Chris T-T

Chris T-T

Chris T-T is the performing name of Christopher Thorpe-Tracey, an English singer-songwriter born in 1974 and based in Brighton. He works in alternative rock and folk, and is known for songs that focus on British life, politics, war, money, love, sex and death. He is now retired from the music business.

Career

After studying pop music at Leeds University for three years, he moves to London. He records his first album in 1999 while working a day job, using makeshift equipment in his bedroom. That debut, Beatverse, comes out on his own Wine Cellar label and sells fewer than 500 copies. The record leads him to write with more direct opinion and bluntness.

Snowstorm Records then funds his next release, Panic Attack at Sainsbury’s, in 2000. Over the following years he becomes a regular presence on the UK indie circuit, touring in beat-up vans, sleeping on floors, and playing to a growing fan base.

The London Trilogy and other releases

His work includes two albums in the London Trilogy, The 253 from 2001 and London Is Sinking from 2003, plus the political mini-album 9 Red Songs from 2005. These releases combine wry observation, direct political comment and personal songwriting.

Capital, released through Xtra Mile Recordings in 2008, completes the trilogy. It uses a range of styles, from electronic synth-pop to piano-led folk, and features drumming by Andy Burrows of Razorlight. The album presents London as a city under strain, with civil conflict, failing infrastructure and a love story at its centre.

Style and reputation

Chris T-T’s songs often take on difficult subjects with detail and irony, and his writing is associated with both humour and sharp criticism. His work is championed by a range of UK music media and radio outlets, and his live performances are noted for provoking strong reactions from audiences.

Output

Across a 20-year career, he releases 10 studio albums, two live collections and a number of collaborations.