Rising Stars Ratings (Don't forget to vote !):

Q1. Where are you from?

London based, Manuela is from Germany and the rest of us are from all over England. Ged’s family were all born in Ireland, Sean’s dad is Irish!

Q2. Musical influences?

Right across the board – from Led Zeppelin to Maria Callas and Elbow to Anne Sofie Von Otter!

Q3. What’s your song writing process?

It differs but usually starts with a chord sequence or guitar riff, then melody, then lyrics, then structure.

Q4. Most bizarre gig experience?

Singer not realising the band were on stage ready to go and then having our stage time cut to just 3 songs. They didn’t have enough mics for us all and the p.a. was rubbish. We made the most of it though!

Q5. If you could share the stage with anyone, who would it be and why?

It would have be with anyone on Later With Jools. We were made for that show!!

 

In their own words

“Astonishing” Tom Robinson, BBC 6 Music

The brainchild of guitarist and songwriter Ged Flood and classically-trained mezzo soprano Manuela Schuette, Mishaped Pearls’ sound is a unique contemporary blend of classical, folk and world music, inspired by the colourful world of the Baroque from where the group takes its name. (‘Misshapen pearl’ is a literal translation of the word ‘Baroque’.)

As well as being the silky voice of the group, Manuela draws on her love of ancient poetry by researching and providing most of the lyrics to the songs, which cross many countries, visiting France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and even Ancient China.  They are joined by five versatile musicians: Andrew  on keys, Amelie on bass, Sean on guitar, banjo and mandolin, Naomi on cello and Calie on hand drums and percussion.

Their reputation as an astonishing live band has grown in the last year, gaining recognition from Tom Robinson and Kelli Ali. It was also Tom Robinson who personally invited them to perform at the “BBC Introducing: Fresh On The Net Festival” at the Riverside Studios in London to celebrate and showcase the best acts from the last three years of his radio show.

In 2010 as well as appearing at The Southbank Royal Festival Hall and a number of music and folk festivals Mishaped Pearls toured The Auvergne in France to great reviews in the regional press and they have been asked to return to France to play a festival again this summer.

“Seeing Mishaped Pearls for the first time live at The Slaughtered Lamb, I was hypnotized by their poetry and beauty….their live shows are mesmerizing.” Kelli Ali – Spiral Earth Magazine

 

 

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