Big City Secrets

Joseph Arthur was the first American musician signed to Real World Records. 'Big City Secrets', the 1997 debut album, introduced his experimental folk-rock style and diverse instrumentation, adorning his songs with instruments as varied as hurdy gurdy, corn horn, Venetian xylophone, caxixi, and birimbau. What made this album unique, though, was Arthur's unusual singing style, insightful lyrics and eclectic electronic production elements. The album was recorded at Real World Studios and produced by Markus Dravs (Bjork, Coldplay, Mumford and Sons, Arcade Fire).