Magazine


Preview: Ben Folds

by David Sue
26/ 1/2007

AMERICAN songwriter Ben Folds has always thrived on the contrary. When he was vocalist in the acclaimed Ben Folds Five (who were actually a three-piece), he'd spend most of his time baffling journalists with the response: "What? You mean a trio isn't five people?"

Since he's gone solo, that quaint contraryness has risen even more to the surface.

In the six years since his band split, Ben Folds (pictured) has made a quiet, low-key career out of doing what he pleases.

Once hailed as America's answer to Ray Davies, Ben Folds has certainly been off the commercial and critical radar as a solo artist but that doesn't mean his creative output has suffered.

Far from it - the solo Ben Folds has further indulged his geeky, off-kilter comedic tendencies. His 2005 album Songs For Silverman underlined his title as king of college geek cool but also revealed a maturing songwriter (and father of two), who's moved on from the wacky student humour of Ben Folds Five.

Ben Folds' magic weapon is the piano anthem but, rather than Coldplay/Keane-esque sincere balladry, he employs humour and jaunty melodies, while smuggling melancholy in through the back door.

Such musical nuances may not have proven successful in his homeland but Ben Folds has always found a loving fan base in Britain, as proved when he headlines the Apollo this week.

Ben Folds is on at the Apollo tomorrow (Saturday).


Have your say
 
Have your say Got an opinion you want to share?
Register now and have your comments heard.

Register now


 
Personal Finance
 

Balance Transfer
Card BT Fee
Virgin Credit Card 2.98%
MBNA Platinum 2.9%
Customers with a 'good' credit profile
Company Typical APR
Platinum Exclusive Loan 7.8%
AA 7.9%
Sainsbury's Personal Loan 8.2%
Alliance & Leicester 8.7%
Lloyds TSB 8.9%
Abbey Personal Loan 8.9%
HASH(0x2b0634d603b0)
Provider AER*
ICICI BANK
HiSAVE Savings Account 		3.55%
FIRST DIRECT
Everyday e-Saver 		1.75%
SAINSBURYS FINANCE
Internet Saver 		2.25%
Fees may apply