Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

James Severy and Steph Harsant

James Severy At The Circus Circus is the musical output of 24-year-old James Severy.

The former Thurleston High School pupil wrote the songs and played all the instruments on a home recorded demo CD. It was picked up by Huw Stephens in the early part of 2007.

The DJ played future single Do The Circus Circus on his Radio One Introducing show and invited James to play at the second Latitude Festival in July.

Since then James has been playing regularly as a solo act in Suffolk and London whilst looking at ways to add to his live sound. The invitation to record a session at Maida Vale sped this process up.

James recruited the help of Steph Harsant, also from Ipswich, to play cello and piano and Ben Wiffen, who has produced James's more recent recordings.

"We've tried to bring beats and electronic music together with traditional instruments, without making a horrible mess," James said of his session. "Well, it's been a bit of a mess, but a nice mess."

The timing of James' visit to Maida Vale came as reports suggested the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ was considering selling the studio.

"It's quite tragic that somewhere so steeped in history is under threat. I know it's a bit tatty but it's got a lot of character.

James Severy at Maida Vale

"Playing at Maida Vale is something that artists really look forward to doing and it's a real honour to be asked.

"For me personally it's been really special to come play here. I think it's important to have a bit of heritage and to keep places like this open."

Local bands The Dawn Parade and The Vaults recorded at the studios during John Peel's time at Radio One, but Suffolk's been poorly represented since the legendary DJ passed away over three years ago.

"I feel really lucky to be recording here as I can't think of anyone from Ipswich who's recorded at Maida Vale. It could be due to there being a lot of really dedicated artists in the town but not really anywhere to play.

"There are some really good pubs to play at, but no dedicated music venue with good sound."