David Gray's White Ladder scores big in U.S.

by Carrie Lauer
FOR THE POST

David Gray is one of Britain's most acclaimed musicians, but he did not rise to the top without struggle. This tale of self-made stardom continues to inspire struggling musicians everywhere. White Ladder was self-financed, self-recorded, and self-released; a quite impressive feat in the music business today.

Current sales of White Ladder are 14 times platinum in Ireland, and three times platinum in the United Kingdom. It has achieved gold status in the United States.

With big-name public supporters such as Dave Matthews, it is easy to see why Gray has risen to success so quickly. On the get music Web site, (http://getmusic.com), Matthews says, "David is one of my absolute favorite artists - beautiful in the purest and most honest way. Anything I can do to turn more listeners on to his music, I will."

White Ladde•, was released in March last year, but just is beginning to receive radio and television play in the United States. Gray has been selling out venues all over the United Kingdom and Ireland for a few years now, but still is vying for U.S. attention.

White Ladder contains 11 tracks of pure emotion, wistful lyrics, and sublime melody. Soft strumming on an acoustic guitar gives the album its sweet, mellow attitude that allows the listener to slip into a dreamlike state of pure bliss. Gray's vocals remain soothing and passionate throughout, making ••White Ladder•• an ideal album to drift off to (works like a charm, I promise).

Virtually every song on the album boasts talent, and every song sounds different from the last one, which cannot be said about most albums on the market. Track one, entitled "Please Forgive Me," is the biggest standout. With lyrics like, "Please forgive me if I act a little strange, for I know not what I do. Feels like lightning running through my veins, every time I look at you," it is hard not to be moved. Other highlights include the tracks "White Ladder," "Silver Lining," "Nightblindness," and of course, "Babylon" which continues to be seen on MTV and VH1, and heard on radio stations nationwide.

Gray is an exceptionally inspired and talented artist, judging from his mature composition capabilities and progressive-rock style. It is clear he will gain an even larger following in the coming months, once the United States becomes further exposed to this well-kept Welsh secret.

Live performances are clearly his forte; Gray sells out every venue he plays in the United Kingdom and Ireland because he has built up such an amazing live performance reputation. Gray plays in Cincinnati on April 17 at the Taft Theatre, and in Cleveland on April 20 at the Agora Theatre. Ticket information can be found on the David Gray Web site.

So, "If you want it, come and get it, cryin' out loud". (If you are in the market for soft, sweet, easygoing melody, that is.)