Buz Magazine March 2016

MARCH 2016

THOM MORECROFT Hand Me Down EP

AMY CHALMERS IAN PROWSE LYN STAUNTON CONNIE LUSH BILL ELMS PAULINE DANIELS KATHERINE MURPHY RICHIE NOONAN Album reviews One to watch Local artist CD’s Six of the best Theatre Reviews Theatre Listings

MERSEY WYLIE Talks past, present and future

and more...

www.thebuz.co.uk

website gig listings updated daily

The proof is in the sound We are soundproof specialists

Unit 3 Stadium Court, Plantation Road, Wirral, Cheshire CH62 3QG T:0151 559 1642 | M:07868 359525

W: WWW.MDFITOUT.COM

this month...

Editor: Diane Tremarco Tel: 0151 558 1007 Email: diane@thebuz.co.uk Twitter: @thebuzmag Facebook: Get Out More 2 Web: www.thebuz.co.uk Sales/admin: Jade Tremarco Email: jade@thebuz.co.uk

Welcome to the new look Buz Magazine. We are now in print, online and on social media platforms - follow us and keep up to date with music and entertainment on Merseyside.

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Publisher: Mouse Media Special thanks to our contributors: Connie Lush Bill Elms Pauline Daniels Ian Prowse Lyn Staunton Amy Chalmers Katherine Murphy Richie Noonan Front page: Mersey Wylie Photographer: Nata Moraru

Disclaimer While precautions have been take to ensure the accuracy of the contents of our magazine, neither the editors, publishers or its agents can accept responsibility for damages or injury which may arise there from.

Mouse Media reserves the right to edit comments or choose not to publish selected comments, whether in printed, mobile or digital format. No part of any of our publication, whether in print or digital may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

16 28 39

04 // Mersey Wylie 06 // One To Watch 07 // Album Review - Lauren Davenport 07 // Six Of The Best - John O’Connell 08 // Amy Chalmers 10 // Venues To Visit 13 // Ian Prowse 14 // The Cavern Rock School 16 // Support Local Artists 19 // Gig Review - The Ladybugs 20 // Marc Kenny Update 26 // Six Of The Best - Mark Poutney 27 // Lyn Staunton 28 // Thom Morecrofts EP 30 // Public Opinion 32 // Band ProďŹ le - Jo Mary 33 // Album Review - Nicola Hardman 34 // Jade Tremarco EP 37 // Connie Lush 38 // Bill Elms 41 // Review - Last Train To Auschwitz 42 // Pauline Daniels 44 // Katherine Murphy

To advertise email: sales@thebuz.co.uk For features email: hello@thebuz.co.uk The next issue will be April 2016. All adverts and payments must be completed by 20th March.

If you would like to be featured in a future edition feel free to contact us via email, website or telephone.

Mersey Wylie

Mersey talks to Buz about her love of music and the influences that have led to her current sound.

You grew up in Perth? How does the music scene compare in the two cities?

I spent my teenage years in Perth so a lot of the first gigs I went to were there and although it’s a very isolated city so the scene is quite insular, the quality of the musicians it churns out is really ridiculous. It has a really strong jazz scene and at that time of my life, that’s what I really immersed myself in. Obviously Liverpool has a famously great music scene as well and it’s exciting because it’s always changing but I think what makes Liverpool quite unique is how many people in the city are involved in music in some way, it’s really in the water.

You played sax back in Uni, have you continued your affair and do you play any other instruments?

I don’t really play anymore but I still love the instrument and that’s why it was important for me to have a horn section with great feature lines in my band, I’ve always heard my music with those sorts of sounds in my head. I prefer just to sing when I’m performing so I can give everything to it but I play keys well enough to write my songs!

We have Sense of Sound performing at our show at the end of March; you began your UK career with them, what do we have to look forward to?

I still consider Sense of Sound my family - not only did they give me so many important musical experiences, they also gave me an instant support network when I first came to Liverpool. It was also a really important environment for me when I was starting out, to get to know my voice and build up my confidence to be able to pursue my own work.

You’re in for a real treat - they are fabulous and infectious!

Your music is very retro with influences of soul and funk, who inspires you past and present?

Absolutely everything inspires me but I’ve always listened to loads of Motown, soul and jazz so I am

drawn to those sorts of sounds. Growing up I adored Michael Jackson and then discovered the neo-soul greats like Jill Scott and D’Angelo in my late teens that really changed the way I wanted to make music. It’s Earth, Wind & Fire’s incredible horn lines that I always have going around my head when I’m writing arrangements for the band. At the moment, I’m completely obsessed with Eska since seeing her perform at Liverpool SoulFest last year, she again has really inspired me to explore different things in my music and that is the most exciting for me.

Is your dad a fan of all you do or is he happy to give criticism on occasion?

Of course he is always incredibly supportive but does also offer advice from time to time.

Last year was a great year for you putting together the band and the single “Don’t Give Up On Me”. Is this year set to be as good, if not better?

Absolutely, I’m really excited about this year, I feel like everything’s starting to fall into place. I’m working hard behind the scenes and the band is sounding amazing so who knows what could be ahead!

Will the band be touring live? I believe it’s a ninepiece?

It is indeed! We’re going to be playing a few festivals this year, starting with Threshold on April 1st.

That’s where it all began so I’m looking forward to getting back, it’s always an amazing and exciting weekend with loads of new things to discover.

When will we hear some more music from Mersey Wylie? Is there an album scheduled?

Not an album just yet but I am hoping to record an EP some time this year. We’re going to back in the studio very soon for at least another single so stay tuned!

THE SHAKERS

MEGAN LOUISE At the tender age of 13, Megan Louise is already an acomplished singer songwriter.

2016 is set to become a great year for Megan with the release of her first EP.

MAXIMUM MERSEYBEAT

IVAN STAX

AT THE

VOCAL ENTERTAINER BARRY WHITE NEIL DIAMOND AND LOTS MORE CONTACT 07758 639 273

CAVERN CLUB EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY www.facebook.com/ shakersliverpool

meganlouise.co.uk

07934 735 346 Van dead locks supplied and fitted.

Hook dead locks available for sliding doors to keep your music equipment safe. A whole van can be fitted for around the price of an expensive drill set.

REVIEW / LaurenDavenportMusic /LaurenDxXx / LaurenJane5683

EP available from: www.southerncrossroadsmusic.com, iTunes, Spotify and Amazon.

L

auren Davenport is clearly someone who, while displaying a definite country leaning in her own writing and live work, never falls into the realm of predictable cliché.

With a wide and varied musical background that includes, as her influences, artists ranging from Kacey Musgraves to John Denver, she is very much an individual voice that deserves much wider recognition.

In Lauren’s case, as with any genre of performing art, it is invariably an indicator of an exceptional talent when a performer is able, without appearing derivative, to uniquely impose themselves on either their own work or that of others.

Lauren hosts an Open Mic Night every Monday at West Kirby Social Club 8pm My first impression of this CD was, from the packaging through to the musicianship on display, one of high quality and attention to detail.

Throughout, it has been meticulously recorded and engineered and on first playing it was clear that considerable expertise and musical experience had been invested into the arrangements on show here.

Wisely avoiding the ‘over-production’ failing that befalls many country and bluegrass recordings, Lauren has opted instead for arrangements that highlight not only the nuances of her songwriting craft but also make the most of her fabulous vocal range and control as well as her excellent guitar accompaniment.

Contributions from the musicians at

Southern Crossroads Music notably Max Milligan on guitars, banjo and mandolin, Joel Waters on Cajun, Rob Bond on pedal steel and Andy Brown on bass compliment and support the songs exquisitely and indeed, thanks to their excellent musicianship in conjunction with the high production values, all four songs have a beautifully uncluttered and spacious feel to them.

In terms of the songs themselves, Lauren can be rightly proud of her efforts here. The first track, Riding Shotgun, with its infectious melodic lines, is an excellent opener while Bar With a Country Song is equally impressive. The other two tracks - In Your Arms and With You maintain the standard. When I caught up with Lauren recently I raised the question with her regarding her songwriting process. Her approach, she explained, is one of lengthy contemplation thereby avoiding hurried or forced decisions, preferring instead to develop her ideas as and when inspiration strikes. To her credit, such attention to detail and a desire for quality is reflected admirably within these songs.

In summary, this recording is a fine debut offering from a talented and unique singer/songwriter. It is a supremely well crafted work of considerable depth and, as such, will amply reward repeated listens. If this four-track selection is any indicator, I very much look forward to listening to her next work.

Review written by Richie Noonan For full article please visit www.thebuz.co.uk/richienoonan

WITH JOHN O’CONNELL www.johnpig.info

1. What make was your first guitar and what was the first song you learnt to play on it?

My very first guitar was a Dallas Acoustic and the first song I played on it was Love Song by Lesley Duncan, recorded by Elton John on the album Tumbleweed Connection.

2. If you could have anyone sing one of your songs who would it be and what song would they sing?

From Going Insane covered by Chris Martin or What a Day I’ve Had by James Taylor!

3. Is there one particular song that you would never tire of playing?

Fire and Rain by James Taylor is definitely one that I never tire of. It has a lovely acoustic fingerstyle guitar part with a great mid-range vocal and a chorus.

Hurricane by Bob Dylan would be another (there are many!) As there are 11 verses with not one weak lyric in there with an amazing violin part throughout the whole tune.

4. What is your favourite chord sequence and which song is it from?

At Seventeen by Janis Ian; it’s at the very beginning before the vocals start.

5. If you could play in any band, worldwide, which would you pick and why?

Pentangle - simply because at that time I loved the progressive folk style with the merging genres of jazz, blues and baroque. They also had John Renbourn and Bert Jansch on Acoustic Guitar and Danny Thompson on Double Bass; plus Terry Cox on Drums and Jacqui McShee on vocals. They had very intelligent arrangements of folk songs with the most famous being Light Flight with a time signature of 5/4.

6. Who is/was your greatest musical influence and why?

In terms of Guitar Playing Stefan Grossman, John Renbourn and Bert Jansch but on a personal level it would be Graham Evans from Groundpig who helped to ignite my passion for the String Banjo and Blue Grass Music.

amy chalmers Here are my top concert tips this month…

My month will include….

Playing with my duo, “Two Black Sheep” (www. twoblacksheep.co.uk) at Elephant Coffee in Parkgate on 17th March – come down to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us in style.

Amy is a violinist and vocalist who works with a variety of acts that play folk, country, pop and classical music.

She is currently writing and recording an album with her acoustic duo.

She also works in music education on the Wirral.

More Irish tunes on 20th March with “Tony Q & The Twocans” in Shenanigans, Liverpool – an absolute hidden gem of a venue.

Playing violin for the Britain’s Got Talent stars “Richard & Adam” at William Aston Hall in Wrexham on 24th March.

John O’Connell

@AmyVChalmers

Performing at THE BUZ LIVE with Charmed String Quartet and Sense of Sound Singers at the Floral Pavilion on 25th March if you haven’t got tickets for this event yet get cracking!!

Box Office: 0151 666 0000

Saturday 5th March 7.30pm Russian Classics with Wirral Symphony Orchestra @ Hoylake Chapel.

A wonderful programme of well-loved pieces. Critically acclaimed soloist Will Bracken performs Tchaikovsky’s First Piano Concerto in what is likely to be a very popular concert.

Monday 7th March 7.30pm Film Music Project Concert @ FACT, Liverpool.

A quintet of performers from the RLPO will perform an original score to accompany the silent film “Berlin: Symphony of a Metropolis” (1927). The original soundtrack is collaboratively composed by postgraduate composition students at the University of Liverpool.

Tuesday 15th – Saturday 19th March 7.30pm Wirral Grammar Schools production of “Our House” @ WGSB, Cross Lane, Bebington.

This fabulous musical, based around the music of Madness, is directed by Geoff Hinde MBE and musically directed by one of Wirral’s future stars, Year 13 student Ben Turner. The cast in these productions are always of a professional standard, and the shows are a real jewel in the schools’ crown.

Tickets are available from the girls and boys schools offices.

Saturday12th March 7.30pm Liverpool Mozart Orchestra @ Capstone Theatre, Hope University.

Playing a classic programme of Mozart, Elgar and Dvorak, the LMO will no doubt entertain and delight. (Includes Dvorak’s Cello Concerto, a personal favourite of mine.)

Thurs 31st March 12.30pm, John O’Connell Plays Guitar @ Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.

Singer/songwriter, formally of Groundpig, showcases his stunning guitar playing at this FREE lunchtime concert.

AMI CHALMER’S SPOTLIGHT ON: The Liverpool String Quartet

Grange Road, West Kirby, Wirral, CH48 4DY LIVE MUSIC IN THE BAR Tuesday Nights from 9pm Sunday from 6pm TUESDAY MARCH 1ST

Adrian Gautry Band featuring

Saxophone Jones SUNDAY MARCH 6TH

Brian Murphy / Martin Byrne / Paul Kappa TUESDAY MARCH 8TH

The Return

SUNDAY MARCH 13TH

Los Amigos

I caught up with Sarah from the LSQ to find out a little bit about what they’re up to at the moment…

Tell our readers a little bit about the quartet: The Liverpool String Quartet is made up of violinists Kate Marsden and Sarah Hill, violist Daniel Sanxis, and cellist Nick Byrne. We all met in Liverpool, playing with the RLPO, and have been together as a group since 2010. Kate is on maternity leave at the moment, so we are inviting several other fantastic players to work with us, for example James Clark (leader of the RLPO) is our guest first violinist next month.

What have been your favourite moments to date? As a group we have had some amazing experiences. A great thing about our job is that we get to travel a lot. We have toured Spain eight times and played in some beautiful places. One of the most memorable was playing in the opening concert of the International Music Festival of Mahon in Menorca in 2012, and more recently working with composer of The Snowman, Howard Blake. He arranged a full version of The Snowman especially for us, with narrator, which we performed with him twice in Spain, and again in Liverpool and Wirral.

What’s coming up for you this month? We play at the Nordic church every month, our next concert there is on 24th March, where we will be playing Mozart’s Requiem, arranged for string quartet by one of Mozart’s pupils, Peter Lichtenthal. We have also played at the fabulous St George’s Hall. Our next concert there is ‘Smooth Classics’ on 16th March. We have chosen some of the most atmospheric and beautiful music ever written for string quartet, as well as a few fun and uplifting numbers.

Tickets for LSQ concerts can be purchased from their website: www. liverpoolstringquartet.com

TUESDAY MARCH 15TH

Monty

SUNDAY MARCH 20TH

Glade

TUESDAY MARCH 23RD

Brian Murphy & Friends

SUNDAY MARCH 27TH

Moses

TUESDAY MARCH 22ND

Tony Dolman’s Band

FOOD SERVED DAILY in both the Bar and Lounge served from 12 noon

T: 0151 625 2010 E: info@the-wro.co.uk

VENUES TO VISIT IN MARCH...

THE CAVERN CLUB • • • • •

Music seven days a week Cavern City Tours UK Tribute bands featured Nostalgic venue steeped in history Hosts of Beatleweek

Address:10 Mathew Street, Liverpool L2 6RE Web: cavernlub.org Twitter: @cavernliverpool Facebook: /cavernclubliverpool

THE SWINGING ARM

THE CALEDONIA • • • •

Eclectic live music nearly every night in the week Homemade food – vegetarian and vegan friendly Well kept cask ales Community library in the pub

Address: 22 Caledonia Sreet, Liverpool L7 7DX Web: caledonialiverpool.com Twitter: @thecaledonia Facebook: /caledonialiverpool

• • • •

Live Music every weekend Domestic Lagers Cask Ales & Continental Brews Dog friendly

Address: 61-63 Church St, Birkenhead CH41 5EG Website: www.swingingarm.co.uk Facebook: /TheSwingingArm Twitter: @CoopsArm

NIGHT WHISPERS

drift Solo / Duo / Full Band / Disco / Karaoke

Contact Dave Robinson

07947 361 925 E: nightwhispersband@gmail.com W: nightwhispersband.com Twitter: @nightwhispers4 Facebook: nightwhispersband

Email: daverobinsonvocalist@fsmail.net www.youtube.com/daverobinsonvocals NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2016

AND WHY!

RUBY BLUES • • • •

Live music seven nights a week Italian restaurant Locally sourced meats and vegetables Wines and cocktails

Address: Great Charlotte St, Liverpool L1 1HU Website: www.rubyblues.co.uk Facebook: /Ruby Blues Cotton Club Twitter: @RubyBluesEst15

STANLEY’S CASK • • • • •

Live Music Real Ales, Draught beers and wine Bar Snacks Disabled Access Darts

Address: 212 Rake Ln, Wallasey CH45 1JP Facebook: /Stanleys Cask

THE OLDE RED LION • • • •

Selection of beers and guest ales Home cooked food Live music every weeken Disabled Access

Address: 307 Chester Rd, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire CH66 1QQ Website: www.olderedlion.com Facebook: /olde.lion Twitter: @OldeRedLion

9 MATHEW STREET LIVERPOOL L26RE 9 MATHEW STREET LIVERPOOL L26RE

LIVERPOOL’S BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE LIVERPOOL’S BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE LIVE MUSIC 7 NIGHTS A WEEK TILL LATE FREE ENTRY LIVE FREE MUSICSHOTS 7 NIGHTS A WEEK TILLPROMOTIONS LATE FREE ENTRY AND DRINKS

FREE SHOTS PROMOTIONS SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 9PM AND TILLDRINKS 2AM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7PM TILL 3AM SUNDAY THRU THURSDAY 9PM TILL 2AM FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7PM TILL 3AM

EVERY FRIDAY NIGHTOUR OUR HOUSE BAND EVERY FRIDAY&&SATURDAY SATURDAY NIGHT HOUSE BAND IS IS “CHICKEN FEATURINGETHAN ETHAN ALLEN “CHICKENFRIED" FRIED" FEATURING ALLEN FROM 11PM FROM 11PMTILL TILL3AM 3AM

THE ONLYVENUE VENUE WHERE WHERE THE STOPS THE ONLY THEMUSIC MUSICNEVER NEVER STOPS

DAVE DUTTON

DAVE DUTTON

KARL SWEENEY

KARL SWEENEY

BARRY BRIERCLIFFE

JESSE EIGEN

PETER AARON

CAL WILLIAMS

CAL WILLIAMS

ian prowse Rock and Roll singer and songwriter with Amsterdam. Formerly with Pele. Infected with the Celtic soul.

Amsterdam are: Ian Prowse Vocals and guitar

The Ian Prowse Monday Club began at precisely 8 o’clock on Monday the 19th of July 2011 in the Cavern Pub on Mathew Street. It’s been rocking on (almost) every single Monday ever since. Which is a hell of an achievement considering we only expected it to last for 6 weeks over that Summer.

It was actually the Caverns idea, they approached me with a rough concept of an open mic night. To be honest the idea would have appalled me had I not just recently returned from staying with me old friend Miles Hunt, lead singer in super successful Midlands band The Wonder Stuff.

Tiger Pit underneath the stage so that with the pressing of a simple lever we could dispose of anyone stupid enough to launch into a ‘Sex On Fire’ or a ‘Wonderwall’.

We also gave the night a name and made it a deeply inclusive environment. To this end we have very young people (Milly Courtney played here first at the age of 11 before she took America by storm), much older people (who I won’t mention by name) and everyone in between.

We have had international rock legends pass through and give us a few tunes and people who have never strummed outside

Johnny Barlow Guitar Dave Mastracola Bass

Amsterdam Local Live Dates Saturday 19th March Liverpool Unity Theatre (Acoustic Festival)

Kevin Spurgeon keyboards Anastacia Worrel Violin Fiona McConnel / Helen Maher Accordian Eimear McGeowan Flute

/amsterdamuk

£12 Available to buy from amsterdam-music.com

Milo lives way out in the Shropshire countryside and there’s literally no one around for Miles. Apart from a pub called the Horseshoe Arms where people would gather on a Wednesday night to sing and play their music. On the times I visited I was stunned by the standard of the musicians repertoire, each act had magnificent songs and played incredibly.

It was like stumbling into a weekly musical Brigadoon, magically rising out of the mists of the Long Mynd (Google it) only to disappear again for another week.

When the Cavern came a calling I agreed to do it but with some strict provisos.

Golden Rule Numero Uno, to be etched above the door and written in the blood of a thousand songwriters, NO COVERS. I asked the Cavern to construct a Bombay

Thursday 7th April Chester Telford’s Warehouse (Full Amsterdam Band) Saturday 16th April Thornton Hough Village Hall (Acoustic)

of their bedroom. When you visit Monday Club you never know who might turn up.

Our main weapon though is respect.

Everyone who turns up is treated with respect by me and respect by the Cavern in that they get a real stage, proper monitors, a cracking PA and an audience which knows it’s musical onions. I can’t even begin to tell you about the great nights we’ve had down there over these years.

It’s also a cracking evening out on the ale for the non players. Come down and say hello, you’ll be very welcome.

The Cavern Rock School...

Learning music where it all began The World Famous Cavern Club and Rock School are very pleased to be offering private music lessons.

Now you can learn all styles including Rock, Blues, Jazz and Classical from their expert tutors on: • • • •

Bass Guitar Guitar Piano/Keyboard Drums

Suitable for all levels of ability from beginner, intermediate to advanced. You will have the opportunity to learn and perform on the World Famous Cavern stage as well as take part in a yearly showcase.

Their highly experienced teachers will help you to achieve your musical goals, whatever they may be.

For more information contact Richard Punzi (Director & Principal Tutor) by email or telephone 07905 006 883

EXPERT TUITION Expert tutors will take you through the process for you to learn your craft, no matter what level you start at. Through lessons,

you will thoroughly understand your instrument and learn how to express yourself creatively in whatever style you want.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU Through learning music theory you will be provided with the tools, techniques and background information that enables you to become a proficient and confident musician, whilst also developing your individual style.

Choose your favourite music to learn from your musical heroes and apply what you have learnt to express your own ideas and personally interpret the work of the artists who inspire you.

MAKE MUSIC TOGETHER Annually, students will be organised into groups to learn how to work together as a unit. Solo performers will continue their private lessons, but will be tutored on how to perform effectively in a ‘band’ environment.

SHOWCASE ON THE WORLD FAMOUS CAVERN STAGE With your fellow students, you will have an opportunity to perform as a band to an appreciative live audience in The Cavern Club, where The Beatles played 292 times. Who knows, we could see the next musical phenomenon to take the world of music by storm!

Meet the tutors...

Rich Punzi Rich Punzi started learning to play the piano at the age of 5.

When he was 11 he got his first guitar and has stayed with it ever since. He started out playing rock and folk, then studied jazz with Joe Cinderella and Jimmy Ponder. He then graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Classical Guitar Performance from The Manhattan School of Music in New York City, USA having studied with Sharon Isbin, Ben Verdery and Mark Delprioria to only name a few. While at The Manhattan School of Music he also studied Alexander Technique and Non-Western music.

After graduating, Rich joined ‘Cheepskates’, a power pop garage band, recording 1 CD/LP (Confessional) and 1 EP (Songs Vol II – The Residents) These were distributed worldwide and Rich toured with Cheepskates to support these and previously recorded CDs. Rich owned and operated his own very successful teaching studio in Maine, USA, for 20 years. During that time he taught over 200 individual students of all ages and abilities, supporting many in successfully preparing for music college auditions. Many of these former students are now professional musicians in their own right and they continue to maintain contact with Rich as a mentor and colleague.

In 2012 Rich decided to completely change his horizons and moved to Liverpool where he continues to teach and play (and learn).

Tony O’Keefe Tony has been a working musician since the early 1980s when he was a member of Liverpool R&B rockers, THE INTERNS before forming pop band, TOY TABOO and releasing a successful single, ‘Nothing For Love’ which reached #3 in the local charts in the mid-80s.

His next project, after a brief sojourn in Las Angeles, was black leather rock’n’roll outfit, THE CHAIN GANG. They made an immediate impact and were quickly signed to major management, publishing and record deals while touring the UK in support of artists such as MOTORHEAD, GIRLSCHOOL and chart bands like THE ICICLE WORKS, THE PRIMITIVES and THEN JERICHO. Two EP’s and an album were successfully recorded and again reached high chart positions locally. They are now in demand on rare vinyl websites both here and in the USA. A number of other local indie, rock ‘n’ roll and cover bands followed, including a spell working with Coldplay producer, Ken Nelson and also Spice Girl, Mel C, before Tony teamed up with guitarist Paul Kappa in KAPPA for a four-year period. An intense

work ethic saw the band tour Europe and the UK relentlessly (including a twice weekly Cavern Club/Pub residency) culminating in a successful foray to the USA where they played several gigs, recorded an album in Nirvana producer, Steve Albini’s studio with Grammy winning producer, Jim Tullio and appeared on American TV. Two albums, two live DVDs and one exhausted drummer later, Tony decided to leave the band to form THE SHAKERS. His ambition to provide an authentic representation of the original Mersey Sound has seen the boys gradually make a name for themselves both in the UK and overseas and they are now established favourites at the world-famous Cavern Club, where they also have twice–weekly residency. Tony continues to be the driving force and the driving ‘beat’ of this fab Liverpool beat combo.

Throughout the last fifteen years, he has also taught drums on a semi-regular basis with private lessons to all ages and two successful terms with the Cavern Rock School. As well as teaching, this also involved co-ordinating the forming of bands with the students, often with varying musical backgrounds, to learn the disciplines required to play with other musicians as well as improving their own skill on their chosen instrument. This mentoring process was an invaluable part of the school and gave the students the chance to perform in front of a packed house in the most famous club in the world.

Tony uses his vast musical experience to teach students the skills required to play with other musicians while improving their own skill set on the instrument. Not just textbook exercise based lessons, Tony will focus on getting the students to tighten up their playing techniques and learning ready made rhythm parts to use in a variety of styles and live situations. Tony says “We never stop learning but this is the first step on the road to ‘the road’ “.

SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS...

Title: Joe Symes & the Loving Kind Price: £7.11 Artist: Joe Symes & TLK

Title: A Whole Lotta Shakers Price: £7.99 Artist: The Shakers

Title: Ghosts Price: £3.16 Artist: The Jackobins

Joe Symes and the Loving Kind are an original three piece band from Liverpool UK. The group has spent the last two years launching their explosive assault on UK clubs and festivals.

The Cavern Club’s resident Merseybeat group have been stompin’ for ten years now. In that time they have established themselves as Liverpool’s premier exponents of the original Mersey Sound today.

Since the release of their debut album in 2013, the band have embarked on a non-stop journey all over the UK, performing in cities and towns from London to Glasgow.

Taking their self-titled debut on an assault around the country has seen them pick up some major support slots including The Blockheads, Dodgy, XTC, Bloc Party and Alt-J, as well as hitting the Festival circuit, and coming to the attention of Creation Management’s Alan McGee. The album has also been greatly received in America, and had magazine and airplay all over the world.

As well as their twice-weekly Cavern ‘beat sessions’ they have played Beatles festivals all over Europe plus the biggest Beatles festival in the USA, ‘Abbey Road On The River’ in Kentucky, as well as other shows, from the Middle East to all the major 60s festivals around the UK. They’ve backed many 60s legends such as US stars James Burton, Tommy Roe and Chris Montez and they continue to back many 60s/Merseybeat stars regularly, including Billy J Kramer, The Searchers’ Mike Pender, Ray Ennis of The Swinging Blue Jeans, ‘bubbly’ Beryl Marsden and during the huge ‘Lennon Remembered’ show at Liverpool’s Echo Arena, the late Hamburg legend Tony Sheridan.

Formed in 2014, dubbed by Fred Perry Subculture and This Feeling as “Big in 2016” The Jackobins have taken Liverpool’s and the U.K’s music scene by a storm, headlining and selling out prestigious venues such as Liverpool’s O2 Academy, EVAC, Magnet and Camden’s Barfly alongside smaller dates in Leeds, Manchester, Leicester, Sunderland, Stoke and Grimsby, whist completing their 40 date tour.

We want to help local artists sell their own music, so we are offering to point music lovers in the right direction completley free of charge.

Simply send in your CD artwork with the relevant information and leave the rest to us. Send to hello@thebuz.co.uk

2015 saw the band supporting the likes of The Enemy, Reverend and The Makers and The Riffles whist appearing on Tramlines, Strawberry Fields, Northbound, X & Y, Party In The Pines, Liverpool Calling, Boondock, Blackthorn, FesEvol and events such as Soccer Six and Football Rocks.

Ghosts - charted number #7 in Greece, charted in top 10 iTunes Alternative Rock on release date.

WILL YOU?

Title: The Cabinet Maker Price: from £7.99 Artist: Gary Edward Jones

Title: Rainbows Price: from £7.99 Artist: Steve Thompson

Title: Wanderlust Price: £10.00 Artist: Windmill

From the age of 11, Gary began writing songs imitating those of his idols, Lennon & McCartney, Elvis, Crowded House and the legends of Motown.

Steve Thompson & The Incidents, a rocking indie band from Liverpool with the feel good factor and uptempo beats that are synonymous with the 60’s and 90’s but with a modern feel bringing the sound up to date with melodic hooks, instantly catch songs and an onstage passion that brings the songs to life. This outstanding indie/retro/Pop/Rock band have supported Steve Cradock (OCS) , Tom Hingley (Inspiral Carpets) , played at Noel Gallaghers after show party , Shared the stage with Bez from Happy Mondays amongst others.

Released March 4th 2016. We can expect haunting enigmatic vocals, languorous and stirring guitar riffs with atmospheric drum beats

Whilst studying woodcarving and cabinet making at college, his passion for music continued and Gary joined the band, ‘Day Without Rain’.

The band played many of London’s iconic venues and the lure of the big city proved too much when, in his mid-twenties, Gary moved to London.

The best art imitates life and Gary soaked up the atmosphere of the capital for the next five years, a time which saw the twin events of the joyous birth of his son and the breakdown of the relationship with the mother of his child. These incredible highs and lows brought about a drive to write more and more original songs.

Trips to America and chance meetings have brought about great contacts and lasting friendships and the confidence to put together Gary’s debut album – The Cabinet Maker.

Recent performances include International Pop Overthrow festival, Independent Venue Week, Bez’s Reality Party Show ,Ribble Valley festival weekender and had various radio AirPlay on BBC , been voted future classic band on Real radio XS , artist of the month on Wolfman radio and artist of the week on siren fm as well as finding the number 1 spot on Amazon for new releases with the single “Rainbows” from the album “Rainbows & Arrows” released in 2015. Recently the new single “Monster” and “Happy Daze” have been licensed for use and are heavily featured in the upcoming US film Breaking Legs after signing a publishing deal with C-side music (former Roxette & EMI publishing team ) so big things upon the horizon for the band.

Windmill are Mick Dolan, Dawn Williams, David T Palmer, Louise Rodriguez and Jennifer Airey.

They are from Liverpool and met when Mick and Dave worked on a couple of Dawns tracks and they all discovered they loved the likes of Joan Baez, Angus and Julia Stone, Neil Young, Brian Wilson, Beck, Leonard Cohen, and the Velvet Underground. They then advertised for two more female singers and Jenny and Louise joined.

Birdman was their first single written

by Mick and produced by Yorkie for Universal Shoes Productions; it was recorded at Yorkie’s House Of Light studios in Liverpool.

It was released on Jack Launer’s label Jack To Phono on 17th February 2014.

It gained extensive radio airplay from Dave Monks, Tom Robinson, Simon Raymonde, John Kennedy, Gary Crowley, Chris Currie, Tracey Hedges and Alex Huskisson.

It was one of Janice Long’s and Tom Robinson’s favourite tracks and they both said it is ‘a hauntingly beautiful song, an amazing track full of atmosphere’.

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Have you got talent? Come & show it off here.

Make sure you bring your family & friends to support you!

THURSDAYS ‘One free drink for every performer’.

T 0151 328 5690 | F 0151 327 4601 | W theocclub.co.uk 28 BRIDLE ROAD, BROMBOROUGH, WIRRAL, CH62 6AR

REVIEW The Ladybugs are a vocal duo who first caught my attention when I was fortunate enough to witness their highly impressive set at the Sefton Park Food and Drink Festival in September of last year. On that occasion, as tonight, they were ably supported throughout their performance by James Smith on acoustic guitar. Since that time and now with a string of appearances in the Merseyside area and beyond to their credit, The Ladybugs have gone on to establish themselves as an in-demand act with a growing fan base. In recent years, many music fans throughout the UK will have been made aware of Kellyann Lea and Lisa Arthur’s abilities when they were heard supplying backing vocals with John O’Connell’s Simply Dylan band. It is in their present guise as a duo with acoustic guitar backing, however, that the full range of their exceptional vocal talents can be more fully appreciated.

In terms of their repertoire, The Ladybugs concentrate their efforts solely on The Beatles catalogue, a body of work that has, of course, stood the test of time and is familiar to all. Kicking off with a superb version of If I Needed Someone, right from the opening bars of this first number it was clear that for those in attendance this evening at THVC that a great night’s entertainment lay ahead. As the set progressed, lead vocal duties were exchanged back and forth regularly - some songs were performed with solo voice only while others saw the lead voice interweaving with a counterpoint vocal line. With all of these combinations and also those songs where they sang close harmony in unison such as on If I Fell, Norwegian Wood and This Boy, the interplay between the voices was fabulous with their interaction together always supportive, intriguing and propulsive.

Vocally, both ladies have a wide and effortless range, unerring pitch and a gift for phrasing that at times is heart-achingly beautiful. Throughout their career the Beatles were famed for their finely crafted and well constructed harmony parts and tonight The Ladybugs coped with these demands admirably.

As they brought their touring activities

magnificently. It was clear from the outset that they were not content to play safe and merely cover the Fab Four’s biggest selling singles but were also keen to tackle a number of, relatively speaking, lesser heard tracks including, amongst others, Baby’s In Black, I’ll Follow The Sun, Another Girl and Two Of Us. This was a refreshing and innovative approach that worked extremely well and for this The Ladybugs should be commended. As way of a richly deserved encore, a highly entertaining night was brought to a close with a quartet of Beatles standards that comprised From Me To You, I Want To Hold Your Hand, Can’t Buy Me Love and a blistering version of I Saw Her Standing There.

To summarise the night, this gig, thanks to a stellar vocal display by Kellyann and Lisa, was a resounding success and a treat for anyone with an interest in hearing great music performed in a vibrant live setting.

Plaudits also go to James Smith who turned in a flawless performance on acoustic guitar. A tip of the hat also to Pat Mack who, on bass guitar, joined the girls for the second half of their gig. Using an authentic 1962 Hofner instrument Pat’s tastefully melodic bass lines and impeccable technique complimented the overall sound extremely well. I look forward to checking out Pat’s band ‘Love Me Blues’ in the near future.

Credit should also be given to Neil Johnson and Dave Wood at Thornton Hall Village Club who staged this free of charge event. With a talent-filled ongoing calendar of events dedicated to supporting an eclectic range of live music from local artists, this is a fine venue that deserves your support.

to a halt in 1966 and turned their attentions instead to exploring the capabilities of the recording studio, the Beatles’ output became increasingly complex and texturally multi-layered. With this in mind, it was fascinating tonight to observe how, utilising only two vocalists and an acoustic guitar, Kellyann, Lisa and James would structure their arrangements of the compositions from this period. Displaying consummate musicianship, we were not left disappointed as songs such as Ticket To Ride and Drive My Car were performed impeccably.

Drawing on The Beatles’ later work, one of the highlights of the evening for many was Kellyann’s version of ‘Oh Darling’, a song originally recorded on the Abbey Road album.

Astutely avoiding any attempt to replicate McCartney’s original rockstyle vocal, Kellyann instead made the song all her own by delivering a tremendously soulful performance that was a veritable masterclass in vocal control and technique.

Meanwhile, Lisa’s own solo tour de force in the form of a majestic VENUE: Thornton Hall Village Club rendition of Girl, was DATE: Saturday 16th January 2016 equally impressive.

WRITER: Ritchie Noonan Clearly, THVC’s ambition BAND: The Ladybugs Duo for tonight’s event was SUPPORT: Phil Chisnall (to be reviewed) to celebrate some great Beatles music utilising top quality musicians and in that respect The Ladybugs succeeded

STANLEYS CASK WALLASEY T: 01516911093 Facebook: Stanleys Cask Five Cask Ales Every Tuesday QUIZ NIGHT 9.30pm Sky Sports, BT Sports All Friday and Saturday gigs are 9.30pm Sunday 6.30pm Every Tuesday

RECKLESS ELBOW @ 9.00 Friday 4th

JON CASEY BLUES BAND Saturday 5th

THE CLAN

Sunday 6th (Mothers Day)

XANDER AND THE PEACE PIRATES Friday 11th

THE VINYLS Saturday 12th

MARC KENNY UPDATE...

Those of you who read the December edition of the Buz will remember we featured Marc Kenny’s recent release on Cavern Records - What’s it Like in Liverpool. We thought it would be a great idea to ask Marc how things are going and what has happened since then.

Unbelivabley, the single has had over 350,000 Facebook views and 10,000 Facebook shares, figures that are increasing daily.

After a successful launch at The Liverpool Bar near Times Square, New York, Marc has been invited back to New York and also to visit, Washington and Hershey, this September.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Marc has been requested to join the Liverpool European Legend’s Tour, play at the Liverpool Lifestyle Awards and to attend the Explore GB event where 300 delegates will visit Liverpool and watch his video before seeing him perform at the aftershow party.

It is fair to say that this is an exciting time for Marc and it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. This is a chance for another of our home grown artists to make it on the world wide stage. If you haven’t already, please show your support.

THE SPACE CADETS Sunday 13th

THE PHILOSOPHERS Friday 18th

INSANITY BEACH Saturday 19th

Z3BRA 3

Sunday 20th

DOUBLE TROUBLE Friday 25th

GYPSY

Saturday 26th

GROUNDHOG Sunday 27th

MULE TRAIN

Where to find Marc: www.marckenny.co.uk /themarckennyband /marckenny /marckennyofficial

JADE

whatsitlikeinliverpool.com

CD available from iTunes, Amazon Music, Spotify and Google Play

TREMARCO and

GLYN

WILLIAMS are

GLADE Friday 4 - GLADE Oxton Bar & Kitchen, Oxton 9.30-11pm Saturday 5 - GLADE The Telegraph, Wallasey 9.30pm Saturday 12 - GLADE Rocks (prevSoft Rock Café), Liscard 9.30-11.30pm Sunday 13 - JADE SOLO The Corner, New Brighton 9-11pm Saturday 19 - GLADE Oxton Bar & Kitchen, Oxton Village 9.30-11pm Sunday 20 - GLADE The Wro, West Kirby 6-8pm Friday 25 - GLADE THE FLORAL PAVILION The Buz Live Show 7pm Saturday 26 -JADE SOLO Chronicle, Bebbington 9pm Sunday 27 - JADE SOLO Rocks (previously Soft Rock Café), Liscard 6-8pm followed by GLADE Oxton Bar & Kitchen, Oxton Village 9.30-11pm Thursday 31 - JADE SOLO Oxton Bar & Kitchen, Oxton Village 9-11pm

MARCH GIG LISTINGS EASTER WEEKEND

Friday 4th THE RADI8TORS

Good Friday 25th DR STRANGELOVE

Saturday 5th THE SPACE CADETS Sunday 6th SWAMP DOG MILLIONAIRES (Louisiana Blues Band) Friday 11th DR DUKE Saturday 12th THE DANSETTE ALLIGATORS (Rock ‘n’ Roll, Rockabilly Band) Sunday 13th THE VINYLS

Easter Saturday 26th FIREFLY Easter Sunday 27th FALLEN FRIENDS CHARITY RIDE-OUT Breakfast for riders from 8.30pm FULL DAY OF LIVE BANDS PLUS BBQ from 1pm - LATE THE FOUNDRY LOCAL LADS MADE GOOD LIL’ DEVIL PLUS MANY MORE Headliner INSANITY BEACH

Friday 18th FREAKOUT DISCO BAND Saturday 19th SPEAKEASY BOOTLEG BAND (Swing, Jazz Band)

www.olderedlion.com for update on bands EVERY MONDAY SMART PHONE PUB QUIZ

Sunday 20th FIREFLY

The Olde Red Lion, 307 Chester Road, Little Sutton, Ellesmere Port CH66 1QQ

0151 339 2496

After undergoing a recent refurbishment, The Olde Red Lion, Little Sutton stands firmly on the map of Merseyside as a live music venue with it’s large, purpose built stage attracting the very best bands the area has to offer.

For years Jackie and Andy Fadden have supported local musicians by putting bands on every weekend and tirelessly raising money for charities including the well-known Wirral Egg Run. Unknown to most, this couple go over and above to help others, mostly to their own detriment. They really are a credit to their trade.

They have introduced a new menu at the Red, a twist on traditional pub dining and they are confident that they have something suit everyones taste. Good, wholesome food at a great price is enough to attract most people, but at the Red it is just part of the offering.

Their range of beers has been changed to meet the demands of commonly requested ales and they also house guest ales which are changed regularly.

Over the years Jackie and Andy have attained many accreditations from various leading brewers and pride themselves with their quality of service.

They strive to meet and exceed all of their customers’ expectations, personal or corporate and do so, day in, day out.

onday Every M

Z U B E TH

E V I L

ÂŁ18

Ticket price includes booking fee (fee capped at 8 tickets)

6 1 0 2 H C R A M 5 2 Y A D I R F N GHTO RI B W E ION N L I V 0000 A P 6 L 6 6 A FLOR 0151 : E C om I c FF .

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A NIGHT OF DYNAMIC MUSICIANS PERFORMING INCREDIBLE MUSIC...

CONNIE LUSH BAND Sensational lady of the blues brings her band to Wirral for the first time! Steve Wright on guitar, Terry Harris on bass and drummer Roy Martin.

BRIAN SAX JONES BAND The best musicians in the business join the legendary saxophone player: Dave Goldberg on keys, Adrian Gautry on guitar and Tim Reddy on drums.

JADE TREMARCO Floral favourite returns with original set.

Jade will launch her first EP tonight.

Four self penned songs and a bonus track or two.

CHARMED featuring SENSE OF SOUND Amazing string quartet headed by violinist Amy Chalmers, team up with top Liverpool vocal group to create pure magic.

ROSIE MUNDY Seasoned professional sings vintage jazz in her own unique style.

PAULINE DANIELS The show is hosted by the first lady of comedy who needs no introduction.

STANLEY'S 83 SEAVIEW RD, WALLASEY CH45 4LE

SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE

FEATURING TOP LOCAL BANDS EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT

WITH MARK POUTNEY www.markpoutney.com 1. What make was your first guitar and what was the first song you learnt to play on it?

My first guitar was a vintage Satellite solid-body electric guitar, which used to belong to my dad. He gave it to me when I was 17. I couldn’t play any songs on it so that’s why I started to write my own. I think I learned to play Sally Cinnamon by the Stone Roses soon after, though.

2. If you could have anyone sing one of your songs who would it be and what song would they sing?

Otis Reading singing Don’t Let Me Go. 3. Is there one particular song that you would never tire of playing?

“Walking in the sunshine” by Roger Miller…It just makes me feel really good when I play it; cheers me up.

4. What is your favourite chord sequence and what song is it from?

God Only Knows by the Beach Boys, all of it…I don’t know what the chords are, I’ve never tried to learn them, I don’t want to learn it, I enjoy not knowing…

5. If you could play in any band, worldwide, which would you pick and why?

The Rolling Stones, it looks like they still have fun playing music, even though they’ve been together since the dawn of time. Also, some of my all-time favourite songs would be in the set list.

6. Who is/was your greatest musical influence and why?

Lennon/McCartney: In my opinion, they are kind of the meter for a good song, melodically and in terms of economy. Even though they are not my favourite writers, it’s impossible to deny their influence on my songwriting. They manage to pack so much into short songs, particularly in their early works. They also demonstrate how to use your influences rather than copy them. Through their music, you can hear Chuck Berry, Del Shannon, Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, Little Richard etc but they don’t sound like those artists.

5TH MARCH

PETER ARRON

12TH MARCH

GRAY WHITFIELD

19TH MARCH

SUNDAY’S REASON

26TH MARCH

TELEGRAPH ROAD

WE ARE BACK, FULLY REFURBISHED AND UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

lyn staunton

Please may I begin this column by saying just how fantastic the Buz Magazine is and a huge thank you to Diane (editor ) for the amazing support she gives to charities in this City.

All over the UK there are children who have to cope with sickness, disability or disadvantage. It’s tough. Really tough.

Variety, the children’s charity, provide practical, tangible help that makes an immediate difference to those children and their families.

If you can help in any way, please contact Lyn Staunton or one of the team at the North West office on: 0161 236 0500 or e-mail Northwest@variety. org.uk /VarietyGB

For those of you who don’t know me, I started my life born into show business, so to be part of this magazine is an honour for me, and a wonderful opportunity to tell you all about the great things that Variety,the Children’s Charity do here on Merseyside for disabled, and disadvantaged children and young people.

I am very lucky to have the support of some fantastic people in Merseyside who raise lots of money so Variety can continue the great work it has been doing for Children for over 65 years in The UK. This month I would like to highlight one such company “The House Beauty Spa “ owned by Mrs Margaret Hand Mrs Georgia Forrest who specialise in bringing some great Authors into Liverpool and all in aid of Variety,the Children’s Charity.

On 25th February Actress Denise Welch will be bringing her first Novel to Liverpool and the price of the ticket includes a wonderful meal, a personally signed Book and also a fabulous Gift bag supplied by “The House Beauty Spa” This will be a complete sell out with Denise telling us about her life and why she has written the Novel.

I am very lucky as I get to interview all the authors but the best part of the evening is when the Audience get their chance to ask a question of their own, some of the questions can be very risqué and some very funny indeed.

On these nights I like to feature a local Artiste to sing during Dinner so if you think this is something you would like to do, please call me for a chat.

Variety, the children’s charity has a committee in Liverpool who meet once a month and they are looking to recruit people who would be willing to join them in helping to change the lives of children less fortunate than others, so again if this is something you think you may enjoy please call me.

Next month I will tell you how it all went on the 25th, and just what else Variety has up its sleeve for this year.

See you soon Lyn

thom morecroft hand me down ep

We know you have recently released an EP - Can you tell us what inspired each of the tracks?

Each of the songs is a little story; Coming Up For Air is about the inevitable dysfunction in families (namely mine) and the sort of strange embarrassment that comes with that, occasionally forgetting everyone has that same little curse.

Daisy is a song about unspoken, unrequited lust.

Pride Hill is a little tale about my friendship with someone I grew up with in Shrewsbury, and any subsequent estrangement, while What Are The Chances That You’re Shorter Than Me is a song about getting set up with someone on the basis of your corresponding heights.

Our favourite is Coming Up For Air, do you have a favourite?

My favourite song on the EP is Pride Hill; I really liked the guitar harmonies and I felt like I delivered a very relaxed vocal. I think it’s the strongest set of lyrics, and I find the story the most engaging one for me, because it’s the most bittersweet, and the most open-ended. It was also the first song me and John Mac, the producer, worked on together. There was a bit of a fresh, new feeling to it.

How was your first experience of crowd-funding?

Crowd-funding is a bit of an emotional rollercoaster, I spent the entire time thinking I wasn’t going to reach the target amount and any time anyone pledged I was overwhelmed. I loved doing the house gigs especially, because you felt so warmly and quasi-parentally supported by those who pledged for them.

Would you recommend it to other artists?

Are there any pit falls?

It’s a good experience – it humbles you. You can

have 3,000 likes on Facebook, or 2,000 followers on Twitter, of 5,000 views on a video – ultimately, you realise that you have just under 200 fans; people who want to buy your music, and support your endeavours. Now obviously, not everyone who is a lover of your music will pledge or is able to, but it’s near enough most of them.

The mediating company will take a cut of what you do, but they will also make your campaign look as professional and trustworthy as possible – which if you are new artist is pretty vital. That’s as near to a pitfall as I found.

Your cover is unusual, but memorable. Did you design it?

James Kirkham, who goes by the company name of IXIOD, designed the cover. James is a very interesting kettle of fish; we spent hours talking about the songs, and how what they meant, and he looked through my bookcases and my record collection to work out what I would look like if I was an EP cover. He’s a tremendous talent and mind.

How would you describe your music?

The new EP is a fairly hearty serving of strippedback soul, folk, country, blues & pop. I like to bring together a lot of influences within the veneer of the singer-songwriter mould.

Where can we find you locally in March?

I will be playing as part of an incredible line-up for 2016’s Liverpool Acoustic Festival, where I will be appearing at 1.15pm on Saturday 19th March in The Music Room of the Liverpool Philharmonic. I’ve done the LAF three years running.

Spread across the Unity Theatre and the Philharmonic, over Friday 18th and Saturday 19th, the line-up this year looks incredible. I’m looking forward to it and I hope to see you there!

Hand Me Down EP Out Now! Available from iTunes and other online outlets

Photographer: Brian Roberts

PUBLIC OPINION

Jacqueline Thompson, Higher Bebington 1. The Cubans are my favourite duo and the Gary Murphy band is my favourite band. I have followed both for many years.

2. My favourite venue is Ruby Blues, Charlotte Street, in Liverpool.

3. I love the Buz magazine it brings back a lot of good memories. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it every month to see what was going on; the content was always so interesting. I am so pleased it is back but I hope it doesn’t change too much as I liked itjust the way it was.

Matt Tomlinson, Rock Ferry 1. My favourite local band is Moses. I just love the full on energy they give. When they play you just get drawn into the music and nothing else matters.

We asked some random members of the public the following three questions, take a look at what they had to say...

1. Who is your favourite local band and why?

2. Where is your favourite live music venue and why is it your favourite?

3. What do you like most about the Buz Magazine and would you change or add anything?

Philippa Brandwood.

1. Favourite local bandsare Insanity Beach and Tequila.

I watched them both in a variety of venues, including at private functions. They have great stage presence 2. I don’t have a favourite venue are talented musicians that I go to on regular basis. I and also write their own tend to go to the Kings Arms, The material.

George, and The Wellington as they are my locals and regulaly 2. Mathew Street Live for its stage live music. atmosphere. O2 Academyhas great names on in a 3. I have been a great fan of the relatively intimate setting.

Buz for a very very long time as Further afield, Manchester I was able to read what bands Albert Hall- great acoustics were playing where - there was and I love its ‘gothic’ feel. no such thing as Facebook back in the day. It was a shame when 3. It’s handy to have a go to it fizzled out, however now it is guide for the weeks ahead back it seems to have ignited in order to plan nights out. the music community back into action.

More gig guides published in advance by artists.

The Buz has everything catered for at present, venues gigs times dates with a few spare pages for local businesses to advertise, so why change something that isn’t broken? LONG LIVE THE BUZZ!

We will not print any nasty, negative comments but we will pass them on to the person/s most relevant. Of course, only those with a name and address on will be taken seriously. r ic on a regula local live mus or nd Do you watch ba ite have a favour basis? Do you ar from you. uld love to he wo e W e? nu ve me. lco we critisism Constructive @thebuz.co.uk llo he : to l ai Send an em

best up and coming young musicians locally - Adrian Gaultry - amazing 1. Favourite local band - wow! A hard range of instruments and sounds he question as I watch so many - Paul injects into the mix - a big star in the Kappa and his band are incredible making on our doorstep - add to that Phil Jones local legend and so artistic the incredible sense of humour and -either on his own or in Afraid of Mice banter with the audience - well that’s - Red Rock, mature rockers who are my choice but that is not easy I always so tight in there delivery of classic rock say - no band is better that another songs - new band English Thorn incred- they all produce music - live music that ible powerful sound from a threesome keeps so many happy - gives people and a great mix of covers and original an escape from their daily grind of work material and toils The Exiles do what other bands don’t do “b” sides and obscure tracks 2. Favorite music venue - well, Stanley’s Cheap Purple - classic deep purple Cask would be high up for me. It’s just other amazing local musicians what a up the road and has a fantastic variety line up Dave And Adam Goldberg Keith of bands and acts on. But my favorite Bamo and Mr power Voice Himself would have to be The Swinging Arm. Garry Brown - Space Cadets again Great venue great choice of beers and with Garry and pile driver bassist Dave great atmosphere.

Dover with Adam G on skins - I could go on and on for ever. My choice, would 3. Why do I like the Buz? When I was you believe, is Scallywag. Why ? A mix- a kid I always looked out for the Beano ture of young and old - the backbone is or the Dandy coming out so I could the two singers Tony and I am afraid I read it from cover to cover. Well, it’s my can’t recall the other lads name - then modern day replacement! Being a big you have the gorgeous sound of the live music fan it’s my bible and in the mandolin in the background, strong new/old format I can carry it about with bass and 12 string acoustic guitar. How me. I love the stories and backgrounds could you not love Brian Saxophone to local artists and what make them tick.

Jones in the mix - and for me one of the Frank Carroll, New Brighton

Lorraine Pearson, Ellesmere Port 1. My favourite band are hush I just love Brians guitar playing and his choice of music is fantastic.

2. My favourite local venue is the Red Lion in Little Sutton, it has people of my own age and a great atmosphere.

3. I really enjoy reading the Buz Magazine as it is very informative of what’s on and where. I also think it helps if a play list can be seen when advertising a band to see if suits my type of music

HEIDI

(Solo) Performing Modern Covers

Supporting local, live, music Find us on Facebook: /liverpoolbandspage

THE LAW OF THREE

Acoustic Trio Performing Modern Covers

For Bookings M: 07584 194497

E: heidi@thepurpleroom.com Facebook:/HeidiPurpleRoomWirral SoundCloud: /heidisingerwirral

Marshall Hearts

MARC KENNY Friday’s - Cavern Club 6pm - 8pm 3rd March Explore GB Event 5th March Liverpool Lifestyle Awards

ROCK, POP, MOTOWN & SOUL Pubs, Weddings, and Parties

Full gig listings and all enquiries www.marckenny.co.uk Available Solo or Band Weddings & Corporate Party bookings

T: Mark Whiteley 07719454559 or Steve Lawson 07906246241 https://www.facebook. com/themarshallhearts/

Buy or download new single whatsitlikeinliverpool.com

Quality 4 piece vocal harmony group specialising in vintage Swing/ Jazz/ Big Band of 30’s, 40’s and 50’s.

BAND NAME: Jo Mary MEMBERS: Sam Warren, Syd Barnfather, Mike Smith, Fionn de Buitléar, Jack Haworth WRITTEN BY: Martin Moseley

Raised on a diet of musical indulgences from the likes of Beefheart and Velvet Underground whilst trapped on the Wirral Peninsula between the Mersey and the Dee; Jo Mary are currently cultivating a sound. A sound which strays away from the indie nothingness, the white grins and the shit mod aesthetic. Instead they offer up something that sounds like Warhol’s drug parties; a flurried sonic debauchery soaked in a generous helping of fuzz which makes the eyes dilate and the body slump.

The whirring riff driven tour de force of Jo Mary is an unstoppable power.

Having found themselves at the heart of the Wirral music scene the band have found fans in the likes of The Sundowners, The Coral and Bill Ryder Jones (with lead singer Sam and bassist Mike appearing in the ‘Two to Birkenhead’ video).

Available for weddings, private functions and parties Check us out on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ TheNightandDays or call

07786 100258 for further details

In the age old Wirral tradition the boys look back for inspiration but leave the harmonies and acoustic guitar behind preferring the mad, the bad and the ugly.

REVIEW After having played music for a number of years collaboratively in various bands and projects, Nicola Hardman decided to pursue her own music more vigorously in 2014.

She started out as a solo artist playing her songs in the Liverpool music scene on keys and vocals.

Later in 2014, she fortuitously met Dan Barker. On discovering that Dan was not only an excellent guitarist and musician, Barker also records and produces music. As the two musicians shared their professional aspirations and worked together, it became apparent that the two would undoubtedly make an album. They mutually decided that Barker would record, creatively co-produce and develop Hardman's songs into the full band album she always envisioned.

In December 2015, they released "Full Beans" a 10 track progressive, theatrical rock album with a running time of almost an hour’s worth of material, all recorded and produced between the two of them at Barkers studio. They then sought out a live band and took on board the effortless talents of Shawn Charvette on bass guitar, and Phil Mann on drums and percussion to launch the music.

After a successful tour in and around the Liverpool area, the four of them are now touring "Full Beans" around the UK. Having attended the launch of Hardman’s album, we can say that this is no average, run-of-the-mill record.

‘It’s Not Gone’ is one of the first tracks that Barker and Hardman collaborated on.

Nicola said that the track “..is a homage to an extremely dear person and to everyone else who has suffered through extreme difficulty and depression, that there is always a way forward.”

Another track that stands out is ‘Little Fish’ which was inspired by a close friend; a goldfish stuck in an isolated bowl, kept in the

family household but not being recognised as a family member. A beautiful waltz that transcends the norm.

‘Waste’ was the one track we remembered from the album launch.

A rocky-ballsy number invoking the frustration over the amount of corruption power has on people.

Whilst the album is a masterpiece in itself, nothing compares to hearing the album played live. There’s something about Nic that draws you in, captivating you, leaving you wanting to hear more.

We strongly urge you to get this album. nicolahardman.com/ soundcloud.com/nicolahardman Facebook: /nicolahardmanmusic Twitter: @nicola_hardman Black & White Photograph: Richard Taylor

e d a j emarco Tr

Jade Tremarco began her singing career at the tender age of eleven, imitating those of her idols including Eva Cassidy, Alanis Morrisette, Stevie Nicks, Aretha Franklin, Axl Rose, Elton John, Seal and other legendary vocalists.

Jade’s music has always been focused on writing songs based on personal experience; referencing highs and lows of her life, relationships with friends and family, illnesses and above all else, acceptance. Her music is elegant, simple and clean which has only been accentuated by the local legendary musicians she has worked with including Brian “Saxophone” Jones from The Undertakers, The Christians, The Swinging Blue Jeans, The Gary Murphy Band and Vesbim Floyd UK to name a few.

Photographer: Kate McDonald

Jade is not only a solo vocalist and guitarist, but is one half of the duo ‘Glade’ in which she is joined by the fabulously talented Glyn Williams from China Crisis. This lively and upbeat collaboration is an exciting and refreshing combination, showcasing both Glyn and Jade’s talents to the max.

On 25th March, Jade plans to release her first, long awaited EP of original songs which encapsulate her soulful voice in full. Influences of rock, pop, country, jazz, funk, soul and blues all come together to give Jade the tools she needs to write music that reflects on the past, shares lessons learnt and grows with her as she evolves in both her personal and creative selves.

www.jadetremarco.com

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connie lush Connie has been recognised as one of the finest Blues singers in the UK today. The winner of “Best Female Vocalist UK” no less than five times has earned Connie her place in the Gallery of Greats, alongside Alexis Corner and Eric Clapton to name just two. Her incredible stage presence and powerful vocal have also been recognized overseas as she was twice voted “European Blues Vocalist of the year” by the “Blues Trophies Awards” Pride of place is her award from the people of Liverpool for “Performing Arts”....

/connielushband /connielushband /connielushband

RENAISANCE CD OUT NOW

Hello babies, we have already started touring the new CD in UK but our European Tour starts 12th April and as people are always asking me about touring in Europe, here are some of my quirky habits.

strange, I still have their piano towels, everyone on the road uses this as it’s a great pick up gig. I won’t bore you with all the gigs, some are new and some are old. We finish in Switzerland and then make our way back to Rotterdam.

Questions are mainly centred around the voice..I have the three S’s rule which covers everything (1) Steam, (2) Sleep, and (3) Shut up.... Number three being the hardest for me, but everyone has their own thing. I just shut down for two or three weeks and enjoy. One of my quirks is not speaking in the mornings. I am not a nice person anyway at that time and it suits the guys as they are no angels either!

When travelling by road, we use the Hull to Rotterdam ferry, overnight. I really should have shares in the ferry, ships and vans the amount of times I have used them! We use Dover for France or further south. I always say a prayer when we pass through customs at Dover that the sniffer dogs are on that day, because if you get pulled...Which we do and the border guys are on duty, everything gets pulled out the back. If lovely sniffer dog is on duty, then in it jumps, quick sniff around the van and we are back on the road. In the past we have had a drummer with no passport, in fact, two different drummers, one in Spain and one at Hull Ferry........No names!

This year the tour kicks off in Austria with my new guys Steve Wright on guitar, Roy Martin on drums and of course, as always, my husband/bass man Terry Harris. This will be our first long haul together as “Connie Lush Band” so it’s out into the unknown ! The first gig in Linz “The Tuesday Blues” we have been doing for over 10yrs. Me and Terry have a great connection with Austria, we recorded one of our albums just outside Linz and come back regularly as a band and as friends.

After that we move on to the Vienna Spring Fest once again, great to be back......We have made our base in Vienna many times, staying over a jazz club where we have jammed many a night in the days of “Blues Shouter” red wine in hand.

I love to jam and in January I went over to Berlin and jammed with some fine lady blues singers at the famous “Ratskellar” Kat played a mean gob iron too! I know people say things like “in my blood” but jamming really is, it’s like a big adrenalin shot of the unknown.

I also went over and jammed last year with some Austrian bands and through that connection we are doing a gig on this year’s tour in the Tyrol Mountains and staying over with them. That’s what I love the most. Gigs outside the box.

We then go into Germany which has the strangest and at the same time, most wonderful gigs of all. One of them is “The Cha Bah” more in your face than

I thought I would share with you one of my favourite albums for on the road. I have played it to death but it can put back some of those lost vibes from the night before...

Preferably played an hour or so before you reach your destination. Definitely not one for breakfast! Its “Jon Cleary & The absolute Monster Gentlemen” yes, the title bites you and the album certainly bites back! We have Jon Cleary on vocals and keys, “BigD” Perkins on guitar, Cornell Williams on Bass and Backup vocals and “Jellybean” Alexander on drums. All band members born in New Orleans except Jon Cleary. This is actually a “monster” album with the whole combination of R&B with Jon Cleary’s vocals full of soul and spunk and it all rolls along like the Mississippi river. Jon Cleary’s style of keyboards is pure tradition with his mastership of grooves.

I saw him for the first time many years ago supporting Bonnie Rait and later on joining her and the band....

He blew everybody away.

So if you can try him out! He certainly will be travelling with us around Europe and always here with me

As long as I have my music and earphones and of course the big essential, sunglasses, that’s a definite leave me alone sign, I am happy.

We had one drummer who learnt Italian in the van whilst touring!

Me? I just watch the clouds passing by. I always have my lyrics book and have written a ton of lyrics whilst inside the van.

Once home they have passed their sell by date, but I still keep them, as there’s always the odd phrase or two that could work somewhere.

There’s nothing like coming off the ferry at six in the morning and roaring into Europe. I remember a certain musician who didn’t smoke or drink coming off that ferry with a cigarette in one hand and a large whisky in the other - the sea works in mysterious ways!

As you can tell, I love being on the road and I have many stories, some unrepeatable, never to be told, but all happy.

So my little victims if you like I can tell you what happened this time...Or any questions?

Be lucky babies Connie xxxxx

bill elms

My Recommendation for this month:

Bill Elms has worked in the theatre industry both locally and nationally for 25 years and left a 10 year position as Head of

11 March – 9 April Down the Dock Road | Royal Court Liverpool 40 years after it was written, Alan Bleasdale’s classic play returns, it was a smash hit when it first opened in 1976 at the Liverpool Playhouse starring Geoffrey Hughes and Micky Finn, for this run, Les Dennis and Andrew Schofield come together on stage along with a host of Royal Court stalwarts. Set in 1976 the show looks back at the characters of the Liverpool Dockyards and the tricks and scams that they used to get up to.

As funny and relevant now as it was 40 years ago, this is a chance to see Bleasdale at his best and to check out the rather snazzy theatre refurb.

Easter Pantomimes | Epstein, St Helens and Echo Arena | Easter Holidays I am certain that Easter Pantomime has only developed in the Merseyside region in recent years and this year they come in their droves

with St Helens Theatre Royal, Epstein Theatre and Echo Arena all offering Easter family treats and all complete with popular titles and star names. St Helens is running with Peter Pan with TOWIE favourite Lewis Bloor, The Epstein have the handsome James Hill from the Apprentice in Snow White and the Echo Arena have The Wizard of Oz starring childhood TV favourites Sooty and Sweep and not forgetting Soo. Check theatre websites for details.

Sales and Marketing at the Liverpool Empire Theatre in August 2008, to set up his own Marketing and PR Company based in Liverpool city centre.

Bill has also successfully entered into the world of theatre production with a growing portfolio of productions, collaborating with local artists and theatre companies. /BillElmsAssociates

22-23 March Ellen Kent Opera | Liverpool Empire Opera impresario Ellen Kent does it again bringing two of her most popular operas to the cavernous Empire, on this occasion Bizet’s Carmen and Puccini’s Tosca show are revisited complete with stallions and rescue donkeys. The impressive sets, outstanding lead vocalists and full chorus and orchestra ensure that nobody leaves the often full theatre disappointed.

2-5 March A Raisin In The Sun | Liverpool Playhouse Not a Playhouse production but part of a seven date UK Tour by leading black-led Eclipse Theatre company, it started life in 1959, being the first play presented on Broadway written by a black woman. The groundbreaking American story tells the ferocious portrayal of working class life on the cusp of the civil rights era, Lorraine Hansberry’s landmark drama bursts with intense family conflict, racial politics and social consciousness. Looking forward to seeing Amanda Stoodley’s set-design too.

From 1 March Bardolph’s Box | Unity Theatre and various venues In celebration of Shakespeare’s 400th birthday, Unity Theatre and Up The Road Theatre Company are touring a small-scale production to NW theatres, libraries and schools to introduce the Bard to our younger generation.

Join Bardolph on a roller-coaster ride through Shakespeare’s stories. Everyone needs a helping hand at times and he is just the boy for the job!

Who will you meet? Where will you go? Can you get his pals out of a pickle? One thing’s for sure, you’ll have a whole lot of fun along the way! The production is intended for 8-12 year olds and their families and some venues are free to attend.

Looking Ahead…

8 April Lovehistory Loves Crime! – St George’s Hall Liverpool’s criminal Victorian history is in the spotlight in an evening of dramatic storytelling within a theatre setting, in the second of the popular series of events with Lovehistory Ltd. From 18 April Lennon Through A Glass Onion – Epstein Theatre A real coupe for the Epstein to secure this critically acclaimed off-Broadway production about the life of John Lennon, starring Liverpool’s own Daniel Taylor.

St George’s Concert Room Programme An impressive new music, comedy and spoken word programme of events is now taking place in the stunning Concert Room, be sure to check it out this historic venue now busier than ever before.

THEATRE LISTINGS

THE EMPIRE THEATRE 0844 871 3017 The Glenn Miller Story 29th Feb – 5th March Annie 7th – 12th March Guys and Dolls 16th – 19th March Smile Together 20th March Ellen Kent: Tosca 22nd March Ellen Kent: Carmen 23rd March The Johnny Cash Roadshow 25th March Motown’s Greatest Hits: How Sweet It Is 26th March Horrible Histories- Groovy Greeks/ Incredible Invaders 30th March – 2nd April THE EPSTEIN THEATRE 0844 888 4411 The Gondoliers 2nd – 5th March The Puppini Sisters- The Highlife Tour 8th March King King 9th March Blofeld and Baxter – Rogues on the Road 10th March The Dreamboys 11th March Rainbow Magic Show 13th March West End Story 19th March Snow White and the Seven Dwarves 24th March – 6th April

Mothering Sunday Lunch with special guests The Night and Days 3th March The Manfreds feat. Mike D’Abo and Paul Jones 9th March Rehearsal for Murder 14th-19th March Nathan Carter and His Band (plus support) 20th March Circus of Horrors 21st Anniversary Tour - 24th March THE BUZ LIVE 25th March Strictly Come Dancing’s PASHA KOVALEV - It’s All About You - 26th March Simon Callow ‘One-Man Band’ - Orson Welles Biography - 30th March That’ll Be The Day - 30th Anniversary Special - 31st March ST GEORGE’S HALL 0844 800 0410 (Ticketquarter) Chamber Music in Liverpool Nathalie Stutzman, Contralto Inger Sodergren, Piano 2nd March Fascinating Aida’s Dillie Keane 3rd March Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood ‘Just you, Just Me’ 5th March The Simon and Garfunkel Revival Band 7th March

THE ROYAL COURT 0151 709 4321

ST HELENS THEATRE ROYAL 01744 756000

THE FLORAL PAVILION 0151 666 0000 Dave Spikey – Punchlines 3rd March

LIVERPOOL PLAYHOUSE 0151 709 4776 The Raisin Sun 2nd – 5th March The Herbal Bed 8th – 12th March We’re Going on a Bear Hunt 22nd 24th March THE PLAYHOUSE STUDIO 0151 709 4776 Land of Our Fathers 1st – 5th March THE EVERYMAN THEATRE 0151 709 4776 The Environmentalists 2nd – 5th March Unsung 9th – 12th March The Witches 15th – 19th March Bridget Christie: A Book for Her 21st March THE PHILHARMONIC HALL 0151 709 3789

Brick up The Mersey Tunnels 29th January – 5th March Down the Dock Road 11th March – 9th April

Joe Longthorn 4th March The King of Pop 5th March Swan Lake 6th March The Fureys 9th March The Billy Fury Show 11th March Magic – A Kind of Queen 18th March Peter Pan – Easter Panto 25th March – 17th April

Manning19th March Chamber Music in Liverpool Nightingale Quartet with Mathias Kjoller Clarinet 20th March Toyah Acoustic, Up Close & Personal 24th March Ian Shaw - The Theory of Joy 26th March

Yolanda Brown 8th March Jay Rayner – My Dining Hell 9th March Romesh Ranganathan: Irrational (Sold Out) 10th March Organ Recital 15th March The Liverpool String Quartet 16th March Mysteries on the Other Side: Wirral the Enchanted Peninsula 17th March Barb Jungr: Shelter from the Storm 18th March An Evening with Katy

Joanna Newsom 1st March Lindberg Conducts Neilson 3rd March St Mary’s College 4th March 80’s Invasion Tour Sunday 6th March In Harmony Liverpool: Celebrating seven years 7th March Collabro 8th March Einaudi World Premiere 10th – 11th March Syn_: Ryoichi Kurokawa 11th March James Martin: Plates, Mates & Automobiles and also Ezio12th March Shostakovich and Bizet Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Orchestra 13th March An Evening with Alexei Sayle 17th March A symphonic Adventure with the Unthanks 19th March Choral Celebration!

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth and Children’s Choirs 20th March Bach St Matthews Passion 23rd March Brendan Cole 2016 A Night to Remember 24th March Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott 26th March Shane Filan 28th March Viennese Masters 31st March THE ECHO ARENA 0844 8000 400 Dynamo 2nd 6th March Peter Andre 8th March X Factor 9th March Ellie Golding 10th March Ed Byrne 12th March Flanagan Vs Mathews 12th March Disney on Ice 2016 16th- 20th March Little Mix 22nd March Betway Premier League Darts 24th March Peter Kay’s Dance for Life 26th March The Sessions 30th March THE LANTERN THEATRE 0114 255 1776 Foolish Mortals 17th – 24th March

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REVIEW Last Train to Auschwitz - Floral Pavilion Theatre 20 February 2016 Auschwitz, Birkenau is a particularly harrowing place to visit. I went there myself some 25 years ago and what I witnessed then has stayed at the forefront of my mind ever since.

In the last edition of The Buz, an interview with Leslie Butler prompted a promise from me there and then to catch Last Train to Auschwitz when it came to the Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Not wanting to disappoint, that day came, and I duly took my seat ready for the first act.

The stage was simple. This story didn’t need fancy sets, in fact, for the opening scene the stage was dressed with a single armchair. Chrissy Rock sat on the chair in front of a big screen displaying actual photographs from the Holocaust, while she delivered an emotional introduction to the audience.

The play outlines the emotionally charged journey of six women as they are herded to and from the train and into the concentration camp. I am not really sure what I was expecting from this local cast, but what I witnessed, it’s fair to say, was a complete surprise.

All of the actors/actresses deserve a mention, but two stood out for me. Chrissy Rock delivered a passionate performance as Miriam, a Jewish lady with a mentally ill daughter. The scene where she suffocated Rachel, played by Hollie McGann, so the German’s wouldn’t torture and kill her was particularly poignant. Her cry turned from a sob to a menacing, harrowing howl, capturing the moment and moving me to tears.

The Oscar that night, however, would have to gone to Leslie Butler. Not because I know her, but because she was truly magnificent throughout. Her character, Sarah, had the biggest transition. A once privileged movie star finds the true meaning of life, albeit to late, when her turmoil and torture, teaches her humility, forgiveness and compassion. Lesley transported you to the camp, you where there. Her trembling body oozed emotion from every pore.

Anger, despair, you name it, we felt it with her. The scene when Sarah and her sister Ruth, played by Maggie Lynch, took their own lives was incredible.

Tears rolled down my face as I lived every hopeless moment with them, feeling their love and inhuman suffering, totally brilliant.

Greta, a Sonderkommando (a Jew forced to help the Germans), played by Bernie Foley was a great character, played so well that you began to think about her life. She was a neighbour of Miriam’s before the war and now deemed a traitor.

Rebecca Ray Johnston as Esther and Lynn Fitzgerald as Rosa, a Romany Gypsy, delivered strong performances both individually and as part of the group.

Rosa’s children, Karl and Emma played by Jordan and Libby Drinkwater Burke respectively, executed their roles so well, perfecting their accents and delivering their lines without hesitation. That leaves Hoss, the Commandant played by Saul Murphy. Unknown to the audience, Saul only stepped into his role at the last minute as a replacement, I take my hat off to you for what was yet another solid performance.

Perhaps the biggest credit of the day should go to Joan Turner, the writer and director. The script was well balanced between fact and fiction and the actors were handed paragraphs of pure gold.

For me the ending was genius. Miriam, back in the armchair as the only survivor of the camp, repeats a rather poignant piece which ends in her slipping quietly from this world. She is then greeted by the other cast members as they reunite in a peaceful, joyful place. A really thoughtful ending to bring the audience back around to a happy place.

If there is ever a play advertised starring any one of these actors, or written by Joan Turner, please take the time to watch it. If they are to be judged on today’s performance going forward, then the play is sure to be a big hit.

The cast just before curtain call, from left to right: Jordan Drinkwater Burke, Lynn Fitzgerald, Libby Drinkwater Burke, Chrissy Rock, Hollie McGann, Rebecca Ray Johnstone, Saul Murphy, Bernie Foley, Lesley Butler and Maggie Lynch.

Reviewed by Editor, Diane Tremarco

pauline daniels

It seems forever that we have been without the Buz magazine but now at last it’s back and I’m thrilled to a contributor there has been a great deal of changes in my life over the last few years too but for now, it’s suffice to say that I am now two years in remission from breast cancer and I’m back stronger than ever and fighting fit, alive and very much kicking.

Pauline Daniels is the first lady of comedy.

Her reputation goes before her when it comes to entertainment as she is also an accomplished actress and an incredible singer. /paulinedaniels

Before I start can I just say a big thank you to everyone who made the benefit night in February for our old mate Mickey Finn a great success, it sold out in three days and it’s all thanks to: Ricky Tomlinson, Gary Murphy, ASA Murphy, (no relation), Alison Daly, Joe Wall, Colin Gibson and Schooner. We of course have to thank Maureen and Frank Johns and Kenny Parry for letting us have the club for two nights. I also need to thank Jackie Woods at Lairds because hopefully the same will happen at Lairds on Sunday 13th March starring all the great Birkenhead lads, Mark Lacey, Alan Armstrong, Terry O’Shea, myself Willie Miller, Denny Waters and Randy King and his lovely daughter Joanne Wenton.

The next show is at Old Swan Conservative again with a comedy show. At the moment the line up is: me, John Evans and Sean Flannery (Mickey Finns son), but we have more to confirm for you next month. For anyone who doesn’t know, Mickey Finn has been poorly since before Xmas and as he is probably the hardest working comic for charity that we have on Merseyside it seemed time to pay him back and thank him for all he has done in the past by helping him out now and also in the future.

Well now I suppose it’s time to tell you what I am up to at the moment? Well I will be back on dry land as you read this, but I am writing this article while sailing to South America on the Marco Polo. It’s not been glamour and five star food all the way. So far, we had an horrendous crossing through the Bay of Biscay and our cabin was flooded, not the most pleasant event! The crossing was so bad I was able to form a really good relationship with my food because it kept coming back.

La Coruna in Spain was just like being at home, it poured down all day long and we literally just got off the ship found a bar and caught up with the Internet and had a few warming brandys. Next stop, Las Palmas in Gran Canaria and at last it’s sunny and warm the next four days at sea and the weather is now HOT HOT HOT!!! The highlight for me will be Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands a place that I visited just after the war, the Falklands War not the Second World War, before you start, I was entertaining the troops, one at a time.......No sorry I couldn’t resist, anyway the lads from the services used to call the islanders “Bennys” because they said that they were all like Benny from the programme Crossroads. They were all seriously told off and later changed their nickname for the locals to “STILLS” when they

were asked why, their reply was “they’re STILL BENNYS”.

Before getting to Brazil we stopped in a place called Mindello on Cape Verde, if you ever get the chance to visit .......DON’T!!!!!!! It’s the most westerly island before crossing the ocean to Brazil and it’s very poor, the sad thing is when people are so poor it becomes like a human zoo which I hate, I know that Rio De Janeiro is very similar, but the first stop in Brazil was Recife and Olinda which was in its time where the main sugar cane industry was and so it was a main disembarkation place for slaves, we were warned not to take jewellery and lots of cash and flashy cameras which scares the living day lights out of you but it was fine, we walked the streets feeling quite safe, hard to communicate they speak Portuguese but it’s very different to the sounds you hear in Lisbon and supermarkets are almost non existent quite disturbing to see people waiting outside a restaurant fighting for left over food, passengers on the ship were commenting on how horrifying it was and I had to stop myself from being just a little too outspoken about the fact that we have food banks at home and it’s not a million miles away from what we were witnessing, now that’s scary. The weather by the way wasn’t as good today, it was 36 but raining, thank god, not for long it’s very hot, I’ll stop moaning about the weather because I know just what the weather is like back home.

On to Illheus, the next stop. It was much more tourist orientated and there are great supermarket here. Passport Whisky is just £7 per litre, perfect place! Had a really cold beer and caught up on WIFI. I am working tonight and we leave early tomorrow, so a restful afternoon is on the cards.

Show went really well both nights, both shows, that’s it now, I’m on holiday!!!!

What can I say about Rio except that it’s hot has fantastic beaches? The Maracana football stadium where Pele scored over 1000 goals was a great place to visit. Christ The Redeemer the statue is amazing and so are the views from Sugar Loaf Mountain, but for me, Buenes Aires in Argentina has been my highlight, the Casa Rosada, Eva Perons grave and the amazing La Boca where you can see people doing the tango in the street, it’s fabulous!

Ok I have just returned to the ship after visiting the Town Hall where I performed for the troops all those years ago and memories flooded back.

Like the day we arrived at the first gig, got off the helicopter and was met by a scouser announcing that he had the keys to the stores and he was looking after us. And the night I sat on a bar stool and had a bunch of squadies sing “You’ve Got That Loving Feeling” from Top Gun to me and listen to their rendition of a song that they had

written called the Wokka song named after the sound of the double blades on the Chinook that took them home. Then there was the brilliant day we spent in the Liverpool tug boat the Indomitable, they saw us on the quay about to look at a battleship and shouted “we knew you were here Pauline, we read it in the Echo”. We changed our plans and spent the day with them instead.

We still have a small garrison in the Falklands but they only have CSE shows twice a year now at Mount Pleasant but I’m so glad I came back. Sad news is, the day I did, was the day Sir Terry Wogan died. As it happens, not long before I went to the Falklands the first time I did Wogan, he was charming, friendly kind and very supportive of me. He even let me have his driver, as I had to fly from London to Newcastle to try and make Mary Whitehouse laugh on a late night Lyne Tees programme. I wasn’t phased I had just appeared with Bob Hope on Wogan and it was one of the finest days of my career. RIP Terry, you were a great broadcaster and generous entertainer, you will be sadly missed, as will David Bowie and one of our finest actors Alan Rickman. The best bit of Robin Hood was the Sheriff of Nottingham walking through his castle and saying to a young girl “be in my room at midnight, and bring your sister”.

I am particularly sad about Glen Frey I had the great pleasure of seeing the Eagles two years ago and they were the best live band I had ever seen, so thank god I saw them but how sad that we will never see them together again.

I am now headed for the bottom of the world Ushuaia the gateway to the Antarctic so I’m going to leave it there, I hope you’ve enjoyed joining me on this journey, see you next month and just for the record, the people on the Falkland Islands are STILL.

THE LEVEE BREAKS

M: 07919 250990 Dynamic blues-rock line-up playing Led Zeppelin to Golden Earring, ZZ Top to Janis Joplin.

Available for pub gigs, functions, weddings, parties. A lively and varied set from experienced performers. www.facebook/ TheLeveeBreaksbluesrock

For Booking enquiries contact Danny on 07780835618 or Tequiladuo@yahoo.co.uk

For details of where Tequila are performing add them on social media Facebook.com/ tequilawirral and @tequiladuo on Twitter.

Lowflying is a project that started off in college and has been under many transformations over it’s four years of being, (including promotion/events company, an independent label that we released a few records from, a management company, in house events at Lomax etc. etc.) Now it’s back to a general umbrella events and networking company with a difference.

We’re all aware of how fragmented and fickle the Liverpool music scene can be in amongst genre clicks, and actually giving people good enough reason to physically support the artists and venues across a city well famed for its music.

We have an aim this year to get all the awesome DIY promoters together with multiple events, as well as our own personal showcase events, to hopefully drum up excitement again across the local, signed and unsigned artist base.

Hopefully generating more success and in turn more profit for everyone involved, the artists, the venues, everyone involved. For example, we had our first DeadLowBuddyDemand show February 19th with a stunning line up of locals who are both established, and just starting out. (Cosmic Warlord, Meet The Robots, SPQR, Lilium and Sneaky Nixons.) Four independents from venue promoters who have been doing shows for years,

Dead Sound, Lowflying, Yeah Buddy and Jump on Demand, now have a monthly showcase at The Magnet promoting the best of alternative artists we can find in Liverpool. If this first event was anything to go by, we are definitely on to something with this idea.

There’s some amazing talent in this city, but there’s just not enough live music venues who are willing to take a chance on enough of the unsigned and new artists. We aim to keep pushing the new guys through and help them on their way up. We’re world renowned for being a city with massive musical talent, but touring artists skip Liverpool out completely sometimes due to people preferring to ‘’support’’ from behind a keyboard instead of being front row at live shows or even supporting their friends work online.. it’s a strange thing.

There’s some phenomenal talent in Liverpool at the moment, Lilium, The Boston Shakers and Jessica West being personal favourites.

For more updates on our shows, events and general enquiries facebook.com/ LFRliverpool reverbnation.com/lowflying twitter.com/lowflyingrecords

LILIUM

THE BOSTON SHAKERS

JESSICA WEST

It’s been a long time since I was so surprised by a live band’s stage presence. On their tracks, they were so so good, and few people had mentioned about their live show being outstanding, but I wasnt prepared for how good it’d be.

You have to see to believe. Every member oozing with charisma and the frontman has the energy of a thousand Duracell. One’s to watch, ‘’Specialising in anthems, energetic live performance and unpredictability.’’ FFO Muse, Pearl Jam, Silverchair and anyone who wants to see a REAL rock show done properly.

‘’An infusion of heavy beats mixed with fuzzy guitars, shaken with raps and garnished with a dash of white noise.’’ is what their profiles say.

And the result is something pretty special and a definite shake up to what the Liverpool scene is used to.

Strikingly memorable performance, all 6 members have that chemistry that makes them seem like they’ve got experience of much older men, catchy as hell tunes that you can’t get out of your head for days, and an uncanny ability to get a full crowd bouncing.

Beautiful 24 year old acoustic artist with a captivating voice and no fear of telling it how it is. Jessica has been on the acoustic scene now for a few years, with folk and punk influences the girl can capture a rooms attention with ease and grace. A big hitter on the open mic scene too.

Find them here /liliumbanduk

Find her here /JessicaWestMusic/

Find them here thebostonshakersmusic.com

/liliumband

katherine murphy low flying records

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