Singer-songwriter Abi Hercules is a London girl born and bred and as her song goes, she’s ‘thin and quite tall, I’m a Skinny Bitch!’ Her songs are deliciously diverse in style, from rock ‘n’ roll and reggae to doo wop, pop and soul. Lyrically playful, always honest and powerful with strong hooks delivered in her distinctive, soulful voice with genuine style and flair. This is the unmistakeable sound of Abi Hercules.
‘Hercules’ storytelling and delivery suggests that Joni Mitchell may have been a formative influence, but the songs feel original and personal. Major labels spend a lot of cash promoting lesser acts – so take a listen.’ Guitar & Bass Review. Her second album ‘Cycling in Stilettos’ was released on her birthday, April Fool’s Day 2010.
Abi is a multi-instrumentalist, playing piano, guitar, mandolin and flute. Her band, The Easy Tigers, was created in 2005 for her debut album ‘Breathe the Life of Strangers’, songs inspired by Abi’s South American travels. Since then, Abi and The Easy Tigers have been gigging from London to the Glastonbury Festival and beyond. The Easy Tigers are Dzal Martin (The Equals) on electric/acoustic guitar, Mal Darwen (Edwina Hayes) on upright bass/bass guitar, Sandira on percussion and Will Spurling on drums. Abi is delighted to have Roy Dodds (Eddi Reader) playing kit on the album and Mickey Simmonds on Hammond, Whurlitzer and keys. Along with the newly formed Hercules Horns and a trio of backing singers, Abi’s latest music has a wonderfully full sound.
Lyrics from ‘Cycling in Stilettos’:
Why dip a toe in the shallows of my waters?
Why not dive in deep, swim free with me? (‘Gone’)
Crack crackedy crack cocaine gives you wings and dulls the pain.
Crack crackedy crack cocaine melts the music in your brain.
(‘Back to Crack’ about Amy Winehouse)
Press: Her music is as delightful and playful as she is. The Late Great Review
Abi could easily become the next fixture in the mainstream firmament. Musician (MU magazine)
Read more...