Based in Tamworth in the UK, Martin Reynolds takes influence from the likes of The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Laura Marling, The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones to create his own brand of timeless indie folk music.
Serving as the drummer of the Tamworth-based grunge blues duo You Dirty Blue, who graced the Glastonbury stage, Bearded Theory, Farmer Phil's Festival and Off The Tracks Festival, as well as Supporting big artists such as: Wolf Alice, Starcrawler, White Lung, The Groundhogs and Radio Moscow, decided to change musical direction during lockdown, and step out from behind the drumkit to become a singer/songwriter in his own right to deliver his own joyous sound.
A heartfelt combination of sixties power pop and unflinchingly sincere lyrics, Where There’s Hope (2021) was described by Counteract magazine as ‘a tonic’ for uncertain times. As well as catching the attention of BBC Radio Derby, BBC Radio WM, BBC Music Introducing Coventry and Warwickshire and BBC Music Introducing in the West Midlands on more than one occasion, who went on to describe debut single 'Strange Days Indeed' (2020) as "The song of lockdown".
2022 saw Martin release his new single “Everything’s Better”. Laying down his lead vocals and playing guitar, bass and drums on the single, he’s joined by Sheena Vultaggio on piano and backing vocals and Peter Voronov on violin and viola. With his buoyant indie folk anthem, he offers a dose of positivity and provides the soundtrack for the world recovering from the dark times of the last two years. Capturing an enduring sound, “Everything’s Better” is testament to his song writing talent on a single that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
It was a successful year for Martin, from opening up for America’s own Jim White, to closing the Commonwealth Games at Tamworth’s closing ceremony, he continues to go from strength to strength.
2023 saw Martin put together his live band, “Martin Reynolds and The Minor Detours” made up of some of his favourite local musicians and friends, who then hit the road and wowed audiences across the U.K.
December 1st 2023 Martin released a brand new song titled “It All Feels Like Christmas”. The song fts. Sheena Vultaggio on Piano, and Becky Walker of Birmingham's High Horses on Saxophone. The song helped to raise £237 for the charity organisation CRISIS, a charity that helps people experiencing homelessness.
2024 Will see Martin release his follow up album, titled “I Wonder Which You?” With the first single “Day To Day” released in May, followed by a tour across the U.K. throughout June and July.
“I really feel like this could go down in history as the song of lockdown” - Harry Bozman
“Reynolds' bittersweet optimism feels refreshing and heartfelt, and paired with uplifting folk pop melodies and sunshiny guitar it’s sure to be a tonic over the coming months.” - Emily Doyle
“A truly endearing and captivating piece of work.” - Atri Mukherjee
“‘Where There’s Hope’ is a triumph of creative spirit, borne on a rich acoustic sound instantly recognisable through a familiarity with its influences, and littered with relatable themes and references. It’s clear that, with the success of this solo record, Reynolds’ step in to the spotlight could – and possibly should – become a more regular occurrence.” - Michael Nelson