UK solo multi-instrumentalist ‘Cheapskate’ releases his latest LP ‘Stumbling’. Known for his vintage approach to production, Cheapskate weaves elements of jazz, soul and laid-back lounge to create quirky sonic textures that back fragile vocals, often with eccentric narratives.

His latest LP ‘Stumbling’ exemplifies this style, evoking the soundtracks of grainy late-night 1970’s films, Cheapskate conjures up images of smokey jazz lounges and whisky-sipping characters, throughout the 11-track offering. The overall theme of the LP loosely follows the story of a character in an apartment who wakes alone, forced to take stock of his situation, reflecting on the choices he’s made. Each track is based on each emotion he feels finding wisdom the way you do after the fact but still ending up being the same person he always was and always will be.

The lead single off the LP ‘Are You Lonely Tonight’ continues this story. The track was inspired by a scene in the original 1960s Ocean’s 11 film where Dean Martin croons in a sidebar. Cheapskate’s use of vintage instruments shines throughout the production, utilising simple bass grooves, laidback guitar lines and hypnotic drum beats that act as the backbone of the track. Leaving room for piano flares (Fender Rhodes), brass interludes and Cheapskate’s contemplative vocal performance.

Speaking about ‘Stumbling’ Cheapskate states “ With Stumbling I wanted to create a laid back, late night atmosphere and imply the story I pictured in my head. Whether anyone pictures that story is not important. I just want people to hear great music to put their feet up to.”

​​Hailing from Liverpool and now residing in London Cheapskate, the artist name of MJ Jackson, is inspired by the hard-bop melodies of Lee Morgan, the laconic storytelling of Georgie Fame and the upbeat rhythms of Motown while creating his laid-back melodic brand of jazz-pop in his home studio. With several singles off the LP already garnering praise from the likes of YACK! Magazine, Obscure Sounds and Alt77 Blog to name a few, Cheapskate looks to transport listeners into his grainy world with the release of ‘Stumbling’.