The return of Sydney singer-songwriter Charlie Gradon is a welcome one, as music fans move through into a summer of new music. His music to date has encompassed a vast range of influences, yet what threads them together is a rich knack for songwriting and individualistic style.
Today, Gradon releases a brand new single in ‘Black + White’ – an evocative and striking piece of music that reasserts Gradon as a multi-talented artist to watch.
A song focused on relationships, specifically witnessing the breakdown of a relationship, ‘Black + White’ explores the complexity of intimate connection and the nuance that comes with navigating your way through such an emotional environment.
Recorded by Gradon and his band out of Liam Judson’s Sonic Funhouse in the Blue Mountains back in April 2021, ‘Black + White’ in its final form comes wrapped up in the dynamism of a group of musicians who are very much in sync – their artistry elevates the key sounds that sit at the core of Gradon’s songwriting style.
“I think we ended up using the first take of the session. I’ll never forget Liam Judson (engineer) swearing loudly seconds after we finished, declaring we had it!” CHARLIE GRADON
Along with the release of the single itself, Gradon has also shared the official music video for ‘Black + White’, directed by Tom Stephens. Filmed in Pitt Town, New South Wales, the narrative of the song is captured beautifully on screen.
“It’s about witnessing your life in a dreamlike state and seeing memories wherever you go.” CHARLIE GRADON
With early music evoking references to some of indie music’s greats including Mac DeMarco and Radiohead, Charlie Gradon emerged in 2018 as an intriguing new player on the Australian scene. British born, now based in Sydney, Gradon’s confessional style of songwriting has had international qualities from the jump; his perspectives have been both inviting and accessible for listeners, making his overall catalogue one that media and radio alike have flocked to in recent years.
Two EP releases in Self-Doubt (2018) and Blurry Ones (2020) gained the attention of triple j, 3RRR, 4ZZZ and more, while gaining rotation spots across FBi Radio, 2SER and Double J. As a live performer, Gradon’s hypnotic and charismatic presence on record has translated brilliantly into the on-stage realm; he has sold out shows at both the Lansdowne Hotel and Oxford Art Factory in Sydney.
Gradon’s songwriting pen is also strong when it comes to collaborations with other artists, his co-writing credits include Julia Stone, Pacific Avenue, The Rions, DZ Deathrays and others.
Single Photography by: Tom Stephens
Artwork Design: Elise Hislop
Artwork Concept: Isabella Kerstens, Lachlan Macpherson
PRAISE FOR CHARLIE GRADON
“I love it when an artist’s mind, heart and talent join forces to produce something as authentic and joyous as this song.” DOUBLE J (Dot Markek)
“Dispersing an emotional vivacity inescapable to the human soul, the quintessential aftermath to any Charlie Gradon experience.” The AU Review
“Soaring melodies and beautiful harmonies stick out on the EP that flirts with folk, indie, and rock genres, and is glued together by Charlie’s insightful lyricism and unique voice.” Life Without Andy
With a full new project of music in the pipeline for release in 2023, Charlie Gradon is looking ahead to building upon a strong foundation of material that has already established him as one of the country’s most promising songwriters.