The voice of Antony Hegarty of Antony and the Johnsons is hardly conventional, but where some artists veer away from convention for shock and show, Antony is an earnest master of his naturally occurring yet unusual instrument.
Understated and quiet, the music of Antony and the Johnsons wants to whisper the story instead of shout it, they seem to vie for your undivided attention by asking you to lean closer instead of hurling massive amplified sounds in your direction. The primary accompaniment to Antony’s vocals is a piano along with orchestral arrangements carefully placed for emphasis. Acclaimed composer Nico Muhly is a frequent collaborator with Antony while unique vocalists such as Lou Reed, Björk and Boy George have made appearances throughout his songs. In stark contrast to an artist such as Neko Case whose vocals are long and clean, Antony Hegarty’s voice occupies a more intimate space and seems incomplete without the distinct vibrato.
While his music may initially appear to have a sad and mournful quality, the lyrics contain such universal themes as transformation, love, duality and the future. His latest album, Swanlights, has a more hopeful tone of growth and personal acceptance. It still may not be the most uplifting album in your library, but it will be one of the most sincere.
If you like: Elliott Smith, Iron & Wine, Nick Drake
Check out : Antony & the Johnsons (start with album The Crying Light, continue with Swanlights and graduate to I Am a Bird Now and other albums)
Feeling brave : Bon Iver, CocoRosie, Martha Wainwright, BeirutAI level: Advanced