Issue 95

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SLAP Supporting Local Arts & Performers

Sep2019

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SLAP SEPTEMBER 3

Sep 2019

SLAP MAGAZINEUnit 3a, Lowesmoor Wharf,

Worcester WR1 2RSTelephone: 01905 26660editorial@slapmag.co.uk

EDITORIALMark Hogan - Editor

Kate Cox - Arts Editor

SUB EDITORSJasmin Griffin, Michael Bramhall

CONTRIBUTORSAndy O’Hare

Will MunnGeoffrey HeadMark Waters

Graham MunnHelen Mole

Abbie PaytonJacob Johnson

Ian PasseyRobert Ellis

Sarah JeffreyJude RogersChloe Mogg

Suz WinspearMegan White

Nicholas BurfordKate Ford

Eleanor Miles

DESIGNMark Hogan, Richard Nicolls

WEB & SOCIAL MEDIAAnt Robbins, Katherine Harris

Published by The Whole HogPrinted by Vernon Print

ALL RIGHTS RESERVEDReproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission.

Artwork, prints or any pictorial media for this publication are sentat owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither SlapMagazine or its agents accept liability for loss or damage.

DISCLAIMERWhilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and

articles appear correctly, Slap Magazine cannot acceptresponsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectlyby the contents of this publication. The views expressed in thismagazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.

@slapmaguk

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Cover image: Girl Behind The Chemney - by WDstreetart. See ourfeature on Cheltenham Paint Festival. See Page 13

Hello! How was August for you? Worn out yet? Well don’t relaxto soon, the summer isn’t quite over yet...

In this issue we take you back to a few of last months localfestival highlights from Gloucester Blues, the Worcester Show,Lakefest, and Old Bush Blues. They may have suffered withinclement weather but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the sellout crowds.

We look forward to the month ahead with Bromyard Folk festivaland if it’s something very different you’re looking for, check outCheltenham Paint Festival to which our front cover image alludes.Get along to this fabulous free outdoor gallery. Walk around andenjoy the incredible selection on display.

And now down to business... With just a few acts still to confirmthe Worcester Music Festival is shaping up to be the best yet!Make sure you keep the 13th-15th of this month free, pick up afestival guide and plan your weekend. Don’t forget to pop in to theSLAP night at the Marrs Bar on the 14th where we have our usualeclectic mix of groovy indie, psychedelic rock, grunge punk andquirky dance to whet the appetite, all with the wonderful VinnyPeculiar to chaperon us through the evening.

As before, we want you to get involved, if you see a performanceyou particularly enjoy at WMF, why not write a short review, takea photo and send it in to us, we’ll print as many as possible in thenext issue. If you are a keen photographer, this is your chance totry your hand at gig photography, you won’t be short of subjectmatter and you can enter the annual WMF photo competition. Asalways we’ll publish the top three judged by professionals.

See you around... Excit-Ed

NEWS

4 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Oh no, Oboe, no goThe Association of British Orchestras has said that concerns

over a no-deal Brexit could mean the end of touring abroad formany UK orchestras (and obviously other musicians).Uncertainties over work permits, crossing borders and takinginstruments abroad could mean touring is no longer a viableoption. A government spokesman said that they 'recognise theimportance of mobility and the temporary movement of goods forevents, tours and productions, and we continue to engage withthe music industry to ensure impacts are understood and plans inplace for when we leave the EU'. So that's all right then...

Nelson Man-WailerAward- winning poet Benjamin Zephaniah will be stopping off

in Malvern as part of his autumn tour to promote hisautobiography. He'll be relating stories of his friendships withNelson Mandela and Tony Benn, his career with The Wailersand his political and poetical life to date. His appearance atMalvern Theatres is on Friday 13 September - more at 01684-892277

Nuns on the OneTwo local bands were played on the Hugh Stephens show on

BBC Radio 1 on the same night early last month. Malvern-basedNuns Of The Tundra's single 'Baby's Got A Box Of Matches' wasgiven a spin, followed by 'Uptown' by Ivory Wave who also have aWorcestershire connection, on Huw's nationwide BBC MusicIntroducing show which has millions of listeners across the UKand abroad. Both outfits were said to be 'excited' and 'pleased'...

Under the bridge down townPlans have been floated by Worcester Cultural Partnership as

part of a £4.5 million project to transform eight of the railwayarches between The Butts and The Hive into 'spaces for creativeindustries' - and four festivals based in the refurbished archesare in the pipeline for next year beginning with a Festival Of Lightin January.

Waste of our timePerhaps a little bit late for this year's festival season but think-

tank Powerful Thinking have released a report saying that UKfestivals are generating over 23,500 tonnes of waste each year.However they say this can be reduced by goers investing indecent, reusable tents and water bottles, ditching wet wipes,travelling to events via public transport or car-sharing and mostimportantly of all - glamming it up with biodegradable glitter -more at www.powerful-thinking.org.uk

Sing along with the ChorusIf you fancy a bit of a sing-song this autumn, Malvern Festival

Chorus are looking for new members to celebrate their centenaryseason. They'll be holding an open rehearsal on 3 September atThe Chase School and a 'come and sing' event on 7 Septemberat Great Malvern Priory - details at malvernfestivalchorus.co.uk

News of the WorldAfter the success of this year's revamped Worcester Carnival

organisers have announced plans for next year's event, scheduledto take place on Saturday 4 July. The theme will be Countries OfThe World - to coincide with the 2020 Olympic Games in Japan -and chairman Phil Weston is looking for more involvement fromschools and youth groups plus support and sponsorship from localbusinesses - worcester-carnival.co.uk

The Great PretenderPretenders' drummer Martin Chambers is organising a tribute

gig to celebrate the iconic Herefordshire-based outfit and the livesof fellow original members James Honeyman-Scott and PeteFarndon. The event is scheduled for Saturday 5 October at theThree Counties Hotel in Belmont and will include 'musicalcollaborations with some of James and Pete's Hereford friends -as well as some special guest appearances' - more information tobe announced soon...

Everything Must StayWorcester’s HMV store has launched an appeal for local buskers

to hit the high notes outside their store to ‘celebrate’ it stayingopen. The High Street store has been under threat of closure sinceMay in a row over the terms of its lease for the building and ‘StoreClosing, Everything Must Go’ signs have been in the windows ofthe branch throughout the summer.

But in an apparent sign that the store will remain at the heart ofthe city @hmvWorcester tweeted: “Calling all buskers! Fancyplaying right outside your local hmv? We want the city to knowwe are staying open and need your help to shout about it onSaturday, September 7. We can also sell your CDs for you insidethe shop.”

If confirmed it would be the latest twist in a saga which saw thestore saved in February after the retailer was bought out ofadministration by Sunrise Records.

Stoking Fires in MalvernMark Stokes from the West Malvern Social Cub is looking to

hear from musicians/composers who are doing somethingdifferent and are looking for a space to perform and meet otherpeople with similar interests in music.

Mark, who has spent the last 20 years as a composer of musicfor film and theatre said ‘I have always felt out on a limb with mymusic. It’s not easy to find people with the same interests’ Theidea is to bring together people involved in music who aren’t‘singer songwriters’ ‘I am particularly interested in electronic/classical crossover composers and performers’

So if you are an musician/composer with interests like PenguinCafé, Harold Budd, Brian ENO, A Winged Victory for the Sullen, NilsFram, Jon Hopkins etc and you would like to meet like mindedpeople, please email Mark at quietism24 @gmail.com

CORRECTION:Last month we wrongly attributed an editorial piece from West

Fests Dakin Diversity Stage to Carol James. It was in fact suppliedby Susan Dakin, to whom we offer our sincerest apologies.

FAMILY FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

HUNDREDS OF GIGS

GENRE SPANNING ACTS FROM ALL OVER THE UK

6 SLAP SEPTEMBER

ART NEWS by Kate Cox

For Arts SubmissionsNews & Events email Kate atarts@slapmag.co.uk

Clik Clik had an amazing August atBoomtown with the crazy immersivefreakish family business ‘Pie n Tash’ andGreen Man Festival with the creativewoodland characters, the ‘Animal Allies’.

Trying now to settle back to some kind of sane level before theWorcester Music Festival arrives. I’ll be curating a WMF eveningon Fri 13th Sept at St Swithuns Institute, featuring veteran WestMids funksters Cantaloop, local electronic journeyman (and 6Music regular) Inwards, Worcestershire newbies Peewee and theOne Skins, and you won’t believe your eyes and ears with theJunkoactive Wasteman! Come along!

Witley Court in RuinsIn Ruins is an ambitious art exhibition in the extraordinary ruins

of Witley Court in Worcestershire, focusing on our enduringattraction to ruins and how they are still relevant today.Contemporary artworks inhabit the grounds and ruined mansion,including new monumental sculptures by Alex Hartley; stunningphotographs by Marchand & Meffre, Amelie Labourdette andStuart Whipps; further sculptures from Tim Etchells, HollyHendry and Jack Evans; postcards by Ellen Harvey and a disusedWoolworth’s shopfront by Matthew Darbyshire. Artists haveexplored ruins for hundreds of years, fascinated by their value asemblems of the passing of time: like a time machine to the past,each ruin was once someone’s future.

In Ruins is an exhibition curated and produced by MeadowArts, delivered in partnership with English Heritage, supportedby Arts Council England. Until 3rd November.

www.meadowarts.org

h.Art Present: Herefordshire Open andYoung Open Exhibition 2019

Marking the beginning of h.Art (Herefordshire ArtWeek) on6th Sept, Herefordshire Open & Young Open 2019 featureslocal artists’ work, it will showcase the varied creative output fromthe county as well as h.Art participating venues. The exhibition isorganised by members of Framework Herefordshire, a supportnetwork for emerging artists living, working or studying in thecounty.

The Courtyard Hereford. 6th September–6th October.

DAN new patronLocal editor and stand-up comedian Tristan Harris has become

the first honorary patron of Droitwich Arts Network (DAN).Tristan, Editor and Worcestershire Hub Manager for Bromsgrove& Droitwich Standards will now play a key role in promoting andsupporting a string of arts-based community events and activities,including visual arts, performing arts, photography, media, writtenand spoken word, music and crafts.

This year DAN held a highly successful exhibition at HanburyHall and is organising a display of mail art in Droitwich Librarylater this year. The network are behind Droitwich ArtsFest andare currently preparing for next year’s festival.

Droitwichartsnetwork.org

SLAP SEPTEMBER 7

Dancefest’s autumn term Booking is open for Dancefest’s autumn term of classes, guest

workshops and performance companies! Their term starts on 16September and you'll get an early bird discount on selectedclasses if you book and pay before the start of term.

There's lots on offer for all ages across Worcestershire andHerefordshire – weekly dance classes for children that introducecontemporary technique, with elements of other dance styles,Chance to Dance - enjoyable exercise-based classes for 55+, andBallet and Contemporary Technique for adults. You don’t need anydance experience to join and new dancers are always welcome.

They’re holding free auditions for their youth dance companiesin Hereford on 16 Sept and in Worcester and Tenbury on 19 Sept.

As well as developing contemporary technique andchoreography skills, the companies give young dancers lots ofopportunities to perform throughout the year - in theatres as wellas unusual, outdoor spaces - and to work with guestchoreographers and dance artists.

You may like to join their Chance to Dance Company forexperienced dancers a50+, or Jigsaw Performance Company,their inclusive dance company for disabled and non-disableddancers.

Also coming up are some very special guest workshops onSundays at The Angel Centre in Worcester:

22 Sept (18+) 10.30-12.30 Pilates by Elizabeth Winter

6 Oct 10.30-12.30 (18+) Postural Alignment by Eleanor Burt - Postural Alignment Therapy

10 Nov 10.30-12.30 (14+) Animal Flow by Be ProHuman

1 Dec 10.30-12.30 (18+) Tai Chi Chuan & Relaxation by Enid Gill

And look out for movement and photography workshops forfamilies at half term.

Have a browse of their website at dancefest.co.uk and startplanning your dancing autumn!

Alternative Artist’s MarketThe Worcester Alternative Artist’s Market is back after a

summer break on Saturday September 7th at Heroes Bar.

Curated by local artists Miss Hilton Ink, Antidote and KattLepak, the monthly market been a fave hangout for artists, artlovers and curious punters since it started in November 2018, andis proud to showcase the weird and wonderful, with unique oneoffs and limited edition pieces from a vibrant and ever changingline up of local alternative artists. It’s the perfect event to pick updrawings, prints, paintings, jewellery, and some awesomeornamental art.

All are welcome,including children(parental discretionmay be advised insome cases due tothe nature of someof the artwork ondisplay), in a relaxedand intimate space,Whether you’rebuying, browsing, networking or just hanging out, the market runsfrom 3pm to 7pm on the first Saturday of the month. Get involvedand support local artists!

Any artists who are interested in selling at the market, pleasecontact Worcester Alternative Artist’s Market (WAAM) atworcesteraltartsmarket@gmail.com or Facebook page.

Mr Crypt’s Curiosities

Grimsy

Cheltenham Paint FestivalDid our cover catch your eye? For some truly awe inspiring and

wow factor large scale (and small) outdoor art, get along to thisamazing weekend of street art and graffiti styles around thetown, including just announced ‘Rocket01 & Faunagraphic’(see image) alongside Inkie, Fabio Petani and many many more,It’s not to be missed! 7th & 8th Septeber.

Front cover story and for more see page 13.

8 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Feature£60,000 invested in bold arts and

heritage projects across HerefordshireArts and heritage projects which stimulate pride in the places

we live will get underway in Herefordshire after being fundingthrough the 'A Great Place' Hidden Gems grant scheme. HiddenGems is part of the UK wide Great Place Scheme is designed, topilot new approaches that enable cultural and community groupsto work more closely together and to place heritage at the heartof communities. Projects, which have each secured £12,000, are:

Painting with Light -Designed by the SidneyNolan Trust, who willcommission contemporarydigital artists to work withschool children fromKington, Presteigne,Pembridge, Eardisley andKingsland, this projectexplores the early digitalwork and Polaroid’s of theartist Sidney Nolan, and theheritage of The Rodd houseand estate where Nolan lived and created much of his work. It willculminate with open air projection mapping on to the exterior ofthe Grade II listed buildings on Herefordshire/Welsh border.

Inside Out - Herefordshire Museum Service will work withdigital artists and community groups to put objects from theMuseum Resource & Learning Centre in Hereford on show in non-museum places and spaces in unusual and unexpected ways. Theproject will highlight the cultural value of the public collection.

The Stories of Ella Mary Leather -Inspired by the writer Ella MaryLeather, whose book The Folk-Lore ofHerefordshire was published in 1912,this project will bring MASH Cinematogether with history groups, studentsand artists to create immersive 360audio-visual experiences to retell storiesfrom Herefordshire folklore.

Gilpin 2020 - This project from theWye Valley Learning Network (acollaboration between primary schoolsin south Herefordshire) includes contemporary responses to anda virtual version of the historic Wye Tour. It coincides with the250th anniversary of the famous tour, which played an importantrole in the birth of modern tourism.

Our Man in the Moone - At the heart of this project is aboisterous re-telling of The Man in the Moone, an early work ofscience fiction written in 1638 by Francis Godwin, Bishop ofHereford. Coming 200 years before Jules Verne and ahead ofJonathan Swift’s Gulliver's Travels, this tale of adventure, ethics,religion and society will be updated by Everybody Dance,storytellers, dancers and community groups in Bromyard andLeominster. They will create a fully accessible production of thestory, a digital soundscape, animated stories and a public talk.

All five projects will use the arts and creative digital technology,from poetry and photography to virtual reality and projectionmapping, to raise the profile of Herefordshires heritage.

Great Place is co-funded by The National Lottery HeritageFund and Arts Council England, with support from HistoricEngland and local partners including Herefordshire Council, theElmley Foundation and the Brightspace Foundation.

Discover more at www.the-shire.co.uk

Vamos Youth Theatreand Vamos Central

Serious about theatre? Vamos Youth Theatre and VamosCentral are recruiting now for this September!

Vamos Theatre, the UK's leading full mask theatre companybased in Worcester. Vamos Theatre devises and tours accessible,humorous and fearless work which showcases the best in fullmask performance. The company is dedicated to making workbased on stories of real people, and productions are rooted intrue-life experiences and events. At the heart of Vamos Theatre’sethos is a commitment to working practices that engendergenuineness, generosity, respect and consideration of others.

Vamos Youth Theatre is for young people (14-21yrs) who lovetheatre and want to learn more - for themselves or for a futurecareer in the industry. It is a challenging, exciting and creativeplace to learn new theatre skills, and members need to becommitted and focussed.

Vamos Central is a youth theatre for young people (16-25yrs)with mild to moderate learning disabilities. Led by professionalsVamos Central participants learn theatre skills, have fun, beplayful, and create and share inspiring theatre in a safe andsupportive environment, where everyone is valued and treatedwith respect.

Both groups meet on a Wednesday; Vamos Central 3.45pm till5pm and Vamos Youth Theatre 5.30 - 7:00pm at the home ofVamos Theatre; Worcester Arts Workshop. Cost is £60 perperson and places are limited. For an application form please visitour website or call 01905 312921.

Are you aged 14-21 and lOVe theatre? Learn drama skills and perform with an award winning, international touring theatre company.

recruiting nowfor September

call us on: 01905 312 921 or email: info@vamostheatre.co.uk There’s more info on our website:

www.vamostheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre

get in touch with us for an application formCost is £60.00 per term

Guided by theatre professionals, the group meets weekly in term time, developing skills like voice work, improvisation, characterisation, physical theatre and the funny and

fearless full mask for which Vamos Theatre is internationally renowned.

Folk &RootsMusic

At Bewdley Festival

Bewdley Festival, St. George’s Hall, off Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 2EQ01299 404808

Details and Tickets - www.bewdleyfestival.org.uk

Saturday 21st September 7:30 pm“AAMMEERRIICCAA OOVVEERR TTHHEE

WWAATTEERR”

SSHHIIRRLLEEYY CCOOLLLLIINNSSThe folk legend recounts her emotional

and ground-breaking journey of musical discovery across the USA with

Alan Lomax(first performance in the W Midlands) Friday 4th & Saturday 5th October

A Truly Unique Event

AAMMEERRIICCAANN EEPPIICC WWEEEEKKEENNDD

based around the award winning filmsFilm Screenings, Film-maker Q&A,

Talks by legendary music producers: Andrew Scheps & Simon Heyworth,

Live music inc. Rod Picott from NashvilleAnd Much More - Not To Be Missed!

Friday 11th October 8:00 pm Festival Theatre at Mercure Hotel

“EEAASSTT”

EELLIIZZAA aanndd MMAARRTTIINN CCAARRTTHHYY

An important new work from Eliza Carthy, who with her father Martin, presents a collection of musical and

other works inspired by the East of England. Featuring long-time collaborators Duotone, Sheema

Mukherjee, and dancer Ewan Wardrop.

10 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Feature

Suz Winspear

Summer is over and as I’m writing this, the future seems horriblyuncertain, with political chaos continuing and no clear notionabout how the country will get through it all. In times like these,we need the arts more than ever, and poetry and spoken wordnights are flourishing throughout the UK. These are affordableevenings of live performance, where you can hear something thatmight move you, excite you, make you think or make you laugh,and with a range of performers on the bill, you’re bound to findsomething that you enjoy. Here in Worcestershire, the number ofevents seems to increase every month; not a week goes bywithout the chance to hear some Spoken Word. So why not cometo one of these events? They’re accessible, friendly and don’t costmuch to attend!

And if that arouses your interest, here are your upcomingWorcestershire Spoken Word events for September –

Tuesday 3rd September – The Long and the Short of It – atCaffe Bolero St Nicholas Street, Worcester Prose and poetry, withshort-form and longer performance slots. 6pm, £3 admission.

Wednesday 4th September – Poetry and a Pint at the ThirdSpace, Worcester Arts Workshop A relaxed evening of poetryhosted by the inimitable Spoz. Open mic slots available – contactmarketing@worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk 7pm Free entry.

Thursday 12th September – SpeakEasy - at Paradiddles,61/61a Sidbury WR1 3HU Our second month at our new venue -eclectic poetry from a wide range of local poets. The featuredperformer for September is the winner of this year’s LitFest PoetrySlam, Io Osborn. Open Mic slots available on a first-come, first-served basis. They’re popular, so get there early. Oh yes, and therewill be our legendary raffle (involves a goth poet and an orangebucket . . .) Come and see us in our new location! £3 admission,7.30pm.

Friday 13th-Sunday 15th September – Worcester MusicFestival Among the multiplicity of events throughout the city thisweekend, there will be an exhibition of album cover art, music andpoetry performances taking place in the old tailor’s shop in theHopmarket – Friday and Saturday 11am-6pm, Sunday 11am-4pm.Free entry.

Saturday 21st September – Hopfest At the Hopmarket – acelebration of Worcester’s hop-trade, of beer and brewing,featuring music, craft breweries and beer and pub-themed poetry.From 11am, free entry.

Saturday 21st September – Worcester Pride Poetry Stageat Worcester Arts Workshop. Worcestershire Poet LaureateCharley Barnes presents the poetry stage of this year’s WorcesterPride, with poetry on LGBT+ and Pride themes. Starts at 2pm.

Wednesday 25th September- 42 - at Drummonds Bar,behind the Swan with Two Nicks Life, the Universe and Everything– prose and poetry – Worcester’s only alternative genre spokenword night - horror, science fiction, fantasy, storytelling, comedy,reportage, genre fiction, and a few categories that haven’t yetbeen given a name. You never know what you’ll hear at 42 . . . Thismonth’s theme is ‘Moths and Moonshine’. Write a piece that youcan deliver in 5-7 mins and come along to read it if you're luckyenough to get a performance spot. To ask for a spot email:list@42worcester.com . . . Free entry. 7.30pm.

Thursday 26th September – Dear Listener - at Boston TeaParty, Angel Place. This is an early-evening event of eclectic poetryand spoken word, from both new and established voices. Thismonth’s headliner will be the wonderful Kate Garrett, performingin Worcester for the very first time! Her poetry is often on themesof folklore, legend, mythical beings and paganism. I’m reallylooking forward to this! £3 admission. 6.30 – 8.30pm.

Sunday 29th September – ‘Under the Stones’book-launchat Café Nero, Broad Street, Worcester The launch of LeenaBatchelor’s poetry collection. Leena is a regular performer at 42,you’ll be able to hear her read from her new collection, with aselected line-up of support acts! 3.30pm.

If you’re in Evesham, throughout September you’ll be able to seethe Evesham Festival of Words ‘Poetry in Colour’ exhibition,with illustrations by Lindsay Tether inspired by Sue Johnson’spoem, and poems by Sue in response to Lindsay’s paintings. It’staking place in Evesham Library from 2nd - 30th September,with free admission. Sue and Lindsay will be running a workshopin Room EV2 in the Library on Monday 16th from 10am to midday.Cost £6 including refreshments. For further details, go towww.eveshamfestivalofwords.org

HindlipCar BootEvery Sunday(Weather Permitting)

£5 Car £9 Trailer/Van9.00am - 12.00noon

Blackpole Road, Hindlip LaneWR4 8RL. call 07973 520962www.hindlipcarboot.co.uk

SLAP SEPTEMBER 11

Wonky Artist Rosie -llustrates her first Children’s Book

Local artist Rosie Philpott, has realised her dream of becominga children’s book illustrator thanks to a project that hopes toencourage depressed youngsters to share their problems withothers through teddy bear ‘AB’.

Author Richard Bland was left‘broken’ after his 31-year-old son tookhis own life. Andrew Bland of Longton,committed suicide six years ago with hisfamily unaware of his personal problems.Now Andrew’s dad, has helped to createa new book series - Wing CommanderBear - which will raise money for Hanley-based bereavement support andcounselling charity The Dove Service.The book follows teddy bear WingCommander Andrew Bland (‘AB’) who is a mascot for RAF Valley,in Holyhead, and travels around the world on fighter jets.

Richard, who has volunteered as a photographer at RAF Valley,said: "After my son committed suicide we talked to The DoveService because of its bereavement counselling. We’re hoping toteach young people about the importance of talking to theirparents. I think it could have been a completely different story forAndrew had he actually spoken to us. If getting this bookpublished stops another family going through what we did then ithas succeeded.”

Richard, of Meir Park, added: “The book is all about a bearadopted by the RAF which has flown all over the world – he’s evenbeen on a trip with Prince William. Because the bear was a mascothe has an official logbook. It shows that he’s flown all over theworld to places like Las Vegas, and at one point, he even got shotdown.”

Richard contacted Rosie about illustrations after coming acrossher work online. Rosie said: “It has been a dream come true for meand I have loved every aspect of bringing this teddy to life. I havebeen in touch with Richard throughout the process and receivedfeedback from pilots who have recognised themselves in my work.To know that it is for such a good cause has made it even moreworthwhile and I cannot wait to see what the future holds for AB”.

The book was launched on 12th August and it is hoped that itwill be snapped up by schools and put into classrooms. Availablethrough Amazon, WHSmith and Waterstones, Rosie is also hopingto sell some signed copies to customers who are interested.

If you feel you may want to take your own life, or areconcerned about someone else, talk to the Samaritans on116123 or contact your GP.

12 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Feature

Bright FieldThis Autumn, on Friday 27 September, the inaugural edition of

Bright Field launches in the globe in Hay-on-Wye, a night thatwill celebrate the start of each season in music and spoken word(full disclosure: I’m in charge of what we’ve called The BrightField Organisation). It’s a night from the borders and beyond,which I hope comes across in several ways: from the literalgeographical meeting points between England and Wales, and thefluid borders of genres, particularly between folk, psychedelia,experimental music and spoken word.

I moved to the borders three years ago, being originally fromSouth Wales. I was struck by how progressive music and art is inthis part of the world, and how close our connection is to the landaround us. Our artwork, flyers and intentions are fittingly a littlepagan and pastoral. Our night is also called Bright Field after thepoem by Welsh writer R.S Thomas. In it, a man sees a field struckwith light, and realises that possessing that moment is all heshould try to seize in life. That message feels more essential thanever in Autumn 2019. The night was also inspired by my friend PatLong, a music writer and DJ who ran similarly exploratory musicnights in the 2000s. He died last summer, aged 40. It felt like therewould be no better tribute to him than setting up a nightcelebrating the moment, here and now.

At Bright Field, we will showcase fantastic local acts, as wellas more mainstream names trying out new things. In my work aGuardian music columnist, I’ve met lots of brilliant artists includingfolk musician Sam Lee, who I met first at the Sidmouth FolkFestival in 2009. He also happens to be from Craswall inHerefordshire, and this is his first ever time playing at his teenagehangout, The Globe. Emma Daman of psychedelic band Islet andFaber author Richard King, writer of The Lark Ascending, aboutmusic and landscape, also come from rural Powys. DJs SproatlySmith and Jus’ Jay from Hereford’s brilliant Weirdshire collectivecomplete the line-up, playing their brilliant mixes of seasonalsongs, and there will be more Autumnal murmurations on thenight.

Tickets are available now from the globe’s website and TheBright Field Organisation on Ticketsource:www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-bright-field-organisationBring fallen apples, early Halloween tidings, and open ears.

Phot

o : S

arah

Mas

on

Emma Daman

Sam Lee

FeatureCheltenham Paint Festival 2019

With 130+ artists including international and national names,emerging and local talents, from all corners of the globe,Cheltenham Paint Festival returns this month from 1st-8thSeptember.

This highly successful outdoor gallery event, carefully curatedby Andy ‘Dice’ Davies, continues to go from strength to strength,bringing top headline artists to the Regency Town as well ashundreds of visitors who flock to see the vibrant and diverseselection of artwork each year.

For 2019, the festival welcomes for the first time to the UK, WildDrawing (WD Streetart) an Indonesian living in Greece with afocus on large-scale murals that are realized basically with rollerbrush and acrylic paints complementing his degrees in both FineArt and Applied Arts (see front page image). He stands alongsideBristol legend Inkie, one of the most prolific graffiti writers in UK

history; Italian FabioPetani whose worksare characterized by adisarranged harmony oflines, shapes andvolumes; UK’s Samer(Curtis Hilton) whobrings gorgeous birdsand botanical delightsto life; Zabou, a Frenchstreet artist known forher giant portraits, andself taught Ironypainting freehand withspray paints, like an oilpainter with a brush.

These are just a few of the artists who will be adorning wall spacesin and around Cheltenham during the weeklong event.

The team behind CPF support gender equality within the streetscene and this is reflected by a strong female presence this year,so you can see Sophie Long, Faunagraphic and Georgie as wellas many great females who have fought their way to the top of thegame, dispelling the myth that graffiti is only a man’s world(possibly linked to its edgier side - sneaking around at night, dirty,illegal and dangerous, surely not for ladies right?! Erm.. wrong!)

Other sections of the festival include workshops and activitiesfor young people, a themed tie in with the 70th Anniversary of theCheltenham Literature Festival and an exhibition at ChapelArts until the 14th September. At the same venue on 6thSeptember there is a very special screening of the 1989 BBCDocumentary ‘Drawing the Line - The Bristol Influence’ aboutaerosol art in Bristol and across the UK at that time. At the end ofthe screening you can listen to a panel discussion with JohnNation, Inkie and Felix ‘FLX’ Braun. Tickets are highlyrecommended.

The Cheltenham Paint Festival creations begin to take shapefrom 1st September with the main festival weekend on 7th and8th. Look out for artist announcements being made regularly viasocial media and the website.

The festival shop is also up and running this year, not only canenthusiasts buy some amazing pieces (from as little as £20.00),but they can become supporters of the Festival with severalexciting and affordable packages available.

cheltenhampaintfestival.bigcartel.com/products

You can buy tickets for the Drawing the Line screening at £10.00per person, (online bookings only) via the festival shop page.

So get along to this fabulous free outdoor gallery. Walk aroundand enjoy the incredible selection on display. All of the artwork iseasily accessible and there are stewards to help you with mapsand information, it’s a really great day out for all the family.

cheltenhampaintfestival.co.uk

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14 SLAP SEPTEMBER

PreviewSeptember at Worcester Arts Workshop

As the summer sun fades, Worcester Arts Workshops bringsyou a month full of great live music and events to make thatsummer festival vibe last until Autumn.

Friday 6 September sees five-piece, world music band Flatworldplay roots ‘n’ grooves from Eastern Europe and beyond. WAWplays host to Worcester Music Festival gigs from Friday 13 toSunday 15 September and on Friday 27 September you’re invitedto ‘rock out’ with Six Seconds To Run.

Saturday 28 September sees the return of Polkadot Robot’sBandeoke – a live karaoke experience where you can front thelive band, choose from a host of pop and rock hits to sing along to.

Spoken word events duringSeptember include PoetryAnd A Pint Night onWednesday 4 September,hosted by Spoz andWorcestershire Before I Diehost a thought provokingconversation with best sellingauthor and Palliative CarePhysician Kathryn Mannix,talking about death and dyingin an age of denial on Sunday8 September.

WAW plays host to variousWorcestershire Pride eventsincluding the Poetry Stage on Saturday 21 September and theatreproduction Admiring La Stupenda, fresh from Edinburgh Fringe,on Tuesday 17 Sept and University of Worcester graduatetheatre makers’ Sexuality Showcase on Friday 20 September.

Along with a new term of one day courses and regular visualarts workshops Vamos Theatre Company are offering a FullMask Course for students, graduates and emerging artists onMonday 16 to Thursday 19 September. And C&T are offeringFutureproof on Tuesday 24 September, a digital course that offersartists, curators and educators an opportunity to explore thepotential of digital for them and their organisation.

For further information on any events at WAW or to book ticketsvisit www.worcesterartsworkshop.org.uk.

New Term of Courses & Workshops at WAW There are so many creative courses to choose this September.

The Saturday Pottery, Junior Art Clubs and Senior Art Clubsbegin again on 21 or 28 September, with a huge range of new skillsand creativity to experience for young people aged 4+

Worcester Arts Workshop also offers Home EducatorsWorkshops for groups of young people and there are regulardance classes offered every Thursday evening by TranslucentDance Company.

Back To School At Artrix This September As the children head back to school this September, why not

join them by signing up for a new course or workshop at ArtrixArts Centre to try something completely new, or perfect anexisting skill or hobby with an exciting range of groups, includingsome brand new classes...

New for Autumn 2019 is Calligraphy & Brushstrokes, from 16September. Learn how to write beautifully in the style of moderncalligraphy and unlock your creativity to develop your ownpersonal script. You will be provided with and shown how to usedip pen and ink and provided with your own starter kit.

Other adult courses on offer include Gentle Chance To Dance,Songstars Showchoir, Beginners and Intermediate Ballet,Belly Dancing, Pilates, Dancefit, Silver Singers, Tai Chi,Drawing and Speaking In Public.

Artrix also offers a wide variety of workshops for young people,including all new StressBox for primary aged children, from 18September. Stressbox is a new wellness workshop determined toalleviate stress with music, movement and meditation for youngpeople coping with busy lives.

Artrix’s new Theatre Explorers Workshop is an opportunity for

There are simply too many new creative courses for adults tolist, so there’s bound to be something to inspire! From pottery andceramics to oil painting and life drawing, there’s a whole host ofactivities to motivate you to make something new.

The new season of creative courses begin from Monday 9September, throughout the month.

There are also special one-off workshops including the return ofPop Up Painting Style Event – Street Art on 18 September,Sunday Pottery on 22 September and Fused Glass on 26September. To find out more, go to worcesterartsworkshop.org

young people aged 14 – 19 to collaborate, discuss and developtheatre techniques, leading to a performance in the Artrix Studioat the end of each term. Running on Monday evenings, TheatreExplorers will be led by Artrix associate artist, Naomi Coleman.

Other groups for children and young people include Little SongStars and SongstarsJuniors, Artrix Youth Theatre and RhythmTime.

Artrix also welcome back Theo’s Comedy Skool for anotherterm of laughs from 23 September. Learn the art of stand-upcomedy and perform in front of a live audience at the end of thecourse. Local performing arts coach Theo Theobald has guidedmany new comedians to the stage many of who were first-timers!

For further info, or to book a place please contact Box Office on01527 577330 or visit www.artrix.co.uk/whats-on/workshops

SLAP SEPTEMBER 15

Preview

Book Now 01527 577330 | www.artrix.co.ukSlideslow Drive, Bromsgrove B60 1GN

including...

facebook.com/ ArtrixArtsCentre

iincludingNEW SEASON ON SALE

MUSIC John Blek - 5 September

MUSIC Miranda Sykes - 6 September

MUSIC Andy Fairweather Low - 14 September

COMEDY Paul Foot - 27 September

MUSIC Ralph McTell - 28 September

THEATRE trade - 10 October

COMEDY - 18 October

MUSIC Barbara Dickson - 26 October

THEATRE I Wanna Be Yours - 14 November

MUSIC Quill Christmas Concert - 7 December

Plus Family Theatre, Cinema, Live Screenings, Exhibitions, Workshops and more

ARTRIX VINTAGE FESTIVAL Saturday 10 August

Live Music, Vintage Fair, Swing Dance, Sing-a-long Grease!

September at ArtrixThis September you can expect superb live music, comedy and

cinema at Artrix.

Miranda Sykes on 6th and the inimitable Andy FairweatherLow & The Low Riders return on the 14th. The Strawbs bringtheir 50th Anniversary tour to Artrix on 20th, followed by guitaristChantel McGregor on 21st September.

Following the huge success of Rocketman, there’s a brand newshow from Forever Elton on 25th and The Counterfeit Sixtiesreturn on 27th.

Fresh from Edinburgh there’scomedy from John-Luke Robertson 28th..

The rescheduled performances ofDear Zoo Live! take place on 22 &23 September, with one additionalperformance added to the run.

Throughout the month there’s thevery best in cinema, including thelatest family releases at the weeklySaturday Matinee, QuentinTarantino’s latest film One Upon ATime In Hollywood from 20th to23rd and NT Live Screening of One Man Two Guvnors on 26th.

Take advantage of the amazing special ticket offer for FolkSeason 2019 receive 25% off the following shows with the WorldOf Sounds Taster Ticket; firstly John Blek on 5th September,Multi instrumentalist, songwriter and live-looper Duotone -

otherwise known as Barney Morse-Brown - performs an intimategig in The Studio on Saturday 5 October and later that monthArtrix welcomes a bright new talent on the folk and acousticscene, singer songwriter Jenny Sturgeon on Friday 18 October.

16 SLAP SEPTEMBER

PreviewRutland Troubadour aka Paul McClure

Elmslie House, Malvern|27th SeptemberPaul McClure is a singer songwriter from Rutland, England.

Known for his intimate, storytelling concerts Paul’s characters andstory lines - in particular the loves, laughs and losses that havecome his way - though lyrically often brutally honest, nearlyalways allow the humorous side of any situation come forward.

"Rutland Troubadour, aka Paul McClure. A master of the stage,whether it's an intimate house concert or a full-on festival set...interspersing his trademark dry humour between some excellentand thoughtful songs his shows are a delight, making him one ofthe most in-demand performers in the country and a significantplayer on the UK roots scene." - Americana UK

McClure has clocked up the miles finding no shortage of placeswilling to have him play with shows at folk clubs, venues, festivalsand front rooms including acclaimed performances at CambridgeFolk Festival, Ramblin’ Roots, Maverick and Truck Festivals -sharing the stage with such folk and Americana musicians asJustin Townes Earle, Ian Felice, and The Young 'Uns. (extensivelytouring in not only venues but also a large number of houseconcerts hosted by fans in his attempt to both connect with hisaudience in a close and intimate setting and also bring the soundof live music back into the home.)

With enthusiastic support from Mark Radcliffe's Radio 2 show,more festival appearances across the summer – includingGlastonbury - and with another album of new songs due forrelease on UK Americana label Clubhouse Records, things arelooking up for the Rutland Troubadour...

Tickets £12 @ elmsliehouse.co.uk

SLAP SEPTEMBER 17

Paul O'NeillEvesham Arts Centre|19th SeptRoving Crow Paul "Chief" O'Neill brings his distinctive

songwriting & performing skills to Evesham on Thursday 19th fora solo acoustic evening of music.

Singer, songwriter and raconteur Paul O'Neill fronts the multi-award winning Celtic folk-rock band Roving Crows, touringthroughout the UK, Ireland, Europe and Australia. His material ispoignant, humorous and steeped in social conscience. Tonight he'llbe performing his original songs solo & acoustic - an engaging liveperformance.

Performing all-original songs, Paul is known for his songwritingskill and engaging live performance. Now based in Colwall nearMalvern, he was born into a musical family and has beenperforming all of his life. He studied drama at the AmericanAcademy of Dramatic Arts in New York and after completing hisstudies put his focus on to his musical career. Paul is thesongwriter and lead singer for the Roving Crows, writing mainlyfrom his experiences working and living in Dublin, London andNew York.

English Dulcimer DuoThe English Dulcimer Duo are Sue Harris and Lisa Warburton.

They performed together as part of the biennial World DulcimerCongress (2015), held in the UK (Malvern) that year. They enjoyedthe experience so much, they decided to explore and expand ontheir music as a duo.

A repertoire of mainly English tunes, including a number ofjaunty 18th century melodies, soon came together. So the EnglishDulcimer Duo was formed and with the different qualities of theirdulcimers the combined sound is powerful and spell-binding.

Sue is one of the leading UK proponents of the English traditionon hammered dulcimer, and Lisa the Irish tradition.They’ve bothbeen playing Welsh and other tunes for many years too. Theystarted playing in the late 70s (Sue) and early 80s (Lisa), so theyhave a great deal of experience in playing and teaching. Theirhammer dulcimer workshops (which often include NonsuchDulcimer Club instruments) cater for all ages and levels of ability,and Sue runs singing workshops too. The Nonsuch Dulcimer Clubis a registered charity that promotes the playing of dulcimers(hammered and Appalacian), and supports the musicians whoplay.

Hear them at Great Malvern Priory on Tuesday 3 September(Autumn Recital Series), 1pm and Saturday 12 October at MalvernFood Festival 12.30pm. Or come and have a go on this insanelybeautiful instrument at their workshops; there are some beingheld at Bromyard Folk Festival, Saturday 7 September (daytickets should be available). There will be instruments on hand foryou to try, on a first-come basis.

Listen to live audio clips: reverbnation.com/englishdulcimerduo(includes 2 videos, live at the Dulcimer World Congress, Slovakia).

Tickets £9 at the door or £8 in advance from Evesham AlmonryAbbey Road WR11 4BQ and the arts centre websitewww.EveshamArtsCentre.co.uk The music begins at 8pm

Preview

18 SLAP SEPTEMBER

More Funny Business at WMFFor the third time, the team at Worcester Music Festival have

extended the offering to include a stand-up comedy night. The freecomedy event will take place at Henry Sandon Hall at the RoyalPorcelain Works on Severn Street on Friday 13 Sept from 7.30pm.

The event will be hosted by MC, Celya Ab, who has beendescribed as the most unique talent on the UK Circuit. Celya’ssharp writing brings a unique look into life as an EU ex-pat livingin post-Brexit Britain. With a very likeable stage presence andnatural ability Celya looks destined for the top.

1st act Sachin KumarendranThis year Sachin reached the final of the national stand-up

competition hosted by Jason Manford, and has also reached thesemi-finals of So You Think You’re Funny, Bath Fringe New Act ofthe Year and the Chortle Student Comedy Award. He worked as apaid comedy writer for the Labour Party during the 2017 GeneralElection Campaign, an election in which the party performedsurprisingly well (perhaps not solely due to Sachin’s involvement,but let’s not rule it out).

2nd act Jo FrankJo trained as an actress before strutting her funky stuff in the

world of comedy. She has been a finalist at Stand Up for Cider inboth 2018 & 2019 and a Semi Finalist at Funny Women in 2017.

3rd act Roger Clammy:Join freelance first aid instructor Roger Clammy on this taster

course covering some of the most essential life-saving skills. Histechniques have been criticised, but his trailblazing approach haswon over students from Watford to Wembley. Roger worked nextdoor to the London Fire Brigade offices for several years and wason a first name basis with many of the staff there. "We've beentrying to get in touch with him for ages" (St John Ambulance).

4th act Danny Clives:Danny Clives’ refreshingly

laid-back style and uniqueoutlook on life has seen himsupporting Joe Lycett, GuzKhan and James Acaster, gethandpicked for the prestigiousPleasance Comedy Reserve atthe Edinburgh Fringe Festivaland perform at the famousThe Second City Theatre inChicago. Danny is also afinalist of the Bath ComedyFestival New Act, of theLeicester Square Theatre NewComedian Of The Year andBirmingham ComedyFestival’s Breaking TalentAward. He was alsoshortlisted for the BBCComedy Award.

A fundraising success for local arts venueThe Courtyard’s I HEART CY 20 appeal has seen huge

generosity from the public over the past 12 months and has raisedaround £50,000 towards the charity.

It has been a year of firsts for The Courtyard Hereford whilstit celebrated its 20thanniversary and fundraising efforts havehelped support the charity and enabled the arts venue to continueto deliver its variety of community projects.

Since 18 September 2018 The Courtyard has staged its firstoriginal major drama The Goal, its first flying pantomime PeterPan and launched a host of new programmes including a series ofInclusive Workshops and a Mental Health Project.

The anniversary year began with special performances from TheCourtyard’s Youth Theatre, performing extracts from BugsyMalone with X-entricity and Hereford Academy of Dancestudents at a show-stopping Gala Dinner.

Other events included a Board-led summer ceilidh at Ross onWye Cider & Perry Company’s Broome Farm which raised over£1000 (and was kindly supported by Greenleaf Architecture), astaff and stewards sponsored walk which raised over £200 and a20th Anniversary Showcase which brought in more than £3400.The Courtyard would like to thank all the groups who took to thestage and supported at the 20th Anniversary Showcase

“A really big thank you to everyone who has supported thisyear’s anniversary appeal – whether donating directly, droppingmoney into our bucket collections, coming along to fundraisers,

buying raffle or 50/50 Lotto tickets or volunteering throughout theyear,” says Individual Giving Manager Melanie Denning. “It’shumbling to know that this hard working arts charity is muchappreciated by its community, especially as we move into a newphase of fundraising to support our exciting and transformationalcapital development.”

Transform The Yard is a project that will see significant changesto the building including a more accessible entrance and BoxOffice, a new space to allow more workshops and meeting hiresas well as a retail space for local arts and crafts.

For more information or to make a donation visitcourtyard.org.uk/transformtheyard.

Feature

SLAP SEPTEMBER 19

New ReleaseLover Loveday|Chains

Last year whilst wandering through Lakefest between mainstagebands I was drawn to the BBC Introducing tent by an instantlyinfectious yet simultaneously freshsounding indie rock combo.Scrambling for position I witnessedEvesham based foursome LowerLoveday come of age, with ascintillating set of stadium readyanthems that already enticed apacked out stage.

Since that first introduction to theband the quartet have continued togrow, taking in high profile supportslots with the likes of Only The Poetsand APRE among others. Furtherexposure on BBC Introducing hasseen Tom Robinson (of 6 Music fame)pick up on the band and feature them on his infamous mixtape.

Capitalising on these successes and on their ever growingfanbase, the band have recently hit the studio with the renownedNorthern production duo Sugar House to record a brand newsingle in the form of Chains.

The sub three-minute track is a hand built for radio, an indieanthem of the highest order. Opening with anaggingly contagious riff and a subtle electronicfuzz, the band's lead singer Mark soon joins themix, seeking out his future with a striking lead,reminiscent of Brandon Flowers at his best. As thesong continues towards it's dramatic choral climax,a barrage of riffs and the band's pulsating rhythmsection help frame their frontman's cry for help,whilst grabbing at the listeners lapels and urgingthem to pay attention.

With a few more high profile gigs and handful ofearworms on the level of Chains, it's not hard toimagine Lower Loveday to really make a splash ona national level. I highly recommend keeping a close

eye on Evesham's finest in the coming months.Will Munnwww.lowerloveday.com

Hey You GuysWhere Are All My Friends? (Nine Fucking Years)

Hey You Guys have been teasing their Difficult Second Albumfor nigh on five years. The dynamic foursome first startedrecording way back in May of 2014 and since then the band haverevealed the odd single here and there, teasing their hordes offans before returning to the studio, recording others(guitarist/producer Dave Draper) or working on other projects(and baby-making in frontman, Pete Adams case) but now,September promises a flurry of HYG’s activity.

The band reunite and return to Worcester as part of WorcesterMusic Festival and finally make promise on that Difficult SecondAlbum and precede that sophomore full-length release, with abrand new single in the shape of Where Are All My Friends (NineFucking Years).

Where Are All My Friends? Is a dramatic statement of intent.HYG's aren't waiting to be invited to the party, instead they'rebombarding the door with a flurry of crunchy riffs and flailingsticks, taking the night by storm.

The two and a half minute shit kicker opens with Draperstepping on the power, whilst Ben Pemberton hammers away at

his kit prior to locking down a tight groove with the filthy fourstrings of Oly Edkins. Adams joins the mix, battling for attentionwith Draper's fuzzy riffs as the track lurches towards a gloriouslybombastic, choral pay-off. Perhaps the band's heaviest to date,with the quartet battering their instruments (and vocal cords) intosubmission, before relenting for an infectious, groove-ladenmelodic mid-section and the song's final deafening crescendo.

We have waited a long time for the return of Hey You Guys, butif Where Are All My Friends and the previously released tracks areanything to go on, the quartet are set to retake their throne byany means necessary.

Will Munn

20 SLAP SEPTEMBER

New Release

False Flags|JuggernautThe band False Flags are from Stroud; at the start of Laurie

Lee’s memoir, “Cider with Rosie”, based in and around Stroud, his“character” describes the surrounding alarming landscape fromthe perspective of a young self: as “knife-edged”, accompaniedwith “screaming” against a backdrop of “frenzied” wild life. Thelandscape portrayed by False Flags, in 2019, is punctuated with“fear”, “insanity” and the same threat of casual violence. Bothnarrator’s keen to capture the human experience no matter hownegative or alarming…for False Flags we can garner that theirsmall town has had an impact on their world view.

The lyrical content speaks of “fear”, lack of “trust”, the warningof “insincerity” and ultimately suspicion for the mythicalJuggernaut, the elusive Juggernaut portrayed as a metaphor forlife? Or a simile for small town paranoia? The simplistic nature ofthe lyrics is perhaps deceptive – in this the age of untrustworthypoliticians and consequently the loaded gun of Brexit leading usvery much into the unknown – as the Juggernaut hurtles everonwards into an unknown future.

One senses that False Flags are not out to deceive as their bandname suggests, the videos, gigging, the new singer that is Martaand a steel-eyed determination in their group photos hint at whatis to come. False Flags want to be taken seriously and not wrongfoot their audience- that is clear. They are serious about theirintentions I believe and accordingly we must take them seriously.

Seriously. The near soporific opening notes, give way to a hail of

chords accompanied by a controlled wail reminiscent of Munch’sinfamous caricature of life; the closing bass notes echo thepulsating beat of the human heart and you can’t help but wonderwhat False Flags will offer as they grow and mature as aband…because they wear their heart on their sleeve.

Facebook @falseflagsuk website: www.falseflagsuk.com.The Theoc Upsetter

LordlessLoneliness Is a Beautiful Thing

Worcestershire Lordless compliments an alternative take ondream pop. With elements of shoegaze in the breathtaking music,the multi instrumentaliststicks to pop arrangementsthroughout the debut EP.Circulating himself a lot ofrecognition around the area,it’s no surprise that Lordlessis getting a strong buzz. Titled“Loneliness Is a BeautifulThing”, the debut release isup close and personal to thesongwriter.

'Loneliness Is a BeautifulThing' summits the air with adream pop nature that canonly be described ascomforting. Finely tunedvocals began a differentpulse for the movement ofthe track. Taking the song ina different avenue, thisnumber simply floats aboveyour head while you relaxdown below. 'Walked Away'is a refreshing take on abreak up. Featuring Loose Change on vocals as well as Lordless,the two combine a gorgeous blend of two different genres intoone. Transporting us back to the noughties, there’s a lot of

nostalgia flying around this tune. Lordless sticks with the auto-tuned vocals that may not be your personal preference, but theywork pretty well.

'Tequila Rosé' nudges towards artists such as The 1975. Sensinga pop arrangement, the momentum of the number feels slightlytoo slow. As a whole, the number feels slightly more personal andraw because of the simplicity of Lordless’ vocals. ‘Mcimc' starts

with a cloud of smoke fillingthe soundscape. It definitelycould be a song to meditateto and to take you to your‘happy place’. For the firstminute and a half, it feelscalm and still. Slowlyentering, a piano melodytakes charge of the trackand relaxes the mood evenmore. As a 5:46 length wise,the instrumentation on thetrack is so simple, yet soeffective. It’s the type oftrack you’d hear in a comingof age film. A perfectnumber for film. ‘Icon' is acompletely differentapproach to the dream popEP. Short but sweet, itshows that sometimes,simplicity is key. Strippedback and completelyacoustic, it’s a perfectgoodbye. It’s not goodbye

after all, only the beginning for what seems to be a successfulcareer ahead for Lordless. Chloe Mogg

SLAP SEPTEMBER 21

New ReleaseThe Purple Sha des

BlunderThe curiously titled Purple Shades

are keen to communicate theirinfluences from the outset – the ArticMonkeys and the Kooks are obviouscontenders – but for me thoseharmonies and driven chord changesare so reminiscent of Fleet Foxes.Their latest self-published offering isall of the Shades’ own work though.

The name of the band may needsome explanation at some point –not least for me. The 60s art-houseband The Creation described their“music as red - with purple flashes” –which may go some way to explainthe band’s persuasion? However, thewriter’s glasses are, on initialhearing, far from rose-tinted as thesong articulates a view from a far from quixotic view of reality. The

band cannot be accused of being blinkered though: as the lyricsexplore the subject of growing up, the subject of much angst overthe years. It was Alan Bennet that first decreed that “it is just aswell that our childhood comes at the start of our lives because ifit came at any other point we wouldn’t be able to deal with it.” Hecould have a point…

The opening line of Blunder declares“this morning we had our lives in front ofus”, that hints at a world weariness that isa concern for a band so young. However,by the conclusion of our four minute trackthe imploring voice and beseeching lyricsmake it obvious that Worcester’s PurpleShades are content to celebrate theeveryday mundanity of life after all.

The Purple Shades may have out-foxedthe opposition with a genuinely uniquesound – my partner was humming along asI researched this track – our collectiveattention span may only be fleeting attimes but one can’t but ponder that ThePurple Shades will not just disappeardown the rabbit hole of potential bandsfrom the area. Tally-ho…indeed

Sir Gonzo

Ria Plays|Jar of Fishes 'ZineWe live in strange times, growing up and being interested in

music, it was all about holding and devouring something physical,whether that was vinyl, CD (or to a newlesser degree tape). I usedto love picking up a new release and dissecting the artwork andtrying to interrupt the lyrics, the package was as often asimportant as the album or single within for the avid collector.

Sure vinyl has made something of a resurgence in recent times,but on the whole, the majority of music listeners are reduced tothumbnail artwork on their favourite streaming/download site orscrambling round the internet for a lyrical breakdown. Often we'renot even sure who's even playing on the release, let alone who'swritten or produced the tracks in question. Somewhere along theline we've lost some of the magic of discovery when listening tosomething new.

Thankfully there arestill artists out therewho share a similarvision, release theiraforementioned vinyleditions or deliveringCD booklets that helptell the story of themusic within.

Ria Plays goes onestep further.Coinciding with therecent release of JarOf Fishes, the bandhave pieced togethera fanzine (anotheralmost lost artform!!), featuring theEP's lyrics, a series ofpieces of original artfrom the fertile mind

of songstress Ria Parfitt, photos, a spot the difference and eventhe guitar tabulation for the discs title track among other delights.

The cut and paste 'zine is a fun and engaging companion pieceto the EP, that really helps showcase the artistic minds behind thetrio, both lyrically and indeed visually for those of us who aren'tcontent with a thumbnail in the corner of a screen.

You can grab a copy of both the band's highly recommended EPand the accompanying 'zine from The Marrs Bar on September14th when the band tread the boards as part of the Slap night atWorcester Music Festival.

Will Munn

22 SLAP SEPTEMBER

New Release

Daddy's Girl|SpitFire"Daddy's Girl" by Gloucestershire based

SpitFire, wastes no time whatsoever withgrabbing your attention. A loud smash onthe guitar leads immediately into a whiningintro, almost like a siren, warning you thatthis is going to be dangerously good. Thefirst verse also kicks in quickly, and as thetitle suggests, the song is about gettingclose to a girl with an overprotective Daddy.The anthemic chorus is easy to sing alongto, and takes me back to old skool 80s rockbands such as Bon Jovi and Whitesnake.These bands had the ability to mix edgy andpunchy music with audible and rich vocals,whilst still delivering songs to sing along towith your mates. SpitFire achieved this.

The midsection of the tune slows down the tempo, becoming awhisper amongst the rest of the track, which is packed full ofenergetic guitars and drums. Overall, an upbeat tune, which after

a few listens will have you singingalong. The repetition of the chorusand general theme of the songmakes it slip into your head withease, and leave you hummingalong, long after finishes. I love asong that can hook you from thefirst play through, and this is one ofthose songs. It's good oldfashioned rock, easy on the ear,will get your foot tapping along,and one to raise a pint glass to ifheard on a night out. Well worth alisten if you want anuncomplicated, sing along kind oftrack. Kate Ford

Inkubus SukkubusLilith Rising

Following on from the recentlycompleted Tales Of Witchcraft &Wonder trilogy (with the release ofSabrina: Goddess Of The Severn lastyear), Gloucestershire based paganrock band, Inkubus Sukkubuscelebrate their thirtieth year as aband with the release of their twentyfifth album to date, Lilith Rising.

The title track opens proceedingswith an ominous mix of synth andstrings (Tony McKormack and NickGibbs respectively) before a barrageof marching drums, Roland Link'sthumping bass and Tony's six stringlurch into view, driving the trackbefore Candia, vocals, unveils abewitching, icy lead as the mother ofall vampires offers 'the sweetest kissof pain'.

Wise Woman follows and immediately showcases the acousticflipside to the band's coin based around a simplistic yet affectingstrummed mantra as a brooding Candia purrs and self harmonisesand the band deliver a beguiling, folky number that draws thelistener further into the album's enchanting web.

As the album continues, so does the diversity: On The Blood RedSea chills to the bone with its church chimes and haunting vocalsand Back To The Wild Woods is a beautiful stripped back, six minutefolk number with intricate guitar, subtle bass and a gorgeousrefrained vocal beckoning the listener back to mother earth.Amongst The Stone Angels features a tapped cymbal introductioncoupled with Celtic tinged fiddle before Tony's guitar gatecrashesproceedings, wailing triumphantly as Gibbs' fiddle rises and falls,framing a lustful vocal.

And then there's the near eight minute Ruardean Bears, a trackthat could have sat comfortably on the Tales Of Witchcraftcompendium, that tells the tale of four Frenchmen and theirdancing bears spreading joy through Gloucestershire until the

HOGAN’SHOGAN’SBESPOKE HAIRD RES S ING

townsfolk of Cinderford claimed the bears had attacked and killeda child and took their revenge (despite it being proved later thebears were not responsible and a number of colliers and labourersfrom Cinderford appearing in front of magistrates for the crime).The track sees Inkubus at their best, soundtracking the story by

blending acoustic guitar, marchingdrums and exploitative fiddle withanother captivating Candiaperformance that had mescrambling to discover the origins ofThe Ruardean Bears.

Few bands manage to staytogether for such a long durationand those that do generally sufferwith diminishing returns. InkubusSukkubus not only buck that trendbut write their own rules,consistently delivering thought-provoking, bewitching tomes fromthe darkside and Lilith Rising is upthere with the band's best. Give into the vampires kiss - you won't bedisappointed.

Will Munnwww.inkubussukkubus.com

SLAP SEPTEMBER 23

New ReleaseJonathan Markwood's

Hoo-Hah Conspiracy-PsychoacusisShropshire based artist Jonathan Markwood may not be a

name that instantly comes to mind but you may have seen himgracing your TV screen without realisingin the likes of CoronationStreet, Eastenders and Fresh Meat. It is a combination ofMarkwood's acting work and love of music that gave him the ideafor his successful London basedtheatre show, The Hoo-HahConspiracy Secret Caberet, whichhe then decided to introduce toaudiences around the country.

Markwood's quirky characterbased songs soon found favourwith BBC Introducing who havefeatured his music on a number ofoccasions and festival appearances(Funk In The Forest, Warton MusicFestival, Audlem Festival, etc) havefollowed as well as successoverseas with Jonathan becoming amulti award winner at the JPF WorldMusic Awards over in the US.

Psychoacusis is Markwood'sfourth album to date has alreadybecome something of a staple onShropshire's BBC Introducingprogram and for good reason. The ten track affair is as diverse asit is infectious with nods towards Bowie, Gabriel and Squeezegiving it a quintessentially English feel, but the intriguing lyricalnature and the quirky twists give Markwood a sound very muchhis own.

A six and half minute opening number would normally besomething of a brave move but Markwood's The Presidentintrigues from the off, introduced by an enticing piano melody andmilitary like drum rolls, the track soon spins in a new directionwhen Jonathan's melodic croon and (Talking Heads like) funk-

licked guitar join the mix as Markwood takes a wry look at theTango Kid running the country across the pond. Tongue-in-cheeklyrics, a delightful side step into Bowie territory and a dramaticorchestral crescendo make for an inspired opening salvo, urgingthe listener on.

The unfortunate tale of Holographic After-Life follows and isevery bit as alluring as the opener, as Markwood regales the storyof a wannabe rockstar, rejection and derision over one of thoseoddly familiar indie pop melodies that'll rattle round your head andburrow deep, demanding to be fed with another spin.

By the time the subtle pianobased introduction of Clare morphsinto another slab of indie popperfection, you don't knowwhether to whack up the volumeon your headphones and soak upMarkwood's compelling stories, orpull them out and dance round theliving room like a loon. Either wayyou'll still find yourself involuntarilyhumming the refrain of 'I don'twant, want to know you, want toknow you in another life'.

As the album continues,Markwood and his cohortscontinue to introduce us to anumber of compelling characters:one minute we're inhabiting thekind of 'neighbourhood' thatLiverpudlian's Space dwell in, to

meet Nicky Narcissus, the next we're searching for MotorbikeMona over a delicious elastic funk bass. Finally we meet MarlanaMaid Of Plastic for a suitably off the wall, indie-pop, love song (ofsorts), as Markwood closes Psychoacusis with his tongue firmlyin his cheek, his (lyrical) pen sharpened and an insatiable hook.

Jonathan Markwood can add maverick story teller and madcapgenius to an already impressive resume. A delight from start tofinish.

Will Munnwww.jonathanmarkwoodshoohahconspiracy.com

Learn to Lie|FeelOriginating from the Midlands it is easy to see how Learn to Lie

have been influenced by the rock heritage that is so much a partof the locale. Think of the bands that reflected the presses, thefurnaces, the factories and the sheerindustrial volume of the area – theSabbaths, the Priests and the Zeppelins –this gene pool is bound to keepproducing rock bands that are steeped inthe post - industrial noise of WestMidlands.

And yet Learn to Lie have chosen tofashion their own five minute rock operaon an anvil of differing influences. Thechosen guitar notes are subtler; thepower chords are selectively chosen; therhythm section is a little more persuasiveand the vocal delivery is accordinglymore measured…at times the voice isdelivered in an almost conversationalstyle. Alt-rock at its intriguing best.

As we know breaking-up with someone is awkward and difficultand the track Feel explores this theme with a cold and forensicscalpel. When the singer heightens the emotion with the silverbullet of a phrase – “there is somebody else” – the voice is raisedperceptively to capture that moment when you hear those words,

those words that clang like a ball-hammer hitting an anvil,acknowledging that the relationship,your relationship is over. You can’thelp but feel for the centralcharacter, knowing that it is over...

For their willing audience, it isobvious that it is just starting forLearn to Lie, one has the notionthat the irons are in the fire and thecreativity is coruscating and that anyone of the staves of pig-iron is beingforged, teased and scrolled into thenext rock object d’ art for the rockpurists to savour and celebrate.

The ghost of Lester Bangs

24 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Review

Gloucester BluesBefore going any further I’d like to take a moment to reflect on

the life of Damon T, a New Yorker who settled in Gloucester manyyears ago. As a gifted musician, writer and performer, Damon Tbrought with him Delta Blues and Slave Gang, as well as his bigheart and bigger personality. After having to cancel appearancesat both Upton and Gloucester Blues, this local legend eventuallylost the long battle with his health. He will be greatly missed by themany people fortunate enough to have spent time in his company.

Wed. 31st July, and aninvitation to the vaulted, barrel-infested Café Rene to catchKeith Thompson follow up on adelve into his new release,Transcendence. But first, a smallwindow of time allows me todrop in on Steve Ferbrache(Achievers)’s solo acoustic slotat The New Inn. Settling in withacoustic guitar and bare-boneset, he eases through a fewtraditional blues standards; alittle John Martin and “May YouNever”, before settling into a setof stripped back Achieverstracks, including a spicy “Careful Sabrina”, delivered withimpeccable “quality”. The set proves a nice warm up for TheAchievers’ weekend gig.

Drifting on down to Café Rene I find Keith setting up; there’sjust enough space for drums, amps, speakers and trio about toperform. Still, beer comes first, and an extensive offering awaits.“What You Doin’ To Me” fills the room with a warm, blues funk,and cash registers ring with “Money” from the dark side of the bar.

Keith delves back into his 25+ years on the road, rolling back theclock and “Preaching The Blues”. His guitar performs a call toprayer and cymbals ring in the opening bars of a gorgeous, chilledout “Little Wing”, sending Keith and his Strat soaring up above thecrowd, into the admittedly limited headroom of the bar. Thompsonreaches deep into his pocket, plucking out his “Watch & Chain”, ablues skiffle lifted straight from Transcendence. I couldn’t stay forthe whole set, but was glued to my spot for a superb Mayall, “AllYour Love”, before heading for the M5.

Friday 2nd August. Wille And The Bandits – Café Rene Stage.

After such an intoxicating set at Upton Blues Festival, theopportunity to see them down the road in Gloucester is tootempting to miss. Hitting the green outside Café Rene, anticipationhangs in the air while the trio set up and the crowd begin to swell.

Opening with “Victim Of The Night”, the six strings of MattBrooks’ bass and captivating stick work of Andy Nauman lockinto a tight groove, enticing the casual listener in. Wille Edwardsadds layers of guitar, revealing gravelly tones as the band hit theirstride. Hovering somewhere on the far outskirts of blues, the bandblend up latin and world rhythms with folk and rock; an infectioussound that shakes the audience to their feet. Beaten outpercussion, exploitative bass and Wille’s mesmerising slide fuelthe stunning “Keep It In The Down Low”, before a haunting cellointroduces “4 Million Days”, a song that sees Edwards effortlesslymove from acoustic to slide for a Floyd-inspired solo.

Few bands can hold your attention like ‘The Bandits, a pointproven with an extended version of “Angel”, a dizzyinginstrumental that glides, sweeps and soars. The band move

through gears and genres, holding the audience rapt as the threemusicians twist and turn each track in a new direction.

Following some rather fine sounding “Bad News”, the band aresummoned back to the stage for “one more”, and duly send theaudience into the night, with the anthemic vocal hook of “1970”for company, and drawing the curtain on another sensational setby Wille And The Bandits.

Saturday evening brings about a return for the enigma that isVincent Flatts Final Drive, fronted by the charismatic Steve‘Bertie’ Burton, who’s polished up the chrome work, with GaryHarper on highly tuned engine, Russ Cook on baritone exhaust,and Rich Shelton pumping in Nitro from the pillion seat. The fullon Achievers Band are up next, riding the exhaust gas with theirbreathtaking R&B.

From the off, ‘Bertie’, Jack Daniels in hand, gees the audience,encouraging them to their feet, as Harper cranks the six string andthe rhythm thunders in; this is a high-octane dose of blues boogie.By the second number the band have ignited. Harper peels offsearing solos whilst simultaneously batting for the world gurningchampionship. Cook is bouncing on the spot as he pounds at hisbass, whilst Shelton builds foundations at the back with a barrageof beats. But it’s Burton who demands our attention, as he hollersout Coco Montoya’s “Back In The Cadillac”, owning the stage withhis larger than life personality. ‘Bertie’ may be “Too Drunk To DriveDrunk”, but he’s “Road Tested”, and in imperious form as the banddeliver a glorious rendition of Chris Stapleton’s “TennesseeWhisky”, before cracking one last funk-ridden “Boogie Whip” thatleaves those at the front baying for more.

The Achievers are fast becoming one of my favourite bands onthe festival circuit, after being won over at Upton two weeksearlier. I find myself front and centre, soaking up the group’supbeat groove, four-part harmonies and contagious vocal hooks.“Mercy Mercy!” The full fatversion of the band deliveraddictive slabs of R&Bpeppered by the harmonicaof Rufus Fry. SteveFerbrache leads the bandthrough an inspiredrendition of traditional ear-worm, “Cuckoo”, followedby the gravelly soul of“Little Girl”. Fry takescentre stage for a tilt at“Long Gone Lost John”, fora bellowing, frenzied harmonica solo, as the rest of The Achieverspour in their winning harmonies, marching rhythms andcompelling melodies.

Having showcased the majority of their new album The Lost Arc,The Achievers round things off with one final dance number, “SeeMe Back Jesus”, which leaves the song’s irresistible refrain firmlylodged in my subconscious for the journey home.

G&W Munn

SLAP SEPTEMBER 25

ReviewThe Dusk Brothers @ The Cross Keys

Picture the scene from an old western, where the air of mysteryis the cowboy boots under the bat wing doors and the Stetsonhiding the expression of the face. Well this wasn't Carson City, itwas the The Cross Keys in Gloucester and at the first stroke of 9,ting went the bell, a chant from The Dusk Brothers and like thegun fight at the O. K. Corral, they fired up their instruments andblasted out their first track, which brought the audience into whatI can only describe as a frenzied awe!

The Dusk Brothers are Bristol based Graeme and Iain (E)Moncrieff and they have been performing, what they call, 'darkswamp blues' since 2015. Their instruments are all built bythemselves, from the guitars that look like a mini suit cases, to thestomp-boxes and foot operated cymbals. It would seem anythinggoes, to make their unique sound, including old pots and pans.Perhaps they can put my mother's washboard into action! Addthis together with Graeme's harmonica; I can only describe theirsound as absolute brilliance.

Considering their variety of instruments, I was eager to hear howtheir set list would alter in style, and they didn't disappoint. Therewere the slightly slower tracks, such as 'Ladies Man' and 'RumRiver' to the more powerful "get up on the table" tracks, as theirgravelly voices bellowed out 'Hold On' and 'Damage Done'. Oh andI personally think that the track 'I go it alone' should be theintroduction to a moody TV detective drama series.

These guys were so synchronised and their attention to detailmake an incredibly unique and distinctive sound that hadeveryone foot tapping and swaying. This year they have releasedtheir EP, 'Storms, Rum, Liars & Guns' and I can't wait for the album.The Dusk Brothers are now escalating quickly onto the bluesscene and performing at numerous festivals such as Buckle andBoots and Boxstock. I think they have noted a quote from JohnWayne "A goal, a love and a dream gives you total control over

your body and your life". The Dusk Brothers are so talented andgive 100% in what they do. They deserve to make their dreamsbecome reality. Megan White

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Hard StairsThe Swan, Cheltenham|25th Aug

My only previous experiences with hard stairs has been ratherpainful, but this form of Hard Stairs is a 2 piece ‘garage blues’band, with Dan on gritty vocals and guitar, and Martin, who trieshis damnedest to tear holes in the drum skins.

If you like blues as raw as gravel rash, then this is the band tosee. Ok, it was home turf, but the enthusiastic support includedbare footed dancing in the street as well as many curious passersbye who diverted into The Swan. I came to be there from a chancediscovery of a hand crafted CD found buried in my workstationseemingly for a year. About to throw it out, I thought have a listenfirst. Suffice to say, its been in my car on constant loop since. A bitof searching and googling, exchange emails and here I was.

On the first smack of the drum and chord of the guitar, I knew itwas worth the journey. Then Dan opens his mouth, spitting outthat gravel, stretching up heaving his hollow bodied electric, aconcrete mixer pouring out its coarsest mix, strong enough tosupport a rattling ‘Train Arrive’, and this was just the sound check.We’re all aboard so may as well as carry on. What followed was a45min roller-coaster ride with the wheels lifting off the track, hangtight and enjoy the ride. Martin sets up the familiar rap lifted fromThe Sopranos soundtrack, yeah well I already woke up thismorning, but the lyrics have been rewritten, and ‘Bella’, is thebeneficiary, maybe she works in Tony’s club? Ch Ch Ch, ‘ChickenHearted Woman’ seeps out a lovely blues riff, with Dan showing hecan make that guitar cry a little as Martin sweeps those skins,blood is being spilt on these bare boards.

Out comes the slide for a taste of the Delta. Swampy rhythm isset up, we’re being taken back to ‘The City’, and its a dark worldfull of corruption, dealers and sharks. I think I’ll stick with theSwan, luckily Cheltenham has yet to attained city status. The songcranks up, the dancing is wild, as the sunlight streams through thedoor into the shaded room.

This session was sadly all too short, good food, good beer andgood music. Hard Stairs turned to the slow burning passionate,‘Tell Me You Love Me’with Martin in the zone, Dan is upon his toes,wringing out the tears from his Epiphone and breathing thescorching lyrics into his mic.

If all that sounds sort of interest, then I urge you to find HardStairs on Bandcamp, listen ad support them, sort of Black keyson acid, simple blues with bite. Graham Munn

Lakefest 2019Friday afternoon and the weather impeded our way to Eastnor

on the side of the Malvern Hills to attend Lakefest 2019. Parkingup and donning our nautical grade weatherproofs, we made ourway to the venue in almost horizontal rainfall. Making our waythrough security, we found refuge from this watery onslaught inthe first venue we came upon, which happened to be the BBCIntroducing venue. After joining a considerable throng to get a welldeserved pint at the bar, we decided that for the duration of thisstorm it was probably best to stay in this shelter despite it nowbecoming very humid within.

Seeing some old familiar faces there, we decided to remain inthe BBC venue for a while being entertained by Sapphire Blue

and then the familiar faces of local folk band Journeyman. The rainhad ceased for a while as The Bluetones played their well honedset which we watched on the big screen outside the main stage.This looked a better option than joining the melee inside the maintent.

By the time headliners Kaiser Chiefs came on stage the rainhad returned, driving several thousand people into the massivebut packed out tent where navigation was hampered by severalhundred people insisting they remain in their camping chairsdespite people falling all over them. This situation wasn’t madeany better by those who had bought camping trollies into thearena. These were a major hazard for anyone trying to movearound inside. However this did not overshadow the reception ofthe “Kaiser Chiefs” who ended the day with all their familiarnumbers and a few from their new album in a high energy displayof showmanship and musicianship. Absolutely terrific.

Although Saturday provided us with a slight improvement in theweather, we spent a great deal of time ducking in and out ofvenues in an effort to avoid the numerous showers. Taking shelteronce again in the BBC marquee, we were entertained by one ofthe best bands we saw all weekend in the shape of Shop FrontHeroes who gave us an eclectic mix of original numbers. Themulti-talented front man played keyboards and guitar; sometimes

at the same time. The genre of music was difficult to categorizebut it was good original music and a power outage did not putthem off as they simply went acoustic. Great entertainment and Iwill definitely seek them out again. We then trotted over to theGlobe to see what Kate Lomas was all about. She is starting tomake a name for herself and after watching this pop set you cansee why. A great live act and definitely one to watch.

Despite a forecast of a break in the weather on Sunday, we weregreeted again by downfall after downfall. The field was by this timeturning into a bog of Glastonbury proportions. The managementdid what they could with quantities of hay being distributedaround the field but with the watery onslaught, they were alwaysfighting a losing battle. Inside the main tent, the ground was nowankle deep mud so we agin sat outside to watch the main stageon the big screen. Los Pacamenos treated us to a great set withtheir brand of country music. The last time I saw their singer PaulYoung was at Live Aid and I would never have recognized him. Hehasn’t lost that stage craft and can still hold an audience.

The Roving Crows also did a great set. I’ve seen the Crowsmany times in the last ten years or so but front man Paul O’Neilwho had been introducing the bands all weekend really excels ona big stage with his interesting interpretations of well knownsongs and a few of his own. This was by far the best gig I’vepersonally seen the them play

Sophie Ellis-Bexter has been making music for almost 20 years.While familiar with most of her catchy tunes, I’ve personally nevertaken a great deal of notice of her before today. She reallydelivered a great set doing all her familiar songs, some from hernew album due out soon and she rounded off the set with thepredictable Murder on the Dance Floor. Having seen her live forthe first time, I would gladly pay to see her again. Brilliant!

By the time James arrived on stage, some of the crowd werenow wallowing and sliding around in a mud bath just outside themain stage entrance. We were becoming aware of a number ofvehicles that were strugglingto get away from the venueby getting bogged down.Realizing that this situationwas only going to get worse,we thought it might be agood time to make ourescape. Thankfully we weresituated close to a tarmactrack and with our car nowcovered in mud but as wemade our way out we couldsee that some people weregoing to be there for sometime to come.

All in all and despite the weather doing it’s best to spoil theweekend Lakefest 2019 was a great success.

Words: Robert Ellis Photography: Saphire Blue & James by DassGreen; Kate Lomas & Los Pacamenos by Roy Jenks

Review

SLAP SEPTEMBER 27

The Strays, Social IgnitionWorcester Show 2019

We may not have had the expected August heat wave but whenit comes to live music, this month has been hot. Starting withGloucester Blues, despite the rain, Eastnor Castle and Uptonrocked to the sounds of Lakefest and Drunken Monkeyrespectively and there have been plenty more gigs and festivalsfor music lovers to get their fill. However, when it comes to familyentertainment, few could match the Worcester Show atGheluvelt Park.

With gymnastic displays, zorbs, climbing walls, bumper cars andpony rides on offer for the younger generation and topical talks, abeer tent and live music for the adults, this free show hadsomething for everyone and the numbers in the park paidtestimony to the variety, despite the threat of showers.

A rare Sunday off work with the family was reason enough tohead down to Barbourne to sample some of the show's delights,a spin round the sight and a few activities for the boy before wesettled in front of the main stage for The Strays. But of course'settled' isn't the right word for a Strays set because as soon asthe band open with Scratch My Back, the feet start tapping as theitch to start moving begins to take over and the rock 'n' roll riffsof Sam Cordery take hold.

By the time Estelle leads the band through a roughed-up take ofTainted Love (think Imelda May more than Marc Almond), pocketsof the park have given in to temptation and are back on their feetwhile the band strut through a delicious take on The Cure's LoveCats.

Strays originals such as the bluesy Get Out Of This Town with itsrobust bass solo and the swaggeringTwelve Bar Booze (both takenfrom their recently released debut album, Drop Out Zone) provedthe band's chops and showed just why their reputation seems tobe growing (rightfully so) on a daily basis, before leaving thoseassembled with a collective grin as they rounded their set with arock 'n' roll rush through Right For Your Right.

From high octane rockabilly to ska, Hinckley based 8-pieceSocial Ignition took over the reins and continued the partyatmosphere with a blast of brass, a choppy guitar and those allimportant elastic rhythms. Led by hyperactive frontman WayneHibbins, the band initially grabbed our attention with theeffervescent horns of Don't Hold Back before mixing up anaddictive, skank inducing sound with socially conscious lyrics onthe likes of Together We Unite and Victim. With a hint of a punkcrunch and the aforementioned heavy horns, the band hammered

their message home while encouraging the brave to their feet,caught up in the band's undeniable groove. The band, having madenew friends on their Worcester debut, wrapped up proceedingswith a full bodied Highs And Lows to an appreciative audience thatI'm sure would welcome the band with open arms the next timethey land in these parts.

Having been impressed with our two band blast at theWorcester Show (and the commendable mentions of The VHT's,Humdrum Express and The Rocker Covers by a number offriends and attendees) and the various family activities on offer, I'llbe sure to keep an eye open for next year's event and Irecommend you do the same!

Will Munn

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28 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Old Bush BluesFriday brought cool, wet

conditions but it did not deterthe campers and visitors forthis sell out year. Notably, JulesFothergill of Northsyde, wasremembered and celebrated,his distinctive silhouette on theprogram, T-shirts and postersized pictures over the fieldbar. As certain as Lorna haslost her soul partner, host MattWilliams has lost a lovedmember of his extended‘family’.

Two stages and the bar delivered the entertainment. In thegarden, a bar with ales and ciders supplemented the pub bar anda barbecue kitchen was set up to feed the stomach with homecooked fare, including the growing numbers of vegans andveggies.

Friday brought The BluesDuo, The Delray Rockets,The Achievers, Dove andBoweevil, Vincent FlattsFinal Drive and Tom CWalker. I arrived to catch theRockets whipping up thecrowd and getting feetmoving early in the day withtheir usual feast of raucousrockabilly. Ten minutes later,The Achievers' first appearance was proving popular with their

‘dancefloor gospel’. Plenty of ‘Good News’ about the saucy‘Sabrina’ and her ‘Qualities’. Dove and Bo brought soulfulAlabama blues roots and Americana.

Sugar Mama electrified the car park with their energy chargedrock blitz before we all settled in the garden for the peaceful roarof Vincent Flatts Final Drive with Gary Harper wringing every

drop of fuel from his axe as bassist Russ faced up as foil to the ‘oldman’ Bertie with his wee bottle of JD to hand but never ‘Too DrunkTo Be Drunk’. The gang enthusiastically cut a groove in the lawn asthey crowded in for the throbbing pulse of VFFD at their best (andall the girls love the drummer, Rich, so best mention him stickingit to them).

After a deep breath, Tom C Walker headlined. Today his line-upincludes guitarist Jack Cooper, drummer Jack Bowles andbassist George Foley. The music is ‘Garage Funk’, which seems afair description; get that funk in your face, splashing the ‘Juice’,tasting a soulful ‘Sweet Surrender’ and a gorgeous, ‘Sweet Angel'.If all that wasn't enough, in the dark recesses of the bar, acousticsolo sets were locked in by a sea of faces over the wholeweekend, from the ‘Godfather’ of blues, Perry Foster, right theway through to the raw, ripping kick-ass blues of Tone Tanner.

Saturday, and Robert J Hunter was up and at it with footstomping blues rock - “miss them at your peril.” –Blues in Britain,well I did! However, I didn't miss Backwater Roll I’m pleased tosay, with Miff Smith on harp and vocals alongside the Matthiasbrothers on guitars, an impressive Barry Pethers on bass andStevie and Alan on keys and drums. Only 1.30 and they drew the

Jules Fothergill

The Delray Rockets

The Achievers

Dove and Bo

Vincent Flatts Final Drive

Tom C Walker

Zoe Schwarz

Review

crowd in, getting legs moving and hips swaying, working up anappetite for the tasty offers in the barbecue kitchen. Zoe Schwarzand her Blues Commotion took over; her powerful vocalsdelivering rocking blues as easily as gut wrenching soul. ‘Shout’,let it out, ‘The Blues And I Should Have A Party’ and indeed, that’sexactly what we all intended to do.

Will Wilde, clobbered back in late June as he rode his motorbike,was here and ready for a reed bending performance on harp. Adouble spinal fracture and fracture to his neck and wrist kept himsat stiffly with a neck brace in place but incredibly, Will blasted hisway through the set which included his stupendous take on ‘TheWizard’ that was true spellbinding magic. The Wilde man ofharmonica was back ‘On The Road Again’, a fitting encore given hisrecent memorable trip down the highway. Get well soon Will.

Now far be it for me to question the wisdom of one superbharpist being followed by another, but... damn me if it didn't workout fine! Steve West Weston brings an entirely different stylethat’s steeped in the era of 60s R&B and he filled the garden withdancing legs and swaying hips. In a weekend awash withharmonica players, Steve was the only one to add a full chromaticto the more usual diatonic selection, offering a whole differentdynamic to the sound. This is one cool cat, bringing a jazz swingto the blues.

Sunday, and the weather has picked up. Local favourite andsuperb vocalist Paul Bridgewater with his Electric BluesRebellion basked in the garden, Lucy Zirins, was ‘ChangingGround’ to 'Wade In The Water’ of the car park stage, but thehighlights for me were The Paddy Maguire Band, and ForFothers Sake. Paddy, fronted by the phenomenal, Jenna onvocals, are absolute dynamite. It's not very often you see a bassistwith an array of 4 guitars but that’s exactly what the thunderousJamie Mallender does as they slide seamlessly into ‘VoodooChild’, with Jenna leading some audience participation to closewith.

For Fothers Sake turn out to be a conglomerate of musicians,stepping in with Haden on drums and Dobby on Bass (the rhythmboys from Northsyde), all in memory of Jules Fothergill (Fothers).Host Jules Benjamin acted as lynchpin to bring extra weight viakeys and guitar. Lucy Zirins, Robert Hokum, Matt Long ofCatfish and Paddy Maguire all took their turn while WayneMartin added some fabulous slide. Lorna Fothergill stepped upto share her thoughts with the gathered fans before announcingthat Northsyde would go forward, as Jules would have wanted.Mentored by Jules himself,15 years old, and unbelievably talented,Marcus Praestgaard Stevens would take on the roll.Characteristically frenetic Sugar Mama front man Sam Andersontook over to ‘Shake His Money Maker’ and had Haden and Dobbyscratching their heads but they kept it all together brilliantly.

Closing the evening, two more bands were to follow. Localfavourites Stone Mountain Sinners, who are making waves inthe country side of Americana, and Catfish, with Matt Long. Icannot add more than to say it had been a stupendous weekend.Matt Williams and his crew had presented the high qualityfestival we have all come to recognise at The Old Bush in CallowEnd. However, this year was different without Northsydeheadlining but the spirit of Jules Fothergill was ever present andwill remain that way into the future.

Graham munn

Will Wilde

Steve West Weston

Jules Benjamin

Stone Mountain Sinners

30 SLAP SEPTEMBER

PreviewSon Of John & John Parker

The Marrs Bar, Worcester|22nd SeptAfter a little antipodean hiatus Son Of John (Jacob Johnson) is

back performing with renowned double bassist John Parker. Lastyear the duo released their debut E.P “Live at Fieldgate Studio”.

On the 22nd September the pair will be back performing at theMarrs Bar for the first time in well over a year, bringing with themsupport from melancholy troubadour Burning Salt & local alt-folkduo Fracture Zone.

The duo takes Jacob’s own material as well as traditional songsfrom both sides of the Atlantic, to create Intimate yet vibrant gigs.With the mix of Jacob’s “husky drawl...and.. effortless picking”(Fatea) mixed with John’s ability “teasing the most amazingsounds, bowing, plucking, sawing and downright thrashing toremarkable effect” out of his instrument, the duo wander fromold timey foot stompers to slower more ambient songwriterballads.

Burning Salt is a collaborative music project headed by HannahHull, singer-songwriter and artist. Hull is known for her startlinglyhonest songs and distinctive low-register voice.

Burning Salt is an independent project releasing on Hull’s ownlabel, Lullaby Records.

Fracture Zone is the wayward project of Worcestershire-basedsinger-songwriter Tony Gillam. Tony sings and plays acousticguitar and mountain dulcimer, performing his original songs andinstrumentals accompanied by Bewdley-based, cajon-batteringharmonicist Phil Richards.

Remi HarrisThe Fold, Bransford|Friday 6th SeptInternationally renowned guitarist Remi Harris appears at The

Cart House at The Fold in Bransford as part of his 2019 tour. Hehas travelled to more than 30 theatres and music venues inEngland, Wales, and Scotland already this year, including a festivalin the South of France, and is due to play in Ireland in October.

With a variety of electric and acoustic guitars and a ukulele, Remihas performed with a double bassist up and down the countryfrom Hereford and Worcester, to Guildford, Ullapool, and Yorkshire,to Exeter and Penzance.

Remi’s music has reached new audiences and he continues togain recognition for his virtuoso talent, with the recent honour ofhis 1st signature model from Fylde guitars. Roger Bucknall, a wellrespected guitar luthier in the Lake District has handmade a ‘RemiHarris’ model guitar, inspiring budding guitarists to recreate theunique Remi Harris sound. This further cements Remi’s reputationas a leading guitarist in his field.

Remi, 30, who was born in Hereford, says “I’ve really enjoyedthe tour so far. It’s great to be playing in our favourite venues andvisiting new places, we’re so grateful for the audiences who comeout and see us year on year".

From the day Remi was born his mother of French origin chosethe name Remi, inspired by the musical scale DO-RE-MI. His firstalbum is called ‘Ninick’ in memory of his mother. Predominantlyself taught with the help of his Dad's guitar magazines andrecords, Remi started playing at the age of 7, initially inspired byrock and blues guitarists of the 60s and 70s such as Jimi Hendrix,Peter Green and Jimmy Page. In his late teens he developed aninterest in jazz music, in particular artists such as DjangoReinhardt, Wes Montgomery and Stan Getz. Since then he has anincreasing following on YouTube and social media around theworld and a growing reputation for blending all of his influencesinto his own individual style of playing.

Concert goers will be treated to a spectacular night of virtuosoguitar playing - with influences from Jazz, Blues, Rock’n'Roll, Funkand World Music. Musically the show is a reflection of Remi’s

artistic influences - with repertoire ranging from Django Reinhardtto Jimi Hendrix and all things in between, including The Beatles,Peter Green and new compositions from his anticipated thirdalbum.For further information please call manager: Dani Harris on

www.yardbirdarts.com | www.remiharris.com

Redditch’ Retro Vinyl Record Specialists LPs, 12” & 7” Singles & EPs & more All Genres from Jazz Age to 1990s

Open Tues-Sat. See website for mes. 104 Birchfield Road, Headless Cross, Redditch B97 4LH. Tel: 07887 525107

www.VintageTrax.co.uk

SLAP SEPTEMBER 31

Miranda SykesArtrix, Bromsgrove|Friday 6 SeptMiranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer and bassist with ‘Show of

Hands’ is returning to her roots. After a career spanning over 20years, during which time she has played with many of the topmusicians and singers within the folk world, she is touring as shestarted out: one woman, one bass, and one guitar.

Coming to Artrix for one night only on Friday 6 Sept, MirandaSykes is back with a completely new project: Behind The Wall.

Building on the success of her Borrowed Places tour, BehindThe Wall is a roller coaster ride exploring where we are going;Miranda, you, me, all of us. What does it mean to be human today,living in our communities & societies & where will our actions leadus? Powerful and hard-hitting but also poignant & beautiful, thisshow gives us all a chance to reflect & maybe even empower us.

Tickets for Miranda Sykes at Artrix are £14 in advance or £16in the door. For tickets or further information visitwww.artrix.co.uk or call Box Office on 01527 577330.

Acoustic VaudevilleThe Nest, Ledbury|Friday 20 SeptAcoustic Vaudeville comes to the beautiful 100 seater yurt at

The Nest, Ledbury with top piano-led, close-harmony singersongwriting trio Mumbo-Jumbo.

Playing regularly across the country at festivals, blues and folkclubs and village hall shows, eclectic double British Blues Awardsnominees Mumbo-Jumbo not only create excellent, interestingsongs with three lead voices, but also a whole utilise a whole flockof instruments including piano, accordion, bass, trumpet, ukulele,guitar, washboard, kazoo and percussion.

“Having run the nest of Voices series of a capella gigs in the yurtin May I know how lovely the ambience and sound is so we arereally looking forward to performing there,” said Oliver Carpenterof Mumbo-Jumbo.

The Nest is also well known for its delicious food so we areoffering pre-concert dining too from 7pm.

For more information including videos and tracks check outwww.mumbo-jumbo.biz For tickets and to reserve food visitwww.nestofvoices.co.uk or pop into The Nest.

Weirdshire PresentsC Joynes and Bell Lungs

Babar Cafe, Hereford|October 3rdTaking us into double figures for the Weirdshire nights in 2019

and we don’t stop. This one looks an absolute scorcher.

C Joynes, from Cambridge is a massively respected and prolificunderground musician. A solo guitarist with an insatiable appetitefor collaboration. He works in a direct lineage from Davy Graham,taking in Malian stylings and Texas Blues along the way. As muchat home on acoustic and electric guitar he weaves a path throughfolk songs of the British Isles, minimalist classical music, andimprovisation. He carries his outstanding technique beautifullylightly.

This year’s album “The Borametz Tree” – a collaboration with theamazing Dead Rat Orchestra is receiving plaudits from Mojo, TheWire, Dusted, The Quietus, BBC Radio’s Late Junction, TomRavenscroft and Gideon Coe.

Bell Lungs, from Scotland is a solo performer and anothermultiple collaborator. She uses layered vocal harmonies, electricviolin, omnichord, guitar, field recordings and instrumental loops tocreate a psychedelic, post-folk soundscape that draws onenvironmental disaster and the microcosmic aspects ofrelationships. She is an active member of Glasgow ImprovisersOrchestra, and has shared bills with legends such as RichardYoungs, Richard Dawson, Diane Cluck and Marshall Allen.

So clearly, not a night to miss. Music from 7.45pm, vinylselections from Jus Jay and Sproatly Smith. Free entry, donationsencouraged.

Preview

SLAP SEPTEMBER 33

Preview

21st September - £25

Joe Brown – 60th

Anniversary Tour

19th & 20thSeptember - £30

Oye Santana – Woodstock 50th Anniversary Tour27th September - £18Witty Ditties:

400 Years of Comic Song24th September - £15

24-28th September - £18.50

BOX OFFICE: 01905 611 427www.worcesterlive.co.uk

at The Swan Theatre and Huntingdon Hall

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Hunt Hall/Swan SeptemberDillie Keane, the Olivier Award-nominated actress, singer &

comedian and part of the Fascinating Aïda trio, is touring her brandnew solo show to a select few venues across the country,including Worcester’s Huntingdon Hall on the 14th of September.She will be singing some perfectly wonderful songs by othersongwriters, which she recently discovered in New York as well asa raft of her own songs. “A rare performer who can produce sharp,piercing satire and deliver heart-breaking songs with élan”,according to Huffington Post.

Ed Byrne performs his latest show, If I’m Honest… at the hall onthe 19th of September. Following his biggest ever tour last year inwhich Ed sold out his entire Edinburgh Fringe run and many of hisnationwide dates, culminating in extra dates added along the way,one of the finest observational comics in the industry announceshis brand-new tour for 2019. Join him as he takes a long hard lookat himself and tries to decide if he has ANY traits that are worthpassing on to his children.

Premier rock ‘n’ roll legend JoeBrown embarks on his 60thanniversary tour. It was in 1958that Joe joined his first band at theage of just 17 after which hefound himself backing visitingAmerican stars like Gene Vincent,Eddie Cochran and Johnny Cash,and Joe’s rockabilly lead guitarcan even be heard all over BillFury’s classic 1960 album TheSound of Fury. Joe’s career hasgone from strength to strength ashis contemporary achievementsmaintain momentum. His The Very Best Of album went gold,staying eight weeks in the UK Top 20, and in the same year his50th anniversary tour celebrated a sold out show at the RoyalAlbert Hall. Joe has two shows at Swan Theatre 19th and 20th.

Witty Ditties: 400 Years of Comic Song is at The Swan Theatreon the 24th of September. Following on from their acclaimed showA Brief History of Music, GreenMatthews bring you a new showwhich explores our rich history of witty wordplay and melodicmirth. Chris Green (piano, guitar, accordion) and SophieMatthews (early woodwinds, flute, saxophone) perform fourcenturies of chromatic comedy, ranging from bawdy Restorationballads to stinging sixties satire via Victorian music hall variety.Featuring songs by Noël Coward, Tom Lehrer, Flanders and Swannand a host of other lesser known songwriters, this fun and fast-moving revue will have you rolling in the aisles!Following on fromtheir acclaimed show A Brief History of Music, GreenMatthewsbring you a new show which explores our rich history of wittywordplay and melodic mirth.

34 SLAP SEPTEMBER

ReviewFemale Voices

Ellie Gowers, MeMe Detroit & Chloe MoggTower of Song, King’s Heath|Sunday 28th JulyFor a reviewer trying to write about a well established and

ongoing series of presentations, the main problem is usuallyrunning out of new things to say. With this series of Female Voicespresentations, the main problem I’m encountering is running outof superlatives to describe them.

Curated by Stourport singer/songwriter, Chloe Mogg thisimpressive monthly series aims to showcase the talents of a widevariety of women singer/songwriters and it achieves thisspectacularly well.

Our endlessly fascinating hostis first up tonight.

She’s tells us she's not beenwell and indeed, delivers the setseated, but silver linings beingwhat they are, she’s turneddisadvantage on its head with ahuge burst of creativity, andwe’re presented with no lessthan four new songs - each ofthem an absolute gem.

Her voice is remarkable. Theability she has to raise or lowerit by well over an octave, whileretaining perfect pitch is a rare gift. I first heard Laura Nyro do thison her album “New York Tendaberry” in the late sixties and latterlyJeff Buckley employed this vocal device to great effect on “Grace”.

Two of the new songs in particular have me spellbound. ‘TheDancer’ is a recollection of how her first choice of career wasdashed by illness but paradoxically, and to our great good fortune,it was during this time that she first picked up a guitar. The secondsong, 'Blue' is a shimmering and intense mood piece with abeautiful and unusual chord structure - can’t wait to hear this oneagain.

Packed with new material, there’s little room for old favouritestonight, but when she plays ‘Parrot', her very personal theme tune,you just know it’s not only a statement of intent, it’s a gloriousaffirmation of self.

Now, being the minefield it is, I rarely mention fashion in thesereviews but according to the seasoned MeMe Detroit watcherswho comment as soon as my photo hits Facebook, her performingin a frock seems to be akin to The Queen opening Parliamentwearing ripped jeans and a Sex Pistols' tee-shirt. Are we in for ademure performance from Birmingham's favourite alt rockheroine? Are we hell...

The power and commitment of this performance transcends theneed for amplification, and over the course of the next thirtyminutes, we're treated to a tantalising glimpse of the range of thisyoung woman's considerable talent. 'Get Down On With Me' kicksus off, and I mean 'kicks'... It sets the tone for the entireperformance - there's no concession to it being an acoustic gig -the guitar is hit hard, the solos and fills are intact and she's in fullflight right from the off.

The one thing that is slightly different from a full electricperformance is that with just her and the guitar onstage, you canreally appreciate the considerable nuance in her voice. Aided bythe excellent PA system and great acoustics of the venue, shemerges and becomes one with the mic, her trademark red eyeflash obscured by a curtain of hair. Very intense.

The set list is impressive and satisfyingly includes every singleone of my favourites, including the two minute sliver of punkperfection that is 'Run Riot' - this is the one that I couldn't imaginewithout amplification, but naturally she aces it. There's a newsong, too - so new in fact that it doesn't have a final title yet so shegoes with 'I'm Not Over You' and even in its acoustic form, youcan already feel the electricity coursing through it.

The Tower of Song choir pitches in enthusiastically for thecloser 'With You (Love Transcends All)' and brings to an end a setthat I suspect no-one who saw it will ever forget.

As Eric Morecambe might have said - “Follow that..."And that isprecisely what Ellie Gowers proceeds to do.

From the first few moments of her stunning opener ‘Robin’, thetitle track of her second EP, sung acapella in a crystal clear voiceto a room where you could hear a pin drop, we know we’re in forsomething special.

This is a wonderfully complete performance, full of beautifulmelody, varied guitar skills and considerable lyrical bite, notablyon the two brand new songs she plays. Firstly 'Liberty', a songabout the futility of war, based on letters she found in hergrandmother's attic and displaying the full power of her voice.

Secondly a thought-provoking song about the parlous state ofthe planet, 'The Sky Is On Fire' which manages the considerablefeat of not only being extremely beautiful to listen to but alsocontaining a subtle but effective weight of message that mostsongs about the ecology fail to achieve.

She's only just left University (armed with a first class honoursdegree) but as I mentioned, she's already two excellent EPs to thegood and from these, she delivers two outstanding tracks - theforceful 'Wolf' and the wistfully optimistic 'Better Days'. I'm goingto be playing these a lot and watching her perform live again assoon as I can. A fine end to the evening.

Three artists, three contrasting styles, one absolute guaranteeof quality. See you at the next one...

The next Female Voices presentation takes place at Tower ofSong, Kings Norton on Sunday 22 September. Doors at 7.30pm,music from 8.00pm. Geoffrey Head

SLAP SEPTEMBER 35

ReviewJohn Otway

Iron Road, Bar 57, Persore|15th AugThe background intro music, like the reason we had gathered

together was low key, the Punk anthems of old may have beenplaying but the volume like our performer had been turned downto an unassuming level. Everything about the night wassedate…almost.

Sedately, arriving from hisown audience, John Otwaytook to his stage – once he haddecided how to ascend it – likean avuncular Health and SafetyOfficer delivering a seminar to apassive work force. The Otwayof the near past may have beena force of nature but now this“old Grey,” still living off thereputation of that incident, hasflowered into a lampoon ofhimself with the aid of the cultof celebrity, but Otway is somuch more than being “famousfor being famous” sake. He isevery failed musician and comicin the room and there were afew of us. Dear reader, Otwayfilled our venerable little clubfor a reason: John Otway is allabout the self.

The Self-effacing, approach masks an innate desire to performand perform he did; from the staccato spoken word version ofBlockbuster to the “nod your head along” versions of his hits; allthe while introduced with self-disregarding comments: “I havebeen a pop star for over four decades.” I have a great sense thatOtway is laughing at us as we laugh along with him. Otway is fartoo self-aware to not know what he is about.

The performance is punctuated by the interactions of his side-kick and the Tommy Cooper-esque (one for the kids there!) nightis aided and abetted with visual puns, physical jokes electronic

gadgetry that complemented and detractedwith equal worth and failing props that belongto another decade. Otway has been rehearsinghis particular brand of spontaneity for anumber of years. The performance wasgreeted with a spontaneous reaction thatOtway had sedately worked hard for…the mildfaux-explosions, the ripping of shirts andshouting, a mere nod to the past.

Dismiss John Otway’s vaudeville act if youwill but it is your loss – the DIY incompetencemay be why many came to witness the Otway- but ignore the glorious opus, “Poetry andJazz” and you are doing our man and yourselfa disservice. The night’s humour might jar likeexperimental Jazz for a modern audience butthe lyrical content deserves to be studied likePoetry. Even Les Dawson could play like aclassical pianist when required…I know, Iknow…but perhaps we are all constantlylooking backwards?

The Swilgate Scuttler

Gary O’DeaThe Lamb and Flag, Worcester|28th JulyI don't like cricket. Oh no!

I was bought tickets for the 20:20 game down at New Roadbetween Worcester and Durham so me and my boys were gonnamake a day of it. The day like the game started at a light pace witha couple in the Old Rec. When we got to the ground the place wasfull. We decided to stand next tothe bar and sunk quite a fewwhilst watching Worcester limitDurham to 184 in their 20 overs.

There was the usual razzmatazzwhenever a 6 was scored. Thepredictable sounds of TheOutthere Brothers with BoomBoom Boom or Tsunami by DVBBSand Borgeous. When a wicket fellit was Dry Your Eyes Out by TheStreets and Queen Another OneBites The Dust, you get thepicture. Music certainly livens upcricket but it was Worcester wholivened up the crowd hittingtheirtarget in just 12 overs. Theysmashed it.

The day was in danger of beingover too quick so we headed toThe Quay and then The Diglis. Bynow a few were flagging and

arranging lifts home. But there was only one place I was flagging...The Lamb and Flag on The Tything. Sunday night is music nightand I was ready to dance the night away!

After I assisted with the sound check Gary O'Dea took to thestage. I was captivated. A perfect blend of guitar harmonica andthat voice. Carefully crafted songs such as Take the Money andRun My Dear, Be careful what you wish for and Interlude. Kind ofWildwood Weller meeting Van The Man. With his own take on afew covers it was foot tapping stuff and I just had to dance. SorryGary. Drunk dancing is not big and it's not clever.

He finished with my all time favourite song, asing along must, Down in The Tube Station. I wasflying high. Got a Taxi home. Collapsed.

Hungover, the next morning I had to drive toLudlow for a job. Reflecting on the night before Iwondered whether Gary was as good as I recalledor had the excesses of the day blurred mysenses... I had tried to buy a CD at the end of thegig but Gary insisted on giving me one for mydancing exploits. I put it on in the car (yes my carsthat old it's got a CD player) and listened to hisalbum FLY. Man I was impressed. Perfect musicfor a beautiful morning. With the Sun shining overthe Clee Hills I listened to it all the way to Ludlowand again all the way back. And then couldn't stoplistening to it all week. Get it. You won't bedisappointed.

Apparently he's Flagging it again in November.Look out for him.

I Don't like cricket hangovers. Oh no. But GaryO'Dea.... I love it! Ring Ting

Phot

o: G

raha

m B

aile

y

36 SLAP SEPTEMBER

FeatureMy country music roadhouseIn 1998 I was a mature student on exchange in Boston USA and

when living on the campus, with teenage American students, wasdriving me crazy, I used to get out and about as often as possible,and go listen to great live country music in local dive bars. In theUS it seems like every local bar was a music venue and theyalways had really great live bands playing. You could rely on thefact that there would be someone amazing playing somewhere,pretty much every night of the week. When I got back to the UK Ikept thinking, there's nothing much like that here for countrymusic, and the idea for the Honkytonk was born. I've beenplanning it in my head ever since! I've always been a huge countryfan and I'm on a mission to help spread the word about the bestcountry, honkytonk, outlaw, southern rock... etc... music from theUS, as well as the superb talent we have here in the UK.

Last year I finally bit the bullet and got started. The first SilverDollar Honkytonk, a pop-up roadhouse, took place in my localvillage hall in rural Worcestershire last November, featuring theEast Lonesome Drifters, an authentic honkytonk band fromLondon. It was a brilliant show and I realised that putting on gigsis the most fun way to earn a living! (Why don’t they tell you thatin Careers lessons at school?)

So the next one was in my local pub in March, and I scored a bigcoup by getting the great Pat Reedy, from Nashville, to come playfor us. Since then I have been in touch with several other outlawand Ameripolitan country acts and I am in negotiations for nextyear with Dallas Moore (www.dallasmoore.com) from Texas, withCasey James Prestwood (www.caseyjamesprestwood.com)from California, and with several other acts who've been on mywish-list for ages.

I've also established links with the Marr's Bar and that is nowthe new home of the Silver Dollar Honkytonk. We have firm

dates for four shows there for the next year, so it's really taking off.Our last gig was Saturday 10 August, a double-header featuringinternationally-acclaimed Ags Connolly (www.agsconnolly.com)and Kate Ellis (www.kateellis.com) from Louisiana. It was a reallyterrific night with some incredible performances. Please checkout: silverdollarhonkytonk.co.uk, Facebook: @silverdollarhonkytonkIG: Silver Dollar Honkytonk.

The word is out about the Honkytonk and recently we havebeen approached to host the wonderful Alice Wallace who iscurrently touring in support of her new album “The Blue”. We justcouldn’t risk letting her pass us by, so outside of our regularschedule we are offering a very special bonus gig featuring Aliceand her band, on Thursday 3 October, supported by the mightyMarzy and the Marr’s Bar House Band.

So excited!

I have really big plans for the Honkytonk. After the next gig, I'mlaunching a regular Silver Dollar Honkytonk podcast and a bigonline project to seek out and help to link up the many, manycountry fans that are out there across this country. The Honkytonkis lucky enough to have its permanent home at the Marr’s Bar, thegreat, long-established music venue in Worcester, but because it'salso got the ability to be a "pop-up" venture, one day before toolong our country music roadhouse will be appearing across thecountry.

If you love great music – or you know someone who does –please come out and support the incredible artists we are luckyenough to be able to bring to you here in Worcester. Come join theHonkytonk Family!

Sarah Jeffrey

Ags Connolly and Kate Ellis

Alice Wallace

SLAP SEPTEMBER 37

PreviewThe Cube, Malvern

Cube Shuffle 8th September.

The CUBE sHuFfLe has become an annual event and this yearis it’s 6th. The idea is that when all the kids go back to school andthe festival season is over, we host a FREE family community 1dayfestival to celebrate and raise awareness of all the stuff thatgoes on at The Cube, including ‘What’s On’ and up and comingevents.

Ian Parker and Aynsley Lister (Blues double headliner) 21stSeptember - Enjoy an evening of full-on-unmissable blues -unique chemistry when these guys share the stage. A songwritergenuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian is an originalcraftsman. Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocaldelivery, Ian's songs hold nothing back.

When explosive natural ability collides with fiery, emotionallycharged compositions, the result is Aynsley Lister; an incredibleguitarist whose brand of blues-based rock delivers contemporarysong writing fueled with the kind of heart and soul that’s missingfrom so much modern music.

Miranda Sykes and Benji Kirkpatrick (Fold Double Headliner)22nd September - Miranda Sykes, the acclaimed singer andbassist with ‘Show of Hands’ is returning to her roots. After acareer spanning over 20 years, during which time she has playedwith many of the top musicians and singers within the folk world,she is touring as she started out: one woman, one bass, and oneguitar.

Benji Kirkpatrick is well known as a rhythmic driver of suchoutfits as Bellowhead and Faustus, with his "memorablyaggressive" (MOJO) style. He started working as a soloist early onin his career though, and now brings the focus back to that.

Theatre Performance 25th September Taking Flight Theatrewith The Riverfront and Chapter present “peeling" From award-winning playwright Kaite O’Reilly.

In shadow, 3 performers await their brief moment in the light.Alfa, Beaty and Coral wait... wait while once more the action playsout elsewhere.

Often blisteringly funny, at times almost unbearably painful;peeling takes us backstage into a world of secrets, a world ofstories about mothers and their children, a world where thesefierce, intelligent and capable women are always the chorus andnever the lead.

Last Sunday of every Month

Full Mexican Breakfast 29th September

MASA Mexican Kitchen presents...MEXICAN BRUNCH

Start your Sunday with a Full Mexican Breakfast

Reserve a table for 10am or 12noon - using this ticket site or justturn up on the day (booking not essential)

38 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Preview

Bromyard Folk Festival5th-8th September

Bromyard Folk Festival is to be opened by the recentlyappointed High Sheriff of Herefordshire, James Hervey-BathurstCBE DL, with an opening ceremony on Friday 6th September at7.50pm. There are some events that take place on the Thursday,including a ceilidh and an album launch by the festival patrons,Granny's Attic called Wheels of the World.

There will be a Procession running down the High Street at8.30pm on Friday accompanied by the Town Crier. There will bemore Morris men than you can shake a stick at. The guest dancesides who will be performing are Belle D’Vain, Chinewrde MorrisDancers, JD & Folk, Newcastle Kingsman, Shropshire Bedlam& Martha Rhodens, Shropshire Sharpshins, Silkstone Greens,and Windsor Morris with performances by regular sides SoftOption, Faithful City Morris Men, Jockey Morris Men, LordConyers Morris Men, Shakespeare Morris Men, SilurianMorris Men, White Hart Morris Men, 1st Sedgley Morris Menand Earlsdon Morris.

There is literally a warm welcome for you on the Main Stage thisyear as the venue will be heated. Headliners performing on theMain Stage include Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening, Flook,The Daoirí Farrell Trio, Rosier plus a great deal more.

The rest of the weekend of the folk festival is packed with music,singing, dancing, workshops, stories, crafts, food and drink.

A particular feature for this year is going to be a 'Bal', atraditional French dance from Topette!!

The weekend will also have a real family feel, with a wide varietyof entertainers, activities, stories and songs with the bonus of freeentry for children under 10 years old.

The green field festival will continue in its aims to strive for amore sustainable future. Stainless steel bottles will be availablealong with freely available water refills, no plastic bottles in any ofthe green rooms or from the traders and any waste that isgenerated is being recycled by Blackpole Skip Hire who manage toreuse 85%.

The event takes place on 5th to 8th September. Tickets are onsale from the Bromyard Folk Festival website and will also beavailable from the on site Box Office from midday on 5thSeptember.

For tickets line up and further information go to:

www.bromyardfolkfestival.co.uk/

Dan the Hat entertaining families at Bromyard Folk Festival –photo by Lightsmiths Photography

Kathryn Tickell and The Darkening

@SugoLambAndFlag lambandflagworcs

September Listings1st - Kringo Blue

8th - Ruben Seabright13th/14th/15th

Worcester Music Festival22nd - Blue Gravy Orchestra

29th - Riché

Live @

The Tything, WorcesterSundays 8-10pm

Advertise in this space foras little as £30 per month

adverts@slapmag.co.uk

SLAP SEPTEMBER 39

The Len Price 3The Humdrum Express

The Marr’s Bar, Worcester|Friday 6th September

Be it boating blazers or Breton tops, The Len Price 3’s sharpband uniforms aren’t the only thing to set them apart from theirpeers.

Hailing from Kent’s Medway Delta, an area already steeped ingarage/punk/mod history, their hugely impressive collection ofmelodic nuggets are thrillingly performed at breakneck speed.

With five albums under their belts and a sixth on the way nextyear, the LP3 have built up a solid reputation as one of the UK’smost exciting live acts. Crashing guitar, pounding drums andchrome glazed harmonies create their trademark sound, but digdeeper and you’ll find a lyrical content full of acid tongued, wrysocial observation.

It’s been 12 months since their last visit to the Midlands, if youhaven’t seen them before – now’s your chance!

Completing the line up at The Marr’s Bar are fellow acerbic socialobservers, The Humdrum Express.

Having racked up close to 40 national plays on BBC 6 music,including a live session earlier in the year; main man Ian Passeyhas expanded the line up over the past 18 months to add aninfectious, upbeat backdrop to his withering critique. The full band(Andrew Boswell, Carl Bayliss, Chris Taylor-Ashcroft and TedCartwright) fuse swirling indie clatter with a healthy dose of goodhumoured joy. With a new Humdrum album close to completion,expect a sneak preview alongside the radio favourites.

Tickets are available from wegottickets.com/event/466116

Terence Stomp

www.paradiddlesbar.co.ukfacebook.com/Paradiddlesbarworcestertwitter.com/Paradiddles_Barinstagram.com/paradiddlesbar

Paradiddles Music Café bar, 61/61A Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU

Alternative & Creative Café /BarLIVE MUSIC REHEARSAL SPACEFREE WIFI

LICENSED BAR COURTYARD PIZZA

Monday – ClosedTuesday – Thursday 10.00 – 22.00

Friday / Saturday 10.00 – 23.30Sunday 10.00 – 16.00

Opening Times

Preview

40 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Sunday 01 September 2019Woo Town Hillbillies (5:30pm)The Chestnut, WorcesterVintage Inc. (5pm)The Imperial, WorcesterChessi O’dowd (5pm)No 3A., BromsgroveMax Bywater (3pm)The Red Lion, Amblecote, StourbridgeAdam HigginsRed Lion, EveshamThe Unconventionals AcousticThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernDead RosesWorley’s At The Swan, Stourport-On-SevernThe FolliclesThe Wharf, Stourport-On-SevernThe OutcastsThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernThe Butchers DogsBabar Cafe, HerefordMeg ShawBottles, WorcesterTor PhillipsThe Kingsford, KidderminsterJay & EliThe Morgan, Great MalvernThe Honeyboy Hickling Band (4pm)The Price Of Wales, Ledbury

Tuesday 03 September 2019The English Dulcimer Duo (1pm)Great Malvern Priory, MalvernFCS: Press Club, Watch Commander, The Earnest SpearsAnnie’s Burger Shack, WorcesterKadonnut MannerBottles, Worcester

Wednesday 04 September 2019Two Ways HomeCaffe Nero, CheltenhamTwo Ways HomeCafé Nero, Gloucester

GruigCarpenters Arms, Miserden, StroudWeirdshireBabar Cafe, HerefordRaeppen, Rosebud, Polakov, MonojackHeroes, Worcester

Thursday 05 September 2019Mel & HimThe Unicorn, WorcesterJohn BlekArtrix, BromsgroveChris BannisterPalace Theatre, RedditchPaul Beadle, Andy LindsayKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeThe Cravats, Dc SpectresClaptrap The Venue, StourbridgeBryan Corbett QuartetSmokey Joe’S, CheltenhamTriinuThe Prince Albert, StroudNo Violet, Pollyanna Blue, Plum Jr.Left Bank, HerefordGarrington T Jones & FriendsParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterThe FolliclesTappeto Lounge, KidderminsterDead Dads Club, The Queen Has Two Heads, Poppy Ws,Redwood UkWorley’s At The Swan, Stourport-On-SevernThe Blues DuoThe Price Of Wales, Ledbury

Friday 06 September 2019Remi Harris, Tom Moore, 8pmThe Fold, Bransford, WorcesterMiranda SykesArtrix, BromsgroveQuoThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveAbsolute BowieThe Iron Road, PershoreBennett Wilson PooleSt Georges Hall, Bewdley

SLAP SEPTEMBER 41

A Night With The Rat PackThe Vale Golf & Country Club, PershoreBacchusThe Millers Arms, PershoreFlatworldWorcester Arts Workshop, WorcesterThe Strays, Red Hot Riot, Chevy Chase Stole My WifeAnnie’s Burger Shack, WorcesterMarty WildePalace Theatre, RedditchBedrock BulletsThe Ladybird Inn, BromsgroveThe Rock BottomsNo 3A. BromsgroveDepeche Mode - Black CelebrationThe River Rooms, StourbridgeDon’t Stop Fleetwood Mac TributeThe Hanbury Turn, BromsgrovePersuadersSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeDemonic Resurrection (India), Ascaris, SkoraFrog And Fiddle, CheltenhamEd ConwayThe Red Lion, Amblecote, StourbridgeLittle DaveRed Lion, EveshamPay The PiperThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernScott DlThe Cheltenham Stable, CheltenhamShowtime – A Tribute To The Greatest Showman!The Civic, Stourport-On-SevernLeoHarry Cook Free House, CheltenhamThe FolliclesThe Lodge, Stourport-On-SevernRous Lench Hall -(Trib) Grappelli & Reinhardt-Holder & SmithRous Lench Village Hall, EveshamLiam Ward, Malcolm ThorneClothiers Arms, Stroud14 Units, El MonstroCafé Rene, GloucesterVince Freeman, Dan Wilde, NualaGloucester Guildhall, GloucesterCroft And CotesTank, GloucesterThe Coyote KingsThe Black Shed Slimbridge, GloucesterThe ManfredsThe Courtyard, HerefordThe Debbie Parry BandLowerlode Pub, Forthhampton, TewkesburyThe Polly Edwards BandThe White Pheasant, Stanford, WorcesterHump De BumpThe Sociable Beer Company, WorcesterFunkikty FunkingBabar Cafe, HerefordThe Beethoven ExperienceRoyal Porcelain Works, WorcesterThe Lost ChordGordon Bennett’S, HerefordJim SmithBluebell Inn, MalvernJagged HandThe Plough, HerefordThe Len Price 3, The Humdrum ExpressThe Marrs Bar, WorcesterTyler MasseyThe Plume Of Feathers, CastlemortonThe Country Chix, Chloe MoggArtrix, BromsgroveBluze BoxQueen’s Head, Wolverley, Kidderminster

Saturday 07 September 2019The RonaldosThe Monkland Arms, LeominsterLounge ToadGreat Malvern Hotel, MalvernTom DaviesThe Swan Inn, Barbourne, WorcesterThe ReflectionsThe Chestnut, WorcesterPlaybackThe Cricketers, WorcesterSkroodThe Hop Pole, Bromsgrove

Kimmy & The WahoosJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamThe Stiff Joints, Counting CoinsThe Iron Road, PershoreCrushHorn & Trumpet, BewdleyDaniel SethBlack Boy, BewdleyDire StreetsPalace Theatre, RedditchWitcherThe Unicorn, MalvernSteve Ajao And The Blues GiantsKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeTone LockedYe Olde Black Cross, BromsgrovePlay It Again SamSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeThee Crooked Hooks, Flying Ant Day, Batbi, Mistrusted,Pablo Alto, Bedtime Susan, Colossus Yeti, 3Legsforward,The Snowflakes (All Day)The Mitre, StourbridgeOne DementiaThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernBlack SeptemberThe Cotswold Inn, CheltenhamBull BoysReet Petite, LeominsterFaithThe Civic, Stourport-On-SevernVintage IncThe Express Inn, MalvernMeatloud AgainEvesham Arts Centre, EveshamAll You Need Is The BeatlesThe Sub Rooms, StroudAlbino TarantinoThe Prince Albert, StroudThe Shaggy Dog RaconteursStroud Brewery, StroudZenneDumbleton Village Club, EveshamThe Beachy BoysWickhamford Sports Club, EveshamHe Stars From The CommitmentsStudley Castle, StudleyMike BessButchers Arms, StroudVintage Inc.The Express Inn, MalvernThe StacksThe Queen Vic, StroudTerryThe Alma Tavern, WorcesterZenneDumbleton Village Club, TewkesburyBourbon AlleyThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernThe Leon Daye BandLower Lode Inn, GloucesterThe PleasuredomeThe Kings Head, Upton On SevernThe PeasThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernDusk Till DawnCross Keys Inn, GloucesterConnectionsThe Northend Vaults, GloucesterThe FugitivesThe Malt Shovel Inn, GloucesterBon Jovi ExperienceThe Courtyard, HerefordThe Debbie Parry BandThe 3 Horse Shoes, MalvernPipe DreamThe Vaga Tavern, HerefordBlack And Blues BandThe Plough, HerefordPaul Henshaw, Matt Johnson, + SupportParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterThe Feelgood Band (Dr Feelgood Tribute)The Marrs Bar, WorcesterBad MedicineThe Wobbly Brewery, HerefordBeth HopkinsPockets Snooker Club, Kidderminster

Dan & King RichThe Sportsman, KidderminsterThe Lost ChordThe Old Lion Inn, KidderminsterMatty JayThe Kingsford, KidderminsterThe GTsThe Oxford Arms, Hereford

Sunday 08 September 2019Hannah CaytonThe Oak Inn, LedburyCube ShuffleMalvern Cube, MalvernTrevor Babajack (5:30pm)The Chestnut, WorcesterThe Imperials (5pm)The Imperial, Worcester

A Musical Evening supporting Stand Up To CancerDrummonds, WorcesterEmilie Eleanore, The Arquettes, Chris Hutchison, Sojourn 2pmThe Nag’S Head, Malven

TerryThe Morgan, Malvern

Mamma Mia SingalongNumber 8, Pershore

Paul Mccormack (4pm)The Ladybird Inn, Bromsgrove

Paul MccormackNo 3A., Bromsgrove

GazzaRed Lion, Evesham

Ttp AcousticThe Black Star, Stourport-On-Severn

Fleetwood MachineThe Civic, Stourport-On-Severn

SkabucksVines Park, Droitwich

The FolliclesYe Olde Crown Inn, Stourport-On-SevernSam Powell’s Blues Band (3pm)Richmond Place Club, Hereford

The Eighties ExperienceThe Westcroft, DroitwichUpfrontThe Vineyard Inn, Abbots Salford, EveshamJim ReynoldsLittlevic, Stroud

Talon - The Best Of EaglesThe Roses, Tewkesbury

Bryn ThomasThe Nottingham Arms, Tewkesbury

Little DaveThe Wheelhouse, Upton On Severn

Stephanie RobertsBabar Cafe, Hereford

Downside UpThe Firs, Broadheath, WorcesterTerryThe Bell Inn, St. Johns, WorcesterJasper MaloneThe Marrs Bar, Worcester

Zoltan EnsembleThe Mule Shed, Hereford

Woo Town HillbilliesKilverts, Hay On Wye

Ruben SeabrightThe Lamb & Flag, Worcester

Vicky EliseThe Kingsford, Kidderminster

Forty Blue Toes (4pm)The Price Of Wales, Ledbury

Monday 09 September 2019Two Ways HomeCaffè Nero, Stourbridge

Tuesday 10 September 2019Soul Kinda Wonderful Present: The DriftersThe Courtyard, Hereford

Wednesday 11 September 2019Skinner & TwitchCarpenters Arms, Miserden, Stroud

TalonSwan Theatre, Worcester

Thursday 12 September 2019Danbert NobaconKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgePhil KingThe Prince Albert, StroudJoni, Sandy & MeThe Painswick Centre, StroudGeorge WildingTank, GloucesterPoppy WsThe Plough, WorcesterTalonSwan Theatre, WorcesterJames KeelaghanBromsgrove Folk Club, Bromsgrove

Friday 13 September 2019Worcester Music FestivalVarious Venues - www.worcestermusicfestival.co.ukThunder DazeThe Hop Pole, BromsgrovePolly EdwardsColwall Park Hotel, MalvernThe Maz Mitrenko BandJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamRuf’s Blues CaravanThe Iron Road, PershoreGo Now! The Music Of The Moody BluesPalace Theatre, RedditchSigning OffCatshill Social Club, BromsgroveFlasheartsClaptrap The Venue, StourbridgeSkye HadleyThe Ladybird Inn, BromsgroveRuben SeabrightNo 3A., BromsgroveThe AC30’sThe River Rooms, StourbridgeMr BlackSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeBlack Heart AngelsThe Maverick, Stourbridge2 Tone RevueThe Gigmill Pub, StourbridgePolly May, Louisa GaylardSmokey Joe’S, CheltenhamAaron CookRed Lion, EveshamThe Uk Monsters Of RockCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamJoanne Harris & The Storytime BandPittville Pump Room, CheltenhamTCMLThe Royal, CheltenhamAndy SmithThe Cheltenham Stable, CheltenhamThe Secret CabaretThe Wharf, Stourport-On-SevernThe Ziggie Paul BandThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernHoof HeartedWychbold Sports & Social Club, DroitwichWitcherThe Blue Bell, RyallUpfrontThe Swan Inn, StudleyRob McewenTank, GloucesterFifty4The Millers Arms, PershoreThe Leon Daye BandThe Black Shed Slimbridge, GloucesterTrebleLeft Bank, HerefordVoodoo Room: A Night Of Hendrix, Clapton & CreamHuntingdon Hall, WorcesterFootprints JazzAll Saints Church, HerefordSultana BrothersThe Plough, HerefordThe Rain TreesBluebell Inn, MalvernPink Tribute ShowHogarths Stone Manor, KidderminsterTom WalkerQueen’s Head, Wolverley, Kidderminster

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SLAP SEPTEMBER 43

Saturday 14 September 2019Worcester Music FestivalVarious Venues - www.worcestermusicfestival.co.ukDave OnionsGreat Malvern Hotel, MalvernChalkyThe Swan Inn, Barbourne, WorcesterDead Dads ClubThe Unicorn, MalvenThe TransportersThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveThe Usual SuspectsThe Cross Keys, MalvernVolante Strings ConcertSt.James The Great Church, MalvernVaselineJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamFoyer Folk: Dampier’S RoundNumber 8, PershoreAndy Fairweather Low & The Low RidersArtrix, BromsgroveSoul LegendsPalace Theatre, RedditchFace StealersThe Village Inn, RedditchRev HammerKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeOne Stop BoogieThe River Rooms, StourbridgeTwo’S Company: Love LettersConquest Theatre, BromyardBlack MercianSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeCode Break, Knife Crime, Tape It ShutThe The Mitre, StourbridgeTommy – The Album LiveCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamBarefoot SerpentsThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernRagged UnionThe Cotswold Inn, CheltenhamGareth LemonThe Botanist, CheltenhamJames BakerThe Lodge, Stourport-On-SevernMichele Stodart (3pm)Badlands, CheltenhamMel & HimThe Pillar Of Salt, DroitwichSteve Ashley, Mike WeaverOat Street Chapel, EveshamLewis & DavStroud Brewery, StroudTideman’s PieceThe Lounge, StroudDuncan ChisholmThe Fleece Inn, Bretforton, EveshamBetter Than We LookWidden Old Boys RFC, GloucesterHard GraftThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernRockin’ The JointWotton Hall Social Club, GloucesterJay & EliThe Red Lion, IlmingtonAnd Finally...Phil CollinsSwan Theatre, WorcesterGareth JonesBaker Street, GloucesterBee Gees TributeThree Counties Hotel, HerefordDillie KeaneHuntingdon Hall, WorcesterThe UK Pink Floyd ExperienceThe Courtyard, HerefordSax AppealThe Green Dragon, MalvernMzleadingThe Eagle Inn, Ross-On-WyeVintage IncBar 7, Upton Upon SevernBlack MercianSadler’S Brewhouse And Bar, StourbridgeFizzi DuoLand Oak, KidderminsterPaprika Blues BandThe Cavalier, KidderminsterJayne Peters BandThe Kingsford, Kidderminster

Sunday 15 September 2019Worcester Music FestivalVarious Venues - www.worcestermusicfestival.co.ukJeff Chapman’S Roosters (4pm)The Price Of Wales, LedburyVo & PhilThree Kings Inn, Hanley CastleUk Pink Floyd ExperiencCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamKev From The MurmurThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernSpicey GirlsThe Civic, Stourport-On-SevernTideman’s PieceThe Lounge, StroudWarp & WeftThe Museum in The Park, StroudMalvin HancoxThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernPaul Chief O’neilRed Lion, Evesham

Tuesday 17 September 2019The Neil Diamond StoryThe Courtyard, HerefordAdam LaceyHolme Lacy House Hotel, Hereford

Wednesday 18 September 2019The Carpenters ExperienceArtrix, BromsgroveRock For HeroesPalace Theatre, RedditchBenji Kirkpatrick And The Excess, Bryony SierThe Prince Albert, StroudPeeky BlindersCarpenters Arms, Miserden, Stroud

Thursday 19 September 2019Eddie MartinThe Price Of Wales, LedburyThe LurkersThe Iron Road, PershoreBranwen And Other TalesConquest Theatre, BromyardPaul O’neillEvesham Arts Centre, EveshamAmadou DiagneThe Prince Albert, StroudRory Mcleod And GuestsSVA, StroudFred Skidmore Organ TrioJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamJoe Brown And His BandSwan Theatre, WorcesterKongeroHellens Manor, Hereford

Friday 20 September 2019Apphia CampbellThe Market Theatre, LedburySultana BrothersThe Barn, LedburyTwisted HitsReet Petite, LeominsterDerek & The CheckmatesQueen’s Head, Wolverley, KidderminsterClaire BoswellGreat Malvern Hotel, MalvernThe CoreThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveThe StraysJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamBig Fat ShortyThe Blue Bell, RyallThe StrawbsArtrix, BromsgroveJohn Morrison Fowler, Lost Wave, The Adventure ClubClaptrap The Venue, StourbridgeThe TroubadoursNo 3A., BromsgroveU2+1 + Alive And Kicking UKThe River Rooms, StourbridgeMurmurSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeThe Usual SuspectsThe Maverick, Stourbridge

44 SLAP SEPTEMBER

TashaRed Lion, EveshamThe Studio Orchestra Present The Music Of John WilliamsCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamGotta GrooveThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernThe Velveteers (Usa), ThievesThe Cotswold Inn, CheltenhamNat Steele QuartetVictory Club, CheltenhamBlack And Blues BandWorley’s At The Swan, Stourport-On-SevernLeoThe Retreat Wine Bar, CheltenhamThe FolliclesThe Lodge, Stourport-On-SevernIssy WinstanleyThe Cheltenham Stable, Cheltenham80’s ManiaThe Roses, TewkesburyJack MooreTank, GloucesterThe Rhythm SlingersTall Ships, GloucesterMumbo-Jumbo - Acoustic VaudevilleThe Yurt At The Nest, LedburyUncover Presesnts: London Black - Single LaunchAnnie’s Burger Shack, WorcesterPearl Jam BootlegCafé Rene, GloucesterSkroodThe Millers Arms, PershorePoppy WsArchway 49 (Worcester Brewing Company), WorcesterBlind River Scare (Solo)Left Bank, Hereford2Tone RevueLeft Bank, HerefordJoe Brown And His BandSwan Theatre, WorcesterThe UkappellasThe Sociable Beer Company, WorcesterCory’s AngelsBluebell Inn, MalvernThe Worried MenThe Plough, HerefordThe Songs Of Nick DrakeThe Globe, Hay On WyeThe GTsThe Marrs Bar, Worcester

Saturday 21 September 2019The Dick And Bob ShowThe Lion, LedburyHotroxThe Ducker Bar, LeominsterBlind River ScareThe Monkland Arms, LeominsterIan Parker, Aynsley ListerMalvern Cube, MalvernMadi Stimpson TrioGreat Malvern Hotel, MalvernMelissa ButlerThe Swan Inn, Barbourne, WorcesterPete Hyde & The VilliardsThe Chestnut, WorcesterFreddiThe Cricketers, WorcesterVoodooThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveMentallica, Megadeth UKThe Iron Road, PershoreMaggie Bell & Dave KellyJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamPete KellyBlack Boy, BewdleyDan & King RichHorn And Trumpet, BewdleyJohn Bonham A CelebrationPeakman Street, RedditchCodaThe Queens Head, RedditchChantel McgregorArtrix, BromsgroveDry RiverThe Dog And Pheasant, Bromsgrove

FacestealersThe Pillar Of Salt, DroitwichThe One Love BandThe River Rooms, StourbridgeHighwayThe Rose & Crown, Wordsley, StourbridgeAutumnThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernDusk Till DawnThe Cotswold Inn, CheltenhamConnectionsCleeve Hill Golf Club, Cheltenham

BrightrFrog And Fiddle, Cheltenham

The GeckosThe Express Inn, Malvern

Duo Karadys & Michael BochmannEvesham Arts Centre, Evesham

The DropoutsThe Valkyrie Bar, Evesham

Clear CutDumbleton Village Club, Evesham

Bournemouth Male Voice ChoirStroud Brewery, Stroud

Old RaskalsRailway Inn, Studley

FaithStudley Castle, Studley

The GatecrashersThe Queen Vic, Stroud

Mitchell And VincentThe Ale House, Stroud

Vintage IncVirgin Tavern, Worcester

Clear CutDumbleton Village Club, Tewkesbury

Mr WolfThe Wheelhouse, Upton On Severn

Fracture UkCross Keys Inn, Gloucester

Hot FeatReet Petite, Leominster

Ray SandersArchway 49 (Worcester Brewing Company), WorcesterBad SpanielGordon Bennett’S, HerefordWootown HillbilliesThe Green Dragon, MalvernPistol Pete Werne & The Wildwood Flowers, The DylanMarshal Project, + SupportParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterKinship Carer FundraiserThe Marrs Bar, WorcesterDan Whitehouse, Boo HewerdineNewhampton Arts Centre, WolverhamptonHotrox BandThe Ducker, LeominsterDessie MageeThe Globe, Hay On WyeMzleadingThe Angel Hotel, Coleford, Glos.Chloe MoggThe Sportsman, KidderminsterBrittlebonesThe Kingsford, Kidderminster

Sunday 22 September 2019John SnockenThe Press Room, LeominsterMiranda Sykes, Benji KirkpatrickMalvern Cube, MalvernHenry Prestons Ghost (5:30pm)The Chestnut, WorcesterWitcher (5pm)The Imperial, WorcesterRay MyttonThree Kings Inn, Hanley CastleThe Delray RocketsJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamOne Night in DublinCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamMatt SayersThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernSultana Brothers (3pm)Richmond Place Club, Hereford

SLAP SEPTEMBER 45

Go Now! The Music Of The Moody BluesThe Roses, TewkesburySon Of JohnThe Marrs Bar, WorcesterBlue Gravy OrchestraThe Lamb & Flag, WorcesterChloe MoggCock & Magpie, BewdleyFemale Voices: Devon Mayson, Gina Larner & Chloe MoggTower Of Song, BirminghamFrankie WessonRed Lion, Evesham

Tuesday 24 September 2019Witty Ditties: 400 Years Of Comic SongSwan Theatre, WorcesterTuesday Tribute - Freddie Mercury And QueenThe Kingsford, Kidderminster

Wednesday 25 September 2019Forever EltonArtrix, BromsgroveThe Drifters 2019Palace Theatre, RedditchFlying Ant DayThe Maverick, StourbridgeThe Troubleshooters With Ruzz GuitarCafé Rene, GloucesterOdette MichellCarpenters Arms, Miserden, StroudSavannah Jazz BandPershore Jazz Club, Pershore Town Football Club

Thursday 26 September 2019Man, Edgar BroughtonThe Iron Road, PershoreThe Garry Allcock TrioJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamMemories Are Made Of ThisPalace Theatre, RedditchAndy Richards BandKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeKeith JamesThe Sub Rooms, StroudAlash EnsembleThe Prince Albert, StroudLeon DayeTank, GloucesterPerry FosterThe Plough, WorcesterOrjan HultenLeft Bank, HerefordSimply ReredHuntingdon Hall, WorcesterFrank Sinatra – His WayThe Courtyard, HerefordMike Wilton, Every ThreadClaptrap The Venue, Stourbridge

Friday 27 September 2019Six Seconds To RunWorcester Arts Workshop, WorcesterAlex RainsfordColwall Park Hotel, MalvernThe Stevie Nimmo Trio, Big Ginge Blues BandThe Iron Road, PershoreThe FolliclesHorn And Trumpet, BewdleyPunk NightReet Petite, LeominsterThe Purple Shades + SupportAnnie’s Burger Shack, WorcesterThe Counterfeit SixtiesArtrix, BromsgroveLes Mckeown’s Bay City RollersPalace Theatre, RedditchThe ReggulitesClaptrap The Venue, StourbridgeBlackballedKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeImmy & The BoatmanNo 3A., BromsgroveBruno - A Tribute To Bruno MarsThe River Rooms, StourbridgeEastwoodSadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeFloorboards, Laika, Blood Uncle, Chaplin ShakesFrog And Fiddle, CheltenhamRed Hot RiotSmokey Joe’S, Cheltenham

Woo Town HillbilliesRed Lion, EveshamMister WolfThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveJohnny CoppinThe Bacon Theatre, CheltenhamVoodoo BlueThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernSoularThe Retreat Wine Bar, CheltenhamAlex BayrossThe Cheltenham Stable, CheltenhamMonkey JamHarry Cook Free House, CheltenhamDan & King RichThe Lodge, Stourport-On-SevernFalse Flags, Last Safe Moment, Stone AngelsThe Queen Vic, StroudNo Man’S LandThe Roses, TewkesburyJoe SummersTank, GloucesterSteve Browning, Graham BarrBaker Street, GloucesterBoogie Bop BoysHillside Brewery, GloucesterForty Blue ToesThe Millers Arms, PershoreRagged UnionCafé Rene, GloucesterRodney BraniganLeft Bank, HerefordOye Santana - Woodstock 50Th Anniversary TourSwan Theatre, WorcesterTerryThe Old Pheasant, WorcesterRemi Harris, Tom MooreAll Saints Church, HerefordJamie KnightYe Olde Talbot Hotel, WorcesterShanghai ShuffleThe Cosy Club, WorcesterHenneseaBluebell Inn, MalvernThe Delray RocketsThe Plough, HerefordReady 5 + SupportParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterSyked (John Sykes Era Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy + Blue Murder)The Marrs Bar, WorcesterSam Lee, Emma Oaman, Richard King, Weirdshire DJsThe Globe, Hay On WyeThe Rutland Troubadour - Aka Paul McclureElmslie House, MalvernTunky PigQueen’s Head, Wolverley, Kidderminster

Saturday 28 September 2019The Very Grimm Brothers, SasscappellaThe Market Theatre, LedburyFifty4The Strand, CheltenhamPolkadot Robot BandeokeWorcester Arts Workshop, WorcesterHot RoxReet Petite, LeominsterSteve LinforthGreat Malvern Hotel, MalvernMike SkilbeckThe Swan Inn, Barbourne, WorcesterBig Fat ShortyThe Chestnut, WorcesterSkabucksMalvern Town F.C., MalvenSeptember SongElmslie House, MalvernPlanet RockThe Hop Pole, BromsgroveGet StonedJoe Joe Jims, BirminghamRalph MctellArtrix, BromsgroveJames ReidyThe Holly Bush, RedditchThe LeylinesKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeMidnight SunYe Olde Black Cross, Bromsgrove

46 SLAP SEPTEMBER

Arts, Exhibitions & CinemaUntil Sept Grayson Perry Exhibition at Croome National Trust

Until 2nd sept - Sara Hayward Cutting Corners: Colour works Worcester Cathedral

Until 4th Sept Hilary Roberts - ‘Flowers, Fields & Forests’Pershore Number 8

8th Sept Drawing & Painting Workshop with David WalkerBerrington Hall, Herefordshire

Until 14th Sept. May the Toys be with youWorcester City Museum & Art Gallery2nd-30th Sept -Evesham Festival of Words ‘Poetry in Colour’Exhibition Evesham Library

4th Poetry and a pint night, Worcester Arts Workshop

6th until 6th Oct Herefordshire Open & Young Open Exhibition 19The Courtyard Hereford6th-12th Hereford Art Week

7th Worcester Alternative Artists Market, Heroes, Worcester7th & 8th Cheltenham Paint Festival7th & 10th Pulp Fiction (18) The Courtyard Hereford10th Ocean Film Festival Cheltenham Town Hall10th Drink and Doodle, The Paul Pry Worcester13th-15th Worcester Music Festival14th Ocean Film Festival Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa14th-22nd ArtistsWorkhouse Members Show, Artist Workhouse, Studley17-22nd Pride presents Gender Materials Worcester Arts Workshop17-24th We The Animals (15) The Courtyard Hereford18th Ocean Film Festival Theatre Severn Shrewsbury21st Worcester Pride Poetry stage, Worcester Arts Workshop24th- until 29th Sept Sculpture Gardens, Jinny Ring Centre, Hanbury.27th Bright Field The Globe in Hay-on-Wye28th Box Tale Soup present Turn of the Screw, The Courtyard HerefordUntil 3rd Nov Meadow Arts present In Ruins, Witley Court

Local Festivals1 September Moseley Folk Festival Moseley, Birmingham5-7 September Onboard the CraftStoke Prior Sports & Country Club, Bromsgrove5-8 September Bromyard Folk FestivalBromyard6-8 September Busfest Three Counties Showground, Malven7 September Blackwell Music FestivalBlackwell, Bromsgrove

7-8 September Droitwich Salt FestVines Park, Droitwich

13-15 September Worcester Music FestivalVarious venues, Worcester

15 September Biggfest Music FestvalTardebigge, Redditch

20-22 September FrogfestFrog and Fiddle, Cheltenham

27-28 September Dubs of AnarchyAshdown Farm, Evesham

For Arts listings email: arts@slapmag.co.uk

The SubterraneansThe River Rooms, StourbridgeFinal 4Sadlers Brewhouse & Bar - The Lye, StourbridgeSynthmachineKinver Constitution Club, StourbridgeArrivalThe Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham

SlowjinThe Bacon Theatre, Cheltenham

The InstitutionsThe Black Star, Stourport-On-Severn

Mister WolfThe Cookley Sport & Social Club, Cookley, Kidderminster

Gareth LemonThe Botanist, CheltenhamFloyd in The Flesh - A Tribute To Pink FloydStourbridge Town Hall, StourbridgeJibbafishThe Bayshill Pub, CheltenhamMel & HimThe Express Inn, MalvernPete HarringtonGardeners Arms, DroitwichInto Cliff & The ShadowsEvesham Arts Centre, EveshamPasadena Roof OrchestraThe Sub Rooms, StroudSatellite DownThe Swan Inn, EveshamNigel NightThe Fleece Inn, Bretforton, EveshamChris RobertsSt Mary De Crypt, GloucesterLee RossHucclecote Community Association, GloucesterBetter Than We LookBaker Street, GloucesterDetroit MagicSwan Theatre, WorcesterThe Debbie Parry BandThe Green Dragon, MalvernTony James This Is Soul!Red Hill Social Club, WorcesterBand On The RunThe Plough, HerefordAccoladeThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernShowaddywaddy EliteWelsh Club, Hereford

Behind The MusicParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterFaux Fighters (Foo Fighters Tribute), Altered VoltageThe Marrs Bar, WorcesterSundown Jazz Society, The Butcher’s Dogs, Jakey Boy Hughes,The Globe, Hay On WyeWolverley Beer FestivalWolverley Memorial Hall, WolverleyNeil HarrisonHabberly Club, KidderminsterJayne Peters BandThe Loom, KidderminsterDuoThe Sportsman, KidderminsterChloe MoggCockerel Inn, Winnall Caravan Park, StourportChelsea JadeThe Kingsford, Kidderminster

Sunday 29 September 2019Mike Wilton & Every Thread (4pm)The Price Of Wales, LedburyHowlin’ Matt (5:30pm)The Chestnut, WorcesterNeil Ivison (5pm)The Imperial, WorcesterPassionThree Kings Inn, Hanley CastleBleeding HeartsKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeSpitzRed Lion, EveshamWannabeCheltenham Town Hall, CheltenhamThe FolliclesThe Black Star, Stourport-On-SevernThe Charlton Blues KingsThe Cheltenham Stable, CheltenhamVincent Flatts Final DriveJoe Joe Jims, Birmingham2Tone RevueYe Olde Crown Inn, Stourport-On-SevernWhiskey MoonfaceThe Prince Albert, StroudRory McleodThe Fleece Inn, Bretforton, EveshamOver The HillThe Wheelhouse, Upton On SevernMike Wilton, Every ThreadPrince Of Wales, LedburyRichéThe Lamb & Flag, Worcester

SLAP SEPTEMBER 47

Please let us know if any of the above are nolonger running or if your regular event isn’t listed

Every Monday - Folk NightWorley’s, The Swan, StourportEvery Monday night - Acoustic NightThe Rollin Hills Restaurant, Upton Upon Severn1st Mon of Month - Acoustic SessionThe Pickled Plum, PershoreFirst Monday - Open MicThe Sociable Beer Company1st Monday - Pub Quiz Volunteer Inn, Hereford4th Mon - SingaroundPiddle House, Wyre Piddle, WorcsFortnightly Mon & Wed (check website) - Folk NightsThree Horseshoes, Frampton-On-Severn, GlosLast Tues - Folk Night The Millers Arms, PershoreFirst Tues - Folk Session run by Phil KnowlesRose and Crown, FeckenhamFirst Tues - The Courtyard Open Mic NightCafe Bar, The Courtyard, Hereford

Acoustic/Folk Session, Every TuesdayThe Plough Inn, Wollaston, StourbridgeEvery other Tue Perdido Street Jazz BandThe Talbot, Knightwick1st & 3rd Thursday of every month,The Cross Inn,Kinver,StourbridgeFirst Tues - For 12-19 year olds 7pm Pershore Library2nd & 4th Tuesday - Open Mic Night with Pete KellyThe Queen's Head, WolverleyEvery Tue - Open Mic The Firefly, WorcesterLast Tuesday - Eclectic Open MicVolunteer Inn, HerefordEvery Tue - Plug and Play The Cotswold Inn, Cheltenham3rd Tues - Acoustic Jam Night with Ian & Kevin FullerThe Millers Arms, PershoreEvery Tues - Enzo’s Open MicGreat Malvern HotelEvery Tue - Acoustic/Singaround (Folk, Blues, Country)The Falcon Hotel, Bromyard2nd Tue of Month - Acoustic SessionThe Farriers Arms, Worcester3rd Tues - Folk EveningThe Crown Inn, Longtown, HR23rd Tues of Month - Acoustic Session with Mick MorrisThe Bell, Pensax, Worcs1st Tues of Month - Acoustic Session with Pauline MolloyThe Cardinal's Hat, WorcesterEvery Wednesday - Open micThe Maverick, StourbridgeEvery Wednesday - No Poetry Open mic with Cheating LightsThe Garrison at the Grapes, Hereford1st Wed Every Month - Sing/Playaround The Talbot Hotel, KnightwickEvery Wed - Swan Sessions - Open MicWorley’s The Swan, StourportEvery Wednesday - Ukulele SessionThe Old Cock Inn, DroitwichEvery Wednesday open micThe Imperial, WorcesterEvery other Wednesday - Open mic/SessionsRose & Crown, Severn StokeEvery other Wednesday - Open mic/SessionsFox & Hounds, BredenFortnightly Wednesday - Bluegrass & Americana acoustic sessionThe Crown, Colwall2nd Wednesday Permission to speak - spoken word & poetryClap Trap The Venue, Stourbridge2nd Wednesday Unplugged NightParadiddles Music Cafe Bar, WorcesterFirst and third Wednesday - The Dragon Folk ClubThe Dragon in The Tything, WorcesterEvery Wednesday - Irish SessionKatie Fitzgeralds, StourbridgeEvery Wed Music night - Andy Lindsay & Debbie ParryThe Green Dragon, MalvernFortnightly Wed Open MicThe Queens Head, RedditchLast Wednesday Priest & The Beast Jam Night (No covers) 7pmClap Trap The Venue, StourbridgeEvery 4 wks on a Wed - Acoustic SessionThe Rose & Crown, Severn Stoke, WorcsEvery Wed - Olá Samba DrummingAll Saints Academy, CheltenhamEvery Wed - Folk Jam SessionPrince of Wales, LedburyEvery Wed - Marzys Jam NightMarrs Bar, Worcester3rd Wed of Month - Acoustic SessionThe Admiral Rodney, Berrow Gn3rd Wed of Month - Celtic folk sessionThe Fleece Inn, Bretforton, WorcsEvery Thursday - Open MicThe Victory, HerefordEvery Thursday - Drumlove Adult Workshop 7.30pmThe Angel Centre, WorcesterEvery other Thursday, Open Mic with Dan JamesThe Chestnut, Worcester1st Thurs - Folk SessionKempley Village Hall 3rd Thursday - Eclectic Open MicWobbly Brewery and Taphouse, Hereford

1st Thurs - Black Hill Tune ClubThe Crown Inn, Longtown, HR21st & 3rd Thursday of every month,The Cross Inn,Kinver,StourbridgeOpen Mic with Johnnie GracieThe Jubillee Inn, StudleyEvery other Thursday, Bromsgrove Folk ClubCatshill Club, BromsgroveEvery Thur - Open Mic Night/Jamming SessionThree Horseshoes, Frampton-On-Severn, GlosEvery Thurs from 9.30 - West Malvern Open MicWest Malvern Social Club, MalvernEvery Thursday Open MicGardeners Arms, DroitwichFirst Thursday - Jackson's Bar open mic - by The Third VerseThe Northwick Hotel, Riverside, EveshamFirst Thurs - Open MicThe Oddfellows Arms, Astwood BankEvery Thursday Open Mic Hosted by Polly Edwards & Ben HallThe Old Pheasant · WorcesterEvery Thursday Open MicThe Eagle Vaults, Worcester Every Thursday - Acoustic Folk SessionThe Fleece Inn, Bretforton, WorcsEvery Thur - Open Mic Night/Jam NightThe Swan, Barbourne, WorcesterEvery other Thursday, Open MicThe Prince Albert, StroudEvery Thursday - Spoken word 7-9pmAbbey Road Coffee, Great MalvernEvery Thursday - Folk Session run by Bob ChanceBlack Swan Muchdew Church, Hereford3rd Thur - Mainly Irish SessionThe King's Head, Tenbury Wells3rd Thur - Jazz SessionReet Petite, Leominster2nd Thursday - Malvern StorytellersThe Great Malvern Hotel - £1.50. See malvernstorytellers.co.ukEvery 4th Thursday - Open mic night with Blue StreetThe Berkeley Arms, TewkesburyEvery 4th Thursday - SessionNew Inn, MalvernAlternate Thurs - Mainly Irish & Scottish SessionThe Morgan, MalvernEvery Friday - Somers Trad Folk Club (8.15pm)Bishop Allenby Hall, St Stephen’s Church, WorcesterEvery Friday - Open mic 7-9pmAbbey Road Coffee, Great Malvern1st Fri - Acoustic SessionThe Camp, Grimley2nd Fri - Open micReet Petite, Leominster3rd Fri (usually) - Beginners/Improvers Session/WorkshopThe Methodist Church, LedburyLast Fri - Acoustic SessionThe Fox, Monkwood Green, WorcsEvery Fri - Irish SessionSt Ambrose Hall, KidderminsterEvery Friday Lunch Time - Folk SessionThree Kings, Hanly CastleLast Friday - Resident band The Future SetThe Berkeley Arms, Tewkesbury2nd Sat (3rd Sat in Feb) - Rushwick Folk ClubRushwick Village Hall, WorcesterEvery Sunday starting at 3:00pmThe Morgan, MalvernEvery Sunday Acoustic Sunday at 7.30pmThe Wharf, Stourport3rd Sunday Open Mic with Tom Doggett 6pm-9pmThatched Tavern, HoneybourneSunday Live Open MicThe Cotswold Inn, CheltenhamEvery Sat - DiscoDucker Bar & Beer Garden, Leominster1sr Sun - Open MicThe Queens Head, Sedgeberrow2nd Sun - Singaround SessionThe Yew Tree Inn, Peterstow, HerefordshireEvery Sun 8.30-Midnight - Open SessionSocial Club, West MalvernEvery Sun Lazy Acoustic Afternoon with Liz Kirby 4pmRed Lion, Market Place, Evesham Sunday Shenanigans Open Mic Night 7pm every SundayClap Trap The Venue, Stourbridge2nd Sun - Acoustic SessionThe Hop Pole, DroitwichEvery other Sunday open mic hosted by Ruben Sebright 9pmThe OIl Basin, WorcesterEvery other Sunday open mic hosted by Ruben Sebright 9pmThe Unicorn, MalvernSunday afternoon jazz 12.00 - 3.00Lichfield VaultsLast Sun - Mixed Acoustic SessionsThe Bowling Green Inn, Stoke Prior1st & 3rd Sun - Singaround format SessionThe Galton Arms, Himbleton, WorcsJazz every Sunday 12.30 till 2.30 ishPickled Plum, Pershore2nd Sun - Moonshine Acoustic Jam ClubPiddle House, Wyre Piddle, Worcs

Music Sessions/Open Mics

7th Worcester Alternative Artists Market, Heroes, Worcester7th & 8th Cheltenham Paint Festival7th & 10th Pulp Fiction (18) The Courtyard Hereford10th Ocean Film Festival Cheltenham Town Hall10th Drink and Doodle, The Paul Pry Worcester13th-15th Worcester Music Festival14th Ocean Film Festival Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa14th-22nd ArtistsWorkhouse Members Show, Artist Workhouse, Studley17-22nd Pride presents Gender Materials Worcester Arts Workshop17-24th We The Animals (15) The Courtyard Hereford18th Ocean Film Festival Theatre Severn Shrewsbury21st Worcester Pride Poetry stage, Worcester Arts Workshop24th- until 29th Sept Sculpture Gardens, Jinny Ring Centre, Hanbury.27th Bright Field The Globe in Hay-on-Wye28th Box Tale Soup present Turn of the Screw, The Courtyard HerefordUntil 3rd Nov Meadow Arts present In Ruins, Witley Court

www.marrsbar.co.uk01905 613336

Wednesdays - Jamming night - FREE entry

Available for private hire

2019

OCTSEPT

The AmericasSaturday 14th September

www.marrsbar.co.uk01905 613336

Wednesdays - Jamming night - FREE entry

Available for private hire

2019

OCTSEPT

The AmericasSaturday 14th SeptemberFriday September 6

The Len Price 3, The Humdrum Express£9 in advance £12 on the doorSaturday September 7The Feelgood Band (Dr Feelgood tribute)£8 in advance £10 on the doorSunday September 8Jasper Malone£5 in advance £7 on the doorWorcester Music Festival 13-15September - FREE ENTRYFriday September 13The Task in Hand presents: Das SexyClap, Too Piste, Howard James Kenny,Theo, RicheSaturday September 14SLAP Mag presents: The Americas, Ria Plays, Elephant Peel, Killdren, Vinny Peculiar, Sunday September 15Uncover presents: Evilwitch, HEY YOUGUYS!, Time of the Mouth, Total Victory,Tokyo Taboo, AusterityFriday September 20The GTs£7 in advance £10 on the doorSaturday September 21Kinship Carer Fundraiser£5 in advance £7 on the doorSunday September 22Son Of John£6 in advance £8 on the door

Friday September 27Syked (tribute too John Sykes eraWhitesnake, Thin Lizzy + Blue Murder)£8 in advance £10 on the door

Saturday September 28Faux Fighters (Foo Fighters tribute),Altered Voltage£8 in advance £10 on the door

Thursday 3 OctoberThe Silver Dollar HonkytonkAlice Wallace + Marzy & House Band£13 in advance £15 on the door

Friday October 4Biffy McClyro (Biffy Clyro tribute)£8 in advance £10 on the door

Saturday October 5Sams Town (Killers tribute)£8 in advance £10 on the doorSaturday October 12Guns Or Roses (Guns N Roses tribute)£10 in advance £12 on the doorThursday October 17FCS presents: Proud Mary + Support£15adv, £18 on the doorFriday October 18Skewwhiff, Attila the Stockbrocker£5 in advance £7 on the doorSaturday October 19R.E.M.\Stipe£8 in advance £10 on the door