Sobota 26 Sie 2006, 10:36
Yesterday, in preparation for my going to see him live in October, I checked out the Patrick Wolf x-posure session on Xfm to see what he might sound like when not on record. And oh my, his voice is incredible. I hadn't really paid all that much attention to it on the few odd songs I have, as there's so much other weird stuff going on at the same time it's difficult to focus on it; but really, listen to the Gypsy King on there and you will understand my awe. He is currently the proud owner of my Favourite Male Voice.
But then I have always been pretty fickle about who has been able to hold this honourable title, so I don't know how long he'll be able to hold it. My head is easily turned by a man with a pretty voice- just as easily as I am turned off a man with an ugly voice, even if the songs themselves are pretty good (sorry Tom Waits, I do not like creepy bear/human crossbreeds.)
Previous owners of my Favourite Male Voice, in order, and a track which I feel shows it off to best advantage:
Paul Draper of Mansun- first 'rock' band I got into, and the first voice which gave me goosebumps. Apparently he only sang because none of the other band members could, which I suspect is bollocks as I don't see how you could keep that voice quiet. So much passion and intensity, and a great range, as Wide Open Space shows.
Roddy Woomble of Idlewild- With a name like that, he just has to be great. His voice is big and squooshy round the edges, and Scottish accents always get to me. American English is a gem.
Matthew Caws of Nada Surf- his voice is just the cutest thing in the world. I don't know why exactly, but it is. I wish it existed in human form so I could hug it- or, I could just hug him. Either works for me. No Quick Fix is almost too cute to be true (but not in a horrible sickly way).
'Don't go,
I'll never know,
when you're away
I sleep all day,
nothing works,
thinking hurts,
you belong to me
in
my
dreeeeeeeeeeeeams' :)
Rufus Wainwright- described by Phil Jupitus as 'the voice of an angel who eats naught but honey', which I think sums it up pretty well. Foolish Love is a great example of this, with bonus amazing piano playing action.
David Ford, formerly of easyworld- As much as I loved easyworld, David's voice has improved with age. Effortlessly switching from high and soaring to low and bitter, as heard on I Don't Care What You Call Me. Absolutely beautiful. Or, you could listen to Bleach if you'd rather bounce around the room in an undignified fashion :)
Honourable mentions: Jeff Buckley (of course), Elliott Smith, Greg Gilbert of the Delays
Who owns your Favourite Male Voice?