b. Natasha Khan, 25 October 1979, London, England. Inspired while travelling in San Francisco, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Khan returned to England, her alter ego Bat For Lashes in place and the outlines of the material that would later become her critically acclaimed 2006 debut Fur And Gold. Bat For Lashes's dramatic, avant garde style invited unavoidable parallels to be drawn with Kate Bush and Björk, their music and vocals often sharing a similar heartbreaking, exotic and enchanting sound.
Khan's art school roots studying film and music are an obvious presence in her undeniably cinematic style. Her inspirations are often unsurprisingly listed as films, such as The Virgin Suicides (2000) with its provocative, unsettling soundtrack by electronic pop band Air. The artist took the creative decision that, according to the instrumental and musical direction her music may take, the supporting musicians will in turn change album to album, allowing her complete artistic freedom. However, at gigs they are shown to be a vital presence, performing on a variety of instruments such as fiddles, drums and violas, and adding a haunting edge to Khan's vocals with their harmonies. The wide range of instruments, combined with synths and beat machines, creates the unique sound of otherworldly, mystical beauty that is mirrored in both the band's stage presence, complete with glittered faces and headwear, and Khan's often sinister fairy-tale lyrics.
Bat For Lashes was subsequently invited to appear on the renowned French journal Les Inrockuptibles' best newcomers of 2006 compilation, as well as playing many major European festivals, and boasting fans including acclaimed psych-folk musician Devandra Banhart.
