Julia Biel has been compared to singers with the pedigree
of Bjork, Tom Yorke and Billie Holiday. Yet while critics struggle to
define her sound - some say jazzy nu-folk, others say quirky soul - all
agree she is huge talent with her own style.
With skilful songwriting and an ability to deliver emotional content with
depth and authenticity, it is no wonder she has been hailed as a rising
star.
In the summer of 2005, Biel released her debut album: Not Alone. She immediately
grabbed the attention of critics, concert-bookers and fans alike and the
album received glowing reviews.
Since the release of Not Alone, Julia has been much in demand. With news
of the debut album spreading fast, the ad men of Soho recruited her as
the focus of a global print campaign for the new Nokia MP3 player/mobile.
The campaign, entitled I Am My Music, was launched in March, and reflects
Julia's life as an artist with photos of her with her band, her friends
and growing up.
Judging by the success of Not Alone, one could be forgiven for thinking
that Julia had the backing of a major record deal. But Not Alone was written,
recorded and produced by Biel herself, who also arranged her own manufacturing
and distribution. Put simply, news of her talent has spread by word of
mouth.
The former Perrier Vocalist Of The Year now embarks on her first full
tour of the UK. As well as a string of dates around the country, Julia
starts a new season of four-week residencies at London's Islington Academy.
Performing songs from Not Alone, as well as new material from her forthcoming
album, Julia will be joined on-stage with a line-up of gifted musicians
who rank among the most vibrant and respected in London today.
Julia Biel's achingly beautiful voice melts all but the stoniest of hearts;
her music is characterised by delicate yet epic arrangements woven out
of acoustic instrumentation that explores a variety of moods.
