Born in England but raised in Australia and New Zealand, he has been playing the keyboard since the age of one, quickly progressing to piano and synthesizer. Drums are also in his repertoire as he learned to play when living in Melbourne. Anthony previously studied at the Creative School of Musicianship in Ponsonby.
Anthony Coulter is a profuse writer of original songs, so it surprised me that Memories is his debut album, second only to Shaking Her Wings, an EP released in 2015. He is a very passionate and dedicated musician who can channel Andrew Lloyd Webber effortlessly.
The theatrical side of Anthony shines on Memories, his lush vocals gloriously enhanced by those of local musical artist Denise Hyde. He has an infectious positivity and charm about him which radiates out through his music. An element of cliche in some of his lyrics, adds to the unique flavour of this album.
A life time of piano playing contributes to the polished sound on this album, complemented by Lewis Martin and his elegant sax, Shane Davis and his skilled guitar playing and of course the afore mentioned Denise Hyde. Further backup vocals are added by Liz Tamblyn and Brooke Stinson, on drums are Silas Tawhara, Steve Laffan and Tim Frame.
Described as "pop-rock" Memories highlights Anthony’s charismatic side, there is no doubt about the dedicated professionalism which went into making this album. From the onset track one; Any Colour You Like gives a taste of bold melodic vocals. His song writing style is as big as his personality. Always delivered with a flourish.
If I were to describe Memories as a dish, I would say it has "big, bold flavours". There is a nice mix of pop, rock and jazzy elements here, creating a clean cohesive sound.
Further standout tracks for me are Arresting A Dream. If you seek out the music video, it is just as visually enticing as the song sounds. The title track Memories, which is the last passionate piece on this album, is a mellow jazz infused number in which the saxophone takes the final bow. It brought to mind sitting in a piano bar in las Vegas , dressed up to the nines martini in hand.
Taking a sabbatical from his music, Anthony Coulter is currently working on other artistic projects, however there is a new album already in the wings and I am sure it won't be long until Tauranga’s own 'Piano Man' is back tickling those ivories.
Anthony Coulter is a singer songwriter who has two releases available. The first is Shaking Her Wings an EP released in 2015 and his latest album Memories.
Following a successful CD release party at Tauranga's The Jam Factory where all songs were performed on a Grand Piano with the original backing tracks from the Colour Field Recording Studio and Soundtree Studios
Anthony is working on a future Album called Missing Pieces and features new material Fire in my Heart, Shadows and Love Lockdown singles released this year and available on all major download sites.