The first in a series of live performances, and on the lead up to the release of James McArthur & the Head Gardeners fourth Album; Keep it Clean, Illuminate Productions showcased an exclusive live event in the heart of Mayfair. 

The intimate and ephemeral live show, enabled the audience to see the band up close and personal, whilst also experiencing the therapeutic properties of light and the impermanence of the London skyline. 

McArthur always retains his connection to the natural world and his relationship with the environment, integrating nature and nurture. McArthur’s music invites the listener to unite, connect with each other and to consider our place in the world. 

The location, opposite the infamous Claridges Hotel, is steeped in history and was also for over 20 years the headquarters of Vidal Sassoon, renowned for their iconic fashion and effortless sophistication, it is now the temporary home of Illuminate Productions, before being re-developed next year.

Keep it Clean demonstrates McArthur’s, now signature, intricate plucked guitar lines and hushed vocals that are beautifully accompanied with yearning violin from Jim Willis and haunting pedal steel guitar from Johnny ‘O, who make up The Head Gardeners. Throughout his career, McArthur has valued the overall listening experience. Past live performances include alongside ambient DJs at the Tate Modern, live shows on the top of a mountain, the top of a high rise building and miniscule gigs in a vintage golden caravan, his devotion to creating the perfect atmosphere is key to the beautifully intimate feel in his music.

“Strong and beautifully articulated, sometimes evoking the feel of Nick Drake’s Pink Moon.” – Mojo

 “Bucolic melodies, intricate acoustic guitar-picking and lazy, dusty vocals...a British answer to Iron and Wine's Sam Beam.” – Uncut

 “A Beta Band-like roots rondo with jazzy touches that a modern-day Pentangle might pilfer.” – Classic Rock

 “As close as we'll get to a modern-day Heron.” – Record Collector

 “His sound is immersive and bubble like, it felt like I was inside the music looking out.” – Jimmy Cauty (KLF, The Orb)

 “James McArthur’s music is like his gardens: intricate, beautiful and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.” – Jamie Morrison (Stereophonics)