The Frootful Art Ensemble is the live 6-piece band fronted by brand new Freestyle Records signing, Frootful. The debut LP, Colours (produced by Lack of Afro) will be released in March, and the band will be touring in March and April to promote the album. The single (see right) has already received high praise from Blues and Soul magazine, with airplay worldwide. Tracks from both the single and album have also received airplay on the Craig Charles show on BBC6.
Frootful, is the name musician and illustrator, Nick Radford works under. Bridging the gap between past and present, the name acknowledges influences, while reflecting the creative process of looking back to move forward. Such influences include 60s soul jazz, latin, ska and R&B. Being a guitarist, Nick also cites players such as Grant Green, Kenny Burrell, Boogaloo Joe Jones and BB King as a constant source of inspiration.
The live format includes Nick Radford (Frootful) on guitar; producer Adam Gibbons (Lack of Afro) on alto sax and percussion; Angeline Morrison (The Ambassadors of Sorrow) on vocals; plus double bass, drums and tenor sax. Expect sharp suits, a knockout vocalist, and a swinging souljazz/soul/R&B /latin/ska set aimed squarely at the dancefloor.
Accompanying the tour will be limited edition prints by Frootful and selected other artists, which can potentially be exhibited on a wall at venues and will be for sale on the night.
Frootful is also available for DJ bookings, and in addition to the 6-piece, the band will also be available as a trio following the tour. For soundclips and mixes etc. please click here.