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Download a flyer
Should need to print a copy of this months listings, you can download a copy of our regular flyer by clicking the PDF icon. |
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These days artists and bands tend to book their tours months in advance. In order to give you the best notice of up and coming shows we list events once they have been confirmed by the band or their management
The downside of this is that dates can change due to unforeseen circumstances, sometimes at very short notice.
We do our best to ensure that this site is kept as up to date as is possible, with updates happening at least once a week.
Therefore to avoid disappointment we recommend that you check these listing prior to setting out for your show especially if you are traveling any distance.
A guide for Artists and Promoters
The quickest way to get yourself included in our listings is to send an email to rideout at stayfree.co.uk once your gig is confirmed.
We also need you to do the following -
Put the name of the artist or band name along with the date of your show in the email subject line.
Attach a reasonable sized photograph. A 72dpi, jpeg, bigger than 200x200 pixels would be fine. Please don't email files over 1mb in size. If in doubt please drop us a line before sending. Let us have your web address so we can link to your site or Myspace page.
Send us some text. Whilst we are happy to tidy up spelling or grammar, we don't have the time to write or edit copy for you. Ideally we need a nice concise 'blurb' of between 75-100 words. Please don't send a three page biography, or else we are likely to bounce it back to you. If you have a selection of press quotes send what you have as we can usually easily compile something from them. There are plenty of examples of the sort of thing we need here on the site to help you out.
Please note - If you have played at The Musician before and we have text on file, we will continue to use use it for any subsequent listings unless you supply new copy.
If you spot any errors please send an email to derek at indiecentral.co.uk.
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Coming to The Musician in March |
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A critically acclaimed singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist, Garland Jeffreys has earned a loyal international audience for his intelligent and passionate songs, informed by a variety of musical styles from rock and R&B to reggae and dance music, and dealing with topics both personal and political, often at the same time. While not especially prolific - he released a mere five studio albums between 1981 and 2011 - Jeffreys' work reveals a rock & roller's soul and a poetic sensibility that have earned him the respect of musical peers such as the late Lou Reed, Bruce Springsteen, David Johansen, and John Cale.
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Grammy nominated guitarist, singer and songwriter Bill Kirchen is one of the fortunate few who can step onto any stage, play those trademark licks that drove his seminal Commander Cody classic Hot Rod Lincoln into the Top Ten, and elicit instant recognition for a career that has spanned over 40 years and includes guitar work with Nick Lowe, Emmylou Harris, Doug Sahm, Elvis Costello and many more. Named “A Titan of the Telecaster” by Guitar Player Magazine, he celebrates an American musical tradition where rock 'n' roll and country music draws upon its origins in blues and bluegrass, Western swing from Texas and California honky-tonk..
"A devastating culmination of the elegant and the funky, a really sensational musician with enormous depth" - Nick Lowe
"He is one of the singular instrumental stylists of American roots music, and to hear his sound once is to have it indelibly etched on one’s musical memory" - Pop Matters
"You might call [Hot Rod Lincoln] the Triumph of the Telecaster. Then again, you might say that about Kirchen's whole career" - No Depression
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The Little Unsaid was stewed up in the badlands of West Yorkshire by multi-instrumentalist, producer and writer John Elliott. The music combines string and brass orchestration with beats, electronics, found sounds and John's haunting, androgynous vocals.
"A giddying conflation of folk, electronica and lavish orchestration... one of the supposed genre’s grandest successes thus far"
"How did it take me so long to find them?! I’m glad I finally found The Little Unsaid"
"F***ing brilliant!"
"Just exquisite"
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grenbartley.com
Gren Bartley has come a long way in a short time. As a solo artist, in his duo with Tom Kitching and now with his band he has made music that is "enthralling, persuasive and masterly" (fRoots) and "spine-tinglingly beautiful" (Bright Young Folk). A master of the acoustic guitar, he's also ridiculously proficient on banjo and a writer of the first rank. With his band he will be showcasing songs from his imminent new album Magnificent Creatures as well as old favourites.
Support comes from Phil Riley, well known on the folk circuit for his thoughtful songs and fine acoustic guitar work.
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Growing up on a farm in Yorkshire, music has always been central to Ben’s life. With a Grandfather who was a big band drummer, and a father with a vast musical collection enthusiastically shared with whoever would listen, music was everywhere. However, it was the music of a certain JR Cash that managed that rare feat of stopping a young and energetic Ben in his tracks. Aided by many late nights and a plentiful supply of hard liquor, Ben would often sing Johnny Cash songs to his mates, strumming along on acoustic guitar. Being a drummer first, it took a bit of coaxing from family and friends before Ben decided to take the Cash alter-ego seriously. “People were continuously telling me I had to do something with all this Cash stuff, so I decided I would start taking it more seriously, but the word tribute was key. I would pay my respects to the man by getting his stuff out there again; reaching out to established and new fans.
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Dire Streets perfectly capture the distinctive, authentic sound of one of the biggest guitar bands of all time.
Fronted by finger picking guitar ace John Brunsdon and his band of accomplished musicians, they play with an attention to detail and musicianship that marks them as the stand-out Dire Straits tribute in the UK.
Dire Streets cover tracks from early classics like Sultans of Swing and Wild West End, through to the mega-hits of the 80s and Brothers in Arms, taking in all the classic album and live versions from the legendary Alchemy, Live Aid and Mandela concerts.
Dire Streets make no attempt to look like the original so no headbands or pink suits, just brilliant songs skilfully played with the enthusiasm and respect they deserve.
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With a sound that harks back to the 70's heyday of The Faces, Stones, Slade and Mott The Hoople, the Quireboy's have always remained true to their roots from the start. The band's mission is simply to keep the spirit of good time rock ‘n’ roll alive and kicking into the 21st century.
This is a great chance for all Quireboys fans nationwide to experience an audience with Spike, Paul, Keith and Guy. The night will involve all the classics, rarities, surprises as well as a selection of new material, played in unplugged arrangements as well as the all-too-famous QB banter 'n' stories to create a very unique evening.
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henriherbertmusic.com
facebook.com/andypickeringmusic
Henri Herbert is a piano playing phenomenon. Born in France, he was at an early age drawn to records made by the piano-pounding pioneers Jerry Lee Lewis and Albert Ammons. He spent many long days and nights studying their styles and making them into something all his own. He cut his musical teeth playing in pubs, clubs and bars all over Europe before being invited to join the mighty Jim Jones Revue in 2011, co-writing and recording songs on their album The Savage Heart.
After several world tours, The Jim Jones Revue disbanded in 2014 and Henri decided to focus on his solo performances and songwriting. 2015 promises to be an exciting year as Henri embarks on his first solo tour in March, including tonight's visit to the Musician.
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Mike Ferrio began his musical journey as a roadie for the likes of diddey and Butthole Surfers before forming folk rock tour de force Tandy in the 90's, managing a dozen years of exceptional productivity which included over 1000 live shows and 8 albums.
From the ashes of Tandy, Good Luck Mountain first appeared with their eponymous debut album in 2011 withg Too being the perfect follow up. It's a wondrous production - passionate, reflective and transcendental which musically recalls the likes of Sparklehorse, REM, Van Morrison's 'Astral Weeks' and Talk Talk.
Recorded at Atomic sound in New York by Merle Chornuk (Ryan Adams, Jessie Malin), the album features the wildly talented band of Malcolm Holcolmbe, Ana Egge, Matt Mays, the Mastersons (Eleanor Whitmore and Chris Masterson also of Steve Earle's band) and Jason Mercer (of Ron Sexsmith's band).
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Zun Zun Egui formed in Bristol in late 2008 - Mauritian guitarist and singer Kushal Gaya met and started making music with Japanese keyboard player Yoshino Shigihara after they had both moved to the UK and a core group of musicians soon formed around them. A love for experimentation, free jazz, fusion, DIY culture, throwing parties and playing wild shows was the glue that bonded the outfit together.
After an early clutch of raw and experimental EPs, they focused their song-writing talents and mastery of many styles to create a recognisable Zun Zun Egui sound which included tropicalia, punk funk, Afrobeat, Ethio jazz and no wave. All of these varied disciplines were marshalled to produce their first album “Katang” which was widely hailed as one of the most exciting debuts of 2011.
Even for a band as exploratory and talented as ZZE though, the step up in terms of songwriting and inspiration since “Katang” is astounding and it is clear that Shackles’ Gift looks like being one of the most unique and thrilling records that will be released in 2015.
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Since 2006, Miles Hunt and Erica Nockalls have toured the UK, Europe and the USA. Performing acoustic shows including tracks from their own albums in addition to Wonder Stuff material and the occasional cover version. All interspersed with Miles' trademark inter-song banter and insight into the background behind some of the tracks being performed.
To date they have released two studio albums alongside one live album.
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Back in 2015 for its 11th year, the Original Bands Showcase is set up for unsigned bands and artists of all genres. An independent music event that takes place annually in Leicester, the OBS first launched back in 2004. Its main aim is to give a platform for local live bands and an opportunity to increase exposure and fan base under the umbrella of a series of organised and well supported nights of live music. It has now become an established and credible event on the live music calendar.
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Back in 2015 for its 11th year, the Original Bands Showcase is set up for unsigned bands and artists of all genres. An independent music event that takes place annually in Leicester, the OBS first launched back in 2004. Its main aim is to give a platform for local live bands and an opportunity to increase exposure and fan base under the umbrella of a series of organised and well supported nights of live music. It has now become an established and credible event on the live music calendar.
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Tom Bertram is a young British singer-songwriter from Portsmouth. After gaining an online following from YouTube views Tom released an acoustic EP in 2010 titled ‘Wasting Time’.
Fast forward to 2013 and Tom has developed some of his proudest moments. Performing for Noel Gallagher at his O2 Arena After Show Celebration Party, performing at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and performing for The Twilight Movie. Also he has toured around the UK and was invited to perform backstage for acts such as Bryan Adams, Joss Stone, James Morrison and Ocean Colour Scene.
His newest album “Back Home” produced by Tim Bradshaw, an established producer and musician who has worked with acts such as John Mayer, David Gray, Ronan Keating and M.I.A, was released on February 2nd 2013.
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Roll up, roll up, and welcome to the Chickenhead Lounge, your chance to enter the southern-fried world of juke joints, jack daniels, hobos, trains a-rolling, rusty pick ups, goin’ back home, tractor disco and shakin ‘em on down.
The first show of 2015 and we welcome back ‘The Most Ugly Child’ to the Lounge. They first appeared back in July 2013 and went down a storm. This talented Americana band from Nottingham will be topping the bill along with singer songwriter Harriet McDonnell and of course your hosts The Outwoods County Riders.
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Come and experience Talon as you’ve never seen them before. Four members of the world’s greatest Eagles tribute band perform a selection of their favourite contemporary acoustic classics by James Taylor, Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, Crosby Stills & Nash, John Denver, Michael Jackson, and many more…
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Back in 2015 for its 11th year, the Original Bands Showcase is set up for unsigned bands and artists of all genres. An independent music event that takes place annually in Leicester, the OBS first launched back in 2004. Its main aim is to give a platform for local live bands and an opportunity to increase exposure and fan base under the umbrella of a series of organised and well supported nights of live music. It has now become an established and credible event on the live music calendar.
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Back in 2015 for its 11th year, the Original Bands Showcase is set up for unsigned bands and artists of all genres. An independent music event that takes place annually in Leicester, the OBS first launched back in 2004. Its main aim is to give a platform for local live bands and an opportunity to increase exposure and fan base under the umbrella of a series of organised and well supported nights of live music. It has now become an established and credible event on the live music calendar.
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The unique three man tribute to rock music's best known Texan boogie band are back to “Tear the house down!”, bringing a tour with more Tone, Taste and Tenacity than ever before. Complete with their real beards, the crazy guitars, the moves and over two hours of hot-rodded rock 'n' roll! All eras of ZZ Top are included in the same show, in two very individual sets.
The ZZ Tops pack the classics like 'Gimee All Your Lovin', Sharp Dressed Man, Legs, Tush, La Grange, Rough Boy and many more into a 2 hour plus rock extravaganza and throw in a few surprises for hardcore (and not so hardcore) fans to savour!
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There's a violence to the countryside, encapsulated in the sumptuous prose of D.H Lawrence's in which metaphors engorge and heighten into states of pure ecstasy. A fantastic and virulent strain of writing which, thanks to Marika Hackman, now exists in song.
Marika's music channels something very different to the happy-clappy nature of recent folk - hers is a far more potent vision in the lineage of Syd Barrett, but presented by an enigmatic beauty with a striking vocal delivery more akin to that of Nico deftly exploring an unsmiling bereft landscape.
"I don't know why I started writing; it's something I've been playing around with since I was so young that I can't remember how it began. I think living in the countryside for most of my life has affected my writing as nature usually manages to creep its way into my songs..."
With tours already in place with Benjamin Francis Leftwich, and new fans such as Zane Lowe proclaiming her his Next Hype, you can be sure that Marika Hackman will blossom into one of the most important creators and interpreters of song in our times.
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Kristyna Myles is no stranger to the big stage and a songstress whose currency is rapidly increasing, thanks to the success of two highly acclaimed singles, prior to the release of her debut album ‘Pinch Me Quick’, recorded with Grammy award winning producer Ken Nelson (Coldplay, Paolo Nutini).
Discovered playing the streets of Manchester, Kristyna went on to win BBC Radio 5 Live’s Busker of the Year competition and artists she has opened for include Will Young, Lisa Stansfield, The Wanted, Mick Hucknall, Nile Rogers and Chic. Other career highlights include appearing live at SXSW in the US and touring Europe with Chris De Burgh.
Tonight marks the hometown launch of her new album 'Paint A Brighter Day'.
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The Pat McManus Band are a powerful three piece blues/rock trio, headed up by the former Mama's Boys and Celtus guitarist/violinist virtuoso and true gent Pat McManus (AKA The Professor).
Pat is today considered to be one of the last remaining individual guitar heroes from a generation of Irish guitarists, after the sad and early loss of both Rory Gallagher and Gary Moore. He formed Mama's Boys with his brothers John and Tommy in the eighties. The band, although very young, soon proved to be a great success in the world of rock ’n’ roll and were one of the greatest rock bands to come out of Northern Ireland. They are perhaps best known for their hits 'Needle in the Groove' and their cover of Slade’s ‘Mama Weer all Crazy Now’.
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A colourful character, part of the '80s post-punk New Wave scene, Toyah had considerable chart success with hits such as It's A Mystery, I Want To Be Free and Brave New World.
Alongside her ongoing recording career and role as a TV presenter, Toyah has also trod the boards with the lead role in the musical Anne Get Your Gun.
Tonight Toyah will perform songs in acoustic form and take us on a journey through her life history.
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Got the need for more Metallica than you can get? Well here's your fix.... Mentallica. This band has total respect for Metallica and have set out to recreate the raw, intense experience of seeing Metallica live.
Over 14 years of non-stop touring, Mentallica have earned a reputation as Europe's top Metallica tribute, playing across The British Isles and Europe, they have receiving a glowing gig review from a Met club Chapter Head and been asked by Joel McIver to play at Soho's legendary Crowbar at the launch of his book, "To Live Is To Die... The Life and Death of Metallica's Cliff Burton." From the Explosive opener 'Ecstasy of Gold' through to the epic finale this band goes all out to reproduce the pure energy that was Metallica of the late 80's and early 90's. The growling vocals, the manic prowling power of the bass, thunderous high speed drums and screaming guitar solos. Mentallica deliver what they promise... The Metallica Experience.
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Possibly the most exciting British soul voice at the moment and with a fast developing reputation as a live act, Hannah Williams and the Tastemakers debut album "Hill of Feathers" has rightly received critical acclaim.
Within weeks of the DIY vinyl release, the London based 9-piece were snapped up by Italy’s renowned Record Kicks label. The outfit have made several trips to Europe to headline festivals and have wowed domestic audiences with a mainstage performance at Shambala and two consecutive headlines at Larmer Tree’s second stage.
Hannah Williams and the Tastemakers have become increasingly dominant in the soul scene; a highlight was their headline at the legendary 100 Club and a headline at Manchester’s Band On The Wall for the Craig Charles club night. They have become the go-to band for supporting big name acts like soul frontrunners Sharon Jones & Charles Bradley as well as hip hop legends like Afrika Bambaataa & The Sugar Hill Gang; a testament to the modern influence that goes into their groove making.
Resident Funk Nation DJs Uncle Eaf and G-Funk will also be spinning the best in funk, soul, motown, rare groove, northern soul and much more.
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Acoustic/Rock three piece Stevie Jones & The Wildfires have a big year ahead with a debut single out any day soon and a tour in May/June to follow. Fronted by Wildfire Sessions founder songwriter Stevie Jones this will be a great live taster of tracks from their forthcoming album 'Stratigraphic Heart'.
Leicester based soulful singer songwriter Matt Henshaw is one of the hardest working acts on the circuit. Just back off a successful European tour, following the release of his iTunes top 30 EP 'Your Eyes Are Made Of Gold', this will be a great chance to catch him live in his fine venue.
Kim (Kaisee) is a 19 year old die-hard music lover from Kettering who has been performing in public since she was 13. Her experience already includes numerous Wildfire Sessions feature sets to recently fronting her former band 'Chamberlain' to singing in Westminster Abbey under the direction of famous composer, Sir Howard Goodall. This experience shows in her music with a voice and songs that extend beyond her years. She has a new EP out soon and this will be a chance to hear some tracks from it.
Already a few gigs in, House On Fire are 4 young lads from Leicestershire with great promise and make their debut at The Musician and for Wildfire with songs that have so far seen them cover Queens Of The Stone Age, Arctic Monkeys and even The Animals and many more with some fine original indie/rock songs of their own too.
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“F***ing amazing! I loved his playing… I really loved his playing!” - Jeff Beck
“A really great player!” - Gary Moore
“This is a young man to look out for as he is no doubt a rising talent and should be supported when he comes to a local venue.” - Blues Matters Magazine
When you hear comments such as the above from some of the worlds’ greatest guitar players and one of the leading UK roots magazines you just know they have heard something very special. Twenty-five year old Ben Poole is currently being described as the most exciting young blues guitarist to come out of the UK for a long, long time.
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Lotte Mullan will be embarking on a solo acoustic UK tour this Spring, joined by fellow songstress Jazz Morley as special guest, playing intimate versions of songs from her forthcoming album ‘Love’s Bonfire’, made out in Nashville with Band of Horses.
Dubbed as the female Bob Dylan, Lotte has built a dedicated following with her personal, storytelling songs that chronicle everyday life with heartbreaking honesty. The British music press raved about Lotte’s self released debut album ‘Plain Jane’ christening her Indie-Country sound ‘Anglicana’ and crowning her “Suffolk’s Joni Mitchell”.
“Exquisite: a modern Janis Ian”
“Veers engagingly between Laura Marling vulnerability and the tender end of pop”
“She cuts through the ostentatious eccentricities of other female artists currently dominating the charts”
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