A humorous, understated image, and cheeky grin helps Ben Griffith build an instant rapport with the audience.

His voice seems familiar but is hard to pin point, could it be James Morrison? David Gray? Although the voice may not be so unique, it sounds good and is used well.

He plays electro acoustic guitar with a drummer and electro acoustic bass alongside him, which blend well to create tunes reminiscent of Badly drawn boy; skilfully playing melancholic songs, but with the right balance, not to evoke misery, but to lull you into a reflective mood. At times the lyrics really speak out; clearly Ben is a balladeer, and a natural one at that.

Fortunately Ben Griffith uses the rest of the band to effect, rather than just adding support, the catchy bass lines add a depth to their tracks. The slightly upbeat songs in his repertoire are more gig friendly, but it is not to say I would change the station if one of his slower songs came on the radio, I just feel that they would perhaps pass me by, sounding, at times, a little too similar to other artists out at the moment.
If you have the chance, I would recommend going to see Ben live. His EP entitled ‘Tea and Sympathy’ was released on the 15th October and you can visit his myspace at www.myspace.com/bengriffithmusic or www.bengriffithmusic.com.

You can also download an exclusive session by Ben, recorded for Rare FM, by clicking here.