I first came across the name Connor Selby when he was announced as a support act for Beth Hart. Sadly, I’ve never had the pleasure of seeing him live (yet), but when I first listened to his music, I assumed he was American. Why? Probably because that soulful, rich voice reminds me of the classic blues singers of years gone by.
A New Blues Wave from the UK
There’s a lot of great new blues talent on the scene right now – from The Zac Schulze Gang to Toby Lee and, of course, Connor Selby. What’s most exciting is how each of these artists interprets the blues in a completely different way, yet they’re all exceptional. The message is loud and clear: the blues are alive and well – and the next generation is coming from the UK.
A Classic Blues Brothers Vibe
If I had to describe Connor Selby’s sound, I’d say it’s a classic “Blues Brothers” big-band style, i.e it comes complete with Hammond organ, horns, backing vocals and a laid-back, soulful voice that leaves you wanting more. This is an album that makes you stop and listen. His new release, The Truth Comes Out Eventually (out August 29 via Provogue), is not just an album – it’s an emotional outpouring. Connor’s songs are deeply personal, often touching on themes of belonging, self-acceptance, and mental health.
Standout Tracks and Emotional Depth
The title track is particularly striking – a heartfelt ballad about feeling like you can’t live up to people’s expectations. There’s a vulnerability in Selby’s delivery that makes you feel every single lyric.
The opener, “Someone,” pulls you in instantly with its warm groove and lyrical honesty.
Then there’s “(I Am) Who I Am” – a statement of self-belief – while the folky ballads “Amelia” and “Songbird” bring out his softer side. It’s the kind of record that could easily sit alongside classics by Gary Clark Jr., Ray LaMontagne, or even early Leon Bridges. Connor Selby has that rare quality – he sounds timeless.
Background and Context
The fast-rising rootsy British troubadour has collaborated with Mark Knopfler, supported The Who at Wembley Stadium, and shared stages at London’s Hyde Park Festival with Pearl Jam and Stereophonics. His glittering tour CV includes Beth Hart at the London Palladium, plus shows with Robert Cray, Joanne Shaw Taylor, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Betty LaVette, and P.P. Arnold. Unfazed by big stages, Selby reflects, “A stage is a stage. I just shut my eyes when I’m playing, and it’s like you’re just playing another gig.” This calm confidence permeates the album, where he explores his sense of not belonging and mental health struggles through emotive storytelling.
Verdict: 9/10
The Truth Comes Out Eventually is a soulful, rootsy masterpiece that shows Connor Selby is not just another blues musician, but a unique voice with staying power. Released August 29 via Provogue, this album is a must-listen for fans of authentic, heartfelt music.
Connor Selby will also be touring the UK from June to September.
Pre-order/Stream HERE
UK Dates
20 Aug – Hangar Farm, Southhampton
21 Aug – Eel Pie Club, Twickenem
12 Sep – The Old Riverport Blues, St Ives, Cambridgeshire
17 Sep – The Witham, Barnard Castle
18 Sep – Kings Place 2, London
19 Sep – John Peel Centre, Stowmarket
21 Sep – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells
24 Sep – Voodoo Rooms, Edinburgh
25 Sep – Hallé St Peter’s, Manchester
26 Sep – Metronome, Nottingham
27 Sep – Beacon Hall, Bristol
28 Sep – Guildhall, Axminster
Connor Selby Online
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