Moon fan Charlene heads for the stars (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Moon fan Charlene heads for the stars

11:27am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Music By Emma Lidiard, Reporter

IDYLLIC conceptual folk songstress, Charlene Soraia, is poised to dazzle crowds at Lancaster's hottest music venue.

The London-based solo artist, who has already soared to number three with Wherever you will go in the official UK charts, is heading to Get it Loud as part of a her first headlining UK tour.

A self-confessed lunatic in the literal sense of the word, Charlene said she 'absolutely loves' the moon which is why her debut album has been titled Moonchild.

"It's our lonely little satellite," said Charlene. "We sort of forget it's there but it effects us all. It's like me - I'm a bit of a loner. It's a lot different to all the other moons in our solar system."

Throughout her beautifully calming 13-track album, Charlene has peppered the lyrics with hidden messages.

"It's highly conceptual," Charlene explained. "There is some heartache in there. It's a very honest album and progressive."

Taking inspiration from artists such as Pink Floyd, Charlene has aimed to create an album which is an event-designed to be heard from beginning to end rather than merely a single.

After her inimitable tour in the UK, Charlene is set to unleash her soulful hits on revellers in America and then Germany.

"It’s quite scary as I haven't been abroad much," said Charlene. "But I'm really looking forward to it. Then I'm going to crack on with writing my second album."

This summer the enchanting performer is set to enjoy the charms of the Healing Field Gathering, which is an area normally set up in Glastonbury but will run as a separate event this year.

"I'd love to play at Kendal Calling. It sounds awesome," Charlene added.

Charlene's motto for life is 'to have a good time all the time' which she hopes comes across during her gigs.

"I like to create a very personal atmosphere at my gigs," said Charlene. "It's strange when I'm on stage I turned really funny. I think all my nervous energy goes into jokes. I like people to feel like they are part of the music."

Her Lancaster gig is one of the only remaining venues not to sell out so anyone wishing to see her on February 19 should secure a ticket fast by visiting: www.getitloudinlibraries.com.