June Tabor/Andy Cutting at Chequer Mead

Mark Emerson/Andy Cutting at Chequer Mead

Quite a few people still think that Acoustic Sussex is all about folk music exclusively, but I can assure those that think so, they are mistaken. The kind of music that AS presents is extremely eclectic and ranges from almost any kind of interesting music that doesn't get represented by mainstream popular musical tastes. So we can expect to hear anything from the kind of musical gems offered by singer/songwriters with mainly their own compositions through to folk music, jazz/folk fusion, blues and various virtuoso musicians and including some music which is on the fringe of world music. (In this, I refer to the impending appearance of Pierre Bensusan in the not too distant future. Check him out!) In fact I am still amazed at the diversity and exceptional quality of the artists showcased at the various venues used by Acoustic Sussex and if they did a "Room 101" on their presentations, the lever certainly wouldn't be pulled very often. 

On this occasion it was folk's turn and we were privileged to host one of the first ladies of folk music, June Tabor. This lady has been around for a little while now having released numerous much respected albums which include collaborations with other well respected artists of the genre. June has a real passion for her art and is transformed on stage into an artist of immense concentration and perfect delivery of her music. I am pleased to be witnessing the music of someone who delves deep into the folklore of our heritage and those of our neighbours and distant kin. 

June, who provided exquisite vocals with her rich and silk-like voice, was on the first night of her current tour and was accompanied by Mark Emerson on grand piano, viola and violin; and Andy Cutting on box accordion, who both put in exceptional performances. This was a new and unusual combination of instrumentation, but one which worked extraordinarily well. 

In between numbers we were treated to comments about the song about to be played, like where it came from and when it was popular and stories pertaining to the lyrical content which was almost invariably humorous. Just like Peter Gabriel in the old days! Once the song was under way, June's concentration was one-pointed and revealed the song's content with great feeling. These songs are as important today as they were when they were written as they are about everything we experience, the human suffering and elation and everything in between. Same as it ever was! 

Each song was performed like a little play and when not voicing the lines of the play. Off-mic, June continued to respond to the flowing rhythms of the instruments with her voice being used as an additional instrument which could just be detected on the PA in the distant background; either that or she would disappear offstage while the musicians did there own atmospheric explorative musical breaks. Other times she would break into terpsichorean perambulations round the stage a little bit like her other Silly Sister, Maddy Prior. The audience responded well to the band's offerings and the applause was both loud and continuous throughout the evening. I have always well respected June's efforts and can't wait for her return, as I am sure this will happen. Well done Martin!!! 

Songs performed were, Dancing, The Duke Of Atholl's Nurse, Bobbing Joe, The Rigs Of Rye, Le Mois De Mai, Standing In Line, To The Edge, Now Welcome Summer, April Morning, My Love, Up The Hill segue Cold And Raw, Speak Easy, Cold Night On Burns Street, History Man, Send Us A Quiet Night, Jamaica, The Old Beggar Man, Lie Near Me, Bella Rose and Anneliese.

Review courtesy of Bob Preece