Conner Youngblood: a musical world inspired by Beck, Bon Iver and Gorillaz

The American has an exceptional talent for writing charming, lyrical songs that have impressed established stars and the heads of Ninja Tune / Counter, the labels behind his debut album.

Asked about his greatest inspirations, Conner names Beck, Bon Iver and Gorillaz. Among younger artists, he probably has most in common with Moses Sumney and Rhye. Born in Dallas and resembling a young Basquiat, the musician graduated from prestigious Yale University, where besides spending time in the library he trained in wrestling and devoted his free time to skateboarding.

He also played plenty of “Tony Hawk’s Pro-Skater”. His songs freely fuse folk melancholy, subtle electronics and soulful ardour. He plays thirty instruments himself, from guitar and synthesisers to harp, clarinet and tabla. He has long collected instruments, the best birthday or Christmas present he could receive, although Youngblood also hunts bargains at markets and antique shops. His wealth of musical resources and arranging talent make his songs delightful in their relaxed, natural sound and harmonic freedom.

▶