The Bishops Stortford Acoustic Club
at South Mill Arts Centre
1-3, South Road, Bishops Stortford, Herts. CM23
3JG
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Previous Performances – Who played
when |
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2026
9th JULY 2026
6 Acts – 4 Songs
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers Last time we had a glorious kaleidoscope of talents that was a wonderful demonstration of just how wide the panorama of acoustic music is. The String Section The String Section prove
that a gentle and serious approach to music can be a wonderful experience.
They play a fiddle, a mandolin, a guitar and overlay their music with
meaningful vocals. They play their own compositions which are wonderful tunes
and develop their set with a repertoire not often heard. It would be hard to
define their style; is it bluegrass, is it country, is it Kentucky Mountain
music? It is and it is a delightful experience and oh so well defined and
perfectly executed. |
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Richard Paul Richard Paul is a
local musician who may be familiar to you as one half of the duet Arcadia who
have appeared at many venues and festivals in the region. Last Richard gave
us a glimpse of his wide-ranging repertoire founded on his delightful guitar
as well as compelling vocals. His songs are well crafted and define his view
in a wonderful manner. Just an all-around cracking set. ALIPHI ALIPHI are a
combination of Ali Rose and Phil Ericson. They are one of those duos who turn
up rarely as they are individually great songwriters and together a truly
delightful music machine. Ali has a wonderful vocal range who demonstrates
her talent from the first note to the last. Her renditions of classic folk
music is an absolute joy and her original material is wonderful. The other
side of the stage resides Phil Ericson. He is an inventive and proficient
guitarist and engaging singer. Together they are much more than the sum of
their parts and make lovely music Their music is both joyous and original
music. Delightfully delivered a great set!
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Vic Lennard Vic is always a welcome performer at the Acoustic Club Vic has an
enviable back catalogue of original songs as well as the ability to craft new
versions of standards and well-known songs. He set was about subjects that
matter to him and his songs are both lyrical and hard hitting at the same
time. As ever, a fine selection of originals and covers which entranced the
audience. Richard Stubbs Richard is one of
the driving forces of Runaway Jukebox, Stubsie proved that he is a gifted
singer songwriter in his own right and it is a delight to have the
opportunity to hear him playing what he wants and likes. He then interspersed
his music with carefully selected covers that wakes you up to a new
experience. |
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The Junkyard Dawg The Junkyard Dawg
Jug Band are a good time, great tune band. They delivered their set with so
much verve and joy that it is hard not to get carried away with their
infectious music. Even Paul Hilder as the epitome of his current favourite Count
Binface you are never sure what songs they will play but there are a few
things assured. There was fiddle, guitar, mandolin, harp, washboard and
ukulele bass but no jugs! That there were none did not detract from their
individual brilliance. They are such a breath of fresh air. Thanks guys. |
THURSDAY
25th JUNE 2026
Double Headline Showcase
featuring
M G Boulter
and
Fourgone Confusion
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers Last time we were back with a wonderful mixture of talent and performance featuring two Headline Showcase Acts. It would be fair to say that they are on opposite ends of the music we encourage at the Acoustic Club, but that is what we love. Real diversity in music. M G Boulter with
Paul Ambrose Matt Boulter is not
only one of the hardest working musicians in Essex and London, his output is
prodigious. He writes songs and music that reflects his life as well as the
flights of fancy and fantasy that he can construct. We have become accustomed
to the brilliant bass accompaniment that Paul Ambrose brings, to complete the
performance. |
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MG
Boulters’ set list is a wonderful surprise as he always manages to bring
favourite songs from his unofficial anthology of Music from Southend and
Westcliffe and will then inject a new composition that literally blows your
sock off. Just
a wonderful set from two wonderfully talented musicians. FOUR
GONE CONFUSION Four
Gone Confusion comprises two couples who have joined their music together to
produce a wonderful result. Specialising
in “Folk” music is a great place to start but they bring their own take on
trad folk and bring it up to date. No matter how you view it, the music is
delightful |
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However,
they are not confined by their history, in fact they thrive on it, with new
influences and a certain amount of jazz roots and funk fusion was detected (I
am of course joking about the funk fusion). They really produce individual
music that suits their performance as well as delights the audience. Just
a smashing set by lovely people. |
THURSDAY
11th JUNE 2026
6 Acts – 4 Songs
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers This week we are back with a wonderful mixture of talent and performance, each act with an extended 4 song set. THE LARKS Liz Miller and
Chris Wilbraham opened the evening with a fine set of original music which is
always a delight. They play with the confidence that many years of
association guarantees. They are so comfortable with their music which is
quickly is appreciated by the audience and is a constant delight. |
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Michael Sedgwick Michael is a local player
who manages to bring a level of sophistication and technical ability in his
playing. His work on the 12
String (an instrument of both beauty and clarity) is an utter delight.
Michael again caught the audience and refused to let them go. The whole set
was a delightful indulgence which was much appreciated by the rapt audience. The Paul Booth Trio Paul’s songs are
the basis of their performance and this time the Trio treated us to 4 new
songs. The wholeness of their sound has been achieved by a measure of gentle
evolution, from solo player via a duo into the fully formed trio they are
today. Verna and Si add that essential backfill to Pauls cultured songs and
the result is something both individual and special. . |
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Hardcore &
Rubble Paul and Gary are developing
into one of the most delightful Blues Duos about. There is absolutely no
doubting their talent; they have oodles and oodles of it but it is the
absolute joy with which they communicate with the audience that sets them
apart. The self-ordained Reverend Gary is one of those blues harpists who
takes you back in time, to a time when the blues harp was the essential part
of any R&B or Blues Rock act. Paul is a master guitarist who has found
his metier in his National Steel Guitar. Put the two together and you have
dynamite in terms of performance. They play what they love and the audience
really warms to their irreverent personality that is unique. Just a lovely
entertaining performance from two seasoned players. Alice Walker If there is a more self-deprecating performer than Alice, I have yet
to see or hear them. Alice is a songwriter of outstanding depth and talent
and a performer who involves her audience the more she tries to almost
distance herself from it. She sings about unrequited love, betrayal, deep
affection and true love; sometimes encapsulated in the same song. Every time she plays for us she brings more
with her. As ever a delightful performance that the audience loved. |
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Pat Crilly and Greg Camburn It has been far too
long since we have had the delight of a Crilly/Camburn set. Greg has moved to
the wilderness of Norfolk and Pat is still one of the busiest performers
around. Distance and opportunity have conspired to keep this duo from
performing for us. However, to close the evening, we were thrilled that the
“Old Firm” were back in the saddle. It is difficult to
explain just how well these two masters of their art bring Pats songs to the
stage. Pat writes extraordinary songs – heartfelt, deeply personal,
occasionally whimsical but whatever the subject, excellent. Greg can and does
provide such a brilliant musical counterpoint that always enhances the song
to move them from very good to brilliant. It was a through
delight for them to close an evening that will live long in the memory as a
fantastic advert for local players playing original music to a devoted
audience. Many thanks to all who attended for witnessing such a special
evening. |
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Grateful thanks to
Charlie for his sterling work on the Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to
all the staff and volunteers who go to make the SMA such a wonderful
welcoming venue. |
THURSDAY 28th MAY
YOUNG PLAYERS NIGHT
and
HEADLINE SHOWCASE
SOUTH OF POLARIS
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers What an all-around
cracking night we had last time with our amazing young players as well as a
much-anticipated headline showcase by the incredible South of Polaris. South of Polaris
has been on our “must see again” list since their debut performance and we
were delighted to welcome them to headline our Young Players evening. South of Polaris
are, in their description, a Flamenco-infused Alt Folk duo of Danii Reales
and Saúl Díaz, whose music is as emotionally raw as it is sonically rich.
Their UK/Spanish sound blends intimate folk storytelling, the fire of
flamenco, and the theatrical energy of rock, anchored by Danii’s
unforgettable vocals and violin, and Saúl’s intricate Electro-Classical
Guitar.
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The truth is that
they are building a reputation for original and very different music that
captures your ears, wakes your soul and gets your feet tapping. They are
unique in their music and their approach to performing is one that engages
immediately. From first to last they were a wonderful revelation of what can
be achieved in the space of music. Many thanks for such a fantastic headline
showcase, that brought the evening so beautifully to a close. Due to a couple of
no shows Bill Tarran had to open the evening with a couple of songs but we
quickly moved onto Layla
Mone accompanied on
guitar by Jasper Bokay. Layla is a highly talented writer and singer
and she and Jasper write brilliant songs in a collaboration that really
showcases their talent. A lightning quick change and Jasper then took
the stage as a solo player who gave us 3 songs of incredible maturity. |
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Elliot Laverne is quite a performer
and mixed his performance with a French language song which had the audience
spell bound. His dexterity with language is hardly surprising but his
musicality and fantastic voice are amazing. Following on was the totally entrancing Alessandra
Freeston who is a virtuoso performer on the Tsugaru Shamisen, a
traditional Japanese 3 stringed instrument popular in the production of Edo
Plays. Alessandra not only performs at an exceptional level but is developing
her own compositions. This time she delighted the audience with three
original compositions. The Shamisen has a growing audience and this interest
is in no small way due to Allesandra’s performance. |
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Ettie Haynes & Alicia Gradica are a new combination who made their performing debut
as a duo. With a little hesitancy to start they quickly found their feet and
gave us three great songs of fine vocals and guitar accompaniment. These two
players have real talent and this was amply demonstrated. We look forward to
their return in the future. Our Young players
were again a revelation and we must thank Kevin Sporle and his Music Centre
in Saffron Walden in arranging so many of his performers to be at the
evening. All are an absolute credit to the sterling efforts Kevin and his
team in Saffron Walden are doing to promote and develop performing arts in
all its guises. Grateful thanks to
Charlie for his sterling work on the Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to
all the staff and volunteers who go to make the SMA such a wonderful
welcoming venue. |
THURSDAY 21st MAY
WATER
LANE HALL FUNDRAISER
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers Every now and then
we have the opportunity of doing something positive, something that will make
life just a little better all-around. Last time we did that, not just the
Acoustic Club, but so many people who are a very important part of the
collective. The Water Lane Hall
project is one of those incredible things that we, as a community, can get
involved in. We can do a bit that will improve not only our social and
musical diaspora but something we can be proud of. Whether people
volunteer or put their hand in their pocket, it does not matter, it is the
collective act that we are doing something as a part of Society and that
often gets ignored. Last time, at the
wonderful Belgian Brewer, we did just that. Collectively we had a great
evening of music provided by local players in local bands to give us a
memorable evening of music, Belgian beer and the opportunity to throw some
money in the hat to kick start the Water Lane Hall Project. We had all that we
needed for a successful evening! A great venue
blessed with warm late spring weather that encouraged people to not only
attend but be both outside as well as inside, a large and enthusiastic
audience and THREE top quality bands providing brilliant music for everyone |
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We opened with the
longest serving Band on our books Blues Inc. The band holds that distinction
because co-founder of the Club Drew Bonnington continues to lead such a
disparate group in its many guises. Drew and Andy performed so many times as
a duo and then added by degrees, Graeme (one of the leading lights of the
whole drive to keep Water Lane Hall functioning) on bass, Martin on lead
guitar and Nina on drums. Together they gave us brilliant blues as well as
more contemporary song as well.
I am sorry that the
photo is not of the ones I took on the night, but those I had missed Cormac
in person and got just the end of his bass. Experience warns me – Do not mess
with Cormac!! We closed the
evening with the Exile Club. Enough said! They are just about as good as it
gets when it comes to original music as well as covers and versions of songs
from the hit parade that are stamped with their indelible signature. Joe has been at the
Acoustic Club nearly as long as Drew however in fairness he started his
musical journey as a fresh faced very young man along with Tom Ryder. He
continues as the driving force of the band as songwriter, singer and just
about as disgustingly good a lead guitarist as it is allowed to be. Abi was
introduced a few years ago as part of a duo with Joe and her vocals proved
she was brilliant. She has now developed into one of live music’s livewires,
covering the audience with her love of singing and getting everyone to join
in. Tommy is the newest member of the band but he was known to us as a “Young
Player” often accompanying singers on his keys at our regular Young Player
evening. He did not like to be named in the programme so I christened him “The
boy next door” as one of the players he accompanied grew up next door to him.
We first met Daisy and Neil as part of The Exile Club and we have become firm
friends revelling in their bass (Daisy) and drums (Neil). Their set was, as
we have come to expect, one of individual excellence combined to make us revel
in their absolute brilliance as a band. The photo below shows just how
brilliant they are, getting the audience clapping and dancing along to
Preacher Man.
Overall, the
evening was an outstanding musical success as well as a cracking way to bring
the Water Lane Hall project to the centre of the stage. Many thanks to
those who attended and those who donated so generously. We will give a
final update to the amount raised over the evening. Initial indications are
that it is “SUBSTANTIAL” |
RUNAWAY JUKEBOX
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we were delighted to welcome back the
sensation that is Runaway Jukebox. We have been extremely fortunate to welcome the guys
before but however good they were last year; they are so much better this
year. |
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As a band, they are so much more than three guys and a
host of instruments and have moved up the scale from good to very good. The
band plays with a confidence and unity that is rare with Stubsies driving
guitar and vocals, James playing stunning lead guitar as well as providing an
authentic vocal performance and James' inventive percussive support,
however it is their vocal harmonies and interplay that bring the whole
performance together. Many thanks’ guys, a superb hour-long performance that
simply flew by in the blink of an eye. |
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We were delighted to welcome as support players Bill
Tarran Host and M/C, Kevin Johnson (lovely guitar and choice of
songs), Razz Duo (consisting of Barry and Tracey), Paul Tully (whose
determination to play is an inspiration to everyone) and Zak (who has
performed in many guises over the years but great to see him playing again). Grateful thanks to Charlie for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
THURSDAY
30th APRIL
6 ACTS – 4 SONGS
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we were delighted to welcome 6 Acts who
proved once again that the Acoustic Club is the place to be on a Thursday
evening. We were delighted to welcome and listen to 6 players
who gave the audience a fine selection of both original songs, as well as
some very welcome newly re-imagined favourites. |
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TERRY HISCOCK Every time Terry appears on a stage, he illuminates it.
He has many years of playing as a solo artist as well as a member of the
much-respected Hunter Muskett. Terry’s experience shines through as he introduces his
songs in his laid back yet thoroughly engaging style. The absolute master of
weaving words and tunes into beautiful songs with heart and meaning |
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MIKE NORMAN Mike is a performer who relies on his ability to weave
words into songs that entrance as well as involve his audience. He has the
knack of finding subjects to write about that are relevant as well as easy on
the ear. However, the meaning is never lost |
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BILL TARRAN Unfortunately, a new to us player Katelan Perks was ill
so Bill got the rare chance of a 4 song spot. Digging into the depths of the 1970’s and 80’s he gave
us songs from his past and friends who are masters of their craft, some of
whom are still with us 50 years on! |
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COLIN FRID Colin is one of our most frequent and most welcome
players at the club. He has a long history of playing little known songs
from little known writers as well as the occasional song from his little
black book of personal and remarkable songs. As ever, he gave a polished and entrancing performance
utilising his ability and experience to put his own unique stamp on each
song. |
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CRAYON ANGELS It has been said before and will be said again, we do
not see or hear enough of Crayon Angels. They have a wonderful knack of being
able to draw the audience into their special world with ease makes this
extremely accomplished band a delight to hear and see. WE NEED MORE!! |
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PASS THE BUCH Chris and Richard are not your usual 2 men with guitars
duo. They are a one off. They play guitar and sing but they also put the
guitars down or in Richard’s case, push it to his side and sing a Capelo.
They have developed a unique sound and have a great talent for finding rarely
heard songs. They always to try something new and are highly
entertaining in their performance. |
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Grateful thanks to Alex for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
THURSDAY
16th APRIL
CONCERT SHOWCASE
CHICAGO
NOLA
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we had the pleasure of welcoming the
incredible Chicago Nola to perform a concert showcase for us. |
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Chicago Nola are a 4-piece Essex/Herts based blues band
and we were delighted to welcome them for their first gig with us. They
performed a heady brew of strong classic blues and soul influenced themes
whilst celebrating some of the most influential music of an era of Blues,
Soul and R&B. Their strong classic blues and soul influenced themes track
the migration of blues from New Orleans/Louisiana (NOLA) to Chicago &
beyond… The band delivered and honest approach to the music and
in true blues tradition, believe it is “all about the song”, live, clear and
simple. Featuring the incredible vocal talents of Michelle
Eley, supported by the experienced trio of Bill Jenks (guitar), Dietmar
Schantin (bass) and Sean McGran (drums). Suffice to say, they were absolutely brilliant; it
wasn’t just the music of the songs, it was the whole experience. |
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Our support acts were equally brilliant with some old
and some very new faces to us. Our performers were Bill Tarran Host
and MC, Clarke and Johnston, Barry Hill, India Purton (Accompanied
by Stuart Purton) and Paul Kenealy & Marion Benton. It cannot go
without saying special thanks to Tony and Karen who stepped in at the very
last minute. Grateful thanks. |
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Grateful thanks to Alex for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
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THURSDAY
2nd APRIL
6 ACTS – 4 SONGS
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Last time we were delighted to welcome back 6 of our
very favourite players. It is always a delight to welcome back our friends
who have entertained us so well in the past. |
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Micky Niner – Micky is not
your run of the mill player. He gave us a set of 4 fairly diverse songs. He
is very confident with a strong delivery. A fine rock type voice and some
fine guitar work to complete the performance. |
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Mark Dellar – Mark is a great
player who gave us 4 melancholic self-penned songs. He has a great voice as
well as being a fine guitarist which he uses to give a remarkable
performance. |
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Peter Crossley – Peter is a fine
guitarist but this time he proved what a cracking fiddle player he is. He
entranced the audience with two excellent instrumental tunes and topped the
performance with two songs sung, in his usual style and with heaps of
panache. |
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Trina Read – Trina just gets
better and better. She has not written any new songs for quite a while due to
a bit of a 'writers block' together with a full, busy life. However, she
delivered 3 originals, 1 cover all beautifully sung with feeling. |
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Colin Frid – Colin is a man
on the top of his game. Two Clive Gregson songs, a Paul McCartney song and
one of his own demonstrates his depth and versatility. Another cracking set. |
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Rhys Wilson – We have come to
expect great things from Rhys and, living up to expectations, he delivered
again. He was his usual excellent self and managed to elicit a strong
response from the audience with them singing along on a couple of his songs. |
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Grateful thanks to Yannis for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
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WEDNESDAY
19th MARCH
DOUBLE HEADLINE SHOWCASE
JESS BRETT
and
CHRIS
AND NICK JOHNSON
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we were delighted to welcome another Double
Headline Showcase featuring Jess Brett and Chris and Nick Johnson. |
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JESS BRETT is one of our most
popular Headline Showcase performers and for a very good reason. She is,
undoubtedly, a phenomenal talent combines her astounding singer, a stunning
guitarist but the strength that she now brings to her performance are her
songs. Rarely are we treated to a songwriter who bares her
soul with songs that are highly personal capturing her personal experience of
life that transform into truly remarkable songs. Her guitar work is a result of
constant playing and teaching which stretch her constantly. The result is
precise and accomplished playing that really hits home so incredibly well.
Her interpretation reflects her experience as a long-time lead vocalist which
brings range, depth and authenticity to her performance. No matter if it be a
song from her growing personal catalogue or a new take on her choice of other
writers’ material (she does not perform covers) she adds to and enhances
others’ songs to present a completely new take. What a performance by Jess, we all loved it for sure,
and we are looking forward to the next time.
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CHRIS AND NICK JOHNSON are brother in
music. Individually they are brilliant players and songwriters but the magic
really happens when they join together and introduce the audience to their
distinctive music. Both bring individual but separate guitar skills that
fill the music completely Chris lays down a sound base of rhythm enhanced by complex
counter points whilst Nick brings a mastery of the lead guitar as well as providing
solid accompaniment as required. Their vocals are, as almost all times proves correct,
founded on a basis of filial growth. They sound like they have performed
together for ages, but the reality is that it is longer than that. They spend their time touring musicians with a
catalogue of performances that are as diverse as a touring musician can ask
for. The beauty of this professional landscape or diversity and difference is
that when they play together as themselves, the audience are the
beneficiaries of the joint talent. Chris and Nick were performing for the first time at
the Acoustic Club and we look forward to welcoming them again. Our supporting acts featured Bill Tarran Host
and M/C, Kevin Johnson, Paul Booth and Jordan and David all who
gave us two great songs each. Grateful thanks to Yannis for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
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WEDNESDAY
3rd MARCH
DOUBLE HEADLINE SHOWCASE
PETER &
JANE
and
DAN
TITUS
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we were delighted to welcome another Double
Headline Showcase featuring Peter and Jane and Dan Titus. |
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Peter and Jane are a folk duo
from Suffolk, and their joy in making music is evident from the first note to
the very last. Their original songs and tunes are influenced by the broad
spectrum that is the folk genre and their performances included a joyful
selection of traditional material, arranged to suit the duo’s voices and
instruments which included flute, whistles, guitar, banjo and small pipes. Moving between Scottish airs, Irish jigs and reels,
bluegrass favourites, traditional ballads or one of their own songs, Peter
and Jane’s close harmony between their instruments and voices were a triumph.
The duo has a huge amount of experience gained at numerous folk clubs and
festivals in East Anglia over the past few years and have entertained
audiences with lively and varied performances chosen from their large
repertoire to suit the occasion. We benefited from this diversity of
repertoire enormously and we were treated to 45 minutes of pure joy. Many thanks Peter and Jane and we look forward to
seeing you again soon.
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DAN TITUS is one of those
perennial performers who does just about everything well. His song writer is compelling,
a cracking guitarist and a unique vocalist. Put these together and what is
promised is a great set of personal music that is highly attuned to whatever
is going on in the world as well as reflections on his perspective. Dans set was his usual mastery of current affairs and
proved again that he is one of the notable songwriters in the local area. Dan gave us a full 45 minutes of terrific songs that
means so much to him and, by the wonder of live performance, we shared these enthusiastically.
Playing to a live audience is the place that Dan excels. His performance, as
ever, was meaningful and delightful in equal measure. His songs hit the heart
and mind simultaneously such that you are thinking about the song as the next
hits home. Many thanks Dan for a cracking set. Our supporting slots featuring Bill Tarran Host
and M/C, Colin Frid, Nigel Yates and Russell Houghton all who
gave us two great songs each. Grateful thanks to Alex for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
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19th
February 2026
MIKE
HAPPNINBOY
and
THE
YOUNG PLAYERS
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Hello Acoustic
Clubbers, It is an utter
delight to welcome the young players back to the stage at the South Mill Arts
Centre. These players represent the next generation of musicians and it is
through them we see the next few years of live music developing. If you add
to that the sheer hurricane like performance of the Headline Act Mr Mike
Happninboy to the mix, you will find a real musical treat for an evening out. We opened the Young
Players with a set from William Chandler a young man who is a
delightful combination of singer, songwriter and guitarist who performs with
verve and style. We have had the pleasure of hearing him in the past and his
writing gets stronger every time we hear him. Anna Hughes followed on and,
as she grows and develops, she becomes more of a musical force. Despite
suffering from the after effects of a cold, she produces just lovely music,
and it is always great to welcome her back to the Acoustic Club. PAUL are a five-piece
band and it was planned that they open the evening, but due to a failed
gymnastic leap, the drummer suffered a cut to his face and it took a couple
of minutes to get himself ready for action. However, once back in action PAUL
gave us a set that was, as ever, a real foot tapping table thumping set. The
combination of two female voices, guitar, bass and drums really give such a
solid foundation for great music.
William Chandler Anna Hughes PAUL |
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Elliot Lavergne
Archie and Lizzie Leyla Mone
& Jasper Bokay |
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Elliot Lavergne was making his
second appearance at the club and again the improvement in performance is
remarkable, again another budding writer! Elliot comes from a very musical
family and this shows with his talent coming through. We can only hope that
Elliot joins his brother Max on stage sometime in the near future as I am
sure they would be worthy successors to many famous brothers performing on
stage. It has been a while
since we have seen Archie Eastlake and this time we were delighted to
welcome him with singer Lizzie Panagi. It is clear that Archie parents
have been feeding him recently as he has literally from but at least ½ a
metre! But let than not fool you. Lizzie is a talented singer and Archie is
close to being one of the very best guitarists of his age in the country Layla Mone splits her time at
the musical evenings between performing and being the official photographer
for the Garden Youth Musical Project. This time she teamed up with Jasper
Bokay and together they performed some wonderful music including one of
their joint compositions. To close the Young
Players session Jasper Bokay gave us a delightful solo performance
that showcased his terrific guitar skills as well as his performance of his
original music. At this point it is
essential that we give a massive shout out to Kevin Sporle and the Garden
Youth Music Project from Saffron Walden. 5 of the 7 acts took their initial
steps with the project and continue to develop and grow in not only ability
but performance savvy as well. Kevin and Joanna Eden are doing great things
encouraging and developing young performers. Keep up the great work. |
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Our headline act was the unique and inimitable Mike
Happninboy. Mike is a true legend amongst musicians everywhere. He
has the reputation of being a one-man explosion of so many types and genres
of music it is impossible not to be moved by his performances. He tailors his
music for each audience every time and a full set of his personal and largely
new songs was spot on for our audience. Renown as a howling, stomping blues
player with a voice that could shatter glass he proves himself an
accomplished song writer and last time he gave us a fantastic set of his new
songs. Accompanied by blues harp maestro Grant Howard on one song, Mike
proved his brilliance as a song writer as well as a unique and much treasured
performer. The packed audience loved his set and there were many enquires as
to when the new album would be released and when he would be playing again. Thanks again for a brilliant set Mike, and here is to
the next one. |
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Grateful thanks to Alex for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Also, much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
5th
February 2026
SPECIAL
HEADLINE CONCERT
CLEAN
SNEAK
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers, When we sort out a super Headline Showcase, we are
always sure that the artists we engage are something special. Such was the expectation
we had for our Concert last time. Clean Sneak are one of those
bands that slip gently under the radar. Individually they are accomplished
and seasoned musicians but the magic happens when they get together and
produce some wonderful music |
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The trick that they so successfully employ is the do
not look like a tight jazz/blues/rock band. They look like three older
gentlemen who have turned left and found themselves on stage. This however is
a front! Once they pick up their instruments a transformation takes place. They are known for their relaxed take on the Blues and
with influences as wide as Mose Allison to Tom Waits you never know quite
what comes next. Clean Sneak keeps things varied and always entertaining
and were Terry Boon (Bass, Acoustic Guitar & Lead Vocals), Keith Harriss
(Guitar, Slide Guitar, Harmonica & Vocals), Sean McGran (Drums and
Vocals). Such a brilliant hour of pure joy and at the end of the
evening Keith asked me if I remembered a departed friend from many years ago.
It would appear that the last time we saw each other, other than at the
Acoustic Club, was about 56 years ago playing Angi by Davy Graham together at
a long-forgotten venue somewhere in Harlow! We were also delighted to welcome a new duo Tall Order
for their maiden gig. Maiden as a duo I would add as both members are long
standing friends of the Acoustic Club being composed of Kris Ambrose and Ray
Hollingworth. |
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Separated only by a drum kit as the photo indicates,
they brought a wealth of experience and a repertoire to match. Their extended
set was brilliantly selected group of soft rock songs that reflects their
personal preferences. Many thanks and you passed the audition (To quote Ringo
Starr) We also had supporting sets from me Bill Tarran, Paul
Tully and the irrepressible Colin Frid. Grateful thanks to Jaiden for his sterling work on the
Sound Desk. Have a great holiday “Down Under” and we look ford to seeing you
back home soon. Much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to
make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
22nd
January
6 Acts –
4 SONGS
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers, What an absolutely cracking night we had last time with
six acts, so diverse it would be difficult to group them other than individually
and an impressive jam-packed audience. |
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THE LARKS Liz Miller and Chris Wilbraham are brilliant duo who are
award-winning songwriters as well as being brilliant performers. Their music is founded on a solid musicality and their words
strike home every time. As accomplished musicians they provide that melodic backdrop
that enhances whilst at the same time |
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SUE and VERNA as WHY NOT Sue and Verna are fast becoming one of our favourite close
harmony duos. Their performance is always measured, precise and compelling. They
will normally find a song or two that needs a new look and they always provide
a polished set that is a delight. Many thanks Sue and Verna. |
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ALI ROSE Ali gave us a real snapshot of her talent that was evident
from the first note to the last. Her renditions of classic folk music is an absolute
joy and her original material is wonderful. Accompanied by Phil Ericson on guitar/backing
vocals they gave us a brilliant set of just pure joyous music. |
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RICHARD STUBBS & EMILY UNNA Emily Unna is Brazilian/English singer who demonstrated
a mixture of style that was enchanting. She has a strong voice covering styles
such as Bossa Nova to Pop, the Bangles to Miley Cyrus. Accompanied by Richard
Stubbs that gave us a set full of mysterious yet enchanting material that had
the audience tapping along throughout. |
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HARDCORE & RUBBLE Paul and Gary gave us a set of unadulterated blues which
relied on the tone of Pauls National Steel guitar and Gary excellence on the blues
harp. There was a focus on fun, entertainment and playing some
songs no one else would attempt. They lived up to their reputation of being different in
every respect and leaving the audience wanting more, |
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MICHAEL SEDGWICK Michael is a local and spends his time playing a range of
acoustic covers and originals. He has a wonderfully understated style that comes
to the fore when he starts to perform. His work on the 12 String (an instrument of both beauty
and clarity) was an utter delight. |
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Grateful thanks to Jaiden for his sterling work on the Sound
Desk and much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go to make the
SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
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9th
January
THE KIMBERLEYS
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Hello Acoustic Clubbers Last time we were delighted to open the 2026
Spring Season with the wonderful traditional folk duo The Kimberleys.
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Isobelle and Jim have been a major fixture on
the folk scene for many years because of their complete mastery of the genre.
They are incredible individual musicians and singers who combined seamlessly to
deliver a full concert. This gave not only full range to their extensive and original
repertoire, but also gave us the background and heritage of many of the songs
they performed. Isobelle has a distinctive and truly unique voice that gives such
range, depth and meaning. Her guitar playing is the counter point to Jim’s more
traditional guitar work which when combined with his intuitive and compelling
harmonies fills the songs brilliantly. The whole experience was one of joyful music
interspersed with a highly interesting narrative and the 70-minute concert simply
flew by. From start to finish – including a magical version of Streets of London
– the time passed so quickly. Many thanks to The Kimberleys for such a compelling
and brilliant Showcase Concert and what a start to 2026!! We were delighted that we had full support from
Bill Tarran Host and M/C, Steve Warner and a four-song set from
our very favourite soft rock combo JONO. |
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Grateful thanks to Jaiden for his sterling work
on the Sound Desk and much appreciation to all the staff and volunteers who go
to make the SMA such a wonderful welcoming venue. |
