It’s likely that you may not have heard of this guy before now, but the way things are going for Paul Stone, it won’t be long before his name is as familiar as some of the singers he pays tribute to with the release of his debut album Reprise of Swing.
Yorkshire based Paul, a former student at Leeds College of Music is currently touring the globe withhis 11-piece orchestra, bringing back the sound of Swing with that big band style in his own inimitable way. He’s appeared on local and national radio and also performed at a charity gala concert with pop legends The Osmonds last year. His debut album, Reprise of Swing had a limited release just before Christmas 2012 but has just been released globally through itunes this month.
Paul learned to love music at an early age and by the time he was 14yrs old, could play the piano, the violin and drums. He enjoys performing and for many years has entertained as a solo artist or with his band at corporate events, charity nights and on cruise liners. He saw the way that his style of Swing appealed to the audiences and so set out to record his own album. He has a fresh faced look with a smile that would rival a Cheshire cat. His voice and personality are well suited to Swing and it is impossible to see him perform without feeling upbeat, such is the energy and enthusiasm he exudes in his performance. I have known Paul for quite a few years now, having first met him when he sang as part of the duo Stone & King. I don't think he's aged a day since I last saw him and his positive attitude and cheerful disposition are quite contagious, you can't help but be happy when you're around him.
Reprise of Swing includes many well known and much loved favourites from both rock and pop genres, but with that added “Swing”. The songs included on the album work surprisingly well with this new sound and although I had been a bit dubious when I first read the track listing, I have to admit that the arrangements flow smoothly and give each song a new appeal. That big band style sound possesses quite a nostalgic feel with the cheerful and optimistic beat giving even the more sombre songs like With or Without You a positive feel.
Watch Paul Stone live at Lakeside
Album Tracklist
1.Don't You Forget About Me
2.With or Without You
3.Lovely Day
4.Wicked Game
5.Beautiful Stranger
6.Long Train Running
7.Sex On Fire
8.Rise and Fall
9.Englishman in New York
10.Could It Be Magic
11.I Need Your Love
12.On the Road Again
I would find it hard to pick one favourite from amongst the tracks on offer but do have A Lovely Day, Long Train Running, An Englishman in New York and I Need Your Love on repeat on my ipod quite regularly.
To find out more about Paul Stone and his music click on one of the links below or order his album through Amazon, iTunes or Linn Records
Paul Stone Official Website
Paul Stone Twitter
Paul Stone Official Facebook Page
Remember in music, “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing!”
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