Tom is a 'multi-instrumentalist storyteller' who specialises in writing songs based on real events, usually in a style which refers to the tradition, but with a contemporary twist.
UK folk magazines have called him a 'master-craftsman' and a 'songwriter of real stature' who delivers 'astonishingly moving and inspirational' performances. He sings and plays guitar, mandola, Scullion dulcimer, mandocello, and duet concertina, plus, when required, whistle, fiddle, mandolin, keyboards, bass and various other instruments.
He's formed many folk and rock bands over the years (his 80s 'power-pop' band Pinups had a deal with Pete Waterman), and he has toured extensively with banjo and mandolin virtuoso Tom Napper and, occasionally, with The Pipers Sons (which included/s multi-instrumentalists Tony Taffinder and Chris "Parky" Parkinson - himself a member of a host of leading uk folk combos, and a nominee, with John Kirkpatrick, in the 2006 Radio 2 Folk Awards).
Tom Bliss: "To say that Tom Bliss is a gifted songwriter is an understatement.. superior examples of modern-day folk writing, clearly rooted in traditional styling yet with a contemporary sensibility.. rooted and soaked in lore and history...outstanding."
Tom Napper Tom Bliss: "Brilliant, a fusing of two exceptional talents.. gutsy, rootsy.. actually fantastically good.. spark off each other like an established comedy act.. Go and see this hugely talented duo the next time they come anywhere near you. You won't be disappointed."
TOM BLISS IS TAKING A BREAK FROM GIGS AT THE MOMENT. He may be back one day, meanwhile please continue to sign up to the mailing list for news of recording projects, special appearances (there are bound to be a few), and other news. Click here for album sales and main website.
Godspeed / The Snow Goose (Bliss) @ Winchester Festival
The Silverlode of Sark (Bliss) @ The Maltings, Farnham
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 162 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): TEES TO TYNE: FIRST IMPRESSIONS - SUMMER 2001
Where traditions are not so rare; Sea, country and works scent the air; A multitude of monuments, Planted tubs and patterned pavements.
The longish pedestrian malls; The remnants of defensive walls; Historic buildings are a gauge Of the respect for heritage.
Wheat, rape and pines in the fields; Estuaries guarded by shields; Long sandy beaches and wide scenes; Romantic-ruin go-betweens.
Rivers in parts licked by trees, Or fringed by boat clubs, wharfs, gantries, And crossed by practical delights - Varied spans, forming pleasing sights.
Fine churches headed at Durham; Football kits ad infinitum; Kept castles - one for study; Masonry behind masonry.
And, with moulding-works out that way, It’s somewhere for a longer stay..?
Hi Tom, thanks for becoming our friend, we're both well. Hope you’ll come and join us sometime at The Venue, Stocksbridge. We're having our launch night tonight 25th Sept.
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