Richard Hawley 'Lady's Bridge' album

On October 2 Richard Hawley returns with Lady’s Bridge, his second release on Mute Records. The new album will build upon the former Pulp guitarist’s catalogue with 11 new songs laced with lush arrangements and his trademark baritone vocals. It follows the widespread praise garnered by Hawley’s last album, the Mercury Prize-nominated Coles Corner (Mute 2005). Coles Corner received extensive acclaim in the U.S. and U.K. upon its release in September 2005. The Los Angeles Times described the record as “quiet, engrossing, very romantic” while MOJO called it “music to make jaws drop.” According to Black Book, Coles Corner was “this year’s most wistfully romantic album.” The record also made U.K. “Best of 2005” lists in The Times, Q, MOJO, Uncut, Time Out and Observer Music Monthly, among others. U.S. tour dates will be announced shortly.

Having received his start at the age of 14 playing to burly crowds in Northern England’s working-class pubs, Hawley’s musical character is naturally infused with a bawdy, blue-collar sensibility imparting a romantic “everyman” quality via his deeply personal lyrics and sensitive tone.

Hawley’s hometown of Sheffield is a key thematic element on Lady’s Bridge. As with the mythical Sheffield lovers meeting place, Coles Corner, Hawley’s new album is named after another local landmark. “Lady’s Bridge is the oldest bridge in the city,” says Hawley. “Historically it connected the poor side of town, where I’m from, to the rich side. But it’s also significant for me because I feel like I’ve crossed a bridge in my life lately.”

For Lady’s Bridge, Hawley is joined by regular band-members John Trier (keyboards), Shez Sheridan (guitar) and Dean Beresford (drums). Bassist and co-producer Colin Elliot also arranged the 16-piece string orchestra on the album’s opener “Valentine.”

Thanks in part to accolades from Thom Yorke and Coldplay’s Chris Martin—and stints with Pulp, Scott Walker, Nancy Sinatra, Robbie Williams and Beth Orton—Hawley reaches beyond the cult appeal of his early work with British rockers Longpigs. Recently, he’s contributed guitar to Jarvis Cocker’s album Jarvis. Hawley also appeared in his first film role—opposite Faye Dunaway—in the British rockabilly horror movie Flick.

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Richard Hawley - Lady's Bridge