Singer-songwriter Tom Butler’s career was signposted from a very young age. Born in Seattle – birthplace of Jimi Hendrix, Grunge and the early career of Ray Charles – Tom was also lucky enough to be part of a music-mad family. Everything from the Beach Boys to the Beastie Boys to the Backstreet Boys… it was all on the menu, with a healthy dose of Garth Brooks, the Dixie Chicks, Tupac, Notorious B.I.G., Santana and many others thrown in for good measure. This rich musical education stayed with Tom as he started writing his own material from the age of ten. Undaunted by doomed early attempts to master the drums and piano, Tom began playing guitar in his mid-teens and soon realised he’d found both his instrument and his voice. He played his first public show in 2006 at the age of 16 at well-known music venue Kilby Court in Salt Lake City. Not long afterwards, he recorded his first EP and formed the Tom Butler Band, which quickly became the opening act for many up-and-coming artists on the Salt Lake music scene, including Fictionist. After taking two years out for voluntary work, Tom returned to Salt Lake City and was talent-spotted by Sony Music Producer Rich Parkinson. The pair spent several months songwriting together, before Tom moved to London at the end of 2012, both for work and to further his musical career. Good things have already come from that move. His professional debut EP On the Line, produced by Ben Parker, is due for release in early 2014. The EP showcases his range as both writer and performer. From the rousing powerhouse that is the title track to the haunting beauty of acoustic love song Boats, these songs pack a big emotional punch. There’s a strong folk and indie feel – unsurprising, given that Mason Jennings, William Fitzsimmons, Mumford and Sons, Iron and Wine and Laura Marling are all cited as big influences - though Tom will listen to any and everything that will broaden his vision. ‘I love clever, catchy song-writing, but also songs with honesty,’ he says. Authentic is the word that comes up again and again in relation Tom and his music. ‘I am who I am and don’t try to put on any kind of façade,’ he says simply. He compares his work to ‘the darker acoustic sounds of Dave Matthews and also to the love songs and ballads of John Mayer.’ Much of his writing is rich in religious symbolism, reflecting a strong personal faith. Some songs convey a deep serenity, others a probing restlessness about life and love. Heartache and regret, shame and desire, work and struggles - love. It’s all here. For someone who loves to travel, go to shows and hang out with friends, pitching up in London is a dream come true. ‘It’s a huge blessing to be able to live and work here. I love the history and the architecture and meeting so many people from so many places.’ And the future? ’I just want to be successful enough to travel the world and share my music and time with people.’ -Louise Rowland