Joel Gardner: MANCHESTER, The Deaf Institute

With one hand placed firmly in Pop, Rock and Groove and the other in Trad, Roots and Folk, Joel’s music is built on infectious melodies, introspective lyrics and intricate guitar playing. His songwriting style and sound is often compared to the likes of Paul Simon and Frank Turner while drawing on influences from guitar virtuosos such as Andy McKee, John Gomm and John Butler.

Joel’s music celebrates the simplicity of one man and a guitar. Despite its stripped back instrumentation, Joel throws out an enormous sound for a one man operation using only a kick drum and percussive guitar playing. Performing live, his shows are an explosion of positive energy, charisma and showmanship honed from relentless gigging; singing self penned songs that are sometimes quirky, sometimes sad and often energetic, heartwarming and poignant.

Joel has supported US Chart topping band ‘The Revivalists’, James Gillespie and Axel Flovent amongst many others. Over the years Joel’s music has won him an array of awards including the ‘Danny Kyle Award’ at Celtic Connections, Wath Festival’s ‘Young Performer Of The Year Award’ and ‘Manchester’s Got Busker Talent.’

SUPPORT FROM JESSIE REID