This might be a bit good...
On Thursday June 12th Canadian singer/songwriter Jenn Grant comes to The Grapes as part of her European tour. Her charming mix of folk and pop has seen her tour with The Great Lake Swimmers and The Weakerthans and latest album 'Orchestra For The Moon' features guests that include the likes of Ron Sexsmith. Jenn will be joined by special guest Neil McSweeney, currently working on the follow up to the acclaimed debut album 'Remember To Smile'. Neil previously showcased some of the songs from the next record at The Grapes back in February and more of the same can be expected tonight. Support also comes from Garron Frith.
Advance tickets priced at £5 are available from Jacks Records,
http://www.seetickets.com and
http://www.wagonwheelmedia.co.uk (booking fees may apply).
***JENN GRANT***
Jenn Grant, born in Prince Edward Island, now lives in Halifax, Novo Scotia, where she is a singer/songwriter and painter. Jenn was invited to record her first full length album (Orchestra for the Moon) at CBC's Studio H in Halifax. It was produced by Glen Meisner of the CBC along with Jason MacIsaac and Dave Christensen of "The Heavy Blinkers". There are many special guests on the recording, (Jill Barber, Ron Sexsmith, Matt Mays, Rose Cousins, Dale Murray and many others) and Grant has also been fortunate enough to share the stage with some of her favorites like Feist, Julie Doiron, Ron Sexsmith, Josh Ritter and most recently toured with The Great Lake Swimmers and then The Weakerthans. Last year she completed a month long tour in Germany as well other dates in France, England, Switzerland, Luxembourg and most recently Northern Ireland. The summer brought a special invite to the Edmonton Folk Festival and then some performances in NYC. Grant continues to write songs and tour in support of "Orchestra for the Moon" and looks forward to recording her next album. She thrives on the artistic beauty of all her friends.
"As a début album this is a hell of a calling card, here voice is excellent throughout and there’s barely a dip in the quality of the writing and musical performances, proving she’s not just another feisty singer from Canada." Americana-uk.com
http://www.myspace.com/jenngrant1
***NEIL McSWEENEY***
Neil McSweeney is a songwriter from Sheffield who performs his material on his own or with a five-piece band.
December saw the release of digital only single 'A Rope To Hang' on the KIDS label, following on from the debut single ‘Postcards’, also released through KIDS in the summer of 2007. The powerful 'Postcards' struck a nerve with all who came across it. Radio support from Zane Lowe (Radio 1) — including a prestigious ‘Sunsetter’ play — Huw Stephens (Radio 1), Jonathan Ross (Radio 2) and Mark Radcliffe (BBC 6Music) was bolstered further by a slot on the XFM Playlist. The track was supported heavily by respected indie stores across the land, particularly Piccadilly Records and Rough Trade, both of whom made it their single of the week.
‘A Rope To Hang’ is music at its most sparse, yet most affecting. Neil’s huge voice — which has drawn favourable comparisons to Leonard Cohen, Jeff Buckley or a male Tracy Chapman — is supported solely by the most delicate of acoustic backing, showcasing its intensity and raw power to the full. The track brings to mind Jose Gonzales’ ‘Heartbeats’ and Scott Matthews’ ‘Elusive’ in both its haunting performance and sheer songwriting quality.
McSweeney started writing his Americana-tinged, folksy solo material while teaching English in Italy. Upon returning to his native Sheffield, he continued to write songs inspired by the likes of Low and Papa M, and his intense, brooding live performances lead to him being voted ‘Sheffielder Most Likely To kill Himself’ on one internet forum, and described as ‘the most miserable man alive’ on another.
A top class performer with songs to match, much is expected from the follow up to his wonderful debut album 'Remember To Smile'.
“Deeply felt, brooding songs rich in imagery…he has the tools to make a real impact” – The Guardian
http://www.myspace.com/neilmcsweeney
***GARRON FRITH***
Northwest singer/songwriter Garron Frith is quietly making a name for himself off the back of constant gigging, and not least his stunning self-titled debut album which is available now on Ravine Records. The record was produced by one time member of The Willard Grant Conspiracy Simon Alpin, who also plays on the album. Other great musicians that contributed to the tracks include members of Grand Drive and legendary Green On Red guitarist and singer/songwriter Chuck Prophet.
Garron has opened for many acts such as Glen Tilbrook, Martin Stephenson, Danny George Wilson (Grand Drive), and most recently Southside Johnny and the Asbury Dukes.
Garron has always proved very popular on his previous appearances at our Americana Night and the album is winning him many fans too.
"beautiful country rock gem" 5/5 Sunday Express
"excellent" 4/5 Maverick Magazine
http://www.myspace.com/garronfrith