Six artists come together to celebrate the music of John Martyn for this special project. Each brings their own story and connection to John’s music which adds to the fabric of the overall experience. This diversity of different musical paths of the musicians recreate the many different aspects and eras of Martyn’s music and is delivered in a sensitive and poignant manner.
Kit Hawes is a virtuoso guitarist, composer, singer songwriter and mandolin enthusiast. Coming from a musical family, Kit was steeped in folk and roots music from the outset; learning from his parents and the many musicians who would pass through the farm. At age 14, he dropped out of school to pursue a career as a professional musician. Kit has played all over the world and has gained a reputation as top class instrumentalist working with a wide range of artists including Seth Lakeman, Cara Dillon and Yola.
Pete Josef has always been a soul singer at heart, but his multi-instrumental skills have led him into some interesting situations. For several years he has recorded and performed live with Roni Size and Reprazent, and more recently with Rag ’n’ Bone Man as well as being a touring artist in Kelis’ live band, gracing the stages of Glastonbury festival, Jools Holland and Fuji Rock. All whilst in this time working on his debut album Colour which was featured at Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Awards.
Sam Brookes In 2011 his eponymous debut album saw him named as Sunday Times ‘Breaking Act’ and his independently released follow up Kairos was picked as one of the best albums of 2014 by The Independent. Considerable streaming success and support slots for the likes of Willy Mason, Scott Matthews and Joan Armatrading have earned Sam a dedicated following and growing anticipation for his third album.
John Blakeley and Jon Short form a uniquely creative and original rhythm section who over the years have played together in variations incarnations with such artists as Yola, Sheelanagig and No Go Stop.
In the wake of a special one off, sold out show in 2018 at the Camden Jazz Cafe, the group decided to take the project on tour and the warm reception it received has inspired them to continue. Since then they have regularly toured the UK and mainland Europe as well as bringing John’s music back to the festival circuit. Each tour they continue to introduce more of John’s back catalogue from obscure live recordings to classic favourites reworked and presented with rich harmonies and diverse instrumentation.
For your chance to catch this six of them celebrate the music of Jojn Martyn, they will be at Liverpool’s The Tung Auditorium on Thursday 6th February for tickets and further information, please check out the website.
