In Profile: Michael Webster

 

Hailing from the North-West of England, michael webster is a singer-songwriter inspired by a multitude of artists, ranging from the folk legends such as Bob Dylan and Neil Young, to 90’s alternative like Pixies and Nirvana, to modern-day singer-songwriters such as Courtney Barnett, Kurt Vile and Phoebe Bridgers.

His unique guitar playing style, combined with lyrical imagery makes for relatable songs that pertain to various modern-day topics, including politics, society, love and rejection.

Over the past few years, Michael has steadily released a stream of double singles and EPs, all well-received by blogs and fans alike. His debut EP “paper dreams” first cemented in his signature sound, a blend of singer-songwriter lyricism and alternative rock melodies and soundscaping, which comes to define his modern music.

During the start of 2020, he recorded a live EP “live at Spirit Studios” composed of acoustic versions of his songs, over at Spirit Studios in Manchester – with live videos accompanying each song to bring the music even closer to the audience.

This was followed up with another trio of double singles, the likes of which established his music as a force within the North West scene – from the country-folk feel of “single malt” to the political angst held within “left to speak“. These singles were met with much acclaim from fans, and showcased Michael’s lyricism along with his advancing prowess in production, honed through his work on the music of his fellow label artists Anyone’s Ghost and Alien Clouds.

The latest EP from Michael, “a northern perspective” is a collection of his songs from the past six years of his musical career – featuring some fan favourites including “waterlines”, a hard-hitting nineties’ kids anthem about indecision; “future sight”, a relaxed and calm outlook on moving into the big city; and “consolation prize”, a romantic country-esque ballad entwined with the angst and sarcasm of his generation.

Throughout this full release, you can really hear the sound which michael has cultivated for himself over the years, self-coined “folk grunge” – merging the influences of old-school folksingers with 90’s alternative rock. The full EP takes inspiration from more than just this though, including punk, country and singer-songwriters, to combine all of this into a defining sound that michael can really call his own. Topped by his distinguishable Northern accent, introspective and thought-provoking lyricism, this EP is a real expression of michael’s musical output.

Over the course of the past few years, michael has honed his production work, having worked on the releases with Anyone’s Ghost, including the critically-acclaimed debut album “Necromancer“, many of the releases from Alien Clouds, and his own work. His unique approach to producing gives him a unique style, utilising soundscapes and atmospheres to really add the perfect touches to each track he works on. Throughout 2023, he has been working on releases for other artists, to be announced in due course!

When did you get started in music?

I started doing music back in 2012, and since then I’ve been performing across the country at gigs, hosting events and releasing music!

Primarily I perform solo, but I have worked with other musicians before, collaboratively with other artists and with other instrumentalists before who have worked with me on my music!

 Were any of you in bands before?

Not really - however I’ve been working with a bunch of bands over the last few years, predominantly with Anyone’s Ghost where I produce the music, play guitar and sing!

How would YOU describe your sound?

I often describe my music as “folk-grunge”, taking elements of folksingers and more mellow acoustic music, to then more alternative and grungey nineties’ sounds.

What are your musical influences?

My initial musical influences were artists like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, all those 60’s folksingers, and I listened to a lot of Bruce Springsteen and that style of rock when I was younger, but nowadays I listen to a whole bunch. I listen to hip hop, indie, folk, pop - it’s all influential - if I enjoy it I’ll listen!

What have been up to lately? any new stuff to delight our ears?

My latest release is my sophomore EP “a northern perspective”. It’s a bunch of tracks that I’ve been sat on for a good while, and it came together perfectly - the songs really capture what I conveyed within each of the tracks and I’m super proud of it. There’s a few little production techniques, backing vocals, and other little bits that are hidden within each of the tunes.

How about live dates? What have you been doing and what ya got planned for 2024?

I’m working on a bunch of shows for 2024, for myself and other artists - but also working on production, recording and stuff like that; lots of stuff in the works!

Name something about yourselves that fans won't know

Some people know this! But I have two Charli XCX tattoos!

What's the most embarrassing moment you've had?

I fell asleep at a train station and my pedalboard got stolen.. not a great time!

 Do you have any superstitions? Any things you do before a show?

I’m not 100%! Maybe have a cigarette?

 Are there any musicians or bands you'd love to work with?

I’d probably have to say Stephen Malkmus of Pavement - his songwriting ability is so spot on, but feels effortless, a real inspiration!

Any final thoughts?

Keep your eyes peeled for more stuff coming up! All our stuff can be found at www.breadrecords.co.uk!

michael webster EPK (includes links, photos and bio): https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LV0ngFLmiq5djYLB63dRlEJr83XfNw87?usp=sharing