A De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) graduate has launched his first official album at the same venue that has hosted world-famous artists such as Snoop Dogg and Muse.
Chris Ostler, a 2012 Music, Technology and Performance graduate, launched CO1 - with the single release Lamplights - to a sold-out crowd in his hometown, at Timepiece (Exeter) nightclub earlier this year.
The 26 year-old said: “I worked so hard on this album and in getting people to come along to the launch, so I was really happy to have a bigger turnout than expected.”
The album is a fusion of rock, folk and pop influences, with a full six-piece supporting band bringing depth and clarity to Chris’ tracks.
Working with different band members over the years has helped to broaden Chris’ influences, who said: “I got so lucky with the people I recorded my album. It was great to have access to their quirks as well, which just kept adding to sound on the record.”
Passionate about music from a young age, Chris always sang in the shower and started playing the drums at just eight years old.
He later picked up the acoustic guitar, which eventually became his on-stage instrument to accompany his developed vocals.
His drive and dedication have seen him perform at Glastonbudget five times and support respected artists such as Martin Barre of Jethro Tull fame, Joan Armatrading, 3 Daft Monkeys and Yes Sir Boss.
He has also fronted the Mama Stones house band in Exeter, a venue which was once owned by songwriter, singer and actor Joss Stone’s mum.
Chris said: “Having the versatility to open for such a variety of artists feels really great!”
DMU exposed Chris to different kinds of music and enabled him to experiment with a range of melodies and song structures.
The technology and software at his fingertips also helped him create music demos in the days before he had professional session musicians to play his written music.
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Chris said: “I enjoyed experimenting with electronic music, especially getting it to sound nothing like what you’d expect it to.
“The course also focusses on the performance side of things and incorporates multiple elements like music, sound art, drama and dance.”
Releasing his first five-track EP while still at DMU helped Chris understand how to ‘land gigs’ and experience playing live in a vibrant city centre.
As well as being broadcast on DMU’s Demon FM, Chris also played open mic nights at venues across Leicester, including Sub91, Lock42, The Polar Bear, Turkey Café, Muffin Break, The Shed, The Hub, Chilli White’s, The Looking Glass, NatterJacks, Soundhouse and The Musician.
Chris said: “Creating a music structure that people like listening to and finding the right kind of listener can be hard.
“But whether I’m on my own or with a six-piece band behind me, I always approach every performance passionately, put as much depth into the music as possible, and engage with my audience on an emotional and physical level, rather than just playing as an act.”
Posted on Tuesday 13 September 2016