From left, Simon Spurr (keyboards), Pat Reader (vocals), Craig Douglas, Andy Gray (producer) and Lewis Berry (guitar).
MUSICARRETON'S Andy Gray, one of the hottest record producers around, who has recently had success with the soundtrack for the movie, TT3D, and the indie rock band Hard-Fi, could have given a new lease of life to Island-born singer, Craig Douglas.
Andy has produced a new album featuring Craig, with the working title of The Craig Douglas Project, and already there is interest from America.
It’s a far cry from Only Sixteen and Pretty Blue Eyes, two of Craig’s hits from the Fifties and Sixties, which sold millions worldwide.
On the new record Craig sings songs by Radiohead, U2, Depeche Mode, Echo and the Bunnymen and World Party.
Several major record companies are showing interest and Andy has high hopes some of the tracks will be featured in Hollywood movies and television shows.
Craig had not heard many of the songs or the bands before he recorded them — his first major recording session since the Seventies.
He has not performed on stage since he started using a wheelchair 18 months ago. He said: "It’s Craig Douglas reinvented, thanks to Andy."
"It’s given me something to do, think about and work on. I wasn’t sure about some of the songs but I am now."
Craig will sing some at songs at the Medina Theatre, on October 6.
Earlier this year, old friends of Craig held a charity evening for him in Amersham, where he was persuaded to sing a couple of songs from his wheelchair.
Island businessman, Mike Reader, was at the event and was amazed by Craig’s voice and charisma. He set the wheels in motion for the new album, which was recorded and arranged in Andy Gray’s Arreton studio.
"I knew the hits of Craig Douglas but this is completely different from his early songs. He’s got an amazing range, suited to both heavy and lighter songs.
Andy, added: "I think it will change a lot of people’s perception of his singing abilities."
Four tracks can be heard on IW Radio’s John Hannam Meets on Sunday, at 2pm and 10pm, plus interviews with Craig and Andy.