Belfast blues rock artist Ben Cutler has released his new single, Break The Ice, ahead of the release of his new EP of the same name on 20 October. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
“I wrote the song based on the classic rule, ‘Don’t bore us, get to the chorus’. I believe Break the Ice meets this test and it is my favourite release to date. It captures the thought process that sometimes there’s no substitute for jumping in at the deep end and not looking back.”
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Ben found success as a busker at Banbridge Buskfest across several years and was a finalist in the UK Song Academy Songwriters competition where he found fans in Tom Odell and Jamie Theakston.
In 2021, he was selected to take part in 21 Artists for the 21st Century Programme which resulted in a sell-out gig in Belfast’s Lyric Theatre and a performance at 10 Downing Street.
Ben plays Caffe Nero Sessions, Belfast on September and his EP launch at The Deer’s Head, Belfast on 20 October.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I believe my passion for music was passed down from my grandfather who used to play in the showband scene in Belfast. My full name is actually Benjamin Samuel Ryan Giles-Cutler, but I opted for a shorter stage name! The guitars I play are handmade by my uncle (Cutler Custom Guitars).
How would you describe your music?
My current sound leans heavy towards classic rock’n’roll guitar music with an added blues edge. Melody is something that is most important to me however I aim for a conversational feel to the lyrics leaving the particular subject matter open to interpretation but crucially, instantly relatable to everyone’s own daily struggles and experiences.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My inspirations range from the most renowned UK bands such as The Rolling Stones and Oasis to more southern blues rock acts such as Blackberry Smoke and The Black Keys.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first gig I can remember going to would be Foy Vance and Ken Haddock at the Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival which is where I first discovered I found enjoyment in songwriting and performing.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first physical record I bought was El Camino by The Black Keys.
What’s your favourite song right now?
I’m going through a Stones phase at the moment, my favourite track being Street Fighting Man.
Favourite lyric of all time?
“Some might say that we should never ponder, On our thoughts today ‘cause they hold sway over time”. Some Might Say – Oasis.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Whatever – Oasis.
Where can people find your music/more information?
All my upcoming gigs and information can be found on my Facebook and Instagram under Ben Cutler Music and of course my debut EP Break The Ice will be available on the 20 October on all streaming platforms.
Alan Corr
