Grimsby and Cleethorpes Civic Society have been raising awareness of our local heritage and helping create new heritage for years. The music event held at the Town Hall on 5th May celebrated that and entertained a full crowd with a night of songs that got us all reflecting, celebrating, singing and of, course, sharing a drink. It was fantastic to see so much local talent on show.
The evening began with the golden voice of Kirsty Hannah who set the tone with her warm and engaging rendition of folk songs, supported by Gary on guitar and sometimes singing alone. Through her music and chat with the audience she was able to give a young and modern context to the content, which she delivered superbly. If you get the chance to catch one of her performances in future you will be blessed to be entertained by a rare talent.
Next up was Grimsby acoustic stalwart Rob Bywater. He treated us to a set of original songs, which showed his natural talent as a writer and performer. Typical of his superb output was the final song about being in a pub a long way from home and thinking about our town, and all that is good about it. We are very lucky to have somebody like Rob and his live performances are always classy and he knows how to keep an audience enthralled.
The show changed gear with the introduction of a reflective set from Dave Wagstaff whose voice and guitar playing took us through some classics of the US West Coast / NY Folk scene from the late 60s and early 70s. Some songs that people may not have heard before, some old favourites – but all sung in his warm voice and all appreciated by the crowd.
Last up was our very own Beard (and Papps!) who made us almost lock the doors to keep the site security from throwing us out. These two accomplished musicians are clearly on the same page, having played together many times, and their song choices were perfect for an evening such as this. A singing, smiling, clapping and reflective audience were taken through half a dozen classic songs from the folk-modern idiom. You don’t read a sentence like that every day, do you?
The bar staff kept the drink flowing, the acts kept the music going and the crowd were thoroughly entertained. What more can you ask for, from a great night out celebrating all that is good about our town through the medium of song. If anything like this happens again – I would urge folks of all ages to go along, you will not be disappointed.
PH
We thanks PH for his excellent review of what was a really good evening! SM