Telford musician STRICKLAND is hoping to make his mark with his debut album

“If you’re not singing along after a few listens then I’ve not done my job properly” says singer-songwriter Phil Strickland of his debut album Superficial Chaos.

Published
Phil Strickland, who performs as STRICKLAND, has released his debut album

The musician, who performs as STRICKLAND, hopes his tracks’ memorable choruses will resonate with listeners and help him to make his mark in the industry.

“It’s got that classic indie rock/pop guitar sound. I mean I’m not reinventing the wheel but there are plenty of choruses to sing along to.

“I think a lot of bands these days seem to shy away from writing a chorus.

“Music is as complicated as you choose to make it but if there’s a hook and a chorus people will get onboard with it,” he tells Weekend.

He grew up listening to a variety of music on cassettes on his Walkman and taping the Top 40 off the radio. But it was the emergence of Manchester band Oasis led by brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher that really piqued his interest.

“I wouldn’t be playing a guitar if it wasn’t for Oasis. They split opinion musically but in terms of being relatable to working class people, they tick the boxes.”

Other musical heroes include Paul Weller, Kasabian, The Stone Roses, Smiths and the Beatles.

“More recently I’ve enjoyed Sam Fender and Blossoms. But where are the new Oasis, or Smiths? It doesn’t seem to happen anymore,” says Phil, who lives in Telford.

The 39-year-old got his start as a guitarist in a couple of cover bands, playing rock and pop classics to audiences around the country.

During those years, Philip began noticing a decline in the charm of pop music.

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.