Li'l Chuck - The One Man Skiffle Machine’s new release MONO

When music is pared back to its very bones, there’s nowhere to hide. That’s exactly when multi-instrumentalist David Thorpe (aka Li'l Chuck The One Man Skiffle Machine) performs at his best.

For his third studio album, MONO, the independent Christchurch-based performer recorded all 14 tracks in a one-day session, capturing single takes with no overdubs, and using entirely 1950's mono recording equipment, direct to tape.

It’s a dynamic, lively, foot-stomping vibe that may have its origins in New Zealand’s South Island, but instantly transports you across the globe, between genres, and throughout decades. 

Li’l Chuck’s music is a melting pot of influences – driven by his harmonica, resonator guitar and vocals, and underpinned by kick drum, and hi hat - it pays homage to the artists who have graced the stage before him. Yet, the result is a sound that’s entirely his own. 

MONO was recorded Sugar Ray's Vintage Recording Studio, located in Essex, UK.

After stumbling on a video of their vintage recording techniques, he booked a session, and travelled nearly 12,000 miles to record with engineer Dean Amos. Post production and mastering was completed by Lincoln Grounds (Thomm Jutz) and released on Thorpe’s independent label, Backyard Music.

From the free-spirited Backyard Harmonica Boogie, to the heartfelt Crying, all tracks touch on musical influences from the 1930s to 50s, inspired by the sounds of the Blues, Early Jazz, Western Swing, and Ragtime, uniquely presented in the style of our founding street performers. 

Listen to MONO below. To hear more from Li’l Chuck, head over to the Songbroker Search Engine.