Martin Stephenson
b. c.1965, Durham, England. This singer/songwriter's reputation has been bolstered by virtue of searing live performances throughout the UK. His early love of literature and music led to the formation of the first Daintees line-up in his early teens. With a regular turnover of staff and lack of proper gigs the band nevertheless became something of a busking sensation, on the evidence of which Newcastle record label Kitchenware sent them into the studio. After two singles, notable amongst which was the intoxicating Roll On Summertime, a debut album was embarked upon. The Daintees line-up at this time comprised Stephenson (guitar/vocals), Anthony Dunn (bass/acoustic guitar/vocals), John Steel (keyboards/harmonica/bass/vocals) and Paul Smith (drums/percussion). BOAT TO BOLIVIA was praised by the New Musical Express because it ‘builds bridges between love and hate, between cradle and grave, between folk and pop, between the past and present’. An example of the candidness and honesty of Stephenson's lyrics is best portrayed on Caroline and Crocodile Cryer. He also revealed his appreciation of the folk/blues rag guitar style with Tribute To The Late Rev. Gary Davis as well as regular live performances of Van Dyke Parks' High Coin. However, a lengthy hiatus delayed the arrival of the follow-up until 1988. GLADSOME, HUMOUR & BLUE contained the superb Wholly Humble Heart. Once again reviews were excellent, and Stephenson already held an impressive reputation for hearty live shows. SALUTATION ROAD became the songwriter's most politicized work in 1990, prefaced by the single Left Us To Burn which directly attacked Margaret Thatcher. He continues to be a consistent live draw, often appearing solo, or with the Daintees, who comprise any musician who fits the bill. Not yet considered a major songwriter, his elevation to that status may only be a matter of time and YOGI IN MY HOUSE is an excellent starting point for an introduction to this highly talented writer.