There can be few up and coming stars on the UK Music scene who can rival Jack Garratt’s phenomenal success over the last few months. Not only has the 24-year-old multi-instrumentalist scooped the prestigious Critics’ Choice accolade at the Brits, but the Buckinghamshire-born singer has also recently topped the BBC’s Sound of 2016 poll. Add into the mix the imminent release of his debut studio album and his future in the often treacherous music world seems highly promising at the moment.
Album released in February
The album, entitled “Phase”, is expected to become available to the public in February.
Judging from the initial signs he can expect a pleasing return and much interest in his talented efforts. But for the moment he has been reflecting on his current popularity.
Garratt feeling “stunned” by his success
After triumph in the Sound of 2016 poll, Garratt intimated that it had left him “feeling pretty stunned at the end of one of the most emotionally and physically intense years” of his life. Of the other names on the list, he graciously added that they were all “unbelievably talented” and wished them all a great year to come.
Clinching the Critics’ Choice back in November was also no mean feat, given the competition to be overcome. Both Izzy Bizu and Frances have been tipped for stardom and would have been deserved winners.
Following in the steps of other stars
His spate of recent successes – which additionally included the BBC Music Introducing Artist of the Year award in December – marks him out as an artist likely to follow in the footsteps of such as Sam Smith, Ellie Goulding and Adele. All of those chart-topping stars have similarly toasted victory in much the same manner in years gone by.
Multi-instrumentalist talent
His range of ability is quite astounding for a single musician. His first song had been penned by the tender age of just 12-years-old and to back up that songwriting prowess, he can perform an amazing stage routine by utilising a variety of instruments. Multi-tasking allows him to become essentially a one-man band.
Not content with simply singing and playing the piano, the potential future star is also adept on the guitar, drums and harmonica. Throw in proficiency on the mandolin and even the ukulele and it seems that there are indeed many strings to his bow.
Radio 1 backing
Garratt’s talent has been warmly praised by a number of leading names within Radio 1, which is never a bad place to find support from. Both Huw Stephens and Zane Lowe have provided verbal backing on air.
With such esteemed commendations to draw upon, expect to hear more from Garratt throughout 2016.
