Ben Willmott

It’s Only Me
Benjamin Willmott

Avril Lavigne once asked, “why’d you have to go and make things so complicated?” because as we all know, sometimes the best things in life are purely the simple things. Up-and-coming performer Benjamin Willmott grasps that concept in its entirety on his debut album, It’s Only Me. With nine tracks of pleasant, straightforward, piano-pop-rock, the Massachusetts born and raised artist conjures his predecessors like Billy Joel and Elton John (quite a compliment given that Willmott is a young 23-years-old). The singer songwriter-pianist highlights soothing vocals with piano handiwork that ranges from elegant movements to rockin’ riffs.
It’s Only Me displays a contemporary songwriter with the ability to turn emotions into relatable songs, a feat difficult for many artists who get caught up in the complications of their compositions. Willmott finds his artistic peace in focusing on the basic elements of songwriting – strong melodies, great storytelling and expressive playing. You’ll be singing along before you know it and requesting Willmott’s songs at your local piano bar.
- Kristi Singer

Every Wednesday is Pub Night. At 10:00pm, local performers make appearances to get their music heard by the college scene and just provide a relaxing good time for those hanging out, playing pool, or having a few drinks. Last Pub Night, a strong smooth voice resounded throughout the Pub and most of the Student Center. That voice belonged to the up and coming artist Ben Willmott. Performing live better than most performers on the Pop Circuit this summer, Willmott brought forth a mix of robust sounds on the piano accompanied by soft lyrics and a smooth voice.

Willmott opened his performance with "Clear Your Head" and it was performed as flawlessly as played on his CD. After that, he played all his other tracks just as well, but he also incorporated his own rendition of "This Year's Love" by David Grey, which was appreciated by all who were familiar with the slow, sweet song.

Willmott, born and raised in Massachusetts, is a twenty-three year old singer, songwriter, and pianist often compared to Ben Folds with the pianist skills of Billy Joel. After graduating from Ithaca College in New York, Willmott brought all his musical talent back to his home state and put together an impressive array of tracks. He mixes together pop, folk and rock to create sounds and songs we have yet to hear.

With a debut 6-track album titled, "No Where To Go But Up," Wilmott takes the style of rock/pop music we all know and love and adds something different. His songs feature an upbeat vibe to them, no broken hearts, problems, or bad days; just pure and simple optimism with something to sing along to. Even "Oh Parents," a track appearing to bash on mom and dad, has a sweetly bitter, buoyant ring to it. There is also, of course, the signature love song that will make any girl weak in the knees, but "Having You" also has a different twist to it. Willmott has a great way of comparing his love to all sorts of life's little aids that make him forget about his "life's way down lows." The song he closed out with, "Recipe," is really the signature song that you won't mind getting stuck in your head. You'll find each of his well crafted tracks have their own creative, well-orchestrated uniqueness that helps differentiate them all.

So really, check out his music, as there's no where to go but up from here. Go to benwillmottmusic.com for information about Willmott, check out his songs, calendar and look into getting his CD. Seriously, because when the songs start playing thousands of times a day on the radio, you'll want to be the one to tell your friends you knew him first. - Alicia Buksar, Bentley Vanguard

April 1, 2007

Ben Wilmott
Nowhere To Go But Up
By The Way Music

By Jeffrey Kurtis

From the minute that I hit play on Ben Willmott's latest release "Nowhere To Go But Up," I was sucked into this album. Willmott's voice is nothing short of spectacular and helps get you interested, but the music is simply unmatched by most of today's musicians. With the prominent instrument being the piano, it is a safe bet to compare this to Ben Folds, Elton John, etc… but those are merely influences for Willmott and, at least for this particular reviewer, he stands out more than those previously mentioned. The music is fun and catchy and does it's part to make you fall in love with this EP and I am willing to bet you are going to want more, much more. This is the perfect EP for a few reasons, but the main reason being the fact that it is just simply great music and with any good EP you will be left wanting to hear more and Willmott has succeeded in doing just that. (JK)


http://www.allageszine.com/musicreviews/reviewsw
- AllAgesZine.com

By: Caitlin Farr '09

Posted: 4/25/07

The Den was quieter than usual on March 12, but with good reason as all ears were on up-and-coming performer Ben Willmott of Somerville, MA. Thursday nights are usually big on the Wheaton campus, but the torrential rain this past Thursday kept many students away from the Lyon's Den.

Willmott took the stage to the dwindling few who braved the rain and gave an enthusiastic performance despite the weather. As a pianist, singer, and songwriter, Willmott blends folk and jazz into an intriguing mix of soulful blues and simple melodies with exceptionally thoughtful lyrics. Ben's album Nowhere to Go but Up, released in 2006, is merely a six-song slice of his wide repertoire. Most of those who braved the weather this past Thursday were certainly glad they did so, and Ben Willmott seemed glad to have them.

Willmott is the true definition of a singer/songwriter, as every song was overwhelmingly original. His lyrics were catchy, but a bit kitchy at times, made sincere through his robust voice. Definitely music for mature audiences, Willmott played several originals that far surpassed the covers that were also played. His rendition of Van Morrison's "Moon Dance" was a good fit for his style, but in no way comparable to his original work, "Alabama," which does not appear on his album. This song had the quality of a great folk song with the versatility of an even better pop song. Often compared to Ben Folds, Billy Joel, and Elton John, Willmott throws twists and turns to every song, so the audience is never bored and certainly never sorry they came. The song "Sweet Vineyard Days" - which does appear on his album - and the song "Ithaca" - which he described as relatively new - had excellent, genuine lyrics that gave the audience a direct view into the world of the performer. However, they lacked the hooks necessary to keep these songs in your head.

There is definitely potential in Willmott because he's got that "something special" quality that sets him apart from other piano playing singer/songwriters.

With a flare of optimism and undeniable talent, Willmott continues to impress listeners around New England and hopefully the Wheaton campus again… on a night with better weather. - The Wheaton Wire

July 26, 2007

CANANDAIGUA – Sherborn, Mass., is not unlike Canandaigua, N.Y.

“It’s a lot like Canandaigua,” suggests Sherborn native Ben Willmott. “It’s a quiet town. It’s very relaxing…Everybody knows everybody else.”

Willmott should feel at home when he arrives in Canandaigua next week to present a free concert at the Commons, Coach and Main streets, in the downtown area.

This is not one of those Friday evening concerts. But it is an addition to the free Commons concerts and will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 31. Don’t forget your lawn chairs.

On a brief tour that takes him to six sites, including Vermont and Massachusetts, in six days, pianist-singer Willmott will end this concert stretch in Canandaigua where he will share songs he has written, songs on his CD, “Nowhere To Go But Up.” His music is a mix of pop, rock, folk, and classical styles.

The Ithaca College graduate, now based the Boston area, finds songwriting inspiration in everyday experiences.

“I just look for simple things that I can relate to,” he says.

Writing words to go with notes can be the most difficult part of creating music and, admits Willmott, there are times when he winds up being too deep and serious. Usually, however, he recognizes the error of his ways and moves in another direction.

One of his CD songs is “Recipe” and Willmott confesses, “I don’t know where that came from.”

The first line of “Recipe” goes like this: “Don’t worry this is not a song about how I am not perfect. I think that is obvious without writing it anyway…”

Maybe that song and its title originated as Willmott worked in a kitchen on Martha’s Vineyard, a locale that also inspired “Sweet Vineyard Days,” another Willmott tune that reflects his youth at Martha’s Vineyard.

“It’s just one of those places you go to feel at home. You feel so comfortable and so relaxed (there),” he says.

One song on his CD takes an abrupt turn and point an accusing finger at parents. “Oh, parents, don’t you think it’s time that you act your age…”

The tune about parental fighting took root as he listened to friends complaining about arguing mothers and fathers.

In “You Get Rid Of The Bad,” Willmott tackles the subject of love without being obvious.

“I tried to stay away from the ‘L’ word. I’m trying to do something different,” he explains.

The 24-year-old Willmott, whose day job is working for a jazz booking agency, is also trying to look to the future.

“I really just want to play as much as I can, meet as many people in the music industry (as I can) .. I want to enjoy myself.”

For details about the concert, call (585) 396-0300 or visit www.downtowncanandaigua.com. This concert and the Friday night series is presented by the Downtown Canandaigua Business Management Association and sponsored by Mobile Music and The Daily Messenger.
- By Kathie J. Meredith - Messenger Post Staff

On his six-track debut album Nowhere To Go But Up, it's clear that Ben Willmott won't hold anything back, knowing full well what the audience likes (and doesn't). "I don't want to bore with something that's been done before," he sings on his song-philosophy track "Recipe." "I know I could do that even if I don't know why."

What can be described as a piano pop-rock joyride, Nowhere To Go But Up wants to be the soundtrack to life ... not just yours, but everyone else's. There's this undeniable James Taylor deja vu that rears its head as Willmott vocally channels the legend with the same kind of subtle, yet effective sound. "Recipe" is the star track with its melodic quirkiness and it's followed by the lovely "Sweet Vineyard Days." The organ on "Having You" gives it a transcendent feel, a heavenly declaration of love which echoes the kind of sweetness last seen on Elton John's "Your Song." Willmott's love songs are ones that can master even the greatest wordsmiths-- he uses every metaphor possible in this song, but finds that going simple can be the best bet. Closing out with "You Get Rid Of The Bad", Willmott ends with this heartfelt piano ballad and you'll swear you've just witnessed the next generation of the singer-songwriter being born.

Clearly a great debut, Ben Willmott shows that he's got the musical chops with his likable infectious pop ballads and quips about life. The arrangements and lyrics are the kind to inspire you, both noticeably melding together effortlessly. With the help of Scott Manley on drums and Nate Christy on bass and guitar, things are rounded out beautifully on this musical journey of life, love, and happiness. The only gripe: it's tragically short. But in this case, you can only wonder what he's going to come up with next.

Caroline Leonardo
- EvolutionOfMedia.com

January 31, 2008

Hopkinton, MA - When you are 23 years old and already being compared to James Taylor and Billy Joel, things are looking good for your career.

Ben Willmott, who said he has "music in my blood" will be performing at the Enter Stage Left theater on Main Street tomorrow night starting at 8 p.m.

Raised in Sherborn, Willmott graduated from Dover-Sherborn High School, and then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in music from Ithaca College in 2005. With a grandfather who played music, and an uncle who was a bass player in the popular group Sha Na Na and played with Aerosmith, it was almost a chosen path for Willmott to take when he decided to really pursue his love of music once college ended.

"I always loved music," said Willmott. "I’m classically trained in music, and I started formally taking (piano) lessons in the fifth grade, but I always fiddled around on the piano since I could walk. I was in a rock n’ roll band in college, and I really decided to plunge into this field after I graduated."

Not totally living off his passion, Willmott is taking the slow but steady route and working for a jazz music booking agency during the day, and playing at local clubs on nights and weekends.

"I am immersed in music all the time," he said. "Booking shows is a difficult process, but it is starting to pick up a lot."

Willmott plays about three or four times a week at various venues, and he hopes to tour full-time this summer once his full-length CD is complete.

After releasing a six-song EP in 2006, Nowhere to Go But Up, Willmott has been finding success by word-of-mouth. The disc, available on his Web site www.benwillmottmusic.com, cdbaby.com and on Apple iTunes, has been widely reviewed as relatable piano pop-rock.

Willmott will perform two 45-minute sets at tomorrow night’s performance, with songs from his current disc, as well as new songs and some covers by his favorite musicians, such as the Rolling Stones and James Taylor.

He said he is looking forward to playing in Hopkinton because his parents lived here for a couple years before moving to Martha’s Vineyard full-time.

Go to www.enterstagelefttheater.com to pre-order tickets for this event, as they are selling fast. - Karen Gibson - Hopkinton Crier

Ben Willmott's music first found it's way to my hands via his debut release, "Nowhere To Go But Up," and the minute I hit play on that album I was hooked. So, when I found out that he had a new album coming out my anticipation was at an all time high and as soon as I hit play on "Rich With Love," and the album opener "Up at the Top" kicked in complete with the groovy piano based pop rock that originally hooked me on his music, I was sold again. As you press forward what you quickly will start to discover is that Willmott has honed in on his craft and taken his sound to a whole new level on this album. From the slower based songs like "Alabama" and "Emily," both which beg to be compared to Billy Joel all the way through to the pop driven songs like "Ithaca" and the rocking "My Side," I dare you to put this album on and not be in love with Ben Willmott's music. This is an artist to keep on watching and I suspect he is going to have a break out year backing this well crafted album. If you are a fan of artists like Ben Folds, Billy Joel, etc… then this is a must have CD for your collection.

- Guestlist Magazine

Recent college graduate Ben Willmott is taking his double degrees in piano and business and etching a name for himself in the indie music circuit. His well-crafted songs and warm voice are appealing to a wide audience. As the title of his debut EP suggests, the sky is the limit for this young talent.

Willmott takes an easy, non-assuming poetic flair to his vocal delivery. One can almost hear him smiling as he sings. He adds some spoken word to the uplifting song “Clear Your Head” that only adds to his enthusiasm in encouraging his friend to rise up, much like the big song and dance number at the pivotal point of a Broadway musical. Drawing justifiable comparison to Ben Folds, Willmott can also be quirky.

“Oh, Parents” is a personal rant about arguing parents and the listener may uncomfortably wonder if this is a biographical piece. Willmott does not sound convincingly angry enough thus causing the piece to become further inaccessible. Plus, his piano playing gets buried in the mix, which is a shame during the bridge. However, to make up for these minor flaws, Nowhere To Go But Up features two wonderful love songs, yet the ‘l-word’ is never mentioned, as is typical in some men.

Alternating verses of unique metaphors and similes is “Having You.” Love is compared to crickets, sea glass, a night light and quilts. While at first an eyebrow may raise, once Willmott gives his explanation his trail of thought comes into focus and one realizes how sweet a statement he is making. Additionally, “You Get Rid Of The Bad” could easily make a girl melt with Willmott’s emotional and yet total reality-based lyrics. While still under the radar, Willmott has amazing potential as the next American troubadour.
- Kelly O'Neil, Music Journalist

In the grand tradition of piano-playing singer/songwriters like Elton John, Billy Joel, and Ben Folds, comes a newcomer from Massachusetts, Ben Willmott. With the release of his debut album, Nowhere To Go But Up, Ben is making his mark in the world as a force to be reckoned with. We caught up with Ben recently, and he gave thoughtful answers to Caroline Leonardo's questions.

Hello, Ben and thank you for talking to me today. Firstly, you have to explain the "going home to practice piano" thing you did everyday in high school. I heard that you did it for three hours (on your own no less) and you took lessons as well. Looking back on it, do you think it taught you a certain work ethic when it comes to making your own music?

I always work as hard as I possibly can, whether it is with booking shows, marketing myself, or practicing the music. This way, I can say that I did everything within my power and control to be successful. I have always been the kind of person who gets pleasure out of working hard and seeing the positive results of that work. If I am not working at my music career, then I am thinking about working at it.

I read on your mySpace that your musical influences range from Billy Joel to Bach. You're a young guy, so is there a chance that when people were talking about the new *insert any mainstream artist here* album, you couldn't say you were rocking the new Bach album, could you? (Not that Bach is uncool...)

At some points, I have felt as though my musical influences were “stuck in the past,” but I always try to at least listen to everything that’s current and take something away from it. I feel as though it’s imperative for a musician of any genre to always be aware of what’s happening around him or her. There are a lot of artists that I cannot credit as having an influence on my music, but that does not necessarily mean that I do not appreciate and enjoy what they are performing.

In college you were a double major in music and business. Would you recommend a similar path to other musicians that are trying to break into the music business?

Definitely. I was originally going to strictly be a music performance major, but I jumped at the opportunity when I discovered that Ithaca was offering a joint degree. I learned great lessons from both the business and music portions of my degree. The music portion allowed me to study the theory behind what I was playing and improve my performance ability. The business portion gave me the chance to study the important concepts that I have used while acting as my own booking agent, manager, and publicist.

How did it feel to finally release a debut album?

For the first time, I feel as though I have something that I can be completely satisfied with. There are, of course, a few areas where I can grow in future studio recordings, but up until Nowhere To Go But Up I had been recording myself in my room with just piano and vocals. Now I have a full band CD that is professionally produced and manufactured. It’s a dream come true to be able to give this CD to anyone and feel completely confident and proud of it.

Were there any particular goals/hopes/dreams that you had while making Nowhere To Go But Up?

I was simply hoping to create a disc with songs that had solid arrangements and lyrics and professional production. There is so much music out there now-a-days and to really stand out, musicians must do the best they possibly can to make their music sound as good as it can. It comes down to that statement I made earlier about working as hard as I can in order to take as much of the luck out of my career as possible and replace it with the certainty that I am doing all that I can to be successful.

In terms of your songwriting style, the album is spectacular in its wordplay, and I really love the song "Recipe." What was the inspiration behind it?

It’s funny that you should ask about that song. I cannot remember a specific thing or event that inspired it. “Recipe” is just one of those songs that came out without me really thinking about it too much. That doesn’t happen to me often, but when it does, the experience is difficult to describe. There are certain songs that songwriters write in their careers with which they feel they have reached a new level of writing. “Recipe” is one of those songs for me.

I thought it was interesting that your production company offers a thirty-day money back guarantee on your album. How did that make you feel when you realized they were willing to take a chance on you?

It’s terrific to know that there are people out there willing to stand behind my music. The guarantee gives listeners confidence in their purchase. With all the music out there to choose from, people need every bit certainty that this CD is the right CD to buy. If you don’t like what you hear, you should be able to know that you can be refunded…within thirty days of course!

Are there plans for another album in the near future?

I have actually started recording my full-length album, but I am not sure when it will be completed. I want to take my time and work out each song to its fullest potential. I am planning on recording fifteen or sixteen brand new tracks and then taking the twelve that I feel best about and putting them on the final album. I will probably end up putting all of them on the disc!

You recently started blogging. Was it something that you just fell into, or was it something that you knew you had to try?

I feel that it is incredibly important to connect with your listeners as much as you can. I am trying as many different ways as I can to do this. The internet has become a huge part of many people’s lives, so I figured that another way for people to get to know me was my writing about what I am up to and what I am interested in. I want to create long-term relationships with the people who buy my music. I want them to feel as important to me as they really are.

You've played some famous venues on the east coast like The Lizard Lounge and Club Passim. How has the experience been for you?

It’s been an honor playing in these venues. For the first year that I was in Boston, I was playing in lesser known venues and at many of the open mic nights, which I still do because it’s great experience and to me, a gig is a gig! To finally be getting some more recognition and be able to perform on bigger stages is a thrill.

How has the Internet made distribution of your music easier?

First and foremost, the Internet has allowed me to get my music in front of millions of people around the world that I would not have been able to without it. I am selling my CD through my website, Amazon.com, and CDBaby.com, in addition to over forty digital sites like iTunes and Napster. I am of the mindset, however, that in order to have well rounded success with CD distribution and sales, musicians still need to sell their product through local record stores, food and beverage stores like Starbucks, and especially at their gigs. Though I have had great success with online sales, I still have not sold as many CDs anywhere as I have at my gigs.

Lastly, do you have any advice for those who are just starting out their careers?

Enjoy each moment of your career. If you get frustrated with the progress that you are making, take a step back and look at the bigger picture. Never forget what it is all about…the music. Don’t let the music suffer because you are concentrating too hard on the business side of it all. Enjoy yourself.

www.evolutionofmedia.com
- An interview with Ben Willmott by Caroline Leonardo