Blake

Blake

The reception of Universal music's London headquarters is buzzing. From eavesdropping I can make out that there's a problem on the adjacent check-in desk, as the security guard grimly informs someone on the telephone that they must 'pre-book' before inviting guests. A girl arrives with, I presume, her agent, discussing 'her sound' in hushed tones. The lobby is like Fort Knox - I am photographed, signed in and eventually led through a glass gate. Airports could learn from this company.

As I am ushered upstairs to meet the 'band' it occurs to me that I could be meeting any nu-indie or pop group. Blake, with their Westlife-style suited-and-booted look and luscious harmonies, have taken the classical crossover scene by storm.

The last year has been a whirlwind for the four - and they're not ashamed to admit it - public schoolboys. Since their well-documented 'meet' on Facebook in 2007, Blake have gone from strength to strength, with their debut disc winning Album of the Year at the Classical Brits in May.

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