Dubbed ‘Britain’s next great voice’ by one leading music magazine, Essex born Joe Worricker is a truly unique talent. Recalling some of the 20th century’s most enigmatic vocalists, from Jackie Wilson to Arthur Russell, his sharp pop edge and magical lyricism place this 21 year old firmly in the here and now.
After penning his first song at the tender age of 7, Joe spent his teens honing his vocal and songwriting skills until a chance encounter in a Soho jazz bar led to a record deal with Rough Trade. Turning down major label offers to sign with the legendary indie, Joe reflects on his decision: “They’ve given me total creative freedom – they just want to create something beautiful rather than turn it into a product. And that isn’t just a phony thing, that’s how they are.”
With his debut album approaching completion – created with a handful of close collaborators including Scritti Politti legend Green Gartside – the Joe Worricker EP provides a perfect appetiser. From ‘We Hug In Bed”s upbeat twist on classic 60s pop, to the smoky after hours stylings of ‘Wrap Me Up’ and the simple, touching ballad ‘Littleman’ (presented here in it’s stripped down demo version), the versatility of Joe’s voice and songwriting is perfectly showcased. The EP is completed with a Pocketknife remix of ‘Wrap Me Up’, with the NYC producer revisiting territory that Joe and he explored in their acclaimed cover of Arthur Russell’s ‘Get Around To It’ from last year.
A charismatic live performer, a handful of recent acoustic shows led to an invitation to support Emiliana Torrini on a three night run of dates in Reykjavik and bookings at Camden Crawl, The Great Escape, Liverpool Sound City and Amsterdam’s London Calling. For those that can’t make those dates, Joe has just announced a series of London acoustic dates through April and May, including a three week residency of some of his favourite Soho dive bars.
