Mavis: New album inspired by iconic Mavis Staples

Ashley Beedle's Mavis project incorporates seemingly disparate influences ranging from 60s soul to reggae soundsystem culture to shimmering Phil Spectre style production, brought together by an experimental recording approach to yield music that transcends genre. The inspiration for the project struck three years ago when Beedle and musical partner Darren Morris were blown away by a cover version of Burt Bacharach's "A House Is Not A Home" performed by 60s icon Mavis Staples. The duo ended up producing an instrumental inspired by the track, and sending it to a series of favorite vocalists they hand picked to deliver their own take on the music. The producers then subverted the backing track, suggesting a reggae riddim approach, for a collection of unique tracks informed by the same chord structure and points of influence.
To Ashley, Mavis Staples and the Staples Singers have always been hugely iconic. "They're the glue in our DNA", says Ashley, "Not only was their recorded work amazing but their involvement in the Civil Rights movement really meant something to me."
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Mavis feat Ed Harcourt - Puzzles & Riddles