British chart-topper set to play in Christchurch

British chart-topper set to play in Christchurch

British chart-topper Newton Faulkner will open his New Zealand tour with a performance at Christchurch’s NZ International Jazz & Blues Festival on Saturday, April 10.

In his relatively young career, Faulkner has shared a stage with James Morrison, Paolo Nutini, The Fray, Chris Martin, John Butler Trio and John Mayer, but now he is going it alone.

It has been a remarkable journey for the dread-locked singer and acoustic guitarist who was nominated for a Brit Award in the Best Male category in 2008.

Just a year after topping the charts with his soulful number one double platinum album Hand Built By Robots, featuring the hit single Dream Catch Me, a shattered wrist put his career in serious jeopardy.

One metal plate and a six-inch scar later, Faulkner was back, creating his follow-up album, the aptly titled Rebuilt By Humans.

Now, following an impressive sell-out UK tour, Faulkner is coming to New Zealand. His first New Zealand performance will be in Christchurch when he performs at the James Hay Theatre on Saturday, April 10, as part of the New Zealand International Jazz & Blues Festival.

Festival director Jodi Wright describes Faulkner as one of the most talented acoustic guitarists to hit the music scene in recent times and believes concert-goers are in for a treat.

"This guy has a sound that is as distinctive as his look and he knows how to work a crowd. He’s a fantastic performer and I know he’s going to leave here with legions of new fans," Jodi Wright says.

"Each time he tours Newton Faulkner brings something bigger and bolder so we’re excited to see what he has in store for us."

Faulkner is one of a host of talented musicians from around New Zealand and the globe who have been chosen to perform at the annual New Zealand International Jazz & Blues Festival, which starts in Christchurch on April 5 and runs until April 11.

The festival is New Zealand ‘s biggest combined jazz and blues event and offers music lovers the chance to enjoy live performances in a myriad of Christchurch venues, from large auditoriums to small intimate spaces and chic city lanes.

For the full festival line-up and programme and to obtain ticketing information, log onto www.jazzfestivalnz.com.

ENDS

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