Newport Open Mic 27th May 2014                                                                                                    

Another great night of talent was on show at the Royal Navy Club. At first it seemed that it may be a somewhat quiet night however, after a slow start we were thoroughly entertained by some extremely talented musicians.

First up was Jobe Spencer who played some great instrumentals including ‘old pine’ by Ben Howard. He followed this with his own blues and funk compilations which he just plays from the heart.

Next up was me ‘Grahame Weir’ I had not intended to play as I had performed the previous week and was penning this week’s advertiser article, still needs must and I was happy to offer a little something to the nights entertainment. Jobe joined me on stage playing the lead guitar and he was a superb accompaniment. Together we managed to cover some classic songs including ‘Stray Cat Strut’ ‘Feelin Good’ and ‘I don’t like Mondays’. 

Next up was the irrepressible Rich Evans, he gave us some fabulous covers starting with the Elvis classic ‘In the Ghetto’ next he played the Rolling Stones number ‘Wild Horses’  Its great for the Open Mic that talents such as Rich turn up and play. Formerly in several bands including Weazel Diesel and Tap the Keg he now plays many solo gigs in the county and has superb vocal talent. He finished his solo set with an old Herman Hermits song ‘I’m into something good’  and a slow blues number called dying breed. A great set by Rich who would be back later.

Claire Shaw who is an environmental science student was up next. She gave us an enthralling set which included several covers including ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ by Joni Mitchell and the One Direction number ‘What makes you beautiful’ . Claire also sang a couple of her own songs called ‘Heavy Heart’ and ‘Don’t Wanna Be’ a truly talented artist with an engaging manner I am sure we will see more of Claire in the future.

Next was one of the Navy Clubs special scratch performances that make it so exciting. Rich Evans was back on stage this time joined by a plethora of musical talent including Ed Sullivan on Harmonica, Tosh Murase on Drums, Tom Edgley on Bass and Dan Nicholas on Lead electric guitar. These five guys gave us some superb songs including ‘Sweet Home Chicago’ ‘Key to Love’ and ‘Muddy Water Blues’ I also recognised some mash ups and they effortlessly managed to blend in such songs as ‘Shake Rattle and Roll’ and ‘Boom,Boom,Boom’ . A truly mesmerising performance on every level. 

One of our talented regulars Olly Flavell who has gone from strength to strength over the last few years is playing is playing a special gig with Melissa Severn on Saturday June 14^th. The musical event in conjunction with NOVA FM Newport’s local radio station is called ‘The Making’ and will be held at the Royal British Legion. If you are interested in attending, tickets can be purchased from Hey Judes or Nova FM. Tickets cost £3.00 and you will not be disappointed as you are treated to some wonderful live music by these highly talented musicians.

Back to the live music we were treated to Dan, Ed & Rich performing some more impressive songs. Dan was now playing what looked like a National style guitar and Rich was on Bass while Ed played his harmonicas. They gave us a great version of ‘Wagon Wheel’ by Old Crow Medicine show.

Another great night came to end and everyone had been treated to some great live music. Please come down and join in the fun. The Navy Club Open Mic welcomes singers and musicians of all ability and if want to show off your talent in a friendly environment please give us a try. Needless to say even if you can’t perform musically we want you to support us and come down for a great night out.

Keeping It Live....

Words by Grahame Weir.