Media Informattion Pack - George Montague (19.6.2016).pages

media information pack
George Montague is a British 25 year old singer, songwriter, composer and multi-instrumentalist
GEORGE’S SONGWRITING
George Montague has always created his own music. Starting out as a double bass player and then playing bass in a
rock band, the piano had intrigued George from an early age and he was curious to find his way through the keys
until he discovered songwriting.
After picking up piano books by artists and albums he liked, he began deconstructing the songs from their chords
and tried filling in the rest.
Through his observations of songs and their structure G began to write his own. Gradually George also began to
experiment with new sounds, styles, rhythms, genres and instruments: piano, guitar, ukulele, bass, drums and now
even delving into beat-boxing and the use of loops and live-sampling.
GEORGE MONTAGUE - SINGER SONGWRITER
After seeing how great pianists used the piano through songwriting and performance, George was inspired by
musicians Chris Martin, Jamie Cullum, Ryan Tedder… hoping to follow in their footsteps and high-energy
performance. George has been gigging as a singer songwriter since 2010 and at an early gig was offered to record
his now highly acclaimed debut album ‘have you met George’; having proved he could raise the roof in a live
setting, he was then able to capture that same special spirit in the studio.
CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER GEORGE
Already an established performer, Curiouser and Curiouser George sees Montague
once again commit his noted live energy to record. Infectious melodies and hooks
abound on this album of 17 originals that encompass the full spectrum
of Montague’s diverse influences. Containing a signature blend of rock, soul, funk
and pop, Curiouser and Curiouser George showcases both the prowess and
versatility of this exceptional young artist. Among the standout tracks are the
lively and uplifting single ‘Lost’ and the punchy, soul-infused ‘Umbrella’.
An album that will delight aficionados with its musicianship and captivate
general listeners with its superb songwriting, George Montague’s Curiouser and
Curiouser George is the must-hear release of the summer 2016.
YOUTUBE + VEVO
1st Single ‘Lost’ from ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ now on available to watch on VEVO
Over 5 million unique views on George’s personal YouTube channel, receiving views, likes and comments from
all over the world, George films and edits his music videos and live performances: youtube.com/georgemontague
GEORGE LIVE
Backed by his ‘notsobigband’ regular session musicians on bass, drums, guitar, sax, trumpet and trombone, George
gives energetic engaging performances, holding the stage moving easily from piano to guitar and ukulele sometimes mid-song! - and now includes live-looping and live-samples with his own beat-boxing and vocal
harmony skills. George’s performances are characterised by originality and a genuine sense of joy with a true
passion for playing live; describing his music as Funk, Jazz, Rock and Pop with hints of soul and R&B.
GEORGE’S MUSIC
Over the last few years, George Montague has been enthralling and charming global audiences thanks to his live
performances and music videos on YouTube with his exciting live energy and countless contagious original songs.
George continues to write and perform his new material, and as a prolific songwriter with a vast back-catalogue of
over 100 songs and instrumentals is all ready to record many more albums!
Touring and gigging venues and festivals across London and the UK, G has also played 3 hour shows of his own
original music with his 6-piece notsobigband. He supported Tim Minchin at The Eden Project as part of London’s
Cultural Olympiad and performed to an enthusiastic packed audience in the Jazz Arena at Cheltenham Jazz
Festival. George has played festivals including: Cornbury, Summer Breeze, Wychwood, Lechlade, Stogumber, Walk
The Line, Nibley, Phoenix, Monmouth, Petworth, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Henley Festival.
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At EFG London Jazz Festival George was the only artist to play 7 shows in 7 different venues across London
including the Royal Albert Hall as well as the Barbican to open the world-renowned international festival.
“I feel greatly honoured that the EFG London Jazz Festival invited me to play my original music for their ‘Festival On The
Move’ at 7 amazingly different venues across London…
Beginning at the Barbican FreeStage on their gorgeous Steinway with my spectacular notsobigband for the opening night of
the Festival. Then performing solo at the Royal Albert Hall on an upright piano in Verdi to over-capacity overflowing lively
listeners. Beatboxing and live-looping my way through the Spice Of Life club underground in the heart of Soho.
Followed by a fresh Caffè Nero stop near Warren Street, raw with just my voice and guitar to a hearty throng of huddled
live music lovers. Travelling onwards to the famous Charing Cross Road Bookshop with Ray’s Jazz at Foyles - playing on
their house grand up on the 6th floor arena above the bustling streets to one of the biggest audiences they have had,
leading them, as I did with every show, in spontaneous harmonising singalongs of my songs like ‘The Smoke’(my ode to
London) on ukulele. Before raising the roof of Finchley’s ArtsDepot and finally finishing my wandering minstrel journey for
the Festival’s close at the cultural creative hive that is Theatre Royal Stratford East.
1 George, 1 ukulele, 1 guitar, 1 loop-station, 3 notsobigband, 6 pianos, 7 venues, 7 hours performing, 9 sets,
20 singalongs, 24 loops, 75 original songs, innumerable jazz-faces + boundless bouncing later!
It was truly the most wonderful adventure, scattering melodies and harmonies over rhythms and rhymes throughout glorious
London to some of the most wonderful audiences… THANK YOU for having me!”
MEDIA and AWARDS
George won the ‘Search for a New Jazz Star’ competition set up in 2013 by Cheltenham Jazz Festival and
Decca Records.
Also nominated for three International Independent Chart Download Music Awards including Best Album and Best
Live Performance, songs from ‘have you met George’ are on the BBC Radio playlist, as well as being played on
BBC6 Music, Independent and International Radio stations, and featuring on BBC TV News.
George is the subject of numerous newspaper, magazine, online articles and reviews.
DEBUT ALBUM - HAVE YOU MET GEORGE
Recorded live on the floor at Rockfield Studios, produced by music legend Matt Butler (Paul
McCartney, Madness, Luther Vandross), ‘have you met George’ is an eclectic array of genres
combined into a unique sound; described as energetic rock, pop, soul and blues underpinned with
vintage R&B, funk and jazz. A debut album of 11 original songs all written and performed by
George; accompanied by a team of highly experienced musicians.
"George Montague is a wonderful discovery. He has a collection of songs to leap out of your radio and a fruitcake style you can't
ignore on your TV. And what a band! George and his players are brilliantly entertaining, be warned..." Matt Butler
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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT GEORGE
“Charismatic and talented pianist and songwriter... boy done good, no question.”
Tom Robinson, BBC6 Music
"Have you met George? You should. Very talented fella."
Shappi Khorsandi, comedian
“George Montague has created one of the most innovative debut albums of 2012. Move over Ed Sheeran there is a
new male singer songwriter phenomenon.”
Yasmin Ali, Bright Shiny News
“George Montague is phenomenal live! Talent from Glos in extremis;
he is going to go very far.”
Paul Moss, BBC Introducing
“A true instrumentalist… the gift that keeps on giving, that is George Montague.”
Sam Bonham, BBC Introducing LIVE Session
"Ben Folds-meets-Mika-meets-Jamie Cullum. George’s brand of jazz-rock fusion is breathtaking with a talent for
setting the brain on fire with the funkiest of piano riffs... his jazz-funk-soul odyssey, ‘Have You Met George’ is a
staggering album, profiling the absurd abilities of the eponymous hero.
It is a musical marvel and something of a masterpiece" Stephen Morris, BBC News
“The one man orchestra… a musical god” Lechlade Festival 2016
“Given the opening act duties on the Mainstage, another singer-songwriter with a big future ahead, George
Montague, a young performer who’s already began to make waves with his infectious combination of live loops,
keyboards, guitar, funky rhythms (all done beatbox style) and effortless vocal hooks. A number of songs lurched for
the attention from the funky Umbrella and new single Lost, to the relaxed acoustic strum of Flame, he even
managed to incite an early Wychwood sing-a-long.”
Rhythm & Booze - Wychwood Festival 2016 (review)
“The very cool and very cheeky George Montague…” Petworth Festival 2015
“Hurrahs all round. Got to see George Montague live. Pretty damn fine gig! 2 million views - the boy done well.”
Steve Knibbs, BBC News
“It's onwards and upwards for George Montague - I think the sky's the limit. George's music is infectious… a
refreshing artist in many ways - his energy, his passion and his talent are one thing but he thrills audiences with
his live performances. High octane, there's no other word to describe him.”
Kat Orman, BBC Oxford
“One crazy dude... one exceptional and gifted musician...Wow, George you're brilliant, I'm lost for words. That's
incredible... this guy’s amazing... I feel like you should be on a bigger stage... I am hugely impressed.”
Kate Justice, BBC Bristol (LIVE Session)
“Something else that's fabulous, ‘Mind’ by George Montague, I think this is beautiful. Rising star of the county...
Remember the name.”
Claire Carter, BBC Radio Gloucestershire
“He's great! Brilliant start to a career.” Madeleine Ware, BBC Points West
“Looking forward to hearing George Montague's new song being played on BBC Glos! What a talent!”
Rhiannon Fitz-Gerald, BBC Producer
“One of the guys I’m excited about playing at Nibley Festival is George Montague ...I think he’s going to be a star
of the future.”
Chris Baxter, BBC Radio Gloucestershire
“He’s young, dynamic, on fire. Stole the show at this year’s Henley Festival. Think Jamie Cullum, add a sprinkling
of Michael Bublé and multiply by 100%!
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Keyboard wizardry, guitars, bass, sexy sax and a set of incredible vocal chords.”
Paul Clerehugh - Crooked Billet, Henley-on-Thames
“George Montague is an outstanding performer; he kept the crowds entertained and engaged throughout his
show. Certainly one of the best acts that played at this years Oxjam and a throughly likeable guy too. He is also a whizz on social media, plugging Oxjam at every opportunity including supporting us with radio
interviews.
Thank you George - we hope to work with you again next year!”
Oxjam Cheltenham Takeover
'Fantastic performance by George Montague...
the love child of Little Richard & Nina Simone and younger brother Jamie Cullum never had!' Candia McKormack, Cotswold Life
“A natural born entertainer, George in his lighter moments resembles Norman Wisdom meets Jim Carrey.
But don’t let that fool you, as a singer-songwriter he’s an artist who is destined for great things - playing straight
from the heart. A tremendous talent.
In years to come you’ll still be reminiscing about the night you saw George Montague.”
John Drummond, Brewery Blues Cirencester
“A rising Star. Fantastic pianist. Great Musician. Just supremely gifted young talent. ...Hit those ivories George!”
Nibley Festival
“A further example of youth prodigy is Gloucestershire's George Montague, already familiar to many of BBC Radio
Gloucestershire's listeners. His brand of jazz-rock fusion is breathtaking, calling to mind a worthy comparison with
Ben Folds Five. There are elements of soul and funk (along with musical allusions to Mika and Billy Joel) and
plenty of fun in his songs. Where else could you expect to hear a song in which the phenomenon of having songs
stuck in your head is humanised and given the name ‘Hamish’? Nowhere. That's where. Absolutely nowhere.
George Montague is, to put it bluntly, annoyingly talented. He deserves only to do very, very well. And this is even
more annoying. George Montague is so good I think I might hate him!
People who have used the phrase "tearing the place apart" haven't heard George Montague who's just redefined
the term at Wychwood.” Stephen Morris, BBC News
“21 Things That Were Great About Wychwood Festival: No. 2
George Montague – Just as I began to flag on Sunday afternoon I was drawn to the BBC Introducing Stage by the
sound of Wychwood’s most unexpected highlights.
Mixing rock/pop, soul, blues and everything else you can think of to create a fun, energetic and enigmatic sound.
Engaging with the crowd brilliantly, George seemed like one of life’s genuinely nice people - his music was top
quality.”
Michael Rowland, This Is A Popscene
“He’s a piano man - if you haven’t heard George Montague’s music, the chances are it won’t be long before you
do... this Festival favourite has a busy summer and is a new breed of music star. If you want to become an
overnight success in showbusiness, you have to put in years of hard graft first and no one knows that more than
George, who is possibly the hardest-working young singer-songwriter around today. George has become a regular
fixture on the festival scene, entertaining crowds with his music and energetic stage presence. His infectious
enthusiasm, big band sound and boyish good looks have already won him legions of fans and inevitable
comparisons to Jamie Cullum - his effervescent style and ability to work a crowd recently brought him to the
attention of the BBC - given George’s reputation and his loyal following, it’s remarkable to think that he’s yet to
be signed to a record label.”
Elaine Mclaren, Weekend Citizen Glos
“Singer songwriter and musician, the phenomenally talented George Montague, with over two million hits on
YouTube and a first album now on general release, I felt it high time to meet George. The 21-year-old star is a real
breath of fresh air in today’s often more manufactured musical arena and he has a huge energy, passion and
determination for his chosen career path alongside an infectious personality that is both quirky and humble.
George exudes a certain star quality and his personality is a huge part of his musical style, the rising star has fans
across the world, from London to LA, and it’s easy to see why. He is a musician in the truest sense of the word and
a talented one at that. I foresee big things for Mr Montague.”
Emma Roberts, Cotswold Style
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"JAZZ. He's Young, Dynamic, On Fire!
I “witnessed” George at the Henley Festival, my ‘pop-up’ Crooked Billet was next to his stage. A thousand Henleyites went mad; George and his band tore the place apart. Accompanied by bass, drums and saxophone, Montague’s
principally piano-based set at the Festival was an explosion of creativity, passion and fun. Lots of passion.
Bucketful’s of fun.
A formidable talent as composer, multi-instrumentalist and all-round showman. On the rockier side of jazz,
Montague sits somewhere between Michael Bublé, Mika and Jamie Cullum. . . his brand of Funky Swagger is a
combination of funk, jazz, rock and pop. There is an extraordinary aura around George during his performances
and he admits that he can’t control his excitement for live gigs; full of energy with a pure sense of joy when he
plays. With 5 million views on YouTube, I bet you dinner for 2 George is a global superstar by this time next year (or at
least on Graham Norton)"
Paul Clerehugh - Crooked Billet, Henley-on-Thames
“…I arrive at the venue in good time for the support which comes from the engaging and charismatic George
Montague whose on-stage presence lights up the room. Utilising guitar, ukulele and keys as well as beat box
samples his positivity shines through and translates into powerful and unique songs. A ukulele version of ‘The
Smoke’ from the album Have You Met George demonstrates Montague’s versatility and vocal range before a duet
with Hattie Briggs sets us up for what is to come. Montague’s song ‘Silent Hand’ was one that he always saw as a
duet and after meeting Briggs at the Wychwood Festival and subsequently being invited to act as support for this
gig it was always going to be fitting for this song to be the collaboration that ushers in Briggs’ set.”
Danny Brother’s, For Folk’s Sake: review - Chapel Arts Centre, Bath
“I saw George give a very impressive performance in the Jazz Arena on Monday 6th May. ...a pleasingly large
audience witnessed two exciting performances by young local artists...
Putting on a show seemed to be becoming the theme of the day.
Twenty-one year old singer, songwriter, pianist and guitarist George Montague is another born entertainer, a
restless stage presence with a goofy, almost camp sense of humour. More importantly he’s a singer with a soulful
voice that is well suited to his pop/r’n'b material and an excellent pianist who is also capable of occasionally
doubling up on guitar or even ukulele.
Although he was the least obviously “jazz” act that I saw this weekend his “notsobigband” featured a number of
names that have graced the Jazzmann pages including guitarist Lee Jones, drummer Tom Hooper and a rather
underused Andy Hague on trumpet. Bristol based Hague was part of a horn section that also featured trombonist
Matt Coleman and tenor saxophonist Dan Foster. The electric bass of Harry Sutton rounded out the group.
Montague began at the piano for ‘Blood Ties’ a song featuring an agreeable funk groove and an opening solo from
guitarist Jones.
‘Lovestruck Fool’, a modern variation on the Cinderella story was sourced [sic] from Montague’s debut album
‘Have You Met George’ and exhibited a real r’n'b raunch with features for Jones and Coleman plus the whistling of
Montague.
The eccentric ‘Otto Orange’ was described by Montague as being about a “teenager who doesn’t do much”. The
song saw Montague moving to his acoustic guitar (apparently called “Gloria”) and borrowing from Norman
Greenbaum’s “Spirit In The Sky” riff.
Montague moved back to piano for ‘Speechless’, another song steeped in vintage r’n'b and fuelled by a tight bass
and drum groove plus the punchy attack of the horns and particularly featured tenor soloist Foster.
Foster and bassist Sutton were also in fine form on ‘Mind’, another song sourced from Montague’s début album.
The title of the next piece eluded me [‘Chocolate Sunday’] but featured Montague moving between electric piano
and ukulele as Sutton’s funky electric bass groove laid the foundations for solos from Foster, Hague, Coleman and
Jones on one of the set’s most obviously jazz orientated pieces.
The mock horror of ‘Hamish’ featured Montague at his most eccentric. A restless performer the manic energy and
wacky humour of his performance had many of the audience wondering “ just what is he on?” - the answer being
nothing more than youthful ebullience and enthusiasm hopefully. Twice he left the stage to race dementedly
around the venue as the band played on, Lee Jones holding the fort with an excellent guitar solo.
‘Evil Twin’ was played after a vociferous request from a female member of the audience and adopted a ska
groove, with another quasi theatrical performance from Montague climaxed by a powerful solo from Hooper at the
drums. The set concluded with audience sing-along ‘The Smoke’. Like Fresh Dixie project Montague enjoyed an
overwhelmingly enthusiastic reception.
Overall Montague’s material was all a bit too “poppy” for my tastes but once again I enjoyed what I had seen.
Montague is obviously a considerable talent, a powerful singer and a more than useful instrumentalist. He’s also
got a genuine stage presence, albeit a decidedly wacky one. The singer was well served by an excellent band,
many of them comparative veterans who wouldn’t be playing with this guy if he hadn’t got what it takes. Not
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entirely my cup of tea (something incidentally, that Montague uses as a prop) but expect to hear a lot more from
George Montague. Mainstream success may beckon and I wouldn’t rule out his coming back to headline in the Big
Top some time in the future.”
The Jazz Mann: Review - Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2013
“I suspect there are few things more depressing for an up-and-coming musician than playing to an audience only
slightly greater than the number of fingers on his hands. It says a great deal for jazz funk singer-songwriter George
Montague that he didn’t let this bother him during his supporting slot at St James’ Wine Vaults in Bath on this
particular Friday night.
His was a tightly focused, barnstorming set on piano, guitar and ukulele liberally punctuated with witty, selfdeprecating asides. It immediately made you forget the cold and dingy cellar venue in a friendly pub which is
defiantly resisting the gentrification of Bath’s watering holes, and – no mean feat this – imagine yourself in a field
at a festival with the sun on your back and a cold cider in your hand.
His style is hard to pin down: sometimes fast and furious, sometimes mellow and melodious, sometimes loud and
sometimes soft, and sometimes all of the above in one song alone. He can sound like Elton John, and he can sound
like a busker in Nashville. He flits confidently between piano, ukulele and guitar, his songs featuring simple yet
poignant lyrics and his jazz influences staying very much the right side of indulgent.
Put simply, he is a joy to watch and part of that enjoyment comes from the pleasure he himself seems to get from
performing live, even on nights like this. It is particular relief that he eschews the usual solo male singersongwriter dirges in favour of lively tracks with a strong sense of fun. He’s not silly (apart from when talking in
between songs), he’s just capable of expressing emotion in a way that means you can’t help but listen. Montague
has thoroughly embraced social media, with most of his songs garnering a very respectable (for a newcomer) 500k
hits on Youtube, blogging on Tumblr and posting short video clips on Vine. It must have been tempting for him to
stick to better known and tried-and-tested tracks, but instead he used the intimate setting to try out some new
material, playing all the instruments himself rather than relying on his usual six piece session musicians,
collectively known as ‘notsobigband’. And he gave good banter, regularly asking the audience for feedback on
which instrument to use and what kind of song to play.
His first, “Sticks and Stones”, was a country-tinged affair using only a beautiful marbled wood guitar called Gloria
and a bass drum called Boom which got feet tapping immediately with its quick strumming and pace.
“Miss You” moved to the piano, featuring delicate tinkling melodies and a tight arrangement – unsurprisingly it is
when playing the piano that Montague sounds most like Elton John. His confident, full voice across the range of
musical expression makes something complex appear very easy. “The Smoke” was a very fast, furious and funky
track. It was his first on the ukulele (called Luna), and featured cheeky scat improvised vocals. And “Umbrella”
was not, as you might initially have thought, a Rihanna cover but a big-band style tune with lots of plinky-plonky
piano. Open Letter, enjoying its first debut live outing, was a thoughtful letter to God, and the last song – called
Risk – was a fast, rhythmic guitar number with powerful, hooky melodies.
It’s pretty hard to fathom why there weren’t more people at this gig, especially given that Montague was
supporting soulful Dorset singer Jazz Morley. But despite the low turnout, it was clear that Montague is on the
cusp of some very interesting things indeed.”
Hannah Bailey, The Fix Magazine:
review - St James Wine Vaults, Bath
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‘CURIOUSER AND CURIOUSER GEORGE’ ALBUM, SONG AND VIDEO REVIEWS
“Lunchtime Listen: George Montague – ‘Lost’, from upcoming album ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’
George Montague is a name that, if you haven’t heard a lot of it yet, the likelihood is that you soon will. A singersongwriter whose multi-instrumental skill is as broad has his range of genres, he is quickly winning fans thanks to
the popularity of his YouTube channel (5 million views and counting) and his well- earned reputation for a top live
show.
New single ‘Lost’ is out now, trailing the way for a new album coming later in the summer. That album, ‘Curiouser
and Curiouser George’, is a genuine pop treat, blending the stylised pop fun of Scissor Sisters with the acoustic
songwriting of Jason Mraz. It’s an album of real variety, pulled together by his ruthless charm. You can pre-order it
on iTunes.” The Music Site
“The track above is taken from the upcoming album from the excellent George Montague: ‘Curiouser and
Curiouser George’. IMM have had the privilege to hear the album in full, and you can take it from us that it has a
genuine chance of taking Montague into the mainstream, making him a household name in the process.
The first taste of that album is ‘Lost’, an upbeat acoustic number which takes the subject of being alone and
somehow makes it bright and cheery while making some excellent observations about how it all feels – although
it’s not the end of the world. It’s this lightness of touch in the face of potentially maudlin subject matter that
helps George Montague stand out – and when the album comes, there’ll be plenty more to enjoy.” Indie Music Mag
“Creative Pop finds a New Home with George Montague
There’s nothing quite like discovering a new talent who could feasibly go all the way in the music industry. There
are many artists on the pages of this website who have great talent, a great sound, and undoubted ability.
However, translating that into an audience is a very difficult thing to do.
In the case of George Montague, he’s proven he’s got an audience, and one that’s growing too. His well-received
live shows are taking place in larger venues, and his YouTube viewing figures are topping 5 million. More and more
people are discovering him all the time, and new single ‘Lost’ isn’t going to hurt that momentum one bit.
A great, fun acoustic pop track, it’s taken from an upcoming album which you can already pre-order on iTunes and
Amazon. This album and single might just see George Montague pop his head through that glass ceiling this
summer – get on board now so you can brag to your friends that you found him first.
For more, including live dates around the UK, head to the website.” Trisickle
“George Montague hits home run with new sound and new single ‘Lost’
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you took the upbeat acoustic style of Newton Faulkner and married
it to the creative pop of Mika, then the wait might just be over. George Montague – a superbly talented multiinstrumentalist and songwriter – is ready to prove with new album ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ that he can
do just that.
With some tracks focusing more on the offbeat pop factor, while others are more straightforward acoustica, the
album is a fantastically entertaining mix with a good variance in songwriting themes too. Single ‘Lost’, which you
can hear above, is clearly a familiar, acoustic sound. However, there’s still plenty of deft touches in here, and
even more in the full album.
The album is coming soon, as well as a number of live shows – shows which always get top reviews from those in
the know. Find out all about it at http://www.georgemontague.com/“ Unfashionable Male
“George Montague: A young pop writer with a bright future
After what has been a difficult week for England in both sport and politics, we needed something to cheer us up
and give us something to look forward to. George Montague, a much hyped new pop song writer with oodles of
talent and promise, has given us just that with the announcement of new album ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’.
Coming this summer and featuring the single above, the release is a full length collection of great songs, high in
energy and quality.
There’s little wonder that Montague has drawn over 5 million viewers to his YouTube page, and with live gigs on
the schedule too there’s plenty to look forward to from this unsigned talent.
You can find more on his live dates here, or pre-order the album on our recommendation here.” Watch This Space
“Independent songwriter George Montague shines on new pop single and album
If you’re a follower of BBC introducing, or you keep a solid ear to the ground for genuinely talented up and coming
live artists, then you may have already heard of George Montague. If not, then you’re about to hear about him in
a big way.
With millions of YouTube views already under his belt, as well as a live reputation which is seeing more and more
people pushing for gig tickets (http://www.georgemontague.com/gigs.html), his multi-instrumental shows are
highlighted by a creative streak a mile wide, full of loops, electronic touches and excellent musicianship.
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Fortunately, for those who haven’t had the pleasure of catching him live, he’s released new single ‘Lost’ (above)
in the lead up to his highly anticipated new album ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’. Coming this summer, the
album offers even more fun than the single above, with some off-kilter ideas which even bring to mind the likes of
Mika and Scissor Sisters. However, if those aren’t your cup of tea, don’t let that put you off – he’s just as adept
with more straightforward fare.
You can pre-order the album now from iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/lost/id1115109455?
i=1115109761) and Amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Curiouser-George-Montague/dp/B01FWJVH7I).” Golden
Newbies
“Eccentric but immediately accessible, ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ is a new album set for a summer release
by excellent songwriter George Montague. His sound is a creative mix of pop with a number of genres, including
funk, indie and even a touch of electronica, making the album a varied one full of invention.
‘Lost’ is a great first single from the album, and finds Montague at perhaps his most accessible, however the real
joys of the album are to be found on tracks not yet released to a wider audience. So, if you enjoyed this track
then you’ll want to preorder the album now (iTunes and Amazon) or make sure you check him out live if you can.
All the info you'll need is here.” BuzzJack
“George Montague ready for new album with ‘Lost’ single
Occasionally songs come along which are so well produced and executed that you immediately feel at home with
them. The new single from George Montague, ‘Lost’, falls into that category. From that very first acoustic strum
of the guitar, this song screams quality – a trait that extends to the full album from which it is taken.
‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ is the full LP, released later this summer, which may well find George Montague
the spotlight he deserves. His YouTube views are already in the millions and radio support has been strong from
both a local and national standpoint. However, teetering on the edge is not enough in this game. With any luck,
‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ might just be the thing to push him over. If you like what you’re hearing, help
give that push by pre-ordering on iTunes” Real Music Network
“For an artist with a reputation for putting on an excellent live show, the challenging part is often translating that
raw, live energy into the studio for albums and singles. George Montague, a modern funk-pop songwriter whose
live gigs showcase his excellent talent to every growing audiences, proves on his upcoming releases that it can be
done, while also adding the sheen and slickness that studio recordings afford.
First up, single “Lost” is a slick pop track based around acoustic guitar. And though undoubtedly captured in the
studio, the upbeat, mid- tempo pace does a great job of encapsulating his live appeal. Later this summer comes a
new album, and having been lucky enough to hear a full preview, I can confirm that trend continues, with neat
studio touches embellishing an LP which is full of guile and invention.
For more, head over to the George Montague website - http://www.georgemontague.com/. You can also pre-order
the album (well worth it) from iTunes and Amazon. Last but not least, there are a host of live dates coming up.”
WhisperinandHollerin - Our Rating:
“Single ‘Lost’ precedes new ‘Curiouser and Curiouser George’ album from George Montague
A multi-instrumentalist whose musical talents spread far and wide, George Montague is an artist who not only
holds great skill in the instruments he plays, but also knits them together in fantastically well written and
produced songs. Bringing together all these elements to simply create good songs would be a sign of an assured
songwriter, but the fact that he manages to sound like more than the sum of his own talents marks him out as a
great one.
Perhaps that could seem like hyperbole for many unsigned talents, but the new album from Montague (coming this
summer) and the lead single ‘Lost’ show that this is a man who knows what he’s doing. It’s precisely why his
YouTube views are in the millions, and also the reason that he’s constantly in need of bigger venues to cater for
his growing audience.
And with plenty of gigs coming up, not to mention the album, now’s the time to bookmark his website to keep up
to date, pre-order the LP, and catch him live.” Music Crowns
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‘HAVE YOU MET GEORGE’ ALBUM, SONG AND VIDEO REVIEWS
“Top 10 Gloucestershire band of 2012 - No.3 George Montague:
Ben Folds-meets-Mika-meets-Jamie Cullum. There. That's the review done for the immensely, annoyingly talented
George Montague. Montague's jazz-funk-soul odyssey, Have You Met George? is a staggering album, profiling the
absurd abilities of the eponymous hero. Nowhere is Montague's talent for setting the brain on fire with the
funkiest of piano riffs more clear than on ‘Hamish’: the pet name he gives to an earworm: a song that gets caught
in your head and shows no sign of leaving. Much like ‘Hamish’ itself.
Standout track: ‘Hamish’” Stephen Morris, BBC News
“White Cavalry - funny, upbeat and charmingly daft music video made by George. Over 400,000 people (yes, four
hundred THOUSAND people) have found and watched it already on sheer word of mouth. His debut album HAVE
YOU MET GEORGE is out now and he’ll be playing the whole thing live.”
Tom Robinson, BBC 6 Music (Introducing Mixtape Radio Show)
“Cheltenham Jazz Festival, next month, welcomes local lad George Montague on the back of an impressive 2012
album, ‘have you met George’. Gloucestershire-based Montague is garnering a keen following, thanks to this
debut release and his high-energy live shows (including swiftly-increasing thousands of hits on his YouTube
channel). Montague’s strong piano/vocal style might best be described as ‘pop jazz’ or ‘rock jazz funk’, with
favourable comparisons readily coming to mind – a ‘Twentysomething’ Jamie Cullum, a ’52nd Street’ Billy Joel, a
dash of Ryan Adams and, at times, a ‘Tumbleweed’ Elton John.
That said, these eleven self-penned compositions provide the springboard for an individual, dynamic and assured
performance throughout. Gritty vocals and high jinks drive the album along, with George’s versatility taking a lead
on piano and Rhodes (also a whizz on guitar and even ukulele) – all supported by a solid rhythm section, powerful
horns, deft guitar soloing and marvellously tight backing vocal harmonies (the ‘notsobigband’ title belying their
apparent, combined energy!).
The playlist twists and turns in style and mood, from the funky guitar grooves and brassy stabs of the opening
‘Blood Ties’, through a similarly up-tempo (almost Madness-tinged) ‘White Cavalry’, to the catchy ‘Hold On’.
‘Waiting Room’ painfully remembers a dear, departed friend, whilst ‘Yellow Shoes’ follows with an appealing,
soulful vocal. Billowing profusely is the metal-injected ‘The Smoke’, and ‘Hamish’ relentlessly hammers along in
exciting, rapid, Cullumesque jazz fashion before giving way to the more reflective, flugel-interspersed ‘Mind’.
George Montague’s ebullience is infectious on this well-packaged first album which brims with vitality, emotion
and, most of all, unrestrained fun!
Certainly a feel-good collection which, on 6th May, should have Cheltenham’s Jazz Arena rocking!”
Adrian Pallant, AP Reviews
“Welcome to Jazz Shaped's 'Weekly Playlist' feature, bringing you five of the most relevant and exciting tracks
associated with the UK's jazz circuit and this very blog.
This weeks playlist kicks off with a track from 21st century commercial jazz bastion Jamie Cullum. Following the
recent release of his sixth studio album 'Momentum' the pianist announced tour dates this week which will see him
travel the length and breadth of the country! Get your tickets while you can.
Next up comes 22 year old singer-songwriter George Montague who has just been announced the winner of this
years Cheltenham Jazz Festival talent search. Stylistically similar to the aforementioned Jamie Cullum, George's
youtube video's have notched up a collective 3.8 million youtube views and it seems that with this latest accolade
he could be following in the foot steps of Jamie himself.
Thirdly I've included a track from the sublime Kyle Eastwood who I'm going to see during his 6 day residency at
Ronnie Scotts next week. Kyle will be performing from June 3rd to the 8th.
Keeping with the Ronnie Scotts theme I have included two artists who will be part of June's 'Late Show' listings at
the club; Jay Phelps and Mark Nightingale. Fortunately for me I have never seen either of these fantastic
musicians so a second and third trip down to the legendary venue this month is completely justified!
Happy listening: Jamie Cullum - ‘The Same Things’, George Montague - ‘Blood Ties’, Kyle Eastwood - ‘Sirocco’,
Jay Phelps - ‘Out Of The Blue’, Mark Nightingale - ‘How's The Howse?’” Josh Jennings, Jazz Shaped Blog
“George Montague's long waited debut doesn't disappoint...
George Montague has already clocked up more than 3 million views on Youtube with his unique brand of
charismatic pop funk and now that the Gloucestershire boy has created one of the most engaging albums in
history, its no surprise he has received worldwide appraisal. George has the wisdom of someone way beyond his 21
years of age. He is an accomplished piano, bass, ukulele and guitar player. Not to mention a talented singersongwriter.
‘Have You Met George’ is a blend of genres from soul to pop spawning an upbeat bouncy debut album. The
standout track on the album is 'Waiting Room' a wonderfully touching tribute to his friend who is no longer with
us. This spine tingling song shows that George has the ability to evoke real emotion to anyone who listens to him,
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something that is desperately missing in mainstream pop music these days. His hopeless romantic side is unleashed
in 'Blood Ties' a funky number that will have your feet within a couple of seconds of listening. But its George's
sharp grizzly vocals that really command your attention.
‘Hold On’ will put a spring into your step. The groovy song about the rollercoaster ride that is life will relate to
everyone and anyone. Infectiously catchy 'Hamish' will be stuck in your head from the first listen. This will become
an instant jazz classic with its optimistic ambience.The tempo is taken down for 'Footprints In The Rain' which is a
poignant soulful ballad with George's raspy voice taking centre stage. George Montague has created one of the
most innovative debut albums of 2012. Move over Ed Sheeran there is a new male singer songwriter phenomenon.”
Yasmin Ali, Bright Shiny News
“George Montague and his album ‘Have You Met George’.
Favourite song: ‘Hamish’.
This was an interesting album to listen to and review as I have seen most of these songs live. I found this album at
a music festival I went to last year in Gloucestershire. (George was lovely and even signed the CD for
me! Excuse the fangirling!) ‘Have You Met George’ is an incredibly feel-good album and has an exceptionally jazzy
feel to it, yet not being far removed from the pop genre. The fluidity of the album is fantastic and has flashes of
almost Michael Bublé throughout. If I had to describe this album in one phrase it would be a “jumble of happy”,
even the slower, sadder songs can somehow manage to make you smile, whether it is because of the lyrics or the
funky melodies of the piano. George and his 'notsobigband' have created an exciting, fast paced album that is bright, light, and fun. It's like
they're having a big celebration just because they can. There is quite possibly a jazzy solo in every single song,
whether it be on the trumpet, guitar or piano. George himself is a talented musician, playing piano and ukulele
whilst singing. Interesting fact: The song ‘Hamish’ is about who to blame when you get a song stuck in your head. I got told this
by George whilst he signed my CD. “Lord of the tapping feet, bringer of the tune when we can't sleep.” Who knew
you could write a song on that?!
All in all, ‘Have you met George’ is an album that is sure to bring a smile to your face, what ever your mood!
It defiantly brought a grin to mine! I would recommend this to anyone who wants to build a castle instead! (Listen
to the album to understand!) - Nelle” The Songs That… blog
“Original is the best word to describe George - his music is a unique sound that leaves my ears feeling pleased.
When I meet him his enthusiasm for music is incredible; George has a great energy and is someone whose
presence in a room is felt. The kind of musician us ordinary folk envy, with the ability to play multiple instruments
to a high level - each song on the album is catchy to the point of still humming them days after listening.
George is equally good to see playing live and having seen him play at the Literature Festival in the Spiegeltent, I
can vouch for how busy it was and that George’s energetic performance was a highlight for many.”
Laura Edwards, Editor The Cheltonian
“With the soul of Jamie Cullum mixed with modern-day jazz and big brass sounds, George Montague has put his
own stamp on a new era of artists with this bold toe-tapping debut album.
It certainly packs a punch and makes you explore an encyclopaedia of instruments which gives you a vivid insight
into what George is about.
The inspirational lyrics of ‘Footprints in the Rain’ combined with the upbeat and seductive nature of ‘White
Cavalry’ takes you on one epic musical journey from start to finish.
Entitled 'Have you Met George', I am sure I'm one of many who can proudly say that they know this hard-working,
passionate and talented beyond belief individual.”
Jess Bracey, Stroud FM
“ ‘Blood Ties’ One of several tunes touched by The Spirit Of Jazz, this is lighter and, for want of a better word,
more commercial than the other tracks I’ve reviewed on here this week. It’s easy to see Montague filling the wellpolished shoes of Jamie Cullum et al with his infectious, Radio 2-friendly big band sound.
It’s really rather good.” Sam Lee, Fresh On The Net
“George Montague is very annoying. Anyone who has read this writer's coverage of 2012's Wychwood Festival will
be familiar with this observation. Accompanied by bass and drums, Montague's principally piano-based set on the
festival's final day was an explosion of creativity, passion and fun. Lots of passion. Bucketfuls of fun. Back on that
day, it was clear for all to see; Montague is a formidable talent, as composer, multi-instrumentalist and all round
showman. Hence the “annoying” comment. No one should be this good at so many things.
George Montague's debut album, ‘Have You Met George’, captured the incendiary spirit of his live performance
within the confines of a studio setting. The studio being Rockfield Studios, the birthplace of Queen's ‘Bohemian
Rhapsody’ and much of Coldplay's debut album. Every silver lining has its cloud. Strange as it may sound to anyone
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with experience of witnessing Montague and his band perform, the album has a fuller sound (or should that be
EVEN fuller sound?) with saxophones, brass and soul-filled, 'Dark Side of the Moon' backing vocals adding to the
basic line up. The result is somewhere between Ben Folds Five, Mika and Jamie Cullum. 'Funky swagger' It's a
creation built around Montague's piano-based virtuosity. Much of this faultlessly constructed album is given over to
pomp and funky swagger. As a showman, Montague knows how to delight and connect with his audience's soul even with the barriers of time and space separating his recording of songs from the listener's appreciation of
them. And so 'Have You Met…' opens in fine blustering fashion with 'Blood Ties', boasting much of what is to come:
soulful harmonies, funky riffs from the brass and, course, the jazzy grooves from the piano flitting with dragonfly
dexterity around Montague's snarling, growling, self-assured vocals.
Like any perfectly crafted album (for that is what we are talking about here), 'Have You Met…' takes things down a
notch through the middle of the record. 'Footprints in the Rain' is a slower, introspective ballad while 'Waiting
Room' is a beautiful, mournful tribute to a deceased friend.
And then, as befits the nature of good records, things pick up, the beats kick back in and the bold, brassiness reemerges. Montague cranks things up, first with 'Hamish' in which our hero personifies the sensation of music
pervading your consciousness. It's an epic song, recalling early Ben Folds Five (a bit of 'Underground' here, a bit of
'Satan is my Master' there) and jazz-embracing Tom Waits, both at their most gleefully chaotic.
'Celebration of life’ The album closes in reflective mood with 'Mind' and 'Pocket Full', the latter being a tribute to
Montague's parents, the former being an introspective thought-piece.
Despite the impressive range in tone and texture of the album, there is a marvellous sense of continuity to the
record which pays no attention to the position of the volume controls.
The album is peppered with lyrics about blood, veins, arteries, shivers down spines, breaths, feet tapping and
hands beating. You'll find fewer references to parts of the body on 'Dem Bones’.
'Have You Met George' is a celebration of life: whether that is the thrill of sensory delights in the form of 'Hamish'
or 'Shiver', the magnificence of love in 'Blood Ties', or more poignant reflections on those no longer with us
'Waiting Room'. It is a musical marvel and something of a masterpiece.”
Stephen Morris, Music Reviewer BBC News
Contact Details:
Website: http://www.georgemontague.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/georgemontaguemusic
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/georgemontague
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/georgemontague
SoundCloud: http://www.soundcloud.com/george-montague
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/georgemontague
Blog: http://georgemontague.tumblr.com
For more information; to interview George, review a show and receive a CD, do please contact:
Drew - Tel: 07879 476090 - Email: [email protected]
New Album ‘curiouser and curiouser George’ due for release Summer 2016 through Absolute
Debut Album ‘have you met George’ - please contact: James McGuinness, Senior Label Manager
Absolute Label Services - The Old Lampworks, Rodney Place, London, SW19 2LQ
Tel: +44 208 540 4242 - Email: [email protected]
www.absolutelabelservices.com
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