Henry Hugo has been described as a cult figure, a chameleon artist lurking in the depths of music, with a unique vocal style producing melancholic lyrics about daily human experiences. A multi-instrumentalist, composer, sound engineer and producer, Henry has played with the likes of Hugo Race, the late Spencer P. Jones, Steve Lucas (X), Martin Bisi (Sonic Youth), and many more. The Kindred Souls (Damian Hooper - bass, Scott Bennett - drums, Charlie Barker - keys/saw, Douglas Galbraith - guitar) present Henry's compositions through a moody alternative-rock sound and disposition.
Photo: Matthew Ellery
With special guest Miguel Rios.
Miguel Rios biography
The seeds of Miguel’s songwriting were sown early, growing up in Far North Queensland, inspiration surrounded him – indoors and out. He had access to a home recording studio, where he and his early bandmates would make rough recordings, and then there was the vast record collection subliminally informed his future compositions
From the age of 11, his days started with guitar practice. At 15, he formed a band with schoolmates. Influences expanded from Angus Young riffs to the bluegrassy fingerpicking of Leo Kottke and John Fahey. One day his teacher played some Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley tunes on acoustic guitar. Intoxicated by the endless rhythmic possibilities, Miguel’s instrumental voice was born. On steel string acoustic or slide guitar, his passion is evident. After moving to Melbourne with bandmates in 2000, Miguel has continued to perform and record in various bands and duos. Miguel released Slaughterhouse Road in 2020, his first solo album. His follow up album Running Blue again features virtuoso fiddle player Ash Jones – an instrumental marriage made in heaven. Originally recorded in 2014 with renowned producer Craig Pilkington. From edgy alt-folk narratives to upbeat bluesy outings, it builds a unique soundscape. Now, newly mixed and re-imagined by Hugo Race, the 11-song collection has the feel of a natural progression for Miguel. His vision has come full circle.
Sublime guitar work underscores clear, rich vocals that bring Leonard Cohen to mind. Stories are cloaked in evocative references to nature, humanity, and the mysteries of life. Gritty, intriguing, worldly and ethereal. Since moving to bushland outside Melbourne, the effect of inherited memory may be at play in this creative evolution. He has begun to feel a strong cultural connection with his Native American and Mexican heritage. The backdrop of tall eucalypts, dappled light and feathered warblers provides a nest that nurtures both his young family and his art.
Miguel’s festival appearances have drawn audiences that build to capacity, from Nimbin Roots to Bendigo Blues. Fellow artists to sing his praises include Hat Fitz and Cara Robinson, Neil Murray and recent collaborator Kavisha Mazella.
"After seeing him sing…and listening to ‘Slaughterhouse Road’, Miguel is the most compelling and interesting singer-songwriter I have seen in a long time.”
(Kavisha Mazella)
With an already long and celebrated career, Miguel Rios is poised to confirm his place among this country’s favourite troubadours. Miguel is currently working on his third album with producer Henry Hugo.
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