More opportunities for Shetland's many singer-songwriters have opened up as a further three concerts have been added to the calendar.
Monthly sessions featuring singer-songwriters at Mareel, Shetland's new arts centre, are already well-established. Held in the café-bar, they're very informal and everyone is welcome, from seasoned performers to first-timers, and there's always an appreciative audience. However, Shetland Arts thinks there's a case for some ticketed concerts in which local performers can properly show the breadth and depth of their talent and develop their performing and writing skills.
The first concert will take place on Sunday 19 April and stars Lisa Ward, Sarah Thomson, and Matthew Adam. The others will follow on 12 July and 18 October.
Lisa Ward is the Shetland-based singer-songwriter who recently appeared on BBC's 'The Voice' as part of Sir Tom Jones' team. She has also supported Biffy Clyro and shared a stage with the Undertones. Her influences ranging from heavy metal and classic rock to traditional fiddle and her output, whether solo or in her band, Deathstar Canteen, is instantly recognisable. Her new EP, "Liminal", is just out.
Sarah Thomson plays regularly with Lisa in Deathstar Canteen and with Matthew and his band. However, she's a notable performer in her own right, performing her original singer-songwriter material in an ethereal vocal style accompanied by beautifully dark rhythm guitar. Sarah is also popular as a session musician.
Matthew Adam has often performed at the singer-songwriter nights and elsewhere. Drawing influence from folk, rock and metal, Matthew's voice has a soulful quality. He's played with his own band and other local musicians, as well as with Virginian singer-songwriter, Devon Sproule.
Lisa said: “The wonderful thing about the Singers & Songwriters" Group, and the monthly nights in Mareel, has been seeing all the writers and performers come out of the woodwork, showcase their talent, and grow in confidence with each performance. I think adding some regular concerts to the mix is a fantastic idea and will just add to the growth of the already popular group and its appreciative audience.”