Jon delivers a warm, full-sounding blend of original alternative/folk acoustic music to resonate memorably with today’s audiences.
Leeds-based Jon Cocker has played in bands in Leeds and Norwich, inspired by artists such as the Allman Brothers. He now focuses on solo acoustic music, using his band experience to combine a full guitar sound with insightful, emotive vocals, and playing at festivals in several cities, including Wild Paths in Norwich alongside the likes of José González.
Performing regularly in Leeds, Sheffield and surrounding areas, his debut EP was likened to John Martyn, Nick Drake and Neil Young, and cited as capturing all the emotion possible in this age of time pressures and distraction.
‘Two’, his second self-produced album, released today, impressed me in a way I didn’t expect:
Jon sings ‘She Moves Through The Air’ with deeply plaintive vocals that strike at the heart. For me, this was physical and shocking in its intensity.
‘Ship Will Sail’ saw Jon switch to that twang we associate with country, alongside a flexing of vocal range, which was even more prevalent in ‘Doubt’.
‘More Than Love’ took me to a ballad; almost a lament and the anguish of feeling the futility of a lost love brought about by third party interference, the kind that changes mindsets and demolishes life plans.
It’s been said that ‘darker, piano-based tracks like ‘Pleasure’ have a more alternative, spacious sound. Jon balances thoughtful, nature-inspired vocals with his Sheffield city roots, to produce a subtle yet euphoric sound appreciated at gigs across the UK.’
I think you’ll be glad to have this one in your collection.
Previous reviews:
“Next up, something a bit more subdued and contemplative in English singer-songwriter Jon Cocker’s “Green Blue”. Cocker’s excellent acoustic guitar playing, freewheeling sense for melody, soulful vocals, and intimate recordings – on not only “Green Blue” but his entire self-titled EP – make it easy to draw comparison between him and Nick Drake. As he sings “All my love fades to grey”, you feel the muted reality of heartache: no spectacle, just a lingering lack of colour. You can check out the rest of Cocker’s incredible EP here.” – COUNTERZINE
“This musician from the United Kingdom has definitely deserved your attention. Especially if you want to spend some little time for your summertime sadness. His voice sounds so alive. As a contrast for modern autotune addiction, these waves go through the ears right into my heart.” – FAETON MUSIC
“You can listen to Jon Cocker’s new album ‘Two’ on Spotify and other platforms by following the links at https://joncocker.com/stream”.
