Guest Author - Ellie Eynon

Antony and The Johnsons. I've heard the name, but not the music except for soundbites, but everyone is sure to know who they are from now on. A New York City band, yet they won the UK prize on a technicality due to the lead singer being born in Chichester in Britain and moving to the states when he was 12 years old. Antony Hegarty, a confusing chap to many to say the least, has been compared to both aliens and women due to his unique identity and style of vocal, Nina Simone has been mentioned as a comparisn.

With an almost promise of sales rising by up to 700% after the Mercury Music Prize is given, Antony and The Johnsons look set for a settled future in the music hall of fame, yet not many listeners would have heard of this 'eclectic' band. Last years prize was awarded to Scots group Franz Ferdinand, which caused upset due to the band being considered too 'poppy' and mainstream to walk away with the prestigeous award. But has the award slipped to the other end of the scale, with the band being considered a little too 'out there'?

Not according to listeners and reviewers. Regularly gaining extremely positive press ranging from complimentary to almost protective over the band against those who dare say otherwise.

Melodically beautiful, full of piano and cello, the sound is soothing and somewhat melancholy and Antonys' voice is indeed unique, at first a little startling, but it grows with an intensity and it is hard to dislike, well, after a few listens anyway.

The controversy is rife today, with the band all over the UK press, but while they're not particularly everyones 'cup of tea', this little known band has been catapulted to the fore, a blessing for many, but maybe a confusion for some.

Antony and The Johnsons, I Am A Bird Now is available at Amazon.