Marty T is loving life as music maker

Marty T has been building up a reputation as a versatile music man over the past four years since he first took to the stage during the interval at a friend’s gig.

His debut EP ‘Escape From Nowhere’ is out now and showcases his ability to turn his hand to pop, rock, indie, country and folk music.

Each of the four tracks bring something different to the table, presenting Marty as a masterful Jack of all trades.

Marty’s vocal style splices an indie sneer with a country twang, while his guitar playing lays the foundation for some very catchy tunes.

He told the ‘MAIL’ how he first got hooked on music.

Marty said: “I knew music would play a big part in my life after visiting my uncle’s house when I was little and my uncle was watching Live Aid 1985 video, and Neil Young was playing when I walked in and thought he was unbelievable.

“I started playing guitar in the nineties when the whole Indie boom kicked off. Oasis were the band that did it for me.”

As well as Oasis, Marty said his other influences include Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Simon and Garfunkel and The Beatles.

Now 34, Marty got serious as a musician at the age of 30 when he started playing folk sessions in local bars.

He said: “I’d started started playing guitar as a hobby in my room, playing over Oasis tracks. About four years ago I progressed to playing at folk sessions in local bars, were I began singing after a few drinks to calm the nerves

“I received regular compliments on my voice so I spent the next few years developing my vocals. I began by getting up at gigs where my friends were playing, during their 20 minute break, then I decided to take the plunge and buy my own gear and start gigging on my own.”

Just this week Marty got a late call to go down to Belfast and play live on Blast FM. He’s also had airplay on Radio 501 in Holland.

He used all his rock n’ roll guile to blag a slot in the Empire even though he didn’t have the credentials necessary to perform. Having blown the audience away with a cover of Neil Young’s ‘Heart Of Gold’ he’s been asked back to the venue for more of the same.

In the process Marty is building up a fanbase in Lurgan, Banbridge, Gilford, Lisburn and Belfast.

Marty T’s debut EP ‘Escape From Nowhere’ is available from Icons coffee shop in Lurgan or it can be ordered at www.martytmusic.bigcartel.com

It will be launched with a gig in The International Bar on Saturday, April 6 at 9pm. Tickets (£6) are on sale from Icon’s coffee shop.

He’s also working on a music video for ‘Dancing In The Rain’ which should be online by the weekend.

To find out more about Marty T go to www.facebook.com/martytmusic