'Hard classical study' alongside 'hard dancing at the now defunct (still legendary) Hacienda' informed John Metcalfe's Student Days, and probably set the course for a career which has trodden a deft path through the multiplicity of contemporary musics. Leader of his own band, and violist with the Duke Quartet, John Metcalfe was instrumental in the setting up of Factory Classical which launched such artists as Steve Martland and Rolf Hind, while his work on Morrissey's album 'Viva Hate' established him as an arranger to be reckoned with. Blur, Simple Minds, Johnny Marr and the Pretenders didn't hesitate.
His debut CD The Inner Line was described as ideal 'for classical fans wanting to investigate a pop-leaning, contemporary soundworld, or for electronica fans who crave far more musicality than they're used to getting' (Billboard). Scorching Bay continues the adventure with influences from Schoenberg to drum'n' bass, Bach to Kraftwerk.
Metcalfe is currently working closely with Peter Gabriel on his new album, an orchestral re-interpretation of songs by some of the world's most legendary artists. He has performed 'Paean to Wilson', a homage to Factory Records' legendary boss Tony Wilson at the Manchester International Festival, the result of a collaboration with the Durutti Column earlier this year.
In the autumn, Metcalfe will finish composing an album of electro-acoustic music for renown UK cellist Matthew Barley and write a brand new piece for Kerstens' G+ ensemble. 2010 will see the release of a new album of his own material performed by the John Metcalfe Band which follows on from the critical success of his last release A Darker Sunset on The Big Chill label.
"Clean and credible ... with an emotional punch." The Guardian
