Jono McCleery and “Pagodes” at City Sounds: the British singer’s lyrical world

His story could have come straight from a film: McCleery was born deaf and did not begin to hear until he was five. Music became more than a hobby for him; it also taught him about life, communication and sensitivity. Jono has been composing, playing and performing since the age of 18, and has finally received the recognition he deserves. He has performed alongside stars such as Fink, Jose Gonzalez, Bonobo and Jamie Woon. He has also sung on records by Portico, Maribou State and Catz’N Dogz, though he is at his best on his own albums. “There Is”, featuring guest appearances by the aforementioned Fink and avant-folk icon Vashti Bunyan, combined the deep emotion of soul with the subtlety of new folk. “A truly fantastic singer-songwriter,” was the praise from Jamie Woon himself.

His latest work, “Pagodes”, develops this formula with maturity. Reviewers hear similarities to Chet Faker and Fink, and it is worth emphasising that both artists declare themselves fans of Jono’s work. He also cites the legacy of Massive Attack, Radiohead and Miles Davis among his inspirations. Like his masters, McCleery excels at restraint, fully controlling his vocal expression and finding the perfect balance between digital and organic sounds. Yet the quality of Jono’s songs rests not only on his composing talent, attention to sound and inventive, understated arrangements, but above all on his wonderful voice.

“Pagodes” was co-produced by his friend and another rising star, Roy Wood Junior. There are many superb moments on “Pagodes”: on the opening track, “This Idea Of Us”, Jono's voice is set against beautiful strings. “Since I”, meanwhile, sounds as though Thom Yorke has finally come to terms with his neuroses. The excellent cover of Robert Wyatt's “Age Of Self” also deserves attention.

Jono McCleery’s world has room for many colours: subtle electronics, pure acoustic folk sounds and lyrical male vocals form a unique sonic mosaic.

For Jono McCleery, sound is an unexpected gift. That is why he appreciates the richness of music like few others and wants to share its beauty with listeners. ‘Pagodes’ is out now.

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