The betting on the ex-member of Britpop outfit The Longpigs has been so strong that his odds have halved from 8/1 to 4/1 on betting giants Ladbrokes. Arctic Monkeys remain favourites however at 5/2.
Before embarking on a solo career, Hawley was asked by Jarvis Cocker to play with Pulp and was a touring member in the late 90's. He hasn't been above the odd session work either; he's worked with Robbie Williams, played guitar on the All Saints cover of 'Under The Bridge' and worked on the soundtrack to Baz Luhrman's Romeo & Juliet. Respec'.
“The first Briton in years to recognise the genius of the 50’s production from Sun studios without resorting to pastiche … he croons like an angel … watch out for this man.” The IndependentI admit to not having listened to the majority of Hawley's work but he put in a stellar performance on Later With Jools Holland last year. Here's the track he played, nicked off Mr Red Penguin's blog (link) bloody ages ago.
Richard Hawley - Just Like The Rain (Live On Later With...)
Hear some of 'Coles Corner' here then buy it if you wish from HMV (link).
Richard Hawley is also playing live at a handful of festivals over the summer, see his website (link) for more details.