The Bishops Stortford Acoustic Club
at South Mill Arts Centre
1-3, South Road, Bishops Stortford, Herts.
CM23 3JG
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Previous
Performances – Who played when |
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8th December 2021
Thursday’s Band
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Thursday’s Band are one of the UK’s most intriguing acoustic bands – consisting
of a unique combination of guitars and strings brought to life by intelligent
original song writing Coming from an eclectic background that includes folk, country,
blues, cajun and orchestral music, the band includes Mark Gamon (guitar,
vocals and songs); Matt Kelly (fiddle, viola, mandolin, vocals and songs);
Dave Cammish (bass) and Rhys Wilson (guitar and
vocals). Their
songs are new and in keeping with their overarching ethos, originalinality. They
combine so well and as they have been performing together over the years,
they play with an intuitive combination that is so delightful. Their set was
a combination of four players at the top of their game and brought a deal of
delight from the audience. The
current line-up is relatively new, Thursdays Band has always been a moving
feast, always building, developing and learning and looking forward to the
next opportunity to see them again. Thursday’s
Band have released two full albums, and they are available from www.clunkandrattle.com and www.thursdaysband.bandcamp.com |
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24th
November 6 Acts - 4 songs |
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Mark Gamon Mark is one of those
players who seems to pop up everywhere - with good cause. He is a talented
song writer, plays a pretty mean guitar, a fine singer and a born
collaborator. Rather than as part of either of his Bands it was just Mark,
his guitar and his songs we were delighted to welcome him back and the set
was a rare delight. |
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Terry Hiscock How do you start to
explain the wealth of talent that is Terry? The principal singer and
songwriter with 70's Electro-Folk-Rock band Hunter Muskett now enjoying a
well deserved revival, Terry is a sought after solo performer in his own
right. His performance was typical Terry; thoughtful, insightful and
delivered in a style that is his own. His observations on life, history and
music were as ever treat. |
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Linda Moylan Linda made her first
appearance at the Acoustic Club on the recommendation of Ian and Del of
Crayon Angels, both of whom provided backing music and vocals. Off the Record music
blog stated "Linda is an amazing vocalist with a great command of her
range. If you haven’t heard Linda before, then fix that mistake now.” We got
that opportunity last week and we are converts. A debut of note and thanks
Linda for performing |
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Tom Ryder Tom wears so many
hats at times it is difficult to remember that despite his musical
associations (of which there are many) he remains a stand out singer and songwriter.
Last time he combined with Greg Camburn on a couple of his songs, he again
proves that there is no substitute for class, of which he blessed with so
much. We are already looking forward to the next time when he teams up with
Greg and long time collaborator and friend Joe Hazell at the Christmas
Concert. |
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Geoff Carne Geoff treats every
audience to his unique way of looking at things and his view is reflected in
the songs he plays. He is a real troubadour of the old school being part of a
tradition of observational songs which are just spot on. It was a pleasure to
welcome him back to Stortford and the Long Room where he gave us some highly
original and enchanting songs. Geoff relies on his ability as a songwriter
and player to take you to the reality of his songs. Just a damn fine set!! |
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Cider at Yours. What can be said
about this very local duo that has not been said before? They are one of the
finest purveyors of Musical Magnificence that can be found (well certainly in
Hertfordshire). Richard and Becky produced a unique sound which it turns out
was the first gig for ages and ages. Their music is personal, sometimes
amusing but always compelling and it was great to welcome them back to the
Acoustic Club. |
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10th
November Jo Ash |
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Last time we welcomed back to the Long Room
the individual talent that is Jo Ash. Jo was supported by her long-time
collaborator, writing partner and guitarist Mike Wheatley. During lock down Jo has expanded not only
her musical horizons but also, in some part her musicality. She has developed
her talent in producing music to such a level that she is able to record and
produce her music. There is nothing as worthwhile as self-producing music.
There are no compromises and the music sounds exactly as the artist envisages
it when writing and performing. Jo's latest EPs are reviewed on the
Acoustic Club website, but they are very much worth listening to. Her unique
style and performance were, as ever, a mastery of music that is so
emphatically Jo Ash. Many thanks to Jo and Mike for a Headline
Showcase that was a treat for everyone. Support was provided by Bill Tarran Pete Croft Chris Rivett Greg Camburn The Maystone Joe Clack |
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27th
OCTOBER TENNESSEE
TWIN &
The YOUNG PLAYERS |
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Last time we welcomed back to the Long Room
the award winning Country Rock American Duo Tennessee Twin. Well, that is one
very apt description but I would prefer a grown-up duo who play some really
great songs, almost all of which they write and deliver in a style that is
immediately enthralling and enjoyable. It is a great talent to have and
Victoria and Geoff exude it in abundance. Their whole performance is
professional and is so accessible to audiences of every age. For a
second time they were the Headline Act at our regular Young Players nights
and they had the rapt attention of not only the adult audience but the young
players as well. They bring their own standard and skill to
every performance and this time was no different. A full set that just
flashed past in the wink of an eye. Many thanks to Victoria and Geoff for a
wonderful set and we are looking forward to the next time As it was Half Term Week, we were delighted
to welcome our young players. With many of our regular young players moved
onwards and upwards - it’s amazing how quickly they grow up and move onto
university - we had the pleasure of meeting a new crop of players. Just so you know them for the future, when
you can say in 5-10 years, I saw them at the Moon before they were famous!! |
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Our young players are from top left SOFIA GATLAND accompanied by
Hanako Ward, a great bass player who gave us two distinctive tunes with her
friend Hanako; INDIA PURTON accompanied by
Stuart Purton, such a stylish singer with stunning a vocal range; ELEANOR HEWINS, a
singer/songwriter who writes songs of such maturity and elegance that belies
her tender years; HANAKO WARD accompanied by
Geoff Carpenter, our longest serving young player who performed an acoustic
version of Layla that will cause Eric Clapton concerns for his position
as the GOAT guitarist; ARCHIE EASTLAKE accompanied by
Geoff Carpenter, who plays a Gibson SG guitar which is almost as long as he
is tall with such verve and style rarely seen in such a young player. Congratulations to all our players. What
talent, what ability!!! Which prompted Geoff from Tennessee Twin to remark
that live music in Stortford is safe for the future in their hands. We all heartily agree |
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20th
OCTOBER 6
Acts x 4 Songs
6th October 2021 THE SHERI KERSHAW BAND |
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As an artist there are few who are able to hold a candle in
terms of stage presence, ability, virtuosity and down right listen ability to
Sheri Kershaw. Add to Sheri her guitarist Martin and bassist John then you
are assured of a first class evening of principally acoustic music, but co
loured in with a refreshing bass line and magical electric lead guitar. We also had a full list of supporting artists:- Bill
Tarran - Host and MC, Pete Croft, Tranquility Beach, Paul Booth, Laura
Dannan, Colin Frid and Dan Starr. It was a shame that we had a fairly sparse crowd, but you
cannot have everything. Thanks to those who came and enjoyed with us a full
evening of great music. 22nd September 2021 ANNA WELLS
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Anna is an artist we have seen progress from her first
nervous steps a few years ago to the accomplished performer she is today. Her
first Album is Circles, an easy-listening, quasi classical-crossover pop
album. Some mellow tunes and some definite foot-tappers. Vocal clarity and
mixed arrangements featuring mellifluous saxophone hooks, smooth bass lines
and tasteful drum grooves. Something here for everyone. Anna proved she has so much more confidence, not
only as a performer but in herself. She sells her music with style and
aplomb. She really loves a medley and her talent allows her to move between
classics and other favourite songs, with barely a shift but before very long
you are tapping your foot along with the newer beat. Truly fantastical set of new songs, old songs and
medleys to lift the heart. We also had a full list of supporting artists:- Bill Tarran - Host and MC, Pete Croft, Jay Williams, Eleanor Hewins, The
Maystones, Joe Hazell and Troi |
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15th
September 2021
Dave Sutherland
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Last
week Dave Sutherland returned for a special concert showcasing songs from his
new album 'Last Drop of Empty.' There is a huge amount that has been said, not only about the history of this Dave's 4th studio album, but also the chronology of how long it has taken. Recorded in LA, Sweden, Jersey and London, ‘Last Drop of Empty’ is produced by the Grammy award winning Producer, Stacy Parrish and legendary Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna bass player, Jack Casady. Jack also plays bass on the album. Dave's
long anticipated return to Stortford was a real coup for many reasons.
Firstly, because Dave is happy to come back to his friends at the Acoustic
Club to make his new Album available but also because our venue encourages
the audience to listen. The new album was been delayed by the obvious effects
of Covid but having a planned 80-minute set gave time for the explanation of
how each track came about. Dave is such an accomplished writer and performer
that the evening flew by in a blink of an eye. No sooner had he started it
was time for the last song and the inevitable sale of CD's. The performance
was remarkable in that Dave used his 12 string for the first time in ages and
this really enhanced two of his tracks. Many
thanks to Dave for such a terrific performance and for Pat Crilly and Greg
Camburn for their contribution to the evening. It was so good to see them
together again. |
8th SEPTEMBER 2021
6 Acts 4 songs
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Steve Ingrey There are Bluesmen
and then there is Steve Ingrey. A classic Bluesman with an encyclopaedic
repertoire of blues from its foundation to the present day. A Terrific set
ranging from the 1920’s to the 1980’s |
Paul Booth with Si Lee Paul Booth
accompanied by Si Lee on bass was a lesson in well thought out and personal
songs |
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Jenny Salmon Jenny is part of
the prolific writing duo of Salmondwhite. A singer
songwriter from Hertford with a bubbly personality and a voice to match! What
a vocal range and what great self penned songs. |
SYN Syn was a bit of a
mystery in truth before she arrived and not
often do we have players singing R&B but my oh my! What a fantastic vocal
performance! Such clarity and such tone. Just brilliant!! |
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Cut the Mustard Dave and Martin
are regular player on the local live music scene and are members of so many
groups and duos it is difficult to keep tabs on them both. They are very
accomplished players and combined to produce a varied sound including blues,
folk and pure acoustic with a “Cut the Mustard” twist. |
The Maystones The Maystones are
a local band more used to playing heavy metal and loud music but are
expanding into acoustic music. Their set was as essentially
2/5ths of a rock band and they gave us a welcome mixture of self penned and
covers. A great set. |
25th
August 2021
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Returning to the Acoustic Club - Blues Inc. We have really
missed the crafted songs of Blues Inc over the lockdown as they are the go to
band for foot stomping music. With Club Co-Founder Drew Bonnington now moved
to South West London (Wimbledon in fact - he wombles on the Common
occasionally) they do not appear at ad hoc nights these days. Which is our
loss. But the remaining band were keen to get together and bring Drew from
his Southwest Exile back to the bad lands of Hertfordshire. And what an
all-around great night we witnessed. Not only were Blues Inc on top form, we
had a pretty full list of superb players whose contribution cannot be
underestimated. Blues Inc are such a polished band who can vary their songs
according to the audience and they just played a perfect set. We had the
pleasure of Bill Tarran as Host and M/C, Dan Hepburn, Sam Tatchell, Dan
Starr, Pete Croft, Jerry Nineacres and Joe Hazell as our supporting players.
It was so nice to see Dan and Jerry again after so long away and our newer
players. Just honest great support acts. Many thanks to all
our players and especial thanks to Rob on the Sound Desk safely back from his
holiday. |
11th
August 2021
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Returning to the
Acoustic Club was the original talent that is Terry Hiscock. Terry is one of
those players who just gets better and better, year after year. He has
appeared over the years in various guises but his most seminal is him, his
voice and his guitar doing what he does best. Singing songs and entertaining
his audience with his stories and his reminiscences. The consummate
professional, Terry remains a major draw in any acoustic circle. He writes,
sings and sometimes interprets songs in a style that is ever so exactly Terry
Hiscock. Terry was planning
to appear with his lifelong friend and playing partner Roger Trevitt.
Unfortunately, Roger has been under the weather and it was a great shame to
miss him. I am sure we will see him soon and we all wish him a speedy
recovery. We had brilliant
support acts in the shape of Bill
Tarran, Robin Dudley, Pete Croft, John Drage, Paul Booth, Joe Hazell, Colin
Frid and Akos. Many
thanks to all our players and especial thanks to Carl who so ably stood in
for Rob on the Sound Desk while he is on holiday. |
4th
August 2021
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Last week we had an opportunity to listen to Charlie Turner It
was delightful to welcome back the incomparable Charlie Turner for a long-awaited
Headline Showcase. Charlie has been one of our greatest supporters and her last
planned gig was the very first victim of COVID such a long time ago Charlie
has so many musical options but this time she chose to entertain us with her voice,
a guitar and her wealth of songs. The truth is that is all she needed to bring.
Her songs are so well crafted and her ability to see a different point of view
is uncanny. Great tunes and memorable words make her one of the great undiscovered
songwriters Charlie
royally entertained us for nearly 45 minutes and had the pack audience singing
along in all the right places Just
a wonderful set!! We
had brilliant support acts in the shape of Steve Warner and Phil Sheldrake, Scarlet
Thomas supported by Tom Ryder, Tom Ryder supported by Greg Camburn, Joe Hazell,
Eleanor Hewins and the incomparable Mike Happenin Boy & Grant Howard Many
thanks to all our players and especial thanks to Carl who so ably stood in for
Rob on the Sound Desk while he is on holiday. |
28th
July 2021
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JONO It
was so good to see the full 4 piece line up with Mike Johnson, Kris (with a K)
Ambrose, Ed Johnson and Cormac O'Prey Two new songs and two favourites from a
vast repertoire of classic 70's-80's-90's rock. Jono have spent many years as
a local staple band. In almost every setting, they fit in seamlessly. Always well-rehearsed
and spot on in execution, it was so good to see them back on the stage in the
Long Room. You can always rely on them to raise the temperature and raise the
roof |
Colin and James Frid A
father and son duo is sometimes a step into an alternative place, but not with
Colin and James Frid. Colin has a deserved reputation for having a full voice
and is normally accompanied by the full sound of a D35 Martin. James has been
playing in rock covers bands, originals bands and all sorts of bands and he has
developed his own distinctive style. Put the two together and you might get Steeleye
Span on drugs, but what we actually got was a professional set of rock and roll
classics including one made famous by King Elvis. As unexpected a song choice
as it was brilliant in execution. |
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Peter Crossley An
outstanding musician singer and songwriter in the best traditions of live music.
He has so many strings to his bow (good pun as he is a stunning violinist) playing
in a Jug Band as well as accompanying people so well. Peter delighted us with
selection of songs that have surfaced over lock down including a two-chord cover
- The Faces "Wish I knew what I know now (when I was younger) and 3 songs
from the Crossley past. With his new guitar, his bright guitar playing comes to
the front and centre an is the perfect foil to his voice |
Geoff Carnes Geoff
treated us to a unique way of looking at things and his view is reflected in the
songs he played. He is a real troubadour of the old school being part of a tradition
of observational songs which were just spot on |
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Vic Lennard Vic's
reputation as a great accompanying guitarist precedes him. We have seen him supporting
high profile players but as a solo player he comes to the fore. His songs were
great, but the cap on the evening was his version of the classic John Martyn's
"May you never" Brilliant! |
Neil Gowans A local player who spends a great time
with his band The Winos. Neil proves that rock and roll can easily be given an
acoustic twist. Versatile and a pretty good songwriter too! A first-time
visitor and welcome back any time. |
21st July 2021
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Headline Showcase Elliot
Porter accompanied by Dave O’Neil on bass Elliot and Dave gave us a full spot of Eli’s original songs. A fantastic close to our first evening back after 16 long months |
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Tom Ryder and Greg Camburn Tom is one of our long-standing players and last week gave a call to Greg Camburn and asked him to put some penny whistle into his set. Greg, who has not been too well recently, was happy to oblige and the rest is History. Whilst it was great to see Tom again, everyone agreed it was delightful to see Greg back where he belongs on stage and playing such great music |
Pat Crilly and Paul
Hilder We
are used to seeing Pat and Paul perform over the last few years and Paul adds
such assured lead guitar to Pat’s songs and tunes. They make a unique duo
with what can only be described as eclectic repertoire. Also, with Pat heavy
schedule as a promoter in Hertford we were very luck to see him on a
Wednesday. Smashing set but only what we have come to expect |
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Joe
Hazel What can you say about Joe that has not already been
said? Touring musician, session guitarist in great demand and music teacher as
well. His band Curse of Lono has not disappeared and is planning to release their
new album in November. Something else to look forward to. His set was as varied
and just plain brilliant as ever |
Colin Frid Colin who? Colin Frid that is who. He sings, plays guitar and writes songs. That does not say it all. Any song he sings has his stamp on it whether he wrote it or not. A vast repertoire of interesting, amusing and emblems of his youth. A fantastic set – as ever! |
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Daisy Wilcox When a very quiet an unassuming young lady sits to sing and play if only out of politeness you sit and listen. When she finished the first of her self-penned songs you realise, she has some talent. At the end of her second song, you realise she has lots and lots of talent. A fantastic set! A refreshing new talent that we hope will grace the Acoustic Club stage again |
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