My Mixtape: A.A. Williams

A classically trained multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and songwriter, Williams releases to date include a self-titled EP, Exit in Darkness – a 10-inch vinyl collaboration with Japanese post-rockers MONO, her debut album Forever Blue, and the lockdown induced cover album Songs from Isolation.

On 17 September she brings her blend of post-rock and post-classical, not to mention her band and the Mayfield Strings ensemble to our Queen Elizabeth Hall. But this isn’t Williams’ first Southbank Centre appearance. Back in March 2020, not long after the release of her self-titled EP, she performed in our Purcell Room. And ahead of that gig she put together a special Spotfiy mixtape for us, featuring music she felt a particular connection to. Here is that playlist, followed by some details from Williams on why she chose to pull together this particular collection of tracks.

‘This playlist brings together a cross-section of artists whose work I find influential and inspiring. Each choice encapsulates the prominent elements in the composer’s sonic language that first drew me to them, highlights a wider appreciation of the genre, and marks a point in the development of my own musical journey.

‘From Portishead’s juxtaposition of soft and harsh textures and Mono’s slow-building instrumental journeys, through to Radiohead’s subtle harmony and Nick Cave’s poignant lyricism, this collection will guide the listener through my personal musical landscape.’