Liverpool Acoustic

Liverpool Acoustic Live preview - July 2009

Graham Holland — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #16

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 24/7/09

1. Alister Said - A Thousand Wishes

2. Molly Jones - Edge Lane

3. James Munro - Meet Me At Euston

4. The Big I Am - Collecting Skies

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below

(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 24th July 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

As always, we've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Alister Said
myspace.com/alistersaid

Alister Said is a local singer-songwriter and is the man behind TAP - The Alister Project - run in association with Tillerman Records. Check out his MySpace profile to listen to tracks from the album The Money Tree, plus unreleased songs. Then visit Tillerman to find out more about their new way of working.

Molly Jones
myspace.com/1mollyjones

Molly Jones comes from a family of musicians. Her father is famous folk musician Steve Tilston, her mother is traditional singer Maggie Boyle, and her sister is the well-known folk/indie performer Martha Tilston. With pedigree like that we'll be in for a real treat!

James Munro
myspace.com/jamesmunromusic

James Munro spent most of his life in Stockport, but is currently living in Liverpool, the city where his family is from. He performs regularly around town and Manchester too. His main influences are Bob Dylan and David Gray. In 2009, he recorded his first E.P, The Impression On Me. You can find songs from the record on his MySpace profile.

The Big I Am
myspace.com/bigiamrash

The Big I Am are Colin Heaney on cuatro, ebow, and vocals; Peter McPartland on ukelele, bass, and vocals; and Steve O'Toole on piano and organ. They have an acoustic, folk-tinged pop sound that's much harder to categorise than the description we've just used! They've been gigging around the local scene and have been making lots of fans along the way.

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #16

If you get the chance, please support your local artists by emailing them, joining their mailing lists, leaving them comments, going to their gigs, and buying their music direct from them where possible.

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media), and is a proud member of the Association of Music Podcasting - supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

July 2009: Liverpool Acoustic Live preview

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 11:49:56 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #16

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 24/7/09

1. Alister Said - A Thousand Wishes

2. Molly Jones - Edge Lane

3. James Munro - Meet Me At Euston

4. The Big I Am - Collecting Skies

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below

(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 24th July 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

As always, we've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Alister Said
myspace.com/alistersaid

Molly Jones
myspace.com/1mollyjones

James Munro
myspace.com/jamesmunromusic

The Big I Am
myspace.com/bigiamrash

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #16

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

Stephen Langstaff to support the Lightning Seeds

Graham Holland — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Well, here's the update you've all no doubt been waiting for, and it's good news! Read on...

Hello everyone,

It has just been confirmed, that Stephen Langstaff will be supporting the Lightning Seeds on Sunday 26th July at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. Thanks to everyone who has supported this and made it possible. This will be the biggest stage for Stephen so far and should be a fantastic night with the Lightning Seeds.

Could all those who requested tickets (£12.50 - half price to general sale), please get back in touch as soon as possible either on here or via e-mailing the following address: info@stephenlangstaff.co.uk

Please pass on your name, forwarding address and number of tickets required. Please also make it clear that it is for the Lightning Seeds gig. We will shortly be in touch with payment details once your message/e-mail has been received.

From the response, the reduced tickets are expected to sell fast so be quick in getting back in touch. (Please note we are given the tickets direct from the venue and will have no control over exactly where the seats will be).

If anyone is attending Stephen's acoustic gig on Saturday 18th July at Zanzibar, Liverpool - and request tickets, we may have them ready and this could be a good opportunity to get them.

Thanks again to everyone who has shown an interest!!!!

Jay Phoenix

News From Nowhere needs your help

Graham Holland — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic supports any organisation or company that helps local musicians and artists in any way - and one of the best we've got in the city is the wonderful News From Nowhere Bookshop. But it needs your help. It is struggling more than usual with cashflow this summer, and we need to do what we can to support it because we'd miss it if it wasn't there.

Here’s how you can help:

1) INTEREST-FREE LOANS OR DONATIONS

Put that spare cash (?!) to good use by investing in a not-for-profit workers’ co-op – they can discuss terms.

2) CREDIT LOANS

Lodge monies with us in a credit account to be used against future purchases – either a regular amount or a one-off. Great if you want to start saving for those books and CDs you'll be buying for Christmas, birthdays, and special occasions.

3) BUY BOOKS!

For yourself or your organisation – remember we can order any book in print. We can supply @ 10% for local schools & organisations.

4) OFFICE FOR RENT

We have an office for rent - approx £195 p mth + utilities/rates. Also a room in our flat above NfN - £70 p wk (incl rates) + utilities.

5) SPREAD THE WORD

Forward this email to your contacts and friends.

Get in touch to talk to them about any of the above. Many thanks!

USE IT OR LOSE IT – SUPPORT INDEPENDENTS!

News From Nowhere Bookshop
96 Bold St, Liverpool L1 4HY

Open 10am-5.45pm Mon-Sat

0151 708 7270
nfn@newsfromnowhere.org.uk

www.newsfromnowhere.org.uk - find out about us & the books we sell

www.newsfromnowhere.co.uk - search & order over 1.4 million books in print

News from Nowhere is a not-for-profit workers' co-operative

News From Nowhere Co-operative Ltd - Company Registration No. 24524R
(registered in England & Wales under the Industrial & Provident Societies Act 1965).

"Murdering Songs" at Mello Mello

Graham Holland — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:39:00 -0700

Almanac Folk present "Murdering Songs" @ Mello Mello

On Saturday evening 11th July, if you're at a loose end (of a rope) and you want to hang...

...out at an evening of folk new and old, traditional and alternative, all on the age old theme of murder, then head on down to Mello Mello on Slater Street.

Artists performing their murderous songs include Dave Owen, Andy Hickie, Lizzie Nunnery, Nina Jones and John Smith, plus storytelling, food, drink and general merriment. Let's hope they don't die on stage.

The event is run by Lizzie Nunnery and her friend Lindsay, and it all starts at 8pm. Oh, and it's free :-)

Brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "Town was murder"!

Ghost Stories - A Night Opera - at St Lukes on 16th July

Graham Holland — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Ghost Stories - A Night Opera, is taking place on Thursday 16th July at St Luke's, the bombed-out church at the top of Bold Street.

It's described as a haunting and beautiful sound and visual experience, made all the more atmospheric by the 9pm sunset starting time.

'Ghost Stories – A Night Opera' - is a classical composition written by Liverpool musician and composer Neil Campbell. Since its release in October 2008 on CD simply titled 'Ghost Stories', it has received unanimous acclaim from both the UK and International music critics. The subtitle 'A Night Opera' was added to the title following collaboration with Bill Elms who will work with Neil to stage performances of the piece across the region. It is also being performed as part of the Wirral International Guitar Festival in November at Birkenhead Priory. Plans are being made to tour ‘Ghost Stories – A Night Opera’ to other cities and festivals across the UK and abroad in 2010.

'Ghost Stories - A Night Opera' was written and recorded by Neil Campbell over 2007/08. It started life as a number of short sketches for classical guitar which Neil was interested in enhancing through the use of electronics (in collaboration with electronic musician Michael Beiert). After working with wordless vocals on The Neil Campbell Collective's 'Particle Theory' album (produced concurrently with 'Ghost Stories' and involving soprano Anne Taft as a guest vocalist) Anne was invited to sing on some of the 'Ghost Stories' pieces. The various short movements were then developed into a coherent suite of music segued together by an electronic soundscape built by Michael Beiert using samples of Anne Taft's voice.

Compositionally 'Ghost Stories' draws on French impressionistic music such as Debussy and Satie, ambient music such as that of Harold Budd or Brian Eno, as well as some jazz (especially Pat Metheny) and progressive rock (particularly Steve Hackett). The music is delicate, shadowy, slow, atmospheric and elegiac.

Bill Elms (Director of Bill Elms Associates) said “I instantly fell in love with the piece late last year and approached Neil to work on this project, which is to be my first producer role. It’s a world-class composition and Neil is an incredibly talented local composer. I want the live performances to be an overall experience for the ticket holder, the venues are as important as the piece itself, St. Luke’s will be a stunning venue on a summers evening ”.

Since the recording has been released, the performance aspect of the piece has taken on a life of its own and the aim is now to perform it in interesting architectural locations with the music surrounding the audience (and often presented with visuals) to enhance and build upon the experience. The aim of 'Ghost Stories' - as a recording and a live piece - is to completely immerse the audience in the experience.

The St. Luke’s performance will begin at sunset on the evening of Thursday 16th July, doors will open at 9pm prompt and an atmospheric sound installation will build up to the performance which will begin at 9.32pm.

Performance Details:

St Luke’s (Bombed-Out) Church
Leece Street, Liverpool, L1 2RT

Thursday 16th July 2009 - Doors: 9pm prompt

Tickets £12, Concessions £10

Box Office: 0151 709 4988 or in person at the Unity Theatre, Hope Place, Liverpool. Tickets on sale to 08 card holders from Friday 22nd May and then on general sale from Wednesday 27th May.

Ghost Stories will also be performed in November 2009 in Birkenhead Priory as parof the Wirral International Guitar Festival. Tickets go on sale soon.

Read reviews and hear music at www.myspace.com/neilcampbellsghoststories

Full details about the event are available at Skiddle including details of how to get tickets.

URGENT MESSAGE!!! - STEPHEN LANGSTAFF SUPPORTING THE LIGHTNING SEEDS??

Graham Holland — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:53:00 -0700

This special message has just come through from Stephen Langstaff.

Can you help by supporting one of our own musicians?

Hi everyone!

I need to ask you an urgent question please!!

I've had a phone call asking me would I like to be put forward to support The Lightning Seeds at the Philharmonic Hall on Sunday 26th July!

It's really exciting and I desperately want to say yes - BUT they need me to bring at least 100 people to the gig. The tickets they've given me to sell are £12:50 (which is half price to the box office price). This is more than what you'd normally pay to see me live but you'd also be getting The Lightning Seeds and a much 'plusher' venue! All ages are welcome to come to this gig.

I have to ask - would you or your friends and family be interested in attending??

I'm sorry to ask so directly but I can't make a decision until I know I can guarantee them 100 people coming to support me at the show.

The promoter asked me to get back to him on Wednesday night so I'm looking for feedback asap!!!

If selected, it'll be a massive opportunity for me and an amazing experience. Your support, as for every gig you come to, would be genuinely appreciated.

THANK YOU very much in advance for helping me with this and thank you so much for all the support you give me by coming to my gigs and being part of this facebook campaign group!

Looking forward to hearing from you
Stephen :)

****

IF ANYBODY IS INTERESTED PLEASE REPLY HERE!
OR CONTACT STEPHEN VIA HIS WEBSITE www.stephenlangstaff.co.uk
OR MYSPACE PROFILE www.myspace.com/stephenlangstaff
THANKS A LOT

Urgent Appeal from Alun Parry: Bass Player Needed

Graham Holland — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Below is a message forwarded from Alun Parry's mailing list. Please pass it on to anyone you know who might be able to help.

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.

URGENT: Bass Player Needed For Alun Parry

I'm looking urgently for a new permanent bass player.

He or she needs to be a very good bass player, and ideally either a very quick learner or knows my music pretty well already.

Also, I need someone who is available on average twice a week to either rehearse or gig.

Some quality gigs coming up, including playing support to Chumbawamba in September.

I am a signed artist with a new album out at the end of August, and a national distribution deal. If you fit the bill, get in touch by replying to this mail or by clicking here to contact me.

Please circulate

Please pass this message on to friends who you think may be interested - or may know someone who may be interested. My website address is www.parrysongs.co.uk

You are receiving this email because you opted in at my website or at an event.

Unsubscribe contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk from this list.

Our mailing address is:

Alun Parry

c/o Acoustic Slice, Parr Street Studio, Parr Street

Liverpool, Merseyside L1 0BW

Our telephone:

0000000000

Add us to your address book

Liverpool Acoustic Newsletter - July 2009

Graham Holland — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Along comes July, and all of a sudden we're half way through the year! There are a number of highlights this month, starting with Ghost Stories - A Night Opera being staged at sunset inside the bombed out shell of St Luke's Church on 16th July. To say this is going to be atmospheric is probably a massive understatement.

On 25th and 26th July there's the small, relatively new, but perfectly formed L1 Festival taking place at two locations in the city. One stage is bands, and the other stage is acoustic, and both are free to attend. More info closer to the time.

You say goodbye...

We've just heard that 4Play, which took place at Chameleon on the first Wednesday each month, is no longer running.
Also no longer running is Acoustic Mafia
which used to be at Chameleon every Tuesday evening. Is it something about Chameleon?
This two are in addition to Neil Campbell's Sunday Afternoon which is on hold for the time being.

And I say hello...!

The Hungry Wolf Band Night launched on 26th June. Every alternate Friday (and the occasional Sunday) sees one band and one acoustic performer playing on the night. Full details on the blog post from last month here.
Starting on Wednesday 22nd July is a new evening of Folk and Irish music at Mojo's in West Kirby. The first one features the Phill Chisnall. More details will be on the News and Reviews blog closer to the time
We're also hearing news of some more new, regular acoustic events on the horizon and we'll keep you informed once we have any info to share.

There are still a number of event organisers who aren't sending their event information to Liverpool Acoustic, and as such are missing out on the lovely free publicity. If you know of any acoustic gigs not in the Liverpool Acoustic diary then contact us and let us know. The more the merrier!

LIVERPOOL ACOUSTIC LIVE

Liverpool Acoustic Live last month was a great night. The wet weather didn't stop people coming out and enjoying fantastic sets from Vicky Neale, Barry Briercliffe, Emily Barden, and Blue C. Emily's final gig in Liverpool before her migration down south is on Wednesday 8th July supporting Wallis Bird at Korova.

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live is on Friday 24th July, and on the bill we've got Alister Said, Molly Jones, James Munro, and The Big I Am.

Full details are in the poster on the main website at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

If you want to hear what they sound like then you can listen to the Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #16 for July 2009 which is due out soon.

EXTRA - Put Friday 28th August into your diary now! This will be the Liverpool Acoustic Live event for August, and we'll be joining forces with Alun Parry for the launch of his new album at The Casa on Hope Street. Full details next month. Ooh! Can't wait!

DIARY

Here's a brief run-through of some of the acoustic events taking place in July that are worth a special mention. Click on the event in the diary for full details and links.

Thursday 2nd - Homegrown @ 3345 Parr Street. Hosted by Letters in Red, this free event features music from Tricia McTeague, Rue Royale, and Zoe Nicol.

Saturday 4th - Monthly acoustic night at the Bell and Barrel in St Helens. Well worth checking out if you're in that neck of the woods.

Sunday 5th - MaXi Dunn has her first solo live performance at The Picture House on London Road.

Monday 6th - Come Strut Your Stuff @ The Egg Cafe. Open floor poetry and acoustic music takes place once a month in Liverpool's best vegetarian bistro. The event starts at 8pm but if you want to perform you'll need to be there before 7.20pm to get your name on the list.

Friday 10th - Atlantic Massey @ The Zanzibar Club. With support from Eugene McGuinness & The Lizards, The Albany, Rags and Feathers, & The Cavaliers. Doors 8pm, £5 in.

Saturday 11th - Almanac Folk @ Mello Mello - present 'Murdering Songs', an evening of songs old and new on the theme of murder.

Sunday 12th - Blues on the Rock @ Fort Perch Rock. This monthly Sunday afternoon event celebrates its first birthday in July. Blue C's special guest is Al Willard Peterson, back by popular demand. 1pm to 4pm, £4 admission.

Thursday 16th - Ghost Stories - A Night Opera. This is a very special event not to be missed. Get your ticket while you can!

Friday 24th - Liverpool Acoustic Live @ The View Two Gallery. Featuring music from Alister Said, James Munro, Molly Jones, and The Big I Am.

Saturday 25th - Under the Influence VOL 8 - Good Vibrations @ Studio 2, Parr Street. An feast of covers and original songs inspired by the Californication sound. Perfect for a summer's evening!

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th - L1 Festival. Free music from two city centre stages.

AND FINALLY...

Once again, thank you to everyone who's contributed to either the Liverpool Acoustic website or the Liverpool Acoustic Live event. If you have anything you'd like to add then please let us know by using the Contact Us form or by emailing contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

And remember, you can follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/lpoolacoustic

Graham (on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic team)

Letters in Red single 'Feel Me' out now

Graham Holland — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

The debut single by Letters in Red, 'Feel Me' is out now on Homegrown Records.

You can listen to tracks for the single on the Letters in Red MySpace profile here.

The Woodworks remix of the single was featured on Show 85 of the It's A Frog's Life Acoustic Podcast here.

The three track single 'Feel Me' is available to buy from the following places:

iTunes (available worldwide)

Probe Records, Slater Street, Liverpool (3 track CD, £2.00)

eBay.co.uk - (UK only) 3 track CD, £2.00 plus £0.50 p&p

Letters in Red direct from the band at live shows (3 track CD, £2.00)

Direct mail - Letters in Red accept payment via paypal - just provide us with your address, send your payment to our paypal account will@homegrownrecords.co.uk and we'll mail it out to you within a couple of days (3 track CD, £2.00 plus £0.50 p&p within UK or £1.00 outside UK)

Here's some of the reviews the band have been getting:

***** (5 stars)
iTunes (UK customer rating)

Feel Me is the sound of Letters in Red truly coming into their own; subtly blending their brand of acoustic folk with beats, synths and strings to create a lush and spacious backdrop for the evocative vocals - cinematic in scope
Arts Council, Merseyside (ACME)
www.merseysideacme.com

Letters in Red are ones to watch
Graham Holland (Frogs Life Podcast & Liverpool Acoustic)
www.liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

Skilled musicianship, innovative compositions & great vocals
Dave McTague (Mellowtone)

Melancholic folk with subtle electronics giving it presence and dynamics
Sub Cultcha
www.subba-cultcha.com

Thanks for your support,

Letters in Red

www.homegrownrecords.co.uk

myspace.com/lettersinreduk

Neil Campbell's Sunday Afternoon cancelled, and Ghost Stories news

Graham Holland — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:13:00 -0700

Some late news just in...

Neil Campbell's Sunday Afternoon, which was due to take place at The Slaughterhouse Pub on Sunday 28th June, has been cancelled. The event is now on hold pending a possible future re-launch in September. Whatever happens, you'll here it here second (Neil's website followers will hear it first, obviously!).

Next week we'll be posting information about Ghost Stories - A Night Opera, which is taking place on Thursday 16th July at St Lukes, the bombed-out church at the top of Bold Street.

Ghost Stories musician and composer Neil Campbell and singer Anne Taft were on Billy Butler's Saturday morning programme on BBC Radio Merseyside today (27th June) so as a taster you can listen to the interview on the BBC iPlayer by following the link here. The programme will be online and available to listen to for seven days, and the interview begins 1 hour and 9 minutes into the show.

Full details about the event are available here.

Liverpool Acoustic Live preview: June 2009

Graham Holland — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:18:00 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #15
Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 26/6/09

1. Vicky Neale - She's A Friend Of Mine

2. Barry Briercliffe - Walk In The Sun

3. Emily Barden - Standing In The Sun

4. Blue C - The Blues Will Go Rolling On

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 26th June 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

We've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Vicky Neale
myspace.com/victorianeale

Vicky Neale is a singer-songwriter who lists her influences as Roald Dahl, Kate Bush, Bob Dylan, Melanie Safka, Lewis Caroll, Joan Baez, and Nick Drake. Her favourite quote? "I'd rather walk in the gutter than crawl in the street." Quite right too!

Barry Briercliffe
myspace.com/barrybriercliffeonline

Barry Briercliffe is a talented acoustic singer-songwriter from Kirkby who has gigged extensively across Merseyside and the Northwest. He takes his influences from the likes of Damien Rice, REM, KT Tunstall, and Pink Floyd. Barry's strong, soulful voice coupled with his great lyrics and quirky use of loop pedal enable him to build up layers of sounds, rhythm and voice that will excite and inspire audiences. His album When All You Need Is Answers is available to buy from his MySpace profile.

Emily Barden
myspace.com/stella66

Emily Barden is the lead singer of local group Stella 66 in which she's joined by Ryan Forrest (Drums), JJ Rio (Bass), and Petter Dahlgren (Guitar/backing vocals). Stella 66 describe their music as 'country tinged acoustic folk pop.' "Imagine if Carole King had fronted The Band, or KT Tunstall was a band". Unfortunately, the sad news for the local music scene is that Emily is leaving Liverpool for a fab new job in West Sussex, but Liverpool Acoustic Live is fortunate to be hosting one of Emily's last two gigs in the city before she leaves. Definitely one not to be missed.

Blue C
myspace.com/bluecblues

Under the name Blue C, the Liverpool slide guitar/bass duo Raphael Callaghan and Christine Purnell have made a big impression on the British blues scene since 1991 with their special mix of traditional blues and a collection of original blues and gospel songs.

Their song “When Will The Blues Leave” was chosen for a Best of British Blues compilation album and Callaghan's “Someone Else's Blues” was the first winner of the Blues Song of the Year at the Great British Blues Festival at Colne.

Their album “Swimming against the Tide” is in much demand in the America after the world's largest circulation blues magazine Blues Revue praised… “the seamless combination of driving bass and highly accomplished guitar… secret ingredient is the calibre of the original compositions… a unique blues sound that has, at its heart, a thorough soaking in Anglo-Irish folk traditions”.

In July 2008 Raphael and Christine launched Blues On The Rock, a monthly event taking place at Fort Perch Rock, New Brighton, on the second Sunday of every month. Each month Blue C play some of their own songs before introducing a special guest.

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #15

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media) and Re:place Radio (LIPA). The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight proud to be a member of the Association of Music Podcasting and is supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

Who is Jack Roberts of Canned Panther fame?

Graham Holland — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:45:00 -0700

This Thursday 25th June Canned Panther presents acoustic gems from Jack Roberts, Stephanie Finegan, and Molly Jones. The details are in the gig flyer below, including that wonderful nugget of information about the event being free!

And if you're not sure who Jack Roberts is (where have you been?) then keep reading...

Nearly there...

Who Is Jack Roberts?

That’s a question we’ve been asking ourselves for a while now! Hidden behind his stage persona, his animated characters and a tumultuous voice you will find something very real: Jack Roberts!

Jack Roberts writes songs, performs them, records them; he’s an animator, an artist, and a general genius! He's performed at Glastonbury and is well known in Liverpool for his time in the band 'The Bingo Brothers.'

Jack Roberts also performed at the Liverpool Echo Arena for The Number One Project, sharing the stage with the likes of Atomic Kitten and Gerry & The Pacemakers. His performance of shaving with a cut throat razor whilst singing ‘Ticket To Ride’ has gained him huge notoriety and has attracted a lot of press interest.

Now known for his avant-garde performances with everything from a bicycle pump to a biscuit tin, his jail bird stripy tops, and even a broken computer keyboard, his trademark gruff yet huge vocal range has seen him wow audiences at Sound City and Liverpool Music Week.

Achievements include an album through Sony, and his infamous ‘Heart Attack’ song on a Ricky Hatton video. (Search for this on Youtube or check his Myspace). He’s a massive favourite in Liverpool and has a strong cult following.

Noted for his stage persona and the contradiction of wit and pain in his lyrics, Jack Roberts is a true story teller you don’t want to miss.

www.myspace.com/jackrobertsliverpool

www.jackroberts.net

Album review: Jimmy Rae

Graham Holland — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

ALBUM REVIEW

Artist: Jimmy Rae

CD: Deliverance

Website: www.jimmyrae.co.uk

MySpace: myspace.com/jimmy_rae

I'm going to break with the standard album review convention by coming straight out with it. Deliverance, the new album from Jimmy Rae, is brilliant! Buy it now!

In fact, buy lots of copies – one for yourself, one for each of your children, one for your parents, one for someone at work, one for that person you know who doesn't like listening to music, and one for your neighbour. If you were actually to do this then the chances are that few (if any) of these people would be disappointed. That's because the music on Deliverance is just so darned accessible, with a wide-ranging appeal across generations and musical tastes.

When I popped the CD into my laptop and fired up iTunes it showed the genre as rock, but listening to the songs from start to finish you'll find not so much rock, more country, with a fair sprinkling of rock ‘n’ roll, blues, Americana, folk, and pop. Now, if like me you’re thinking “but I can’t stand country music” then you needn’t fret because this is as far away from the mainstream formulaic country music as you can get. You’ll find no clichés here! Avoiding labels, this is simply good music.

Deliverance contains twelve great songs with more standout tracks than the average album, and not a single track that could be described as average, let alone weak. This is testament to the excellent songwriting skills of one James David Rae. As part of this review I was going to list my favourite songs from the album, but soon realised I’d listed half of the tracks – Ain’t So Sorry, Tomorrow Night, Take You Home, Eddie’s Guitar, Unfinished Rooms, I Wish You Everything – each one worthy of praise.

But good songs are nothing without good musicians to play them, and to this end Jimmy has called on the talents of some of the best musos around. And boy has it paid off! The music evokes images totally befitting the title Deliverance, of hillbillies and hoboes in the heart of Georgia, of railroads, rivers and wooden shacks.

Deliverance is dedicated to the memory of bass player Rob Adams who sadly passed away last year. Rob appears on six of the tracks, and I can honestly think of no better tribute to him than this record. The album has been many years in the making, and is certainly well worth the wait. However, let’s hope we don’t have to wait quite so long for the next one!

Graham Holland © 2009
Liverpool Acoustic – liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

Deliverance is released on 22nd June 2009 and is available to buy from Jimmy Rae at his gigs and his website www.jimmyrae.co.uk

Deliverance is published and distributed nationally by Matchbox Recordings www.matchboxrecordings.co.uk

Update: 22/6/09

Physical copies of Deliverance are now available from HMV in Bold Street (a shop that supports local music).

Alternatively you can buy it from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

You can also buy the CD from the following online stores.

June 2009: Liverpool Acoustic Live preview

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:03:52 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #15

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 26/6/09

1. Vicky Neale - She's A Friend Of Mine

2. Barry Briercliffe - Walk In The Sun

3. Emily Barden - Standing In The Sun

4. Blue C - The Blues Will Go Rolling On

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 26th June 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

We've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Vicky Neale
myspace.com/victorianeale

Barry Briercliffe
myspace.com/barrybriercliffeonline

Emily Barden
myspace.com/stella66

Blue C
myspace.com/bluecblues

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #15

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media) and Re:place Radio (LIPA). The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight proud to be a member of the Association of Music Podcasting and is supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

Hungry Wolf seeks tasty acoustic artists

Graham Holland — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Here at Liverpool Acoustic we're constantly on the look-out for exciting new opportunities for local acoustic artists. So, step up to the plate the Hungry Wolf Band Night! We've lifted the details below straight from their MySpace profile, but they tell us they don't mind at all!

The Hungry Wolf Band Night is a new venture which will be played out in the Heebie Jeebies Basement every Friday with the first night being staged on 26th June 2009.

With venues charging ever more extortionate prices to go and see great live music the Hungry Wolf bucks that trend with free entry and cheap offers on drinks (£2 Stella and other selected bottles). We aim to bring the very best of up and coming bands from the Northwest on a weekly basis with one band performing per night supported by an acoustic act plucked from the thriving singer/songwriter scene in Liverpool at the moment.

We are now booking artists for the night so any band/artist wishing to play can get in touch. All backline will be provided including drums and a PA system. Please note that although the night is free entry and the band will not have to sell tickets they will still be required to bring a minimun of 25-30 people. All bands/artists will be provided with beers for performing and payment can be discussed if they bring an excessive crowd along with them.

We hope to build this night up to be the best band night in Liverpool with DJs playing after the live music late into the night. We think the atmosphere created in the Basement can be electric and with the right blend of music and people the possibilities are endless.

Anyone wishing to contribute to this night please get in touch as we do require some designs for the Hungry Wolf logo. All ideas welcome. For now thank you and remember the Wolf is Hungry.

myspace.com/hungrywolfbandnight

SAE free recording offer - the return!

Graham Holland — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 16:40:00 -0700

Back in March we posted information about an offer from JD of free recording for acoustic bands in Liverpool (see here for original post).

JD would like to thank all of you got in contact wishing to take up the offer.

Now, we thought this was so good that we've been speaking with Gavin, the boss at SAE, and he tells us that the offer of free recording is still there and it's now easier than ever to sign up. Just visit liverpool.saestudent.com and click on the Add Band link on the left hand side. Then complete the form with your details and wait to be contacted by an SAE student who's eager and willing to record you.

If you're interested in learning how to do it yourself then check out the courses on offer at liverpool.sae.edu

Jimmy Rae gig cancelled - Sat 13th June

Graham Holland — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 15:18:00 -0700

News just in from Jimmy Rae

Dear all,

Apologies for the short notice but this is just to let you know that the charity gig for Wirral Heartbeat this Saturday 13 June at St Josephs Centre in Birkenhead featuring Jimmy Rae and the Firewalkers and Phil Chisnall's Loose Collective has had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.

We hope to reschedule the concert for later in the year and all tickets will still be valid. Anyone wishing to refund their tickets is asked to call 0151 652 2200.

Sincere apologies for any inconvenience. I'll send a fuller update at the weekend.

Thanks

Jimmy Rae
Singer songwriter
Merseyside, UK
www.jimmyrae.co.uk

Events for weekend 5th-7th June 2009

Graham Holland — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

We've got another weekend ahead with great events on offer. We've already given the Wirral Folk On The Coast Festival a couple of plugs, but what else is happening?

Friday 5th June - Nashville-based Alt Country duo Eric Brace and Peter Cooper will be performing at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. This venue is fast becoming one of the best places in Liverpool to enjoy live acoustic music. Tonight Eric Brace and Peter Cooper are joined by local band The Good Intentions. Doors open at 7:30pm, and music begins at 8pm.
Tickets are £3 in advance/ £4 on the door - call
07801 961 404 for more information.

Saturday 6th June - The Company Store returns to The Zanzibar for another night of country, blues, gospel, rock n roll, and soul from this side of the Atlantic, inspired by the other side of the big duck pond. The night is hosted by The Sixteen Tonnes, and includes music by Hallelujah Trial, The Black Marquee, and Emily and the Faves. There's also the debut gig for new band Altlantic Massey before the hit the road gigging around the UK. Tickets cost only £5, and it all kicks off at 8.00pm. More info from myspace.com/liverpoolcompanystore

Sunday 7th June - Dogstar* hosts a night of open floor performance at The Picture House on London Road. It starts at 7.30pm and everyone is welcome. More info from easytofindalicia[at]hotmail.co.uk

Hope not Hate - vote against the BNP

Graham Holland — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Today - Thursday 4th June 2009 - is a very important day, and here at Liverpool Acoustic we're playing our part.

We've joined forces with the Hope not Hate campaign to urge you all to get out and vote in the European elections.

It could be that you weren't going to bother. Why should you, when it seems that all our politicians are crooked, and the world is in economic turmoil? And what's the point when the same old parties are going to win anyway?

Well it just so happens that there is a point to voting - because due to that wonderful system called proportional representation (Westminster should try it some time!) every single vote in the North West will be counted and totalled up. The seats in the European parliament will then be allocated based on the percentage of the vote that each party received.

This means that the only wasted votes are those that aren't used. It also means that the more people who stay at home and don't vote, the greater the chance the small parties such as the hateful, racist and bigoted BNP have of gaining a seat.

So, whatever you might think of the European Union we call on you to support the Hope not Help campaign by voting against the BNP.

[That was a party election broadcast on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic Party / Hope not Hate alliance]

T-J & M gig sold out

Graham Holland — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 17:01:00 -0700

We've just heard that the gig on Friday 19th June at the View Two Gallery with Thomas-Joseph & Murphy, and special guest John O'Connell, is now SOLD OUT. That's good news for those who already have their ticket, but not so good if you weren't quick enough.

To keep up to date with T-J & M's gigs visit myspace.com/thomasjosephandmurphy

If you're looking for alternative acoustic gigs to go to then keep on checking the Liverpool Acoustic news and reviews site, sign up to follow us on Twitter, and keep an eye on the Liverpool Acoustic diary at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk - and don't forget, the next Liverpool Acoustic Live event is the following Friday 26th June at the same venue, the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street.

Liverpool Acoustic Newsletter - June 2009

Graham Holland — Sun, 31 May 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Last month saw the Liverpool Sound City, IPO, the Crosby Music, and the Hub Festivals. We're not quite as busy this month, although we are starting off with the Wirral Folk on the Coast Festival (see the News and Reviews blog for more details) which is in addition to all of the regular weekly and monthly events that are filling the online diary. Of course, there's always room for more, so if you find out about an event that's not in the online calendar then drop us a line and tell us so we can fix the problem.

LIVERPOOL ACOUSTIC LIVE

Liverpool Acoustic Live has moved into its regular(ish!) fourth Friday of the month. For June and July we're in the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street, but for August we've got something really special in a different venue - more about that closer to the time.

This month Liverpool Acoustic Live is on Friday 26th June and features the music of Vicky Neale, Barry Briercliffe, Emily Barden, and Blue C. Full details are in the poster on the main website at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

If you want to hear what they sound like then you can listen to the Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #15 which is due out soon.

DIARY

Did you know that if you are logged on to your Google account when you're looking at the dates in the online diary, with just one (or is it two?) clicks you can copy any of the events from the Liverpool Acoustic Calendar to your own Google Calendar! C'est tres cool, n'est pas?

With May's festival fest out of the way, we've got more space to highlight some of the regular events from the Liverpool Acoustic Diary.

Monday 1st - Come Strut Your Stuff @ The Egg Cafe. Open floor poetry and acoustic music takes place once a month in Liverpool's best vegetarian bistro. The event starts at 8pm but if you want to perform you'll need to be there before 7.20pm to get your name on the list.

Wednesday 3rd - 4Play @ Chameleon. A monthly acoustic showcase featuring four performers each month. First Wednesday every month, starting from about 8.30pm

Thursday 4th - Euro Elections @ your local polling station. Get out and make your vote count against the BNP.

Thursday 4th - Homegrown @ 3345 Parr Street. Hosted by Letters in Red, and featuring Greg Hall, Before Autumn Falls, and Rosie Jones. 8pm - free entry

Friday 5th - Wirral Folk on the Coast festival starts and runs through to Sunday 7th. Full details from wirralfolkonthecoast.com

Friday 5th - Eric Brace and Peter Cooper @ The View Two Gallery.
Nashville-based Alt Country duo, with support from The Good Intentions. Doors 7:30pm, music begins at 8pm. Tickets £3 in advance/ £4 on the door.

Saturday 6th - The Company Store @ The Zanzibar. Atlantic Massey, The Black Marquee, Hallelujah Trial, Emil y& the Faves, 16 Tonnes (solo). 8pm start.

Sunday 7th - Picture House Music @ The Picture House, London Road. 7.30pm open floor -
Dogstar* Hosts

Thursday 11th - Kaya hosts Acoustica @ 3345 Parr Street. 8pm - free entry

Friday 12th - Blues on the Rock @ Fort Perch Rock. The normal Sunday event has moved to a Friday for one month only. Blue C's special guests are Joey & The Wheels, back by popular demand. 7.30pm start, £4 admission.

Friday 19th - T-J & Murphy, with John O'Connell @ The View Two Gallery. STOP PRESS - SOLD OUT

Thursday 25th - Canned Panther presents @ 3345 Parr Street. With live music from Jack Roberts, Stephanie Finegan and Molly Jones. Doors 8pm. Free entry.

Friday 26th - Liverpool Acoustic LIVE @ The View Two Gallery. Vicky Neale, Barry Briercliffe, Emily Barden, and Blue C. Doors 8pm, music 8.30pm. Fully licensed bar. Tickets £4 or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk Full details from liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

Sunday 28th - Neil Campbell's Sunday Afternoon @ The Slaughterhouse. A changing line-up of 4-5 top local singer-songwriters and musicians with a regular slot by classical guitarist Neil Campbell.

TWITTER

The number of Twitter followers is growing all the time, and if you want more information than we can carry on the news and reviews blog then why not add lpoolacoustic for those last minute reminders?

twitter.com/lpoolacoustic

AND FINALLY...

Graham (on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic team)

Wirral Folk on the Coast - reminder

Graham Holland — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:03:00 -0700

We heard them on the radio airwaves yesterday, and what a fine job they did promoting the Wirral Folk on the Coast Festival?

But for those of you who didn't hear it, we thought we'd help out by giving a brief reminder that the festival is taking place next weekend, from 5th to 7th June.

This year's lineup also includes Gordon Giltrap, Mike Silver, Kerfuffle, Les Barker, Stanley Accrington, The Shellback Chorus, and more besides! Also appearing are local musicians Lizzie Nunnery, Elbow Jane, Joe Topping, Anthony John Clarke, and Loctup Together.

In addition to the ticketed concerts, there's also plenty going on around the fringe for free, including the Rolling Folk Club, singers and musicians sessions, and meet the artists sessions.

You can buy weekend tickets, day tickets, or tickets just for individual concerts if any in particular take your fancy. Although if you get a weekend ticket you can camp for free! No need to worry about how to get home after drinking all that rather fine real ale.

Full details can be found on the official website at www.wirralfolkonthecoast.com

New event: Folk at the Norton

Graham Holland — Mon, 25 May 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Tonight - Tuesday 27th May - is the last night of the Ring O Bells Folk Club in Widnes. All good things must come to an end (or so they say) and this club is no exception. If you want to join in the farewell then head along to the pub in Pit Lane, Farnworth, Widnes, for 8.30pm and be prepared to sing!

Don't be dismayed, however...

The following night - Wednesday 28th May - a new club will be starting. However, this one is on the other side of the Runcorn Bridge (or is it the Widnes Bridge? We're never quite sure).

Folk at the Norton is a new, weekly music club that takes place every Wednesday at the Norton Arms, on Main Street in Halton Village.

It's run by Jean Finney (the same person who ran the Ring O Bells club) and it runs from 8pm to 11pm. Most nights are singers nights and the club welcomes any kind of acoustic music or performance.

Once a month they have a guest night, although singers are welcome for these nights too.

The guests lined up so far are

28th May - John Gregson (aka GROG)
24th June - Trim Rig and a Doxy, brilliant singalong shanty duo

For more information contact Jean Finney on
jean.finney[at]ntlworld.com 0151 424 3672

Crosby Music Festival 2009

Graham Holland — Sat, 23 May 2009 11:21:00 -0700

The Crosby Music Festival kicked off on Friday and runs through to Bank Holiday Monday 25th May.

If the IPO isn't quite your thing then why not check out this perfectly-formed little festival taking place at a variety of venues around Crosby?

There are a fair number of acoustic performers too. Saturday saw Letters in Red playing on 'the stage'. And if you go along on Sunday 24th you can see The Big I Am (twice!), Steve Roberts and the Bank of England, The Kevin Critchley Outfit, Naomi Mather, and The Good Intentions.

Full details from www.crosbymusicfestival.com

Billy Bragg Special Offer - Gig Friday

Graham Holland — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:00:00 -0700

Here at Liverpool Acoustic we just couldn't resist forwarding this special offer on to our readers. So here it is!

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: festival[at]workingclassmusic.org.uk
Date: 2009/5/21
Subject: Billy Bragg Special Offer - Gig Friday
To: contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

Hi

For those who've not booked your tickets yet for Friday's Billy Bragg gig in Liverpool, there's a special offer on.

The good folks at the WoW festival just sent me this so I'm passing it on to you.

£10 tickets now available for Billy Bragg playing at the Picket on Friday 22nd. Quote 'WoW' when contacting Philharmonic Hall Box Office (0151-709-37989).

Also on the bill are Alun Parry, Attila The Stockbroker and David Rovics, so it promises to be a tremendous night.

See you there

Festival HQ

http://www.workingclassmusic.org.uk
http://www.parryfans.co.uk
http://www.parrysongs.com

Event review: The Gulshan Lounge presents Unplugged

Graham Holland — Wed, 20 May 2009 17:01:00 -0700

Gig review: The Gulshan Lounge presents Unplugged

Thursday 7th May 2009 - 'SUMMER BLUES' featuring SJ Downes & friends

Travelling southwards away from Liverpool town centre and a mere pebbles throw away from Liverpool cricket club on Aigburth road, lies The Gulshan Restaurant.

Recently refurbished to what amounts to a very tasteful and comfortable setting, it is to the upstairs of the building which accomodates the evening's musical entertainment, on this particular occasion a performer at the high end of the spectrum for those who have a deep appreciation for delta blues.

The entire room seems to eminate a feeling of conviviality with the staff happily traversing the boards as and when required - while some customers sit at the handsome and well stocked bar, others enjoy the menu at the tables surplanted around the periphery of the tenderly lit space.

Like the music and its perfomer on the night, SJ Downes, the venue known as The Gulshan leaves me with only one word on my tongue to reveal, that word being Tasteful .

Tony Kehoe

The Gulshan Lounge presents Unplugged, every two weeks. The next one is tonight, Thursday 21st May, and features T-J & Murphy, plus friends. There's also open mic available.

8.00pm to 11.55pm - free entry

Details from Jad 0151 427 2273 Jad3k[at]hotmail.com

gulshan-liverpool.com

The Gulshan Indian, 544-548 Aigburth Rd Liverpool, L19 3QG

May 2009: Liverpool Acoustic Live preview

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sat, 09 May 2009 02:18:35 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #14

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 15/5/09

1. Jeff Jepson - 1001

2. Neil Campbell - November Song

3. Tricia McTeague - Beer Stained Coaster

4. Letters In Red - Got To Get You

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 15th May 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

We've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Jeff Jepson
www.jeffjepson.co.uk
myspace.com/jeffjepson

Jeff Jepson is a singer-songwriter-musician originally from the Isle of Mann who impresses with his distinctive voice everywhere he plays. Although he'll be playing solo acoustic at the Liverpool Acoustic Live gig, he's also to be seen about town with the Jeff Jepson Band, and making music with the Neil Campbell Collective and with Alex Dunford.

Neil Campbell
neilcampbellcollective.com
myspace.com/neilcampbellsystemsmusic

Neil Campbell is a virtuoso classical guitarist whose musical career has followed a number of seemingly divergent musical paths including free improviser, singer songwriter, systems music composer, band leader and virtuoso guitar soloist. His works, whatever he turns his hand to, continue to receive popular critical acclaim.

Tricia McTeague
triciamcteague.com
myspace.com/tmcteague

Tricia McTeague is a singer and songwriter from Widnes. She's had the pleasure of working with some amazing and talented people in the past as Backing Vocalist (Ronan Keating), Session Singer and Writing Collaborator. Here's your chance to enjoy Tricia in the wonderful surroundings of the View Two Gallery.

Letters in Red
myspace.com/lettersinreduk

Letters in Red are Rachel Sparx (vocals), Will Binden (guitar, mandolin & piano), Camilla Wilson (violin) & Christopher Wood (guitar & percussion). Based in Liverpool they write, perform and record their own music. Mixing a wide variety of influences such as pop, indie, folk, classical, soul and electronica, Letters in Red’s songs reflect on love, loss and life. Winners of the 2008 Liverpool Irish Festival's Battle of the Bands, Letters in Red are ones to watch.

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #14

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media) and Re:place Radio (LIPA). The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight proud to be a member of the Association of Music Podcasting and is supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

April 2009: Album launch special

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 13:45:47 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #13

April 2009 Album Launch Special

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

1. The Kevin Critchley Outfit - Sunshine
kevincritchley.com & myspace.com/kevincritchley
Taken from the CD Scars - available from AmazonMP3
Read the review here

2. The Bottletop Millionaires - This Engine
myspace.com/bottletopmillionaires
Taken from the CD The Strange Cargo Cult of the Bottletop Millionaires
available to buy from the band

3. Tony Kehoe - Alaska
myspace.com/kehoesongs
Taken from the CD Not Everything Must Lead To Nothing
available from News From Nowhere on Bold Street
Read the review here

4. Jessicas Ghost - He Said She Said
jessicasghost.co.uk & myspace.com/jessicasghost
Taken from the CD The Winning Hand available from iTunes & AmazonMP3
and in physical form from the band
Read the review here

5. Jimmy Rae - Unfinished Rooms
jimmyrae.co.uk & myspace.com/jimmy_rae
Taken from the CD Deliverance
available to preorder from here

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #13

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media) and Re:place Radio (LIPA). The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight proud to be a member of the Association of Music Podcasting and is supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

April 2009: Liverpool Acoustic Live preview

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 17:08:47 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #12

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 24/4/09

1. Hannah Platt - When The Days Get Short

2. Karen Cleary - Awful Down

3. Tony Kehoe - Cry For No Reason

4. The 10p Mixes - The Dogs In France

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 24th April 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

We've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

Hannah Platt
myspace.com/hannahplattonline
facebook

Hannah Platt is a young singer-songwriter from Liverpool. Her influences include Ryan Adams, Tori Amos, PJ Harvey, Wilco, Martha Wainwright, Jeff Buckley, Neil Young (ok, we'll stop her there - she could go on all day!). Last year she ran her own successful Satori & Song event which built up a very good reputation for top quality acoustic acts.

Karen Cleary
myspace.com/karencleary
myspace.com/karenclearyextrapage
facebook

Karen Cleary was born into a family of very talented musicians. Her parents are veterans of the legendary Cavern era of 1960s Liverpool - her mother a gifted bass guitar player and her father a very well respected guitarist and multi-musician. Karen cut her musical teeth playing in a girl band, followed by a 5 year stint in a Corrs tribute band (the best tribute band, according to Andrea Corr herself!). She's now playing solo and promoting her original material which is well worth listening to.

Tony Kehoe
myspace.com/kehoesongs

Tony Kehoe has only been playing guitar and writing songs for about eight years, but has fast made a name for himself on the Liverpool acoustic music scene with his well-crafted songs and individual style. He recently supported Martin Carthy at his Palm House gig. The 2009 release of Not Everything Must Lead To Nothing builds on the success of his 2006/7 album It's No Coincidence.

The 10p Mixes
myspace.com/the10pmixes
last.fm

The 10p Mixes are Danielle and Will. They met in 2004 over a shared love of Pulp and became friends. They write and perform wistful, catchy songs about everyday stuff, such as needing a coat when it's cold, the cashflow crisis, and dogs in France. Well, maybe the last one isn't everyday stuff, but you get the picture!

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #12

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. It is also available on the Internet courtesy of Art In Liverpool FM (Defnet Media) and Re:place Radio (LIPA). The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight proud to be a member of the Association of Music Podcasting and is supported by Libsyn.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

March 2009: Liverpool Acoustic Live preview

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:37:05 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #11

Preview of Liverpool Acoustic Live 20/3/09

1. The Good Intentions - Poor Boy

2. Michael Ryder - Dance With Me

3. Virginia Haze - You Can't Always Get Your Own Way

4. Lorelei Loveridge - Oh, India

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below
(not available for email subscribers)

The next Liverpool Acoustic Live gig is taking place on Friday 20th March 2009 at the View Two Gallery on Mathew Street. The doors open at 8.00pm and the music starts at 8.30pm.

Entrance is £4 on the door, or £3 in advance from contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk

We've got four great acts for you to enjoy on the night.

The Good Intentions
www.thegoodintensions.co.uk
myspace.com/thegoodintentionsmyspace

The Good Intentions are Peter, Francesco and Gabrielle. Together they play country-tinged Americana with a distinctive style. 'Miles of Music' (USA) said the music 'sounds relaxed, alive, vulnerable and spontaneous. A laid-back vibe that grows richer with every listen'. Their CD Poor Boy was reviewed by Americana UK magazine, and was republished by Liverpool Acoustic with permission here.

photo by Andy

Michael Ryder
myspace.com/michaelryder
Chime Management

In Michael Ryder's own words, he's an OK musician with an OK voice. How modest! What he fails to mention is that he was invited to record in Parr Street Studios aged only 17, he's got a song featured on the Liverpool Music Today CD, and he won a competition in the Barfly to play the prestigious 'Fly' in Camden, London. We think that's more than OK, don't you?

Virgina Haze
virginiahaze.com
myspace.com/virginiahaze

Virginia Haze started singing at the age of 7 and formed her own girl band - Infinity - by the time she was 13! Over the years she has experimented with different styles and concepts, and writes many of her songs with her brother Kevin Murphy. Virginia's album Genuine is available to buy from her website.

A firm favourite on the Liverpool Acoustic scene, Virginia is sure to captivate us with her voice which has been described as bluesy, rock with soul, dark and Chocolate flavoured!

Lorelei Loveridge
loverleiloveridge.com
myspace.com/loreleiloveridge

Canadian artist Lorelei Loveridge is a songwriter, performer, world-traveller, teacher, arts manager, coach, consultant, writer, photographer, director of theatre, marketer, and jill-of-all-trades in the wonderful world of independent music. She lived for 11 years in Saudi Arabia, pre and post 9/11, and experienced religious zealots, compound invasions, a terrorist chase, earthquake, tsunami, war in Lebanon, crazy drivers, nutty expats and more, and survived to tell the tales in story and song.

Lorelei currently lives and works in Manchester and is just about to start a tour taking in the UK and Canada. Her album Bakhoor is available to buy from her website.

U.S. songwriter and guitar legend Dick Wagner says this of Loveridge and Bakhoor: "Her vocals are hauntingly emotive, her songs are beautifully structured folk/pop creations and her musicians are world-class interpreters of her musical vision…The brilliant 'Oh, India' sets the tone and atmosphere for this musical journey…a journey you won't forget. I personally love Lorelei's music and recommend it to all seekers of sophisticated yet accessible music."

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #11

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

February 2009: Spotlight on... Dan Elson

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 16:01:00 -0800

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #10

February 2009 - Dan Elson

1. Psycho Lover

2. And Barry Says

3. Rock-A-Bye Dan

4. Song For A Lost Lover

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below

Dan Elson got bored of going to see boring depressing bands who didn't look like they were having any fun. He thought to himself 'Something must be done' and so he did something.

Unfortunately that something resulted in songs about beards, llamas, scallies, monkeys, socks, high fives and numerous other ridiculous things.

No one else is writing songs like this, anywhere, but that's mostly because it would never occur to anyone else to do so. And there are a fair few of them.

Dan has released three EPs to date (the latest of which you can now buy on iTunes) but works on the policy that if possible each gig should showcase a new song. This means that he has a gigging repertoire of 60 tunes with which he can delight and regale you.

Dan Elson, a man Generation Live Magazine accurately calls a "beard obsessed, monkey loving musical monster" is available in three flavours, acoustic solo, acoustic duo (with a trumpeter) and full rock n roll band.

Thank you to Dan for offering his music for the show.

Dan's new Actual Size EP is now available priced £2 at live shows in CD format, and is now on iTunes.

You can find out all about him at his MySpace profile, where you can find details about how you can get hold of his CDs, and where you can see him play live.

MySpace myspace.com/danelsonmusic

Channel 4 Music channel4.com/music/myband/DanElson

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by Graham Holland on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website. While you’re there you can sign up to receive the News and Reviews blog posts by email. Just put your email address in the box on the frontpage – it’s as simple as that, and we promise we won’t spam you.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

January 2009: Spotlight on... Bobhowla

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:01:02 -0800

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #9

January 2009 - Bobhowla

1. Million $ Man
2. Tiptoe
(from CD 14 Track Demo)

3. 1963
4. A Question Of Time
(from CD It's All In The Letter That Broke You Down)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

BOBHOWLA is essentially Howard Doupe a singer/songwriter from Southport – a ‘Sandgrounder’. He has released two EPs over last few years, and in 2007 released his first album’s worth of material entitled ’14 track demo’ which was 5 years in the making.

He has enjoyed successful collaborations with a number of musicians, yet the album’s genesis, foundation and raison d’être are moulded and influenced by Howard’s heartfelt determination to embrace the ‘honourable’ and ‘admirable’ art of songwriting.

Howard freely admits to sharing, with many others, the ubiquitous inspiration following his early experiences of both Nirvana and Oasis. Where he positively differs is in eschewing the overplayed anthem and bombast and relying on his inherent ability to convey his feelings via a collection of songs which have been allowed to simply ‘express themselves’.

'14 Track Demo' can be bought from CD Baby and iTunes.

Bobhowla’s “compulsion” to create music which “comes from within” is majestically manifested via idioms ranging from blues – flecked alt-country, psychedelic folk to both heart rendering melancholic and uplifting swaggering indie guitar homage’s and point to influences from Ryan Adams, Jeff Klein, Kings of Convenience to Lowgold, Beck and Spiritualized.

Bobhowla aka Howard Doupe will be celebrating the launch of his new album entitled ' It's all in the Letter That Broke you Down' with a special gig in the intimate surroundings of The Latin Lounge, Southport Saturday 24th January.The night will feature a few special guests and support from local musician Dave Crompton. Doors open at 7.00pm. There will be limited numbers allowed in so be sure to get there early!

Thank you to Howard for offering his music for the show.

You can find out all about him at his MySpace profile, where you can find details about how you can get hold of his first CD, and where you can see him play live.

MySpace myspace.com/bobhowla

Buy Bobhowla's music from
CD Baby cdbaby.com/cd/bobhowla
and iTunes

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

December 2008: Spotlight on... Campbell Todd

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 16:01:00 -0800

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #8

December 2008 - Campbell Todd

1. Ways To Pass The Time
(from the CD Campbell Todd)

2. Playing The Field
(from Stuart's EP Playing The Field)

3. November Song
(from Neil's CD Fall)

4. A Question Of Time
(from the CD Campbell Todd)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

Neil Campbell and Stuart Todd (Campbell Todd) have worked together as an acoustic duo contributing to the performance of each other's songs for seven years. Neil and Stu came together as independent songwriters. What they brought to their collaboration was a very distinctive vocal harmony blend and an acoustic meets classical mesh of guitar work.

After together forming the band 'Triad' with drummer Mark Brocklesby (the band which eventually became the basis for 'The Neil Campbell Collective') Stuart left 'Triad' to pursue solo projects and Neil developed his work with the band in a more instrumental direction.

Over the past four years Neil and Stu have made sporadic contributions to each other's music with the odd live appearance here and there, with Neil guesting on Stu's EP 'Playing the Field' (2004) and with Stu's guest contributions to The Neil Campbell Collective's debut album '3 O'Clock Sky' (2005) and ‘Fall’ (2006).

Campbell Todd finally released their eponymously titled debut album at a packed out launch event in the View Two Gallery, Liverpool on Friday 19th October 2007. The album was engineered by their friend Andy Fernihough and featured drums by Mark Brocklesby on some of the tracks. The CD is available from Zavvi (formerly Virgin Megastore) on Clayton Square in Liverpool priced £7. You can also purchase the album from cdbaby.com and directly from their MySpace site

After playing their final gig at The Zanzibar Club in April this year; Campbell Todd are reuniting for a handful of gigs in December 2008 and into the New Year 2009.

Thank you to Neil and Stuart for offering their music for the show.

You can find out all about them at their MySpace profile, where you can find details about how you can get hold of the CD, and where you can see him play live. There are also links to Stuart’s and Neil’s own MySpace profiles.

MySpace myspace.com/campbelltodd

CD cdbaby.com/cd/campbelltodd

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

November 2008: Spotlight on... Avant Gardner

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 06:00:29 -0800

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #7

November 2008 - Avant Gardner

1. Never Meant To Throttle You
(from the CD Vegetarian Performance Art)

2. Lampshade
3. Einstein Kickers
(from the CD The Flightcase Acknowledgement)

4. Not Gonna Kill You Now
(from the CD Volumerics)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

Avant Gardner was borne out of the creation and subsequent demise of numerous bands and collaborations over a period of 12 years.

Sick of the constant struggle to get numerous individuals to work as an enthusiastic, like-minded team, coupled with the logistical nightmares involved with orchestrating weekly practises, (not to mention impending egos) Avant Gardner decided to strike out on his own.

CD - Vegetarian Performance Art

Instead of wasting precious time questioning the Whys and Hows of a band's disintegration and looking for someone to blame, Avant Gardner decided to go it alone, come what may, he can only blame himself this time!

And so, 7 years after his last ill-fated collaboration, and utilising a wardrobe for the majority of that time as his only refuge, Avant was able to fulfil his passion for writing, playing, recording and producing.

4 self-financed albums and 70 songs later, Avant felt it was time to take a break from writing and recording so that he could take the music to the people. Without a band to back him up, Avant has taken to performing solo acoustic gigs around the country to offer an alternative live take on his recorded offerings.

Attempting to change the way in which popular music is created and received from the ground up whilst retaining the essence of what makes a good song think of it as total re-engineering. Avant Gardner believes in using music as a platform to give an alternative, truly independent approach to everyday life and experiences.

Thank you to Avant Gardner for making his music available for the show. You can find out more about him at his MySpace profile.

MySpace www.myspace.com/avantgardner

His CDs can be bought by following the PayPal links on his MySpace profile.

He can also be found at
www.soundclick.com/avantgardner
www.artboo.com/avantgardner
www.bandman.co.uk/avantgardner

CD - Volumerics

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

October 2008: Spotlight on... Thomas-Joseph & Murphy

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:01:00 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #6

October 2008 - Thomas-Joseph & Murphy

1. Weary Nights

2. Old Dog

3. Free Man Walking

4. What Went Wrong

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

Thomas-Joseph and Murphy are currently playing around the acoustic scene in the northwest. In less than a year they have made remarkable progress performing at over 80 gigs around the north west of England.

They've also busked and played many venues across Europe. This has not gone unnoticed by the media. Many Interviews and articles have been printed, also a number of glowing reviews from both professional and independent reviewers.

Radio Merseyside, Manchester, Pembrokeshire and Rockland radio (New York) give the boys' songs regular airplay, as well as interviews and live sessions.

Thomas-Josephy and Murphy stand out through their intricate guitar work, close harmonies and varied song writing. A deep lyrical content and a strong melody is always present in their work. Their music was described by Ted Guy as “an iron fist inside a velvet glove”.

Listen and make your own mind up, but there is no denying they create great music.

Their 14 track album Weary Nights is available to buy in the Liverpool branch of Zavvi, and online at CD Baby.

Getting better all the time and the recipients of some rave reviews recently, Scouse melody-makers T-J & Murphy are riding upon the crest of a wave at the moment. Delicate, emotional music, made with a lightness of touch but so much conviction, is the finger-picking duo's stock-in-trade and it's a formula that is winning them lots of fans. New album Weary Nights is a cracker and a recent launch gig at Mathew Street's View Two Gallery proved the Liverpool lads can be heard above the din and deliver the goods live too. By turns intricate, melodic and memorable, T-J & Murphy are ones to watch
Band of the Week - Liverpool.com

I'm going to stick my neck out on this one and predict that Thomas Joseph and Murphy are going to be big. The Scouse duo have only been playing together for 18 months, but they've already played an impressive array of gigs around the city, building up a great live reputation. Now, at last, their debut album is out, and it's certainly worth the wait. Old Dog stands out, with its stunning interweaving melodies and harmonies, equally designed for summer days out and cosy nights in. But it's no fluke: of the other tracks we've heard, each shines brightly.
Album Review by Jade Wright, Liverpool Echo

Scouse fingerpickers who also know their way around a melody. Intricate, but not moody, T-J & Murphy have carved their own little niche out of the Liverpool music scene. Quiet music with something original to say is a rare find - and T-J & Murphy have hit upon a winning formula with this set.
Reviewed by Alan O'Hare Liverpool.com magazine June 08

The highly acclaimed duo Thomas-Joseph and Murphy who have been causing such a stir on the acoustic music scene. After a few notes during their warm-up it's easy to see why – they are outstanding players and sing like Seraphim. Playing harmonious guitars and creating angelic melodies appeared to come easily and held the crowd in enrapt appreciation. It was like walking past a beautiful girl and having her smiling at you - it sent your heart aflutter and re-enforced your faith in mankind…or at least the chance of getting some tonight! If you get the chance to listen to Thomas-Joseph and Murphy, in silence and without prejudice – sublime. Paul ReayM19 Bar (Manchester gig review)

Thomas-Joseph and Murphy hail from Liverpool. As all footy fans know, playing away can be an unsettling experience. However, although I am reluctant to make any assumptions about their sporting allegiances, I am resolutely impressed by their ability to retain an identity that is (dare I say it) as unique as the great team itself. Thomas-Joseph and Murphy are excellent; their songs weave intricately between chord and note. They are wrapped lovingly in melody, bathed in vocal harmonics; they feel and sound as comforting as the breeze and the sea in the summertime. What more can I say other than that t heir press does not mislead and if you do not believe me check out their Myspace.
August Hayes 2007

Final act on was Thomas-Joseph and Murphy, whose lovely finger picking guitar style sent waves of pure pleasure rippling from the stage, as their perfectly blending voices held the audience spellbound. The sheer quality of their interwoven harmonies was just thrilling as they got into the zone and sang their beautiful songs in a way that was simply enchanting.
Reviewed by Rikki Wright.

Thank you to Thomas-Joseph and Murphy, and their manager Billy, for making their music available for the show. You can find out more about them at their MySpace profile.

MySpace www.myspace.com/thomasjosephandmurphy

Weary Nights is available to buy from CD Baby

You can read Graham Holland's review of the album originally published on the Liverpool Acoustic News and Reviews page here.

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

September 2008: Spotlight on... Lizzie Nunnery

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Sun, 31 Aug 2008 16:01:00 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #5

September 2008 - Lizzie Nunnery

1. Moving With The Moon

2. Pubs That Never Close

3. Concertina (live)

4. Hungry

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

Lizzie Nunnery is a 26 year old singer songwriter. She self released her first EP, “Monkeys and Devils,” in 2006, from which Moving With The Moon is taken.

Fish Records had this to say about the EP. “Hugely impressive lyrics and delicate acoustic backing make Monkeys and Devils a strong disc, but it's her voice that really stands out. These are mature and fully rounded songs and the whole production and feel of the disc is much more than you’d expect from a debut release. She’s certainly a real talent, and one to watch for the future……”

Lizzie has played a host of venues around the UK and has supported musicians including J.D Souther, Little Feat, Jim Moray and Tobias Froberg. She has made several appearances on BBC Radio, including a live performance on BBC Radio 3, and was the BBC Liverpool unsigned artist of the month for November 2006.

Lizzie is also an award winning playwright, with her most recent stage play “Intemperance,” receiving a 5 star review in the Guardian. She is currently under commission to BBC Radio 4 to write a play with songs entitled “The Singer”.

Her eagerly anticipated second EP, "Hungry" was released in March, 2008.

As well as being available to listen to on the Hungry EP, the live track Concertina can also be watched as part of a concert available on DVD called ‘Live From Flat 1’

Reviews

Live review “It’s a performance that begins to reveal some of the best songs of the evening, as well as some innovative arrangements. Lizzie interlaces her solid strums with sublime, picked passages, mixing in vocals which sit somewhere not too far away from Kate Bush.”
Manchestermusic.co.uk

“Nu-folk with a knack for a melody and some quirky lyrics. Lizzie is unique enough to stand out from the crowd but accessible enough to get her noticed on a wider scale. Clever songs, beautifully recorded, perfectly delivered. Who says you can’t have it all?”
Liverpool.com Magazine on “Hungry” EP

"It is Lizzie’s enchanting voice that really draws you in to her sublime world; a fragile tremolo that makes you want to sit close and listen to her stories...It is the title track that impresses the most, with a catchy refrain and dark, menacing accompaniment. This track could well be one of the best songs you’ll hear all year."
Mike Wilson, Folking.com on "Hungry EP"

Thank you to Lizzie for making her music available for the show. You can find out all about her at her website, where you can buy her 2 EPs, DVD, and the scripts for her plays.

Website www.lizzienunnery.co.uk
MySpace www.myspace.com/lizzienunnery

Liverpool Music Today CD available from
Ultimate Fake Records www.ultimatefake.co.uk

If you want to hear more of Lizzie then check out Show 51 of the It’s A Frog’s Life Acoustic Podcast from April 2008 which was recorded at the Hungry EP launch earlier in the year. The podcast is a fortnightly acoustic music show featuring some of the best, podsafe acoustic music from across the whole of the UK, so if you like the Liverpool Acoustic music then you’ll love the rest of the music on the show.

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his CD Midnight On The Water.

August 2008: Spotlight on... Kaya

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:01:01 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #4

August 2008 - Kaya

1. Balloon In A Cactus Field

2. Demon Woman

3. Sick Champagne Waltz

4. Fairytale Blues

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

Kaya works hard, plays hard and bites hard, but isn't a very hard person at all.

Growing up thinking she was weird she prefers quirky these days, but still isn't very easy to put in a box. (That's where the biting comes in).

She started chewing her violin bow at 5, and still chews on instruments every time she gets an urge, which isn't very often anymore. And it's not the violin at all - the guitar is what she'd pick these days...

Originally from Norway, she's made Liverpool her home since 1999 and has become a well-know name on the local scene playing venues like Barfly, Zanzibar, Magnet, and her residencies at Metro, Dragon and the famous 3345 Parr Street Studios. All of this has lead her to play with people like Brett Anderson (Suede), Cherry Ghost, John Smith, Liam Frost and the Slowdown Family, The Wombats, The Sonic Hearts and pretty much the rest of the Liverpool scene and never tires of a good gig experience!

She sings and writes songs but sounds very different from most female singer/songwriters with a dynamic output that can blow your socks off. She's had reviews like "an extraordinary vocal talent" and "the perfect balance of warm, charming and light-hearted and serious, powerful and mesmerising" and was BBC Liverpool’s unsigned artist of the month for July 2007

She has finished recording her album "Balloon in a Cactus field" which is released on the 22nd September with Ultimate Fake Music and her first single "Meat Market Special / The Sick Champagne Waltz" was released in May last year and sold out.

Now she is finally ready for world domination....

Just let's see if the world is ready for her!

Reviews

"An outstandingly talented Norwegian/Scouse songwriter, Kaya's output is hard, constructed melodicism delivered with an extraordinary vocal talent."
Order, BarFly Magazine

"A driving riff, top class production and Kaya's outstanding vocals make this track easy on the ear, but don't let that fool you, there's a message in there about self-respect and knowing who you are."
Rough Trade

"I can honestly say that this girl is in the first division of the first league of champions in her craft. "Meat Market Special" is cocky and charming, spiritedly and energetic, dynamic and original and "The sick champagne" waltz just happens to be all of that and oh my God how the hauntingly chilling strings opening makes this song so much more!"
International Online Music

"Both as a musician and a person, Kaya strikes the perfect balance. She is warm, charming and light-hearted in the gaps between songs and serious, powerful and mesmerising when it comes to the rendering of her music."
Pollen8

"Music of this calibre can burst your heart with its inviolate beauty (...) one of the most compelling, complete and classy acts that you're likely ever to see (...) these are real songs performed by an artist deserving of a wider stage. The widest stage. Magnificent."
Drowned in Sound Magazine

"The best female rock singer in Liverpool."
Sakura, rockphotographer.net

"Vulnerable, raw and excellent! (...) This is definitely one of the musical highlights of the Summer. Kaya glows on stage."
(Frontpage and full page) Fremover (Norway)

"Huge vocal extravaganza, dynamic songs at their best."
www.Glasswerk.co.uk

"The acoustic guitar and Kaya's voice are the only instruments needed to give the song the intensity that only a gifted vocalist and musician could achieve."
Uneathedtreasures.co.uk

Thank you to Kaya for making her music available for the show. You can find out all about her at

Website www.kaya.no

MySpace www.myspace.com/kayaherstad

Facebook profile Kaya

Facebook group Kaya Music

Ultimate Fake Music www.ultimatefake.co.uk

Look out for news of her album launch in September.

Kaya hosts the weekly Metroacoustic night at Metro Bar on Victoria Street, and the monthly Acoustica night at 3345 Parr Street. See her MySpace profile for more details.

Also, from Saturday 9th August, tune in to BBC 1 and vote for Liverpool’s Sense of Sound Choir. You’ll see Kaya bobbing up and down at the front!

If you’d like to suggest a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact us form on the website.

The Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight is produced and presented by me, Graham Holland, on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk While you’re there you can sign up to receive the News and Reviews blog posts by email. Just put your email address in the box on the frontpage – it’s as simple as that, and we promise we won’t spam you.

The theme music is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his cd midnight on the water itsafrogslife.net/andrewellis

You can find me on the Internet at grahamholland.co.uk

Why not go to itsafrogslife.net/podcast and listen to the It’s A Frog’s Life Acoustic Podcast, a fortnightly acoustic music show featuring some of the best, podsafe acoustic music from across the whole of the UK.

July 2008: Spotlight on... Tony Kehoe

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:25:57 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight #3

July 2008 - Tony Kehoe

1. Polite But Insincere

2. Paper Wings

3. You've Got To Give Back (To Get Out Of Here)

4. A Week On Monday

(all songs from the CD It's No Coincidence)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online

SIX YEARS AGO, Tony Kehoe found himself with a little time on his hands and to keep those hands occupied, he started to play the guitar. Having being writing poetry, prose, and short stories since he was a small child he immediately began to write songs. After about six weeks and learning about as many chords, he was out gigging, doing his first performance at Heebeejeebies in Liverpool and from there he hasn’t stopped since.

LIKE MANY PEOPLE, he loves to read, watch movies and listen to music and has yet to find a favourite in any of these genres as he finds it is a constant process (his tastes can change with the turning of the radio dial).

IN CINEMA HE APPRECIATES Ingmar Bergman, Bogart, Cagney, Audrey Hepburn, Sergio Leonne while on the music side of things he enjoys Motown, Zappa, Miles Davies, World Party, Delta Blues and The Kings of Convenience. In literature he considers Captain Corelli’s Mandolin to be a modern day classic whilst loving C G Jung and Margaret Mitchell (Gone With The Wind) amongst many others. He thinks Grayston Ellis is fabulous in modern art and in theatre he admires Stephen Berkoff.

HE WRITES SONGS FROM personal experience, entwined with his love of art and entertainment which is always in a state of constant flux.

TONY HAS no formal education to speak of, but has travelled the world applying his trade as a joiner and of late has managed to stay in one place long enough to produce two beautiful daughters one aged five and the other almost one year old. He was born in Liverpool and that is where he now lives.

IN ADDITION TO his MySpace page you can also hear his songs at http://www.aplaceinbetween.com/

ALL OF THE SONG featured on this show can be found on his debut album entitled It's No Coincidence. If you'd like to buy a copy then drop Tony an email for details. kehoesongs[at]yahoo.co.uk

ALL OF TONY'S SONGS have been co-produced by the multi-talented Paul Robotham at Fynk Studio http://www.fynk.co.uk/

CONTACT Tony Kehoe

MySpace myspace.com/kehoesongs

Email kehoesongs[at]yahoo.co.uk

BUY the CD It's No Coincidence direct from Tony.

Weight In Gold

IF YOU GET THE CHANCE, please support your local artists by emailing them, joining their mailing lists, leaving them comments, going to their gigs, and buying their music direct from them where possible.

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUGGEST a local acoustic musician to be featured on the show then email contact[at]liverpoolacoustic.co.uk or use the ‘contact me’ form on at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk While you’re there check out the diary section for lists of dates, and details of one-off and regular acoustic gigs and events in and around the city of Liverpool.

THE LIVERPOOL ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT is produced and presented by Graham Holland grahamholland.co.uk on behalf of the Liverpool Acoustic website.

GRAHAM ALSO PRESENTS the It’s A Frog’s Life Acoustic Podcast itsafrogslife.net/podcast a fortnightly acoustic music show featuring some of the best, podsafe acoustic music from across the whole of the UK

THE THEME MUSIC is King of the Faeries by Andrew Ellis from his cd midnight on the water itsafrogslife.net/andrewellis

June 2008: Spotlight on... Ragz

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:24:49 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight

June 2008 - Ragz

Live shots by Steve GJ
Press Shots by Plast-c

LIVERPOOL ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT
AUDIO SHOW #2
June 2008 - Ragz

1. Oh, Oh
(live at the Drift Bar in Portsmouth)

2. End to Ends
(home recording)

3. Mosquito Man
(from the EP Little Stings)

4. Breathe (live)
(from the EP Little Stings)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below

WITH HER RICH, SUSTAINED VOICE, skilled musicianship and gorgeous, occasionally dark, tunes, Ragz has gained many fans and favourable comparisons to Joni Mitchell and Bat For Lashes amongst others.

ORIGINALLY HAILING FROM a tiny, forest-surrounded town in the south east of Norway, Ragz first came to Liverpool to study music at university, but quickly realized that she'd rather be out gigging than inside reciting.

SHE HAS SINCE cemented herself into the musical folklore of her new home and developed her craft on stages across the UK , including Liverpool Academy, Manchester Academy and the Borderline in London , supporting the likes of Vijay Kishore, David Ford, Marissa Nadler and Ian McNabb.

THE LIVERPOOL-BASE SINGER/SONGWRITER kicked off 2008 with her first fully-fledged EP, 'Little Stings', and a national tour to support its release and is now soon to record her first album.

'Little Stings' was recorded in Liverpool's famous Parr Street Studios, used by everyone from The Coral to Coldplay, and features 7 of her best songs so far, including live favourites 'Breathe' and 'Mosquito Man'.

IT WOULD SEEM the time has come for her career to set a new course upon the release of these songs to love to, cry to and most importantly - live to.

'Siren with star quality.' - Jade Wright, Liverpool Echo

'A crowd hushing voice & enchanting songs' - Richard Twine, L*A*W*M

'A talented musician on the cusp of international stardom and her fan-base is ever-increasing.' – Nerve magazine

'The songstress is breathing new life into her craft with the rest of us looking on in amazement. A great girl and a fine composer ladies and gentlemen' - International Online Music

CONTACT
Website www.ragzmusic.net
MySpace myspace.com/ragzmusic
facebook group

BUY the EP Little Stings
[CD Baby] [News From Nowhere]

DOWNLOAD the EP Little Stings
[Sound][iTunes]

May 2008: Spotlight on... Alun Parry

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 14:23:03 -0700

Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight

May 2008 - Alun Parry

(photo by www.themusicsnapper.co.uk )

LIVERPOOL ACOUSTIC SPOTLIGHT
AUDIO SHOW #1
MAY 2008 - ALUN PARRY

1. Woody's Song
(from the CD Corridors of Stone)

2. I Want Rosa To Stay (live)
(from the CD Before The Band: Live and Solo)

3. You Are My Addiction
(from the CD Corridors of Stone)

4. True Love Of Mine
(from the CD Liverpool 800: True Love Of Mine)

Download the show for free
(right-click to download)

Or listen online below

CLOSE YOUR EYES AND...
...imagine if Woody Guthrie joined The Jam. That is the sound of The Alun Parry Band. Referred to by the Liverpool Echo as "a Merseyside folk God", Alun Parry is one of Liverpool’s foremost acoustic based performers and songwriters. His music is best described as gritty folk rock laced with social observation.

BUSKING BEGINNINGS
Alun started off as a humble busker in Bold Street with a guitar that wasn't even his (borrowed not nicked!) His aim was to buy a guitar of his own which he eventually did. He still has it to this day though it's a bit warped now. If anyone remembers a scruffy youngster bellowing John Lennon's Power To The People while stood opposite the side entrance to Central Station - that was him. All that effort didn't go to waste though as he was later named Merseyside Busker of the Year.

RECORDINGS
His 2006 album Corridors of Stone received widespread critical acclaim. Liverpool 800: True Love Of Mine was released in 2007 to mark Liverpool's 800th Birthday. The CD is a six track collection of new, original songs celebrating the people and city of Liverpool.

INDEPENDENT BY CHOICE
Alun is an independent musician by choice, which means he has no label other than his own. His two studio CDs and a live CD are available to buy from Al's website, and all of the songs are available for download too.

BUSKERNOMICS
Al uses a system he likes to call Buskernomics - this means that Alun suggests a price for each CD, but it's up to you how much more or less you pay. You can even, if you want, download them for free - the only condition being that you don't sell them on. For more information visit www.parrysongs.co.uk

THE ALUN PARRY BAND
Although initially solo he now only plays with The Alun Parry Band. This consists of Al on vocals and guitar, Chad Draper on bass guitar, and Howard Northover on drums. Additionally, when they can make it, he's joined by Gina Le Faux on fiddle and mandolin, and Barry Briercliffe on backing vocals and tambourine.

LIVE MUSIC
As well as being a prolific songwriter and performer, Alun has also been heavily involved with the Liverpool acoustic music scene. Alun was the driving force behind the late lamented Acoustic Slice, a weekly acoustic showcase held at the legendary Parr Street Studios at their 3345 venue and which was named as Liverpool's number one acoustic night. He is also the organiser of Payday Playtime at The Casa, and he previously ran the acclaimed Second Friday at The Pilgrim.

THE FUTURE
Alun is keeping himself busy, as always, and has a number of gigs already booked for 2008. As well as festivals in the UK and Denmark, he'll also be involved in events that proudly showcase his energy as an activist and and as a grass-roots musician with a keen social conscience. Today, 1st May 2008 he's playing the May Day 'Rock Against Racism' gig outside the Liverpool Law Courts, on 26th July he's playing the 'Peace and Ecology' day in the bombed-out St Luke's Church, and in September Alun is organising the Liverpool Working Class Music Festival www.workingclassmusic.org.uk featuring acts such as Chumbawumba, Dick Gaughan, Leon Rosselson, Roy Bailey, Attila The Stockbroker, Tracey Curtis, Chanje Kunda, Claire Mooney, Al Baker, and (of course!) The Alun Parry Band.

CONTACT
Website www.parrysongs.co.uk
MySpace myspace.com/parryal
facebook group

Welcome to the spotlight!

contact@liverpoolacoustic.co.uk (Graham Holland) — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:12:42 -0700

Every month the Liverpool Acoustic Spotlight will single out an acoustic artist or group based in or around Liverpool. They'll get the chance to tell the world all about their music and bask in the glory!

If you'd like to be featured here then let us know by using the contact form on the main website at liverpoolacoustic.co.uk