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The
John Hackett Band embodies the spirit of progressive rock. From John’s pastoral
flute textures, through the funky interplay between drummer Duncan Parsons and
bassist Jeremy Richardson to the intricacies of Nick Fletcher’s lead guitar the
group embrace pop, rock, jazz, classical, funk and all stops in-between, from
the tenderest of ballads to hair-raising instrumental workouts!
John
Hackett has been a much-loved and admired figure in the progressive rock scene
since the mid-70’s; best-known for his flute work with his brother, former
Genesis guitarist, Steve Hackett on albums such as Voyage of The Acolyte,
Sketches of Satie and Please Don’t Touch alongside his own solo
albums Checking Out Of London, Another Life and The Piper Plays His Tune
“Nick Fletcher is probably the best jazz rock
guitarist in the country. His fluency is astounding, plus he possesses a first-rate
classical guitar technique to boot! I consider Nick Fletcher to be an absolute
star” Steve Hackett
“The band have never sounded better, and they
are musically as tight as a drum skin at present.”
David Edwards, The Progressive
Aspect – March 2024
*****************************************************
Heather
Findlay
Known for her magical, evocative voice and an
ability to interpret and inhabit a range of styles with a mix of power and
feeling, Heather Findlay is one of the finest vocalists working in
music today. Prog magazine lauded her, “Deliciously sultry vocals”, whilst
Maverick magazine hailed her, “Pure, crystalline voice. She grabs
your heart in an almost vice-like grip”.
At 19 Heather was asked to join up and coming rock band Mostly Autumn.
She was delighted to accept and, during the 13 extraordinary years that
followed, Bryan and Heather went on to share much creative success, writing and
recording many albums together. The band toured internationally
throughout that time.
In her subsequent solo career Heather has continued to learn and to
develop. The boundless depth and dynamism of her stage presence, coupled with
the richness, power and beauty of that instantly identifiable voice continues
to captivate listeners. Classic Rock magazine love her, “Warm yet powerful
vocals”
Heather’s appreciation for all forms of music has never left her, and
Heather has relished the chance to team up with a huge range of contemporary
artists. She has performed guest vocals with Ritchie Blackmore, Jethro Tull,
Fish, John Wetton, Uriah Heep, Shed Seven, Iona, Troy Donockley, and with
Marillion’s Steve Hogarth.
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SykesMartin is the exciting new collaboration from two of British folk's finest voices. Miranda Sykes (Show of Hands) and Hannah Martin (Edgelarks, Gigspanner Big Band) join forces to present a set of songs that take them back to their shared roots.
Having played together on numerous occasions, including in Steve Knightley's Wake the Union band, and at the Royal Albert Hall, they knew that they shared an instinctive ear for harmony and skilled instrumental improvisation.
A sociable Devon winter evening led to an exchange of songs; which proved to be so much fun that they soon arranged another musical get together. Swiftly these became rehearsal sessions, as a strong new sound emerged.
Miranda and Hannah have spent many years playing on the British folk scene, but neither has ever dedicated an entire set to traditional song.
Centred around their deep knowledge of roots music, and a love of harmony singing, SykesMartin brings together old songs with new ideas; ancient tales with bass, fiddle, and banjo; and two mesmerising storytellers joining voices to create a spine tingling testimonial to our shared musical heritage.
“An exciting collaboration…a must for any folkie!” - The Morning Star 7
Find out more about SykesMartin by visiting their website here
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