大象传媒

Unlike most artists wanting to be considered as a serious musician, Ross Edwards confesses to having less than credible influences.

His recorded output may be mature, emotional and Radio 2 friendly but his roots can be traced back to commercial pop of the early 90s.

"I got into music by accident," said Ross, who added that his performing career began in Ipswich. "Like most young lads I would be singing cheesy music into the mirror but my next door neighbour asked if I wanted to be in his band.

"I asked what sort of music it was and he said 'sort of Oasis type stuff'. I wasn't really into Oasis or indie music, I liked cheese. But he gave me an Oasis album to listen to and loved it straight away."

Ross's time as frontman with Seven Year Itch ended in 2001 when the band veered towards a more punky sound.

"I was enjoying the acoustic David Gray, Coldplay sounding commercial stuff. I thought 'hang on, I'm going to go solo here - I can write songs, play guitar and have picked up the piano'.

"Ever since then I've been writing songs whilst travelling - trying to find myself as an artist. I think you have to get out there and write songs on the way."

Ross' travels took him to Bristol, where in January 2009 he was busy working on tracks for his second album. This is despite the fact his debut LP, Requiem, is yet to be released.

"There's a few studios down here which I tend to use - they know the kind of sound I'm aiming for.

"My debut album is out later this year but I'm now working on my new album, which has piano and an orchestra on it."

Ross looks to use his lyrics as a gateway to building a close relationship with his audience.

"There's a song called It's Not My Fault which is about being blamed for something that you haven't done, a crime you haven't committed. If I can touch someone out there and reach out to an audience, well that's what the aim is."

One of the newer tracks, Fireworks, sees Ross stripped down to just his vocals and piano, drawing an uncanny resemblance to David Gray.

"Fireworks is about my nan who died 10 years ago. She was a massive influence and a very nice person.

"I felt like I owed her a decent song, so hopefully she can hear it wherever she is."