Folk Scene with Eric Cox
On Tuesday, Sandbach Folk Club, which meets at The Market Tavern every week, has as its guest The Time Bandits, who are an Anglo-European folk and Renaissance group consisting of Helen Armstrong (violin, cello and vocals), Ian Jones (Melodeon, flute), Helen de Lemos (bagpipes, recorder, whistle and saxophone) and Jamie Matthews (bouzouki, cittern, bouzar, hurdy gurdy and vocals). The Time Bandits are a Chester-based band with a repertoire including European Renaissance. They went down so well on their last visit to Sandbach last year they are back by popular request. Please note this club has a slightly later start of 8.45pm (07815 721933).
On Wednesday, The Cuckoo's Nest has The Dylan Project on at its usual venue, The Swan, in Leek. Although the club usually meets on a Thursday, it has swapped days because of availability. The Dylan Project, as the name implies, spotlights the music of Bob Dylan, but the band is more than a tribute band. Founded by Steve Gibbons (Steve Gibbons band) and accompanied by Fairport Convention members Dave Pegg (bass) and Simon Nicol (rhythm guitar), as well as PJ Wright (slide guitar) they have delighted audiences over the last decade with their style. This event is always popular and it's best to contact organiser Dave Rhead to reserve tickets on 01538 385260.
Thursday sees Eccleshall Folk Club holding a guest night at Walton Hall School featuring singer/songwriter Paul O'Brien. Please note this is a change of venue from the usual Kings Arms. Birmingham-born of Irish parents, Paul is a singer, songwriter and instrumentalist with a gift for going straight to the heart of the story. Touring from his new home on Vancouver Island, Canada, he brings new material to old and new listeners, with personal and traditional stories to tell, full of Irish heritage, West-coast influence and folk-acoustic roots. His appearance at Eccleshall is part of a UK tour and he is well-respected for the quality of his charismatic stage presence. (01785 851964).
Many folk artists can be found in small theatres and arts centres, and I came across an interesting concert next Saturday, November 28 at The Clonter Opera Theatre, just outside Congleton. This features two award-winning acts – Belshazzar's Feast and The Demon Barbers. Belshazzar's Feast features two stunning musicians who blend folk with classical music and an amusing line in patter. The Demon Barbers combine solid traditional acoustic instruments and songs with added oomph. The Clonter Theatre is well worth a visit, but does get full, so check availability of tickets on 01260 224514.
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