulkner's career has been defined by his refusal to conform to mainstream trends, instead carving out a niche that blends folk, pop, and acoustic rock with a distinct flair. His technical guitar skills, combined with his soulful and honest songwriting, have allowed him to maintain a steady presence in the music industry, even as the landscape has shifted around him.

As an artist who continues to explore and innovate, Faulkner remains a respected and influential figure, known for his warmth, authenticity, and commitment to the craft of music. Whether he’s releasing a new album, performing live, or engaging with fans, Newton Faulkner's impact on the acoustic and folk-rock world is undeniable—a testament to his creativity, talent, and passion for music.

Conclusion: The Acoustic Innovator

Newton Faulkner has demonstrated that acoustic music can be just as powerful and dynamic as any other genre. With a career spanning over a decade and a half, he continues to captivate audiences with his authenticity, skill, and innovative spirit. As he looks toward the future, fans can expect him to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with an acoustic guitar, remaining a beloved and influential figure in the world of music.

In an industry often driven by trends, Newton Faulkner stands out as an artist who has stayed true to his vision, proving that genuine talent and dedication to one’s craft never go out of style.

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