Mal Webb

Mal Webb

Mal Webb is a Melbourne, Australia-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist known for his use of live looping in performance, recording a vocal or instrumental phrase and then building further parts over it. Born in 1966, he works both as a solo artist and as a member of several groups.

Background and performance style

Webb is described as a vocal gymnast, and his live setup includes a loop pedal that lets him layer sounds in real time. His work centres on voice, acoustic performance and multi-instrumental playing.

Bands and collaborations

He is involved with a number of bands, including Totally Gourdgeous, Bomba and Formidable Vegetable Sound System. He is also associated with Oxo Cubans. His wider work places him in both solo and group settings across acoustic and ensemble-based performance.

Release and distribution

Webb makes a number of songs available as free MP3 downloads through his own website and Myspace page.

Recognition

Ani DiFranco has described him as a “freak”, and another comment compares his style to Bobby McFerrin, Aphex Twin and Cole Porter playing scrabble, suggesting a mix of vocal range, experimental approach and songwriting craft.