My first musical experience was with the classical guitar at the age of 10. I went on to study up to Grade 7 but during my teens I inevitably discovered rock and roll and that was the end of that! I experimented with lead guitar and drums but eventually settled on the bass as the instrument I felt a true affinity with. I played in several rock and indie bands, the most notable being a four piece outfit called Deadline with future Menswear drummer Matt Everitt.
I then left Birmingham for London to study fine art at Goldsmiths and here I began to discover the joys of funk, soul and rare groove. It was an exciting time and I was lucky enough to work with some exceptional musicians. Unfortunately I was forced to stop playing as I developed tendonitis in my left hand. It was then that I started to learn to play latin percussion, concentrating especially on congas. This opened up new avenues of exploration and set me off in a completely different musical direction.
After ten years of playing percussion and through the utilization of the Alexander Technique I was able to begin to play the bass again. The years away from the instrument had given me a fresh perspective and this time I now see as an invaluable stage in my musical development.
As a professional bassist & percussionist I've been priviledged to perform on stage with such luminaries as afrobeat legend Dele Sosimi (Fela Kuti's Egypt 80), drum 'n' bass pioneer Marque Gilmour, funky drummer Nick Van Gelder (Jamiroquai) and soul queen Angie Brown.
I'm currently playing bass with the afro/latin/funk sextet Oddjob, the hugely talented producer Max Mezzowave and the sultry songstress and spoken word poet Lisa Lore. I'm also resident percussionist at latin jazz jam Favourite Things at the Proud Gallery in Camden, run by world renowned DJ Dom Servini (Wah Wah 45s), bass genius Graham Silbiger (Soul II Soul/George Michael) and tenor virtuoso Jake Telford.
I look forward to many more years of exciting musical expression and growth. In the meantime, here are some videos of me playing bass with Max Mezzowave at Vibe Live in May 2008. Also check out the player above where you can find three Oddjob tracks from our latest demo.