Sam Castell-Ward
“I’m still waiting for one of my poems to be read in parliament, so maybe I should just go there and perform it myself.”
Celebrated for his distinct blend of folk punk, Sam Castell-Ward is back with his latest EP, In The Background. Infusing his sound with rock and metal influences, Sam draws comparisons to legends like Billy Bragg and Bob Dylan, using his music to spotlight social and political issues with a striking, unfiltered honesty.
In The Background explores themes of inequality, resilience, and the experiences of those often marginalised by society. Inspired by the likes of Lou Reed and Pantera, this EP promises a resonant experience for fans of powerful, heartfelt music.
A bit more about Sam…
Sam’s lyrics and poetry speak from the heart, offering a direct and personal perspective on major political issues. He addresses inequality head-on, targeting themes like corruption, austerity, and ableism.
In 2014, Sam released his debut EP, On Different Wavelengths, followed by Living in the Real False World in 2018. His first poetry EP came out in 2022, presented as a printed zine alongside a series of videos.
Beyond music, Sam is a multi-talented artist—an actor, playwright, and performer. He’s hosted open mic nights, appeared in feature films, played in Arthur Smith’s band, and shared his poetry at City Hall. His performances range from iconic venues like the Roundhouse to intimate pubs and events like the Free Pussy Riot festival.
Though Sam’s artistic career is varied, one of his biggest regrets is not following his childhood dream of becoming a wrestler.
