Artist description As an accomplished classical guitarist and composer, Mike's beautiful songs are strengthened by some amazing guitar-playing and stunning string arrangements. Opaque is a passionate and very human offering from this English singer-songwriter. As a live performer, Mike has the almost unique ability amongst solo acts to hold an audience completely spellbound. Sometimes overwhelming and powerful, sometimes intensely vulnerable, Mike engages the listener through a thoughtful and personal set that hints at universal themes such as truth, or disillusionment.

Music Style Folksinger?

Artist History Poesy: An abstract idea is formed. Slowly, it starts moving; dancing; Becoming more formulated with each passing second. A melody attaches itself, Louder, louder, louder. Trumpets are drums are added. Then it is vulgar, and must be dropped.

Instruments Guitar, Vocals, Harmonicas

Albums Opaque

Press Reviews Review of Mike Bethel's 'Opaque' - October 2001 (appeared in the "Rhythm & Booze" fanzine) Opaque is Birmingham based singer songwriter Mike Bethel's second album that was completed in the Spring of this year. The opening track "Wait In The Fire" is such a fragile vulnerable song that immediately draws you in with its superb guitar work and that sensitive passionate voice that wrings emotion from the soul. The second track "Little Bee" adds a haunting wailing harmonica alongside a string section to create such a gorgeous track that pulls at the heartstrings. The musicianship throughout this album is breathtaking, the string arrangements alongside the delicate guitar work is simply a marvel to be heard. On "Come To Terms" you have more of an upbeat sounding guitar complemented by violin intricacies that is then helped along with some tasty harmonica giving an almost orchestral sound in places. The lyrics are intelligent, well-written and intriguing - tales of disillusionment that are sung with such a belief that you become entrapped in their words. On occasion, such as "If I Knew The Way", the vocals are so refrained that they become almost like a half whisper that leaves you utterly speechless. I've recently been going to a number of acoustic gigs at The Marrs Bar in Worcester, seeing such performers as Jont and Eddie Morton of The Bushbury's fame and even though they've been impressive, they don't have the same effect as this album. Mike Bethel has written a beautifully crafted album full of emotional engaging songs that'll take your breath away. [review by Will Munn for Rhythm & Booze magazine]

Additional Info email info@mikebethel.com for information...

Location Birmingham, West Midlands - United Kingdom

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