The folk-pop singer-songwriter
Gildor writes songs with an enchanting timeless quality. Drawing on influences such as
JJ Cale,
Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, and
Nick Drake, Gildor proves that breezy melodies, reflective lyricism and a warm, organic live sound are qualities that still remain equally as captivating today.
The Dutch artist today introduces himself to UK audiences by sharing his single ‘Thinking Back’ along with its official video. ‘Thinking Back’ provides the first taste of his debut album ‘Silent River’, which will follow later this year. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE. Listen HERE.
Blissfully chilled out yet also immediately addictive, ‘Thinking Back’ demonstrates Gildor’s innate command of those classic traits. His voice is soothingly serene, his electric guitar embellishments chime and sparkle, while its gently upbeat rhythm is perfect for the current mid-summer vibe. Its lyrics are just as charming, as Gildor looks back upon the times that shaped who he is today.
Gildor says, “It’s about reminiscing on good ol’ times, that I’m sure we all know in one way or another. For me it encompasses careless days of summer out in the countryside in France. Growing up alongside friends, wondering how it could ever be any other way. But life is long and often turns out not to go as you would’ve imagined, and that might just be the beauty of it.”
‘Thinking Back’ was produced by Isabel Gracefield (Adele, Radiohead, Sam Smith) and was recorded at RAK Studios in London. Gildor also today shares two further songs from those sessions. ‘What’s The Deal Again?’ sees him stepping into Americana / indie-folk territory with a gospel undercurrent, while his brings a brighter hue to John and Beverley Martyn’s tranquil ‘Parcels’.
In early adulthood, Gildor spent three years living on a farm in France and that easygoing solitude is infused in the bedroom folk that he now makes. Initially lacking confidence in his voice, he didn’t start singing until he was 21 but is now making up for lost time. The turning point came when the British music industry veteran Sandy Roberton chanced upon his song ‘Medisun’online. Roberton’s storied journey has seen him produce the first three Steeleye Span albums, found the producer management company Worlds End (home to Stephen Hague, Jack Endino, Peter Katis and many more), and launch the Beverly Martel label.
Roberton immediately fell under Gildor’s spell and offered him a deal on the spot. Sessions with Isabel Gracefield were characterised by her encouraging him to experiment to discover fresh tones, while guests on the album included Robbie McIntosh (Paul McCartney, The Pretenders) and BJ Cole (whose credits stretch from Humble Pie’s self-titled debut to Liam Gallagher’s most recent album). Roberton also introduced Gildor to the legendary photographer and director Anton Corbijn (U2, Nick Cave, R.E.M.), who shot the as yet unveiled album cover as well as Gildor’s press shots.
Gildor’s varied talents include photography, artwork and fusion cooking. He also plays psychedelic desert rock in his side project Tapestries.
