“He has a seemingly effortless style that is unforced but highly polished”
(Daily Express)
“Shelton is quite simply phenomenal” BBC
Richard Shelton, the UK’s new velvet-voiced crooner, is set to release his sensational debut album TOP CAT on 6th February. The album is released on the innovative new record label Sands Records, and has been hailed as this year’s biggest independent release.
TOP CAT is an exhilarating collection of popular swing standards and stunning original songs. It includes fantastic new arrangements that breathe fresh life into classics such as Top Cat, Bring Me Sunshine and My Way. Music enthusiasts are also set to fall in love with new tracks like the poignant ‘Autumn in Soho Square’ and the melancholic ‘Grenadine and Blue’.
TOP CAT was recorded at the world famous Abbey Road Studios with a 65 piece orchestra, led by renowned musician Peter Long. A long time musical collaborator to Jools Holland, Peter also orchestrated the fresh new arrangements on the album, whilst the critically acclaimed songwriter and poet, Martin Newell, worked with Richard on the original tracks.
TOP CAT is the first album to be released on Sands Records, the creation of jazz aficionado and entrepreneur Peter Swann who owns the successful jazz venue, The Sands. The Sands Venue provides a platform for the cream of UK jazz talent with regular guests including Cleo Laine, John Dankworth, Courtney Pine and George Melly. The Sands Venue has also showcased some of the best new jazz music from Acoustic Ladyland to Latin jazz pianist Alex Wilson.
Described as having a voice between “chocolate and velvet”, Richard has built up an enviable résumé of live performances and collaborations, and his musical influences stem from greats such as Tony Bennett, Mel Torme, Frank Sinatra and recently Diana Krall. The multi-talented Mr Shelton is also a well-known actor who was nominated for “Best Actor in a Leading Role” for his portrayal as Frank Sinatra in the West End show, Rat Pack Confidential. Richard is currently gracing our screens as Dr Adam Forsythe in the hit UK soap opera Emmerdale.
TOP CAT sees Richard Shelton bridge the gap between the past and the present – bringing the glamour and sound of the 1930s to the 21st Century, in a way that is sure to captivate audiences. He says “Singing big-band swing and jazz-influenced work is as natural to me as breathing”.
TOP CAT is released on the 6th February 2006.