Born in London, globetrotting British singer/songwriter Ed Laurie began his career as an actor, and though he flourished under the lights of the stage, the confidence he gleaned from the theater would eventually lead him back to his first love, music. Laurie's extended family in Eastern Europe, Germany, Spain, and Brazil have helped to shape his genre-defying sound. With a wide array of influences ranging from traditional singer/songwriters like Leonard Cohen and Fred Neil to legendary African singer Césaria Évora and flamenco guitarist Paco Peña, Laurie's thoughtful, atmospheric, warm, and occasionally melancholy songs have drawn comparisons to everyone from Syd Barrett to Jacques Brel. His seven-song self-released EP, Meanwhile in the Park, found success online both regionally and internationally, and resulted in a record deal with the Los Angeles-based Dangerbird label. His full-length debut for the label, Small Boat Big Sea, was slated for release in 2009. ~ James Christopher Monger