club review

Hi gang a big thanks to Ian, for not only being a brilliant resident singer for our club but for a lovely review, I always like to find someone else to do the review so it's a version from the audience's view plus it's a big help to me. Ian admits he's no good with name so I'll do that bit. Our brilliant guest was Jo Zeff Roberts, the amazing band are an alliance of previous singular musicians who regularly played at the club who got together and formed 'Walk like fool does ' look out for them, we also had superb guitarist Paul Dearden, he also put a new string on Jo's guitar when he was a little exuberant lol. We had an excellent singer/songwriter and good friend and supporter of the club Roydan Styles, plus our other resident singer the lovely Jack McCully and a fabulous surprise musician and singer/songwriter Kevin Seisay, Kevin will be our first guest for 2015 on January 30th make sure that is in your diary and 27th February Walk like fool does, I hope I've not forgotten anyone. For the many musicians, singers and supporters who came to the tribute night in memory of Lynn Hardman we raised £190, so thank you for helping to do that. Well, all it leaves me to say is a big big thanks for supporting the club, cos without your support we couldn't do it. I'd also like to thank the people behind the scenes who do so much without question, Kevin and Carolanne Roddy thank you for all the work you do for the club. So on that note I wish everyone a great Christmas and a happy New Year and I hope to see you and more new faces in 2015 lots of luv Lorna xx

club review by Ian Sproson

December 19th Review

I am sat here thinking of words to describe this night, which was listed as our Christmas Party. The problem is that all the usual words like 'Fantastic' or 'Brilliant' I have thrashed to death and I have no doubt the readers will sigh saying this has all been said before. However at risk of grinding out the usual rhetoric, here goes.

I am hopeless with names and as there was so many of us at the Cleveland I will only mention our guest by name, the rest of us rose to the occasion with our usual enthusiasm, and high standard of performance. In common with most other nights I started digging out one of the few Christmas songs, which set the tone for the rest of the evening I hoped. It did including a new band, which was simply amazing! Some old friends we had not seen for more time than any of us care to remember added a further tingle to the night. The mixture also was amazing covering parts of the music spectrum sadly neglected in most other venues. Even Orville made a brief appearance ably assisted with some helium gas used in our balloons. The friendleness and warmth of the Cleveland Folk Club is the best I have ever experienced and I've experienced a few in my time. This warmth was matched and amplified by Joe Seff who ended the night with a storming set complete with intervention of a guitar mechanic who not only replaced the broken string but got the instrument in tune ready to roll!!! Brilliant something that could only happen here. God bless you all and we can all wish each other a super Christmas and a brilliant New Year!!!

club update

Hi gang really sorry post is late but for some reason I was unable to post message cause screen kept freezing. This week it's the club Xmas party yey !! Our guest is the fantastically brilliantly talented singer/songwriter Jo Zeff Roberts. Jo's played at the club previously and always goes down well he runs his own club in Chorlton on Thursday night definitely a great place to go if you are looking for good company and great music, Jo also joined other musicians recently for a fundraiser and tribute night for Lynn Hardman all will be revealed about that tomorrow night. Although it's a guest night it would be good if any previous guests from this year are free to come along and join in to end the year on a high and go out with a bang lol !! Club opens at 8.30pm in the words of Mike Bowden "be there or be talked about" lol hope to see there luv Lxx

Information about Tribute Night for Lynn Hardman

Hiya gang, here is a link for Folk North West to help get people to tribute night for Lynn. http://www.northwestfolk.co.uk/article.php?id=374

club review by Jack McCully

Welcome to the Friday review. As I sat in the bar having a quiet pint and looking forward to hearing Bo Weavil again I was surprised to see Des Basterfield come in. I wondered if perhaps the booked guests couldn`t make it and Des had been asked to stand in at short notice. A few minutes later Roydan Styles turned up. I then wondered if a special night had been planned and I hadn`t heard about it. That idea was half right. It was a special night but it hadn`t been planned. It just happened.

Ian started the ball rolling with a couple of songs including Mon like thee. Then Des followed by Roydan made their very welcome contributions to the evening`s entertainment. Bo Weavil as usual lived up to all our expectations to end the first half.

The second half started with me doing a parody of Ian`s first song and then we moved on to the good stuff. We heard Des and Roydan again before Bo Weavil rounded off a very enjoyable evening. Congratulations to all who were lucky enough to be there and commiserations to those who missed it.
See you all next club night. Jack

club update

Hi gang hope everyone is well just a short note to let you know it's club week this Friday and also a guest week, the guests are the superb band Bo Weavil. The band consists of Dom, Tommy, Mark and Henric, and play American 50's & 60's style folk, blues and bluegrass with their own twist on it! They also do a lot of their own stuff. The band have been guests before they're well worth seeing just don't sit in front of a speaker lol! Club opens at 8.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang, sorry notice is late this week, this Friday is a singers night which means anyone is invited to come to the club and join in, club opens at 8.30pm, the club is upstairs in the small room. A few weeks ago I told you that a well-known and loved singer, Lynn Hardman passed away, Lynn and her husband, Barry played at numerous festivals and folk clubs. On Friday 5th December a number of musicians and singers will be paying tribute to Lynn, such as Claire Mooney, David South, Steve Woolley, Dave Jones Stuart Thompson and more will be there.  Also there will be a live link to America to join a friend of Ian Sproson, the event will held downstairs so although there will be no door change collection there will be raffles will be held and any monies raised will be given to the family. I'm sure it will be a great night and a fitting tribute to Lynn. That will be on December 5th luv Lxx.

club update

Hi gang, hope everyone is okay and coping with this horrendous weather. It's just a short notice to let you know that this Friday is a club week and also a guest week. Our guest is the extremely talented singer/ songwriter David South, it's not easy to describe Davids style of music as he plays from such a huge repetiore including modern,traditional and contemporary and songs he's written himself, I also understand he wrote and dedicated a song at the funeral last week for the late Lynne Hardman who was a brilliant singer and mutual friend who sadly passed away. The occasions David had played and sang at the club in the past he's been really entertaining so we're looking forward to seeing him again and think we're in for a really good night also Ian Sproson has been communicating with a singer and musician from USA and is trying to set up a live connection with her should also be good. Hope you can make it look forward to seeing you there club opens at 8.30pm if you want any further info re:- Ian's live USA connection contact him directly through Facebook luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang sorry it's running late just a short note to tell this Friday is a Singers musicians and poets night anyone is welcome to come and join in whether it's to perform or just be entertained by the artists that are there the club opens at 8.30pm hope to see you then luv Lxx

Sad News

Morning friend's it is with great sadness I have been asked let you all know Lynn Hardman passed away last night. Lynn had been very poorly for some time with chest problems and had put up one hell of a fight. Lynn was well known for singing with her husband Barry, their music was relevant to the life and times we live in and also sang at numerous political events, I will keep you updated on funeral arrangements as I find out, Lynn will be very sadly missed but one Lady that will not be forgotten. Good night and God bless Lynn RIP Lxx

club update

Hi gang hope you're all well, just a short note to tell you that this Friday is a club week and is also a guest or I should say 'guests' week and boy oh boy have I got guests for you!! Originally Garron was a singular guest but he and friends Roydan Styles and Nicki Chapman had wanted to do a gig together but I didn't have any dates so they're joining forces on Friday, so with Garron's brilliant blues style and Roydan 's foot tapping style and Nicki on electric base anything could happen , but one thing's for sure we're in for a really good night,plus we'll have our regular singers and musicians my advice would be get there early.doors open 8.30pm bar till 11.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

Ps. if you think all folk is all arron sweaters and singers with their fingers in their ears lol Garron and Roydan will definitely remove that impression lol hope to see you there luv Lxx

club review by Jack McCully

Greeting everyone,
Lorna was unable to make it to the club on Friday and asked me to stand in for her. It`s a long time since I did anything like that and I felt a bit apprehensive about it. I relaxed a bit when I saw that we had a few regular performers present. I started the night by taking the dreaded first spot that a lot of singers hate. I was followed by my son Gordon and then Ian, Rob and Jonny Rep took us to the end of the first half. The second half kept to the same routine until the end when I went back on and finished off a very enjoyable evening with the old favorite Wild mountain thyme. Lorna can relax in the knowledge that the club is still intact. She will probably thank me for what I did but the people who really deserve the thanks are Gordon, Ian Rob and Jonny. Get well soon Lorna. Jack.

club update

Hi gang, hope everyone is well, just a short note to tell you that this Friday is a club week it's a singers musicians and poets night so anyone is welcome to come along and perform, it doesn't matter if you've played or performed in front of an audience before everyone has to start somewhere and you'll be made very welcome we'd love to see you. I'd like to say thanks and well done to Jack McCully for his recent club review for Des Basterfield's guest night, anyone can write review's for guests or singers nights just let me know you would like to write it, club opens at 8.30pm hope to see you then luv Lxx

club review by Jack McCully

Hi all, Friday night started off looking like a potential disaster because most of you were absent. I hope you all have sick notes. The evening started with my son Gordon singing to a bare room and continued with me doing my bit. During my spot we were joined by a few more people who were obviously friends of the club guest Des Basterfield. This greatly improved the atmosphere of the club. The first half then ended with a short spot from Des who was in his customary great form. During the interval another unexpected arrival was Ed Kainyek suitably attired in flat cap. He quietly prepared his two saxophones, an alto and a soprano, the latter of which I thought could have been the missing evolutionary link between clarinet and saxophone.
Due to the late start caused by waiting in the vain hope that some of you lot would turn up the second half was one long brilliant guest spot by Des and Ed. At one point dancing broke out in the room and I was invited to participate by a most delightful young lady called Agata. She even pretended not to notice when I trod on her toes. Sorry Agata. So that is the story of how a disaster was very successfully averted.
Hope to see more of you next club night. Jack

club update

Hi gang hope all is well, just a short note to tell you this weeks club is a guest night, our guest is the brilliant Des Basterfield. Des is a member of Flat Cap Three but appears alone too Des's style is very different it's folk,blues,jazz,reggae with a bit of anarchy thrown in for good measure it was once described lol he's an excellent/performer/entertainer in a unique way,definitely a guest not to miss I'm sure it will be a night to remember. Club opens at -8.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

club review

Hi gang, thank you to all who came to the club on Friday, considering it was first night to open after summer holiday closure, It also was nice to have such a good crowd, and to musicians, singers and poet (Rob) who made it such a really entertaining night. Thank you to Ian, Jack, Johnny, Rob, and Des Basterfield who came and did a spot for us, and if that's anything to go by we're in for a brilliant night when Des is our guest on the 29th, that's where the next club night is so make a note in your diary it should be a night not to miss, hope to see you on the 29th Aug, take care till then, luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang, well we're back in one piece lol and we all had a great time. Just a good note to let you know the club reopens on Friday, it will be nice to see everyone, it's only been a couple of weeks but I really miss everyone and the club lol,this week is a singers night so as many of you will know anyone can come along and perform whether you've played or sang to a large audience or a mirror in your bedroom lol you will be made very welcome club opens 8.30pm bar 11.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

quick note from Ian Sproson

Just a note to tell you all that me and Lorna lit a special candle in Lourdes. We think it may be a first, this being a tribute to our good and faithful friend the club mascot and guide dog for me. A sad few moments in what was a lovely few days in a lovely place.. Sang my song for Bernadette twice and wasn't struck by lightening.

club review by Ian Sproson

Hello folks: Welcome to the New Cleveland Sauna page co's that what it was last night. Despite the tropical heat we managed a respectable audience and having started the proceeding with a couple of songs, I slumped back to re hydrate whilst Jack's son followed with some great songs including one of the best versions of Streets of London. While he was re hydrating Steve Steward and co entertained us until half time gave us all time to re hydrate again for the second half. Re hydrating on Holts beer has it's down side co's as the night progresses things get a little different. Seriously though Jack and a couple of people I cannot recall helped us conquer the heat until bloody hell I was asked to close the night. Whew! managed it but not without copious amounts of re hydration! A great night especially as it is the last one for a while we are having a holiday just for a short time. See you in August.

Club Update

Hi gang hope you're all ok, this Friday is a singers, musicians and poets night, it's also the last club night before summer holidays. Everyone is welcome to come along and perform, whether you have played or sang in front of an audience before or not or just come along for the craic. After Friday the club will be closed for summer and will reopen on August 15th I hope you can make it on Friday see you there, luv Lxx

club review by Ian Sproson

Hello Gang: Thanks for turning out to see our very own Mike Bowden. In the absence of a review it's fallen to me I suppose. Sadly having had a few sleeps much of the night has faded. Not the music just who created it! Mike was his usual self couldn't be anyone else could he. This was my first visit without Corky and I was very nervous about getting on my feet. Someone leaned over and said "Get you arse up there now" Typical Manc so I did. Thanks to everyone sorry I ain't more specific but I was very sad and upset, thanks mike for lifting our spirits again.

Club update

Hi gang, hope you're all ok and enjoying the sunshine, we don't get much of it so on with the sun cream and chill. Just a short note to tell you this week is a club week and a guest night too, our guest is the fabulous 'Billy big dinners' himself Mike Bowden, if you have never seen Mike where have you been, lol! Mike has always supported the club and is a brilliant singer/songwriter his music is more laid back blues with a bit of folk and even poetry thrown in lol, although I believe he only ever does his poem at our club. It's always a good night when Mike is a guest so one not to miss hope you can make it club opens at 8.30 hope to see you there luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang hope you're all enjoying the sunshine, probably rain at weekend sorry lol. Unfortunately due to circumstances way out of my control the club will be closed on Friday, apparently Petra the landlady has double booked the room upstairs for a party but didn't realize until now it was a club night I'm really sorry, I know the club has been cancelled due to injury and football and stuff but the club is not closing down or is there any problems with the club. The next club night is July 11th with the fantastic Mike Bowden then a singers week then we will be closed for summer holidays as planned then we reopen on August 15th with a singers musicians night.

I'm really sorry for any inconvenience but I'm also miss seeing everyone hope to see you all for Mike Bowden that will be a great night luv Lxx

Rest in Peace

Corky, Ian's guide dog and much loved New Cleveland folk dog, goodnight and God bless. Rest in peace, your much loved friend and adopted mum, Lorna xx

club update

Hi gang I know many of you will be disappointed, but it had been decided by Jo Zeff that for tonight the club will be cancelled due to the football given that it's England's first match,the club will be back to normal so the next club night will be June 27th which is a singers musicians and poets night I really am sorry about tonight but the guest does have to be paid lol I hope to see you on 27th luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang, hope you are all enjoying the sunny weather and you're all okay. This week is a guest night at the club and what a guest we have, it's the brilliant singer/songwriter and musician, Jo Zeff Roberts. As I mentioned in my last post, Jo is also the founder and organizer of Chorlton folk club in South Manchester on Thursday nights, but he does enjoy being able to play music from his own repertoire. Jo has played at club before, but it was a while ago, so if you haven't seen Jo as a guest he is well worth seeing and I'm sure we are in for a great night of great music. The club opens at 8.30pm with a bar till 11.30pm hope to see you there, luv Lxx 

Unfortunately Ian Sproson won't be able to make it as he is visiting his sister in Wolverhampton and doesn't feel he'll be back in time, also with Corky his guide dog being so unwell he may not feel up to it, Ian's keeping us update on Facebook let's hope Corky will soon be back to his cheeky and crafty self, luv Lxx

Just So You Know

Hi gang, hope you are all well, Steve Woolley has asked me to post this message to friends of his who he is unable to contact directly, this coming Saturday is his birthday he's holding a musical get together at the Star pub, Back Hope St, Salford. So if anyone would like to help him celebrate you're more than welcome, he already has musician friends going so it will be more of a section type setting not club like type lol! Enjoy yourself if you go. This Friday is not a club week but next Friday we have the brilliant, Jo Zeff Roberts, but tell you more about him next week have a good weekend, luv Lxx

Important update

Hiya gang, really sorry but due to injury/illness the club will be cancelled for this weeks singers night sorry for any inconvenience it has caused, but hope to see you on the 13th for Jo Zeph Roberts, luv Lxx

Friday night review

Hi gang, sorry the review is really late, unfortunately I've been unwell and wasn't able to post it.
Well I said to expect a great night, with guests Michelle Holding and Bonz, well it was a brilliant night!! Jack McCully who is one of our regular singers very kindly started off the night as our resident singer Ian Sproson wasn't able to make it as his guide dog Corky had had a number of tests under anesthetic, but he seems to be on the mend now. Gordon McCully sang for us followed by Steve Woolley and Stuart Thompson, Johnny Rep also sang later on. Michelle and Bonz were on good form they started with ' Nashville Cats' then just sang song after song, I kind of lost count. They did a great version of Lyle Lovett's song "God will but I won't" plus Tom Payne's "Bones" their repetiore is amazing, so a good time was had by all, it really was an excellent night. The next club night is this Friday the 30th of May which is a singers, musicians and poets night, so if you fancy coming along to play, sing or recite poetry, you will be made very welcome. Hope to see you there, luv Lxx

club update

Hi gang sorry it's late but with Dr's, hospitals, worry over Corky, travel arranging, a mercy dash and a birthday to boot this week has been busy lol so I'll get to the point this Friday is a guest week with the fantastic Michelle Holding and Bonz they have been guests before and every time has been different and even more brilliant than before so prepare to be entertained.  The club opens 8.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

check this out

Good morning New Clevelanders! I am a singer and musician called Louise Jordan from down in Hampshire and I am organising a couple of tours (October 2014 and May 2015), it would be fantastic to come and visit you. Here is a link to my website where you will find some live performances and more information about my work.
I have been a full time musician for three years now since giving up my more sensible job of teaching in east London. Perhaps you can let Lorna Egan know if this is of interest.

Best wishes to you all.
 Louise
Louise Jordan

Club review

Hi gang, thankyou to everyone who made it to the club last Friday I know there wasn't many of us but unfortunately that's what happens on Bank Holidays, but it didn't spoil the night we had quality over qualities lol. Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson was on fine form apart from his outburst of the giggles which set us all off plus Gordon Mc cully was in fine fettle too he tells me he's written the music which he plans to write a song about the club ! I don't know if that's something for me to worry about lol it was luvly to have Jack Mc Cully back he said he was a bit nervous at first but his nerves soon settled but he thanked us for beautiful flowers mass cards and support from members from the club following the recent loss of good lady Margaret RIP nice to have you back Jack xx plus thanks to Kevin and Carolanne for all their help setting up and clearing up and recording raffle and all the other stuff you do to help the night go well. On a lighter note I've had a lady singer and musician who would like to come as a guest in the future as she lives a long way from the club she's joined the club and is going to put some of her music etc. so you can let me know if you would like me to sort a guest night her name is Louise Jordan so look out for her take care everyone luv Lxx

Club update

Hi gang hope you are all well, thank you Ian for a great review of Pete Ryder's guest night. This Friday 2nd May is a singers musicians and poets night, singers nights are there for anyone to come down to the club and perform, there's more time available for people to show their talents or to try out a new song to a very warm and friendly crowd. Anyone is welcome to come along, the club opens at 8.30pm hope to see you then, luv Lxx

club review

In the words of Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson:

It has been said many times how warm and friendly our folk club is and last night it shone out with the people gathered chatting and tuning before they had removed their coats. This set the tone for the evening with Steve, Stuart and others warming us up with great songs and tunes. I had a bash and as ever felt the warmth of the audience shine back at me. I can assure any nervous musician singer poet, or writer they have the best place ever to try something new. Peter Ryder is not only a superb musician/artist in his own right his kindness and warmth would melt the hardest of stone hearted audiences. He appreciated everyone even me when I was singing one of the choruses, with a flash of kindness saying 'I'm glad you came'. Yes I was glad and I've no doubt that everyone there was glad as well. Also we were thrilled by a song from his good lady who came forward and took centre stage in her own right. Lorna rose to the occasion with easter eggs and even some special chocci treats for our mascot Corky, who is lying flat out recovering as I write this. Here's to the next singers night in 2 weeks time see you all then. Corky's dad.

I couldn't have put it better myself thanks Sproggy. luv Lxx

Club update

Ps If you like chocolate there's a little surprise for everyone lol, see you there Friday luv Lxx.

Club update

Hi gang, hope you are all well, this Friday 18th April is a guest night. Our guest this week is the superb Pete Ryder, Pete last appeared at our club about a year ago and certainly didn't disappoint. Sorry update is short, but I'm having to do it on my mobile phone!! Be there early on Friday night to make sure you get a seat seriously. Hope to see you there, club open from 8.30pm, see you then luv Lxx

Funeral Update

Hi gang, earlier this week I had the sad task of telling you Margaret McCully, Jack Mc Cully's wife had passed away. I understand from Jack and also Ian Sproson that Margaret would sing in folk clubs too, Jack said he was amazed how fast she would pick up songs from his repetiore, then sing them at various folk clubs including the Old Boars head in Middleton which I used to run and the Jolly Angler, she loved joining in at club's and singing. A couple of songs she sang were 'Maggie May' and 'My awn wee hoose' . Of late Margaret suffered badly with uncontrollable pain due to Osteoporosis which she had, then sadly last week her body lost the fight, and she passed away. Margaret will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Anyone who would like to attend the funeral the details are as follows; Funeral is on Wednesday 16th April, the cortege leaves Johnson Brothers Funeral Director's, 148 Oldham Rd, Middleton M24 2LH at 12pm for funeral service at 12.30 at Blackley Crematorium flowers welcome or a donation to The National Osteoporosis Society via Johnson Brothers Funeral Directors

Friday night review

Hi gang sorry for late review thank you to everyone who came to the club last week. It was nice to have Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson back from hols ( alright for some lol) and in fine fettle and voice started off the evening, Johnny Rep was also on fine form it was also nice to have the excellent Dave South at the club again treated us to some of his wide repetiore of songs, also Steve Woolley who arrived without his guitar and hadn't intended to play couldn't resist the offer of Dave's guitar played for us, on the whole a really entertaining evening. The next club night is 18th April when we have the absolutely brilliant Pete Ryder definitely a date to put in your diary, hope to see you on the 18th, until then take care, luv Lxx

Sad News

Hi gang it is with sincere sadness I have to tell you that Jack McCully's wife Margaret passed away, Jack and his son Gordon have been regular performers at the club for some time and Jack has been a great help recently while Ian was away. Jack says he won't be at the club for a while,but he hopes it won't be too long, our condolences go to Jack, Gordon and family luv Lxx

Club update

Hi gang just a short note to tell you this week is a singers, musicians and poets night. These nights are there for anyone to come along and perform to an audience, whether you play an instrument or sing or read poetry, or you'd like to try out a new song that's what singers nights are there for, it doesn't matter if you are known at every club or never sang to an audience ever, you will be made very welcome. The club opens at 8.30pm hope to see you there luv Lxx

club review

REVIEW OF FRI 21ST MARCH - BO WEAVIL
 bo weavil brought their own brand of folk roots to the Cleveland on the 21st march. we were able to try out our new PA for the first time albeit very quietly but effectively
 a fair numbered crowd enjoyed numbers like the old time ditty "john hardy" and john mayalls "medicine man" as well as some of the weavilers own compositions like "fingers"
 we would like to thank lorna for another really enjoyable night x
 D,D,M & T xx

Hi gang, I'd like to thank Dave from Bo Weavil for very kindly doing a review for their guest night as due to circumstances out of my control I ran out of time, but I'd also like to thank the support singers who performed Jack Mc Cully started the night as Ian Sproggy Sproson isn't back
till Friday plus Stuart Thompson and Steve Woolley played for and Steve Woolley also did a classical solo Gordon Mc Cully sang his own songs and Steven Ireland played a new tune he had been learning so all in all with Bo Weavil it really was an absolutely brilliant night the band will be back later in the year thankyou again to Dave and Bo Weavil luv Lxx

Club update

Thankyou to Bo Weavil for such a great night Friday night review will be posted in a few days luv Lxx

club update

Hiya gang, hope everyone is well, this Friday is a Guest night at the club. The Guests are the absolutely fantastic Bo Weavil. Bo Weavil are a five piece band who play American 50's 60's style Folk and Blues with their own twist on it, as well as being lively, their harmonies are outstanding too, a definite not to miss act. Doors open 20:30 hope to see you there, you won't be disappointed, luv lxx

Club Review

Hiya Gang
Thanks to everyone who made Friday such a great night of singers and musicians, even newcomers. Unfortunatelt Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson our resident singer went on a mercy dash his sister recently had a fall and broke a few ribs 'Ouch!' so he has gone to give some moral support. So one of our regular singers Jack McCully who we are calling 'the temporary 'temporary' resident singer' lol, started the night off with a traditional scottish folk song and a humourous song about the scottish police lol. That seems to really set the scene for the rest of the night with humourous songs. Rob Dunsford read out a poem which he got the audience to join in and then followed is with a song. After Rob we had a lovely man who had come with Rob, it takes a lot of guts to get up and sing or play, or even recite a poem, epxpecially to an audience you don't know. Philip Walton got up and did a poem/song about a priest and a choir boy lol enough said. Gordon McCully got up and did a couple of songs, followed by Johnny Rep who was going to play the mouth organ when he sung but I think he got his lip stuck so he just stuck to singing instead lol. After Johnny we took a break for everyone to top up their drinks, Jack opened up the second half followed by quite a few songs from Steve Wooley. Rob got up and sang and I was really chuft because Philip Walton, the shy one from the first half, got up and sang a humourous two song double set. By this time, the night had run away with us so Johnny Rep did the honours and closed the evening for us. Well done to all singers and muscians, next club night is 21st March when our guest is the fantastic Bo Weavil, which is a five piece band who play American 50's style Folk music and Blue's with their own definitive take on things. If you have not seen them and would like a taster they will be on Oldham Folk Community Radio on Monday 7-8pm, however please check the time incase anything has changed. Hope to see you on 21st March, it looks like its gonna be another cracker, best get there early to get your seat! Doors open at 8.30pm, club starts not long after. Luv L xx

Club Review

Hiya Gang
Sorry for late review but it's not always possible to write in the next day however what an excellent night! My only disappointment was Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson and Korky were missing due to probs at Victoria Station (see Ians Facebook page for details) So Jack MxCully started the night's enterntainment, the lovable Johnny Rep also played for us and Gordon McCully was back followin g is man flu lol plus we had the lively Steven Ireland. Des then began with a lovely version of 'Somewhere over the rainbow' it had a kind of reggea style to it. Des then went on to wow us with over 12 more songs, and also invited Steve Wooley to play a song with him and Steven Ireland to join in on another. It really was an excellent night from such a brilliant group of musicians and guests. Love L xx

club update

Hiya gang, just a short note to let you know this Friday 7th of March is a Singers/Musicians/Poet's night everybody is welcome to come along and perform or just come along and listen. Club starts at 20:30 hope to see you Friday, luv Lxx

Club update

Hiya gang, hope you're all well, just a short note to let you know this Friday is a club night. Our Guest is the fantastic Des 'Songsmith Solar' Basterfield, Des is well know in the Folk scene and is very popular, this is probably due to his style of Music which ranges from Folk Blues, a bit of Jazz, a bit of Reggae and in his words a little bit of Anarchy thrown in for good measure, lol! Des always goes down well in the Cleveland, I'm sure you won't be disappointed, plus we have our resident singer Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson and regulars, Steve, Stuart, Jack, Johnny to name but a few. Club starts at 20:30 hope to see you there, luv L xx

Club news

Hi gang, the recordings from 10/1/14 J.P. Slidewell guest night and 24/1/14 Steve Woolley and Stuart Thompson's night of music are available to see , just press play on Guest videos I hope you enjoy watching them luv Lxx

club review

In the infamous words of Ian 'Sproggy' Sproson:
 
"I haven't posted ow't yet because I have no doubt you are all bored with sayings like 'Great night' and 'Best ever' etc. However yes it was a great night and considering it was a singer/poets night just made it better. These nights are usually not so well supported but I'm delighted to note that last Friday was as lively as any guest night. Without singers nights we can't survive financially so it's actually more important to support these at this and any other folk club. Not only does these nights give you a platform to try your talents out on a real live audience? But also help fill the coffers so that the guest artists can be paid. See ya Friday week for a guest night. I'll leave Lorna to give you the low down on that. Tarrah!

PS Molly's benefit is April 4th at Milnrow Cricket club £6 a ticket. If you can't be there please support this wonderful performer who left us recently. OK I'll shut up now Honest!"

club update

Hiya gang, just a short note to let you know this Friday is a Singer's night at the club Singer's nights are there so any Musician, Singer, Poet or Performers can come along and where time is allocated for them. Anyone is welcome, even if you just want to be entertained. Club starts 20:30 hope to see you there, luv L xx

Club review

Hiya gang, what an excellent night, given the musicians I knew were coming and the ones who arrived I knew we were in for a good night. There were a couple who were unable to make it because of the weather etc or in the case of Roydan Styles who had a battle between an onion and a knife . . . his thumb lost as you can see on facebook! Ian got the night off to a good start as usual followed by our Scottish Jack McCully who returned triumphant after his little war of the words last week with Paddy's Lament (Barrel of Bricks song). It was around about this time I suggested to Steve, he explain that he and Stuart were Guest Hosts and it wasn't a Folk Club coup lol!


We then had the great pleasure of Terry Kliszcz and Ray Greenwood better known to people as Jangles. Ray played Guitar and Terry Concertina they were brilliant with songs like 'Rochdale Mashers' to their version of 'Sally's Garden' (with some in between). Ray lives in Cambridge now so he and Terry don't get to play together as much, I'll keep you updated when I know they are coming to the club. Ray wants to join our facebook page, to keep in contact, two really lovely men. Then we had another one of our Scotts (Well it was the day before burns night) Gordon, Gordon sang songs he had written . Our hosts then took over playing well known songs that everyone could join in with, including one of my favourites 'Barefoot daze', after they had finished singing we had a short break.


Ian opened the second half followed by another one of our regulars, the superb Accordion player, Steven Ireland. Our next Musician came to our club a few club nights ago, he had never played in any club, in fact, he'd never played to an audience, I told him not to worry as we were a nice crowd lol! His name . . . Johnny Rep, when he got up to play he was really good and as the weeks are going by he's becoming more and more confident, keep an eye out for him, what a really nice guy and great Musician. We were then treated to a bit of Folk Rock by Dave Alcock, who was joined by Steve on Guitar and Stuart on Mandolin , Then Steve asked Ian to sing with him, they sang 'Mon like thee'.


There were many known songs played throughout the night, 'Molly Malone' dedicated to Molly a well known Rochdale character and singer/songwriter who sadly passed away recently. Steve and Stuart finished the night with 'Goodnight and God bless' which I thought was nice, on the whole a really great night, lots of lovely people, great Music and warm atmosphere, what more could I ask for. A big thank you to Guest Hosts, Steve and Stuart, who did a great job xx. Next club night is 7th of February, which is a singers night, we'd love to see you there, take care until then, luv Lxx 

club update

Hiya gang, hope you are all well. This Friday is a club week, it's a guest night but with a difference as it's a guest host/MC or should I say MC's who this are the brilliant Steve Woolley & Stuart Thompson. Steve and Stuart are extremely talented musicians in their own right, together they really compliment the other. They've invited other musicians to come along and join them, so it won't be the usual format. Anyone is welcome, if you would like to join them please let me know so Steve and Stuart can make sure you're on their guest list, there will be other musicians who have already confirmed, Roydan Styles and Nicki Chapman, J.P. Slidewell plus our regular members and Ian Sproson our resident singer. Club starts at 20:30 bar till 11:30pm I hope to see you there, luv L xx

club review

Hiya, gang, thank you to everyone who fought the horrible weather and made it on Friday, it was quite a good night which was MC'd by the wonderful Des Basterfield of the 'Flat Cap Three' fame. Ian our resident singer was too poorly to make it, hope you're feeling better now! So Des ran the club for the night quite brilliantly, I might add, he's welcome anytime to MC the club if he wants to. Des started by singing a few well known songs followed by Gordon McCully singing his own songs. We were also fortunate enough to have a new Singer/songwriter to perform, Phil Davis, who was really excellent, loot out for him, I'm sure he'll be back at our club again in the near future. We then had Jack McCully who will be haunted by the 'Barrel Of Bricks' song for a while, lol! Rob Dunsford treated us to the very apt 'January Man' and Gordon sang my favourite song of his 'Rainy Day' I love the lyrics!


It was then time for our Guest J.P. Slidewell, John was just as brilliant as he was years ago when he was a Guest. Rob Dunsford also joined him on a few songs, playing the Bodhran, we took a short break but when I returned I was surprised to find a new Boy Band had been formed, 'The New Cleveland All Stars' feat. Steve W on Guitar, Des B on Guitar, Rob D on Bodhran and Stuart T on Mandolin, lol (They may return on 24th special)!


The second half comprised of Steve W, Stuart T, Jack, Phil, Gordon and Des who all performed again, then John returned for the second part of his performance with Rob playing Bodhran on up tempo songs. John throughout the night played a mix of older songs and songs from his new CD - The Reed Cutters Daughter, although the CD wasn't due out until Spring, it's selling really well, contact John if you wish to purchase a copy, really good value, also look out for John at future gigs.


It's always difficult being the Guest that opens a club after long Holidays like Christmas etc., so I'll be asking John to come back later in the year, for those who missed a really good night I'll keep you updated. Our next club night is the 24th of January and is a Special 'A Night of Music with Steve Woolley, Stuart Thompson and Friends' they will be taking over the club for the night and invite any Musicians to come along and join them, it's like an open mic' night. So if you are interested just come along or you can let me know you'd like to join in and I will let Steve know. Club starts 20:30 hope to see you there, luv L xx

club update

Hiya gang, I hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year, I hope one of your resolutions is to frequent the club more, lol! The club reopens this Friday the 10th of January with a Guest night, our Guest is J.P. Slidewell, John has been out of the folk scene for some time whilst caring for his late Mother. He is now back playing at clubs and festivals, he recently played at our Christmas party and went down quite well. Folk Root Magazine recently wrote, "J.P. Slidewell singing songs from the tradition for today." Tykes News also wrote, "J.P. sings with both energy and emotion and the music is delivered with a characteristic verve, which should make a live performance particularly exciting."
John was also a well known regular at Chorlton Folk Club. Rob Dunsford a well known Bodhran player as well as poet will also be joining, J.P. Slidewell, with some of the up tempo music. Club starts at 20:30, hope to see you there, luv L xx