Will Varley live at Thekla in Bristol on 2 April 2025
Posted on: 17 Mar 2025English singer-songwriter Will Varley returns to the road playing at Bristol's Thekla on Wednesday 2 April 2025 in support of his 7th album, ‘Machines Will Never Learn To Make Mistakes Like Me’(released 30th May).
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Label mates with the likes of The Lumineers, Gregory Alan Isakov & Shakey Graves the sound of Will’s music is very much influenced by his natural habitats of the East Kent Coast and the US Midwest and the album features some very special guest appearances including Bastille’s Dan Smith, Billy Bragg and Eleni Drake, the album continues Varley’s decade long exploration of the human condition.
About Will Varley
Will Varley is a British singer-songwriter, musician, and visual artist known for his evocative storytelling and distinctive blend of folk and contemporary indie music. Born on March 7, 1987, in Brixton, London, Varley co-founded the arts collective Smugglers Records and has built a reputation for his heartfelt lyrics and engaging performances.
Early Career and Musical Journey
Varley began his musical career performing at open mic nights across London in the early 2000s, often organizing his own events at venues like The Grey Horse in Kingston. In 2010, he relocated to Kent, where he co-founded Smugglers Records with the band Cocos Lovers. His debut album, "Advert Soundtracks," was self-released in 2011, and he promoted it by embarking on a walking tour, performing at various venues along the way.
His subsequent albums, "As the Crow Flies" (2013) and "Postcards from Ursa Minor" (2015), garnered critical acclaim and expanded his audience. The latter album was described as a "gem of a record" by The Independent and reached number 11 on the Official Independent Album Breakers Chart.
Notable Collaborations and Performances
Throughout his career, Varley has supported and collaborated with several prominent artists. He has opened for acts such as Billy Bragg, Frank Turner, Valerie June, and The Proclaimers, performing at renowned venues including London's Union Chapel and Shepherd's Bush Empire. His songs have been covered by artists like The Pretty Things and Frank Turner, and he has co-written tracks with musicians including Skin from Skunk Anansie and Shae Dupuy.
Discography
Varley's discography showcases his evolution as an artist, reflecting his personal growth and the broadening of his musical influences:
"Advert Soundtracks" (2011): His debut album, featuring tracks like "King for a King" and "I Lost My Mind in Soho," introduced his raw, narrative-driven style.
"As the Crow Flies" (2013): This album includes songs such as "Where The Wild Wind Blows" and "Weddings and Wars," highlighting his development as a songwriter.
"Postcards from Ursa Minor" (2015): Featuring tracks like "Seize the Night" and "The Man Who Fell To Earth," this album marked a significant point in his career, receiving widespread critical acclaim.
"Kingsdown Sundown" (2016): With songs like "To Build A Wall" and "Something Is Breaking," this album reached number 26 on the Official Independent Album Charts.
"Spirit of Minnie" (2018): This album saw Varley recording with a full band for the first time, featuring tracks such as "All Those Stars" and "Seven Days."
"The Hole Around My Head" (2021): Includes songs like "Somers Town" and "Colour TV," reflecting his continued evolution as an artist.
Artistic Style and Influence
Varley's music is characterized by its unique blend of traditional folk and contemporary indie influences, with heartfelt lyrics and raw vocals. His songs often address political and social issues, exploring themes such as inequality and social injustice, while also delving into personal experiences of love, loss, and self-discovery. His captivating stage presence, powerful storytelling, and witty humor have endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Recent Work and Continuing Influence
In 2021, Varley released his sixth studio album, "The Hole Around My Head," which continues to showcase his growth as a musician and storyteller. The album has been well-received by fans and critics alike, further cementing his place in the contemporary folk scene. Varley's ability to blend poignant lyrics with engaging melodies ensures his music remains both relevant and resonant.
Will Varley's career exemplifies the journey of an artist dedicated to his craft, continually evolving while staying true to his roots. His contributions to modern folk music continue to inspire both listeners and fellow musicians.
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