• Review •

Wednesday October 23rd 2002.
The Acoustic Roots and Open Stage Nights
Weymouth Arms, Emwell Street, Warminster, Wiltshire.

Photograph by Paul Martin Tel 01747 822314

"The Weymouth Arms, Emwell Street hosted a lively night of music on Wednesday.
Many of the regular performers at this twice-monthly acoustic roots music night had travelled from all over the West Country to sing and play during the first part of the evening, and provided rich and varied entertainment with folk, blues, bluegrass and ragtime songs and instrumentals, as well as original compositions from the musicians themselves.

Photographs by Paul Martin Tel 01747 822314

Highlight of the evening was a set from guest five-piece band Sackful of Sovereigns, who describe themselves as an 'electric folk' band and performed a mix of traditional and self-penned folk songs accompanied by electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, flute and saxophone.

Their musical style, together with lead vocalist Denise's distinctive voice, is reminiscent of Steeleye Span with a little bit of Fairport Convention thrown in. There were familiar songs such as 'Thomas the Rhymer' and a great folk-rock rendition of 'Early one Morning'. Many of their own songs had historical subjects, such as 'All for the sake of the King' which commemorates the Battle of Roundway Down. 'Sackful of Sovereigns', the song which gave the band its name, is the tale of a highwayman.

They are talented and versatile musicians who gave a great evening's entertainment and it is hoped that they will be persuaded to make a return visit at a later date.

The next acoustic roots night at the Weymouth Arms is on Wednesday 13 November when regular performers the Kitchen Sink Band will take the stage for the second half of the evening. An eclectic mix of guitars, mandolin, whistle, harmonica and - who knows? - maybe even the kitchen sink, will combine to bring us jigs, reels, traditional songs, bluegrass and whatever takes their fancy on the night. Don't miss them."

"

"Sonya Ward - Warminster Journal Friday 8th November 2002"

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