Mike Bethel popped into the Late Show with Jimmy Franks to have a chat and showcase some of his music. Listen to him performing live in the studio by clicking on the links below: More about Mike Mike Bethel was born and brought up in Birmingham. He now lives in Longbridge where he teaches classical guitar and works as a musician.
He recorded his first album 'Tree' in 1998 while studying Mathematics and Music at Keele University, where he ran the local folk club. The album was recorded in less than an hour in a specially converted toilet cubicle and was only available on cassette - but it received some great reviews: "[With the first album, 'Tree',] he's managed to avoid the usual self-indulgence of the solo singer/songwriter - no mean feat in itself, and has produced a sparse, atmospheric collection of songs. God I hate these talented people!" - Ryan's Gig Guide, April 1999 "A remarkable voice that has passionate warmth... some truly brilliant acoustic guitar work." - Rhythm & Booze, September 2000 Having got some work playing guitar on cruise ship in the Caribbean, Mike returned to the UK in 2001 to record his second album 'Opaque', which was recorded with a chamber string ensemble. Described as a "moving and challenging new collection of songs" by Siren Online in October of the same year, the new album enabled Mike to play some more high profile gigs around the UK, Europe and America. All reviews of the album were positive: "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. Mike Bethel has written a beautifully crafted album full of emotional engaging songs that'll take your breath away." - Rhythm & Booze, September 2001 Local label Solar Creations approached Mike in 2002 to record a song for their compilation album 'Screaming From The Capital'. His contribution, 'Anthem', was described as a "magestic offering with beautiful strings and breathtaking vocals." - Vibe 9, 2003. In early 2005 Mike teamed up with Paul Witcomb to perform the songs of Nick Drake as 'Riverman'. The success of this project has encouraged both musicians to continue showcasing Drake's music. Mike's third album 'Fenętrapocrypha' is a much more stripped down affair with Mike playing all the instruments. "Mike is such a fine guitarist and lyricist I reckon he should be up there with the greatest. His talent humbles us all. As usual he sat up there, sung and played his melancholic mix brilliantly and apart from one loud mouthed fool (there is always one) managed to keep the audience quiet enough for me to listen and enjoy from start to finish." - The Siren, March 2002 | 
