We're pleased welcome CHRIS CLEVERLEY, one of the finest up-and-coming names on the new UK folk scene, for a relaxed, intimate show as our mid-Summer event.
Bimingham-based Chris will be our guest on Friday 21st August, and will deliver his range of traditional and original songs, accompanying himself on guitar and banjo. A relaxed and confident singer and player, his sound ranges from the individual, to a 'big band' level, demonstrating time and again just why he was selected as the winner of the Isambard Award at the 2014 Bristol Folk Festival.
Describing himself as a singer of “haunting tales of ghost women, lonesome clock towers, lovelorn mariners and hospital beds”, Chris delivers a range of songs, taking in different moods, influences and styles. He's toured with Spiers & Boden, Martha Tilston and Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman, and we can't wait to see him at Downend.
“Wonderful stuff” – Steve Tilston
Despite the reputation which has built up around Chris, he remains resolutely in touch with his audience, with a rapport which is both tender and humorous. It’s bound to be quite a show, so, after last month’s sold-out Jackie Oates gig, we recommend you get your tickets quickly.
Chris will be supported by local performer NOEY McELWEE. Noey's been singing and playing guitar since childhood, playing in many different bands and now as a soloist. She also performs as a support act to Black Sheep Harmony, a vocal group she helped to establish in Bristol. She's a familiar face at Downend Folk Club, having taken to the stage with Black Sheep Harmony as well as taking part in the local showcase in March.
The proceeds from our ever-popular raffle will be donated to local charity CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY. CAP do great work in the local community, including organising a food bank. Those attending the gig are encouraged to bring an item for a food bank collection.
The event will be held at Frenchay Village Hall on Friday 21st August 2015. Doors open at 7.30pm and there will be a full bar serving GWB real ale, cider, wine and a range of soft drinks. As mentioned last month, please do consider bringing your own glass/mug/tankard/sheepskin, to enable to club to cut down on waste at the bar.
Tickets are £8 in advance, £10 on the door, and are available from Melanie’s Kitchen, Bristol Ticket Shop and online here. Members tickets are £7 and are available from the Members Only area of the website, or direct from Ant Miles.