Wednesday night we played host to acoustic duet Tinderbox. With beautiful guitar playing from Dan Tucker and honey like vocals from Monique Houraghan, this acoustic duet are something special. literally the only way I can describe them is that your ears feel like they’ve gone to heaven and back. For more info go to www.tinderbox.com and to buy there music, click HERE.

Be Sharp

Wednesday night we had a free entry gig with Be Sharp. The band consists of Jerry Stevenson on guitar, Bob Jenkins on drums and Richard J Finch Turner on Bass. This high energy trio are a site to behold. Jerry achieves his unique guitar sound by making his own guitar (out of an old wardrobe) and making his own stereo amps and pedals. It’s probable one of the most interesting guitar setups I’ve ever seen. To find out more about this amazing band go to www.besharp.co.uk

Shotgun House

Friday Night we had hard hitting blues rock group Shotgun House. With powerful vocals from Dominique Olliver, who some how manages to cut through the whole band, this incredable group are one to watch out for. For more information on this group click HERE.

Album Of The Week

Time for yet another album of the week, this weeks winner is David Bazan’s ‘Strange Negotiations’. The thing that struck me about this album how simple the tracks are, yet they hold my attention from start to finish. His iconic rustic vocal style reminds me a little of the Kins Of Lion front man Caleb Followill. Have a listen of the title track Strange Negotiations below and let us know what YOU think in the comments.

Well I guess thats it for this week, thanks for reading and remember, keep music live

The Cavern Team xx

Thursday night we hosted the one and only Protect The Beat. Never before have I seen a band like this, the musicianship was literally out of this world. The all star line – up consisting of Derek Nash - sax (Jools Holland, Dave Grusin, Sax Appeal) Winston Blissett - bass (Massive Attack, Jeff Lorber) Tim Cansfield - guitar (Steve Winwood, Annie Lennox, Ray Charles) Arden Hart - keys & trumpet (Bootsy Collins, Massive Attack) Darby Todd - drums (Dennis Rollins, Disney’s Lion king) was a sight to behold. With mind blowing solos and grooves that funk so much it should be illegal, its a band of the highest standard and I still pinch myself that we actually had them here.

The thing that struck me the most about Derek’s performance was its not often you see a Jazz Saxophonist move around the stage so much, not only was his sound perfect but you could just watch this guy play all day and not get bored. We plan on having them returen to the Cavern soon so watch this space. For more information visit www.protectthebeat.com

Monthly Jazz Night with Jim Mullen

“June’s monthly jazz night drew our biggest audience yet, for a visit from acclaimed guitarist Jim Mullen, one of the most popular and well respected figures in British jazz. From the opening of the first set with the Rodgers and Hart tune Blue Room, through to the final number of the University Challenge theme tune, it was altogether an evening of gentle humour and wonderfully crafted music from both Jim and pianist Mike Gorman. The set included some popular jazz staples including the beautiful ballad I Fall in Love too Easily, an up tempo rendition of East of the Sun, the (carefully pronounced!) My Ship, and a fabulous solo version from Jim of Gershwin’s I Can’t Get Started. A good peppering of quotes along the way, and the audience showed their appreciation with their usual enthusiasm. Thanks to these great musicians for a wonderful evening, and we look forward to Jim’s next visit! The next monthly jazz evening is on July 11th with trumpeter Martin Shaw. Advance booking may be essential, and tickets are available HERE. (written by resident bass player Marianne Windham)”

Our monthly drumming nights seem to be getting more and more popular and why wouldn’t they when you have people like Mike Sturgis and Francis Seriau telling you all the tricks of the trade. Francis is know all over the world for creating Drumtech, his  concepts and techniques have attracted musicians to his schools from over 50 different countries as well as some of the biggest names in music. So to be up close and learn from him was a fantastic opportunity.

Our very own Mike Sturgis showed us all his drumming secrets to, he also spoke of recording in the studio and his ways of approaching tracks. After working with big names such as as David Bowie, Elton John, A-ha, Asia, Jack Bruce, Steve Winwood, Sam Brown, Tom Jones, Boyzone and Bono, as well as American jazz greats Bob James, Randy Brecker and Bob Mintzer, to hear how he works and to get advise on how to get out there in the industry, its just a rare opportunity. You can actually book 1 on 1 lessons with Mike by clicking HERE and filling out the form.

Pete Roth Featuring Tim Sanders 

This months Pete Roth Night was a very special one as joining Pete was Mike Nichols on Bass, Stuart Roberts on Drum and the one and only Tim Sanders on Sax ( Eric Clapton, Rolling Stones, The Who). Every time I see Pete Live he always seems to top the last, and Thursday was no exception. Mind blowing guitar solos and rhythms that groove so deep its causes you move its a night that just seems to do it for me every time. Pete next show is on the 29th of June, for more info and to get tickets click HERE.

Nick Haper

Friday night we had the legendary Nick Harper. Son of the legendary UK singer-songwriter Roy Harper, Nick has played the guitar from the age of 10 and was surrounded by the likes of Keith Moon, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and Dave Gilmour as he grew up, so it was no surprise when Nick made his recording debut on his father’s ‘Whatever Happened to Jugula?’ in 1985. Getting to chat to him and listen to all his stories was mind blowing, he told me about Jon Gomm and Newton Faulkner being support acts for him before they got big and that he’s so happy that they’ve come as far as they have. He also showed me his amazing stereo wireless guitar set up which just baffled me. Were planning on having nick back down next year so watch the space for more info. 

Album Of The Week

Oh yes its that time of the week again and this weeks winner is the new John Mayer album ‘Born And Raised’ This long anticipated album took me by surprise. I wasn’t expecting it to be as moving as it is. It’s still that good old John Mayer sound but its leading a bit closer to Folk/ Country then Blues. The stand out track for me is ‘A Face To Call Home’ which is quite simply beautiful. I highly recommend this album so please give it a chance, you won’t regret it.

Well I guess that’s it for this week, look forward to seeing you at one of our shows and remember, keep music live

The Cavern Team xx

Wednesday night we hosted local talent Joanna Weston at the Cavern. As well as performing in this years Guil Fest on the acoustic stage, Joanna has toured Europe and released two EP’s called ‘Pieces Of The Puzle’ and ‘What Do I Do?’ which you can buy from her site HERE. Her live performance was intermit and memorable. Her voice seems to fill your head with the true meaning of the lyrics she sings and her warm bubbly personalty comes across in her stage presents. You MUST check out her music and see her live, she embodies everything that’s great about current Folk music.

Supporting Joanna we had the young up and coming talent Rebecca McIntee. At the age of just 16 she gave a blinding performance playing some of her own songs and covers. She’s one to look out for so remember the name because you’ll be seeing a lot of great things from this girl in the years to come.

Domi Hawken + The Artie Fufkins

What a treat we had on Thursday, rising star Domi Hawken made an appearance playing some of her own songs. Her powerful voice coupled with her beautifully crafted songs makes for an act that will blow your socks off. To find out more about this amazing talent, go to www.domihawken.com

The Artie Fufkins made their first appearance at the Cavern on Wednesday as a support for Domi. This fantastic trio were formed by singer Matt Carr in 2009. Since then the band has gone from strength to strength releasing  their new EP ‘It’s Either Me Or The Wall Paper’ which you can listen to HERE.

Phillip Goodhand – Tait & Dave The Rave

We had a full house on Friday with Phillip Goodhand – Tait & Dave The Rave. As well has some of the original members of the Stormville Shakers getting and proving they still had it, Dave read some extracts from his book ‘An Age Of Bewilderment’ telling stories of the bands past which were both hilarious and memorable. A truly amazing night and a massive ‘Hats Off’ to these music legends.

Album Of The Week 

This weeks winner is ‘Concubine Chronicles’ by our very own Redtenbachers Funkestra. This live studio album captures the bands sound perfectly, feel good, high energy and down right Funky. I’ve chosen this album out of all their others because you can listen to any band on a recording and they can sound good but then when you go watch them live they don’t live up to the expectation of the album, but these guys live are soooooo good its comes across brilliantly on the recording. To get the album click HERE to go to the Funk store.

You can catch Rentenbachers Funkestra live at The Farncombe Cavern on 1st June, Click HERE for tickets.

The week of the 23rd in July we have our very first summer school starting. It’s a week long intensive music course with a live performance at the end, you can learn from the very best in the industry. Band Workshops exists to create contemporary music courses that are informative, inspirational and fun. These educational experiences are for guitarists, drummers, bass players, and singers who are passionate about music making and live performance. To find out more about this exciting school go to www.bandworkshops.com

Monthly Jazz Night With Art Themen

The sell-out audience at our monthly jazz night this week welcomed three of Britain’s most in-demand jazz musicians to the Cavern, as saxophonist Art Themen, without doubt one of the the most respected jazz musicians in Britain, was joined by the astonishly brilliant pianist Malcolm Edmonstone and virtuosic percussionist Paul Clarvis. It was an evening of great enjoyment, both on stage and off, and the rapport between the musicians was tangible and infectious. The interplay between them was inventive, playful and beautifully melodic, as we set out on a journey that started at a run with Monk’s Hackensack, and took us via Art’s gorgeous rendition of the Charles Lloyd tune Forest Flower, Jobim’s Once I Loved featuring the extraordinary Paul on tambourine, through the driving latin groove of Victor Feldman’s Azule Serape, and a beautiful solo from Malcolm at the end of the Bill Evan’s tune Waltz for Debby, to a encore that culminated in a brilliant rendition of the Sonny Rollins tune Doxy. All three of these great musicians were on fine form, and judging by the comments of the sell-out audience at the end this was an evening that won’t be quickly forgotten! The next evening is on June 13th with award winning guitarist Jim Mullen. Advance booking is highly recommended – tickets are available here: http://www.wegottickets.com/event/164971 (written by resident bassist Marianne Windham)

Julie Felix 

On Friday we had the return of folk legend Julie Felix. As well as playing some of her classic hits that we all remember her for, she also spoke a lot about her life experiences, the people she’s worked with and places she’s been. It was truly a memorable evening, the thing I find amazing is that at the age of 74 she’s still out there touring and as sharp as ever. We look forward to her return next year.

Album Of The Week

This weeks winner is Janek Gwizdala’s ‘It Only Happens Once’. After his mind blowing performance at the Cavern in January, I went away and listened to this album with very high expectations, I wasn’t disappointed. With stunning drum performances and chord progressions that leave you hanging on the edge or your seat its an album that everyone must listen to. The dynamics of each track takes you on a roller-coaster ride going from quiet sections to full blown crescendo parts, it takes me back to the good old days when prog music was at its hype.

Janek has released this album on a ‘Name Your Price’ format, so you can have the album for free or you can pay a what you want to show your support. Their’s no excuse for you to not listen to it now so click HERE to get your free download.

Well I guess that’s it for this week, look forward to seeing you at one of our shows and remember, keep music live

The Cavern Team xx

Thunder Duo

Arguably the worlds most unique drum act ‘Thunder Duo’ came down to the Cavern on Wednesday. They arrived at the venue early as the drummer Gabor Dornyei had just received his brand new hand made Sonor drum kit  which you can see in the picture below. I know, I wouldn’t know what to do with it either other then stair at it with wide eyes. Gabor certainly new what do with it, the partnership of Gabor and Kornel Horvath was out of this world. The complex interchanging rhythms were mind boggling as at one point Gabor got everyone clapping but when they started playing a bizarre polyrhythm to the tempo, the audience’s timing fell apart but Thunder Duo remained perfectly in time. Incredible.

The evening was sponsored by Andertons and Sabian who generously donated some amazing raffle prizes. Thunder Duo also had a question and answer session in which they revealed their secrets. Kornel explained his unique style of playing and how he developed it from watching Indian percussion players. I could go on forever talking about these guys but its better if you go to their official site www.thunderduo.com to find out more about this amazing act.

Latin Quarter 

On Friday, after two years since their last visit we had Latin Quarter return to the Cavern . You may remember them from the 80′s with their hit record ‘Radio Africa’. It was amazing to see them still touring and making new music. As well as playing some of their classic hits they also played tracks from their latest album  ’Ocean Head’ which I highly recomend.

Album Of the week!!!

It’s that time of the week again, this weeks album is ‘Maridian’ by Pete Roth. I know I shouldn’t have favorites but this is deferentially the best Jazz album in my collection. From haunting moments that leave you hanging on one note to massive drum solo’s and guitar lines that scream class, this is an album that every Jazz fan MUST HAVE in their collection. Each track has a story and paints a picture in your head, ‘First Snow’ does this the most, its seems to hit you at your core and forces you to give it your full attention.

To find out more go to www.peteroth.com and to get the album click HERE. You can also get tickets to watch the Band LIVE by clicking HERE.

Well I guess that’s just about it for this week, hope to see you at one of our nights. Don’t forget to comment and remember, keep music live

We had our monthly installment of the funkiest band in the UK  ’Redtenbacher’s Funkestra’. With this all star line up consisting of Stefan Redtenbacher – bass, bandleader and writer, Mike Sturgis – drums, Eran Kendler – guitar, Rob Taggart – keys, Jim Hunt – tenor saxophone and Sid Gauld – trumpet, its a night that I can only describe as ‘AMAZING’. I could try and talk to you about these guys but who could do it better then the man himself Stefan Retenbacher. Watch this exclusive in-depth interview which talks about all the members and the bands unique way of recording.

To find out more go to www.stefanredtenbacher.com to buy CD’S and keep up the the latest news from the band.

We also had the young up and coming Jazz Funk band ‘Dusty Pocket’ supporting RB Funkestra on Friday. These young musicians sound as if they’ve been playing a life time, with high energy tracks and solo’s that will blow you away their a band to keep an eye on, only good things will come of these guys. To find out more go to www.facebook.com/dustypocketmusic to keep up with what there doing.

Album Of The Week

This week’s album is is the stunning Folk duet ‘The Civil Wars’ with their album ‘Barton Hollow’. The partnership of their vocals is something spacial, they seem to blend into one seamless voice. Along with beautiful guitar and piano parts and lyrics that resonate and tell a story its an album that you MUST listen to, trust me, you wont regret it

Click HERE to buy the CD

Anita Wardell

Anita is renowned in the industry for having incredible phrasing in her solo’s and wide vocal range, she proved why. The timeba of her voice gave me goose bumps and watching the passion in her performance made me believe that every word she sang, she meant. For more information on Anita go to www.anitawardell.com for more tour dates and don’t forget to keep an eye out for our next Monthly Jazz night beacuse tickets sell fast.

Pete Roth Band

On Friday we had our monthly fix of The Pete Roth Band but this month was very special. We had the one and only Giorgio Serci open up the evening. Giorgio has played all over the world and with some big names such as Shirley Bassey, Juilan Loyd Webber and Nigel Kennedy (to name a few). His performance demonstraghted his fornominal guitar skill and displayed his friendly personalty, with a mixture of orginals and beautifuly aranged covers he’s an artist that is a ‘must see’ act. We also had the Godalming collage big band in to perform some Jazz classics. These young musicians showed true ability and skill even though it was there first ever performance :-O It’s reassuring to know that the next generation of Jazz players are this good and we can’t wait to see them progress. Pete Roth’s set gave us a sneak preview as to whats going to be on the next album which Pete said they would be going into the studio this summer to record. In and explosive end to the evening Pete Roth invited our very own Andy Moore to the stage to jam in there final song of the evening. Andy and Terl Bryant did an epic drum off that quite frankly BLEW MY MIND and left us all asking for more at the end of the night. Keep an eye out for Pets’s next night

Album Of The Week 

This week the winner is Giorgio Serci & Roberto Manzin’s ‘Silver Lining’. This stunning album is a jazz collection essential. The combernation of Giorgio’s  virtuoso finger style playing and the floating improvised lines of Roberto’s solo’s makes for a listen that takes to places you’ve never been before. This album is available HERE.

Well I guess that rap’s up this weeks blog, remember to share your thought’s in the coment’s section. Until next Saturday have a great week and remember, Keep music live

The Cavern Team xx

Hatful Of Rain

On a very rainy Tuesday night, ironically we had ‘Hatful Of Rain’ fill our hall with their music. Based in Sussex the Blue Grass/Folk group came down to our humble little venue and put on a fantastic night. From the moment they walked in through the door for sound check they were very professional and struck me as genuinely nice people. With their own mic set up, which reminded me a lot of the Mumford & Sons 2011 Brit Awards performance, their sound was very earthy and dynamic. Their debut album will be released soon so if you wanna hear more, go to www.hatfulofrain.co.uk to keep up to date.

Patsy Matheson & Becky Mills

On Thursday we welcomed Patsy Matheson & Becky Mills. Their beautiful and down to earth song writing gave me goose bumps that along with soft vocal harmony’s and guitar parts that seamlessly blended into one another makes them a must see act. For more info go to www.patsymatheson.co.uk

Album Of The Week

The first ever album of the week goes to (drum roll) …. Derrin Nauendorf. His self titled live album takes you on a journey, with amazing singing and guitar playing that quite frankly makes me not want to bother learning to play. It’s what I like to call a ‘Head phone album’. To really get the full spine tingling experience from his songs you have to put head phones on, close your eyes and listen. The album demands your full attention. To hear more go to www.derrinnauendorf.com and follow this musical phenomenon.

Well I guess that’s it for our first ‘Week In Review’ blog, feel free to comment and put forward your thoughts. Until next week, have an amazing weekend and keep music live.

The Cavern team xx