Martin and James Biography
It’s been a busy three years for Martin Kelly and James O’Neill. Since coming to the attention of Universal Germany in 2008, the Scottish duo have relocated to Berlin and toured constantly across the continent, in support of bands such as Bryan Adams,The Stereophonics, Simply Red, Amy Macdonald, Ellie Goulding, James Morrison, One Republic, Scouting For Girls, The Fray, Lissie, Ingrid Michaelson, Razorlight and Milow.
Their style of songwriting, with both singing lead and harmonies, has made many well-known songwriters eager to work with them. Since they started recording in Hamburg at the end of that year, they have sat down with writers such as Albert Hammond, Steve Seskin, Michael Ochs,Gary Go, Tobias Kuhn and Fran Healy.
The first fruit of the Hamburg sessions, the ‘Bad Dream’ EP, featured collaboration with Snow Patrol writer Iain Archer. It was a largely acoustic set fleshed out with old school percussion and effects that highlighted their harmonies and picking style.
“The studio in Hamburg (Clouds Hill Studios) had these really old microphones from the forties. It was great being surrounded by old equipment; they had a mixing desk that used to belong to George Martin. It makes the recording process feel a bit more special when you’re in those surroundings“ say the pair, who recorded over 25 songs, both for their debut album and to create cds to sell at gigs.
Their second EP ‘Wrong Directions’ was also deceptively simple and built on the pair’s ability to write haunting hooks and lyrics awash in filmic textures, but also featured the first signs of a move into a full band set-up. “As a duo we are able to do all of these supports and we’d like to do this as long as we possibly can but we are really looking forward to touring with our own band”.
Martin and James have been singing together since 1999, playing in the usual spiral of bands that never made it, almost had a deal or fell apart. Throughout that long haul it has been the strength of their songwriting and playing partnership that has got them through. They have written hundreds of songs together and the ability to communicate the strength and simplicity of these songs live has seen them build an army of loyal fans, who actively support and promote the band, organizing special shows and events. 2010 was one of M&Js busiest years touring round Europe and even toured Germany at least 4 times. "The reaction we have received from playing live has genuinely blown us away at times’ say the pair.
“We’ve played some really big stages and supported some massive bands we didn’t think we would ever even meet. Going onstage in front of such big crowds just the two of us, made it even more nerve racking.” All the concerts played in this year allowed M&J to create the fanbase they'd always dreamed of having. 2011 couldn't come any faster.
In March 2011 M&J finally released their self titled debut album which was received very well, especially in Germany where the guys went on to play their own 12 date, sold out, headline tour with MLK. "We couldn't beleive our ears when we were told most of our shows were sold out. So people were listening then' said the guys. All the concerts M&J did the previous year had finally paid off. Their first single "All over the news" got a great reception from most of the German radio stations and done really well in the itunes charts.There was a lot to look forward to in the future.
2012 looks set to be another exciting year for Martin and James. With another headline tour of Germany lined up in Febuary with Karsten Jahnke followed by more writing sessions for the new record which will be released in 2013. It seems like the guys haven't stopped doing what they love and do best."We're really looking forward to the challenge of the next record. Trying to find new inspiration and the right people to work with will be the most important thing"
Also, M&J will continue to tour in Europe throughout the year so keep checking their online progress. Maybe they'll end up in your hometown?
