I can't remember where I first heard Henry Parker, but on doing so I was immediately prompted to buy his 2019 album Silent Spring. An album of
timeless folk. His new album in collaboration with David Ian
Roberts Chasing Light is in the same vein. Folk has always been
the voice of
the proletariat, the people, music that keeps alive an oral
tradition conveying story, history and fable, whose origins disappear
into the mists of time, it's
important, as are the stories it tells. This afternoons'
performance at The Wight Bear in Southborne was part of messrs Parker
and Roberts album
release tour. The duo graced us with two captivating half hour sets, the
quality of musicianship was superb, with exquisite melodies beautifully
rendered, folk music of the highest order. Parker and Roberts represent contemporary folk at it's best, masterfully breathing fresh energy into the medium, ensuring the
traditions continuing
appeal. Wonderful stuff, we were afforded a real aural treat, music
that stirs ancestral memory and touches the soul. The venues owner has a
no talking whilst artists are playing policy which I
salute, never more essential than when listening to performances such as
this, allowing us to bask in its fine detail. Lovely.
Now, to say the Wight Bear is bijou under plays just how small it feels, though what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character and warmth. What a smashing venue. I'd not previously been here, though immediately felt at home. Really friendly regulars, everyone appeared to know everyone, and even if they didn't they made you feel that they did; the staff where the same, very welcoming; and the range of craft beverages is expansive. I said it felt small, although it must have a tardis quality about it, there were people sitting chatting, others making lino cuts, others milled about, whilst massages were available in their small snug at the back. What a remarkable establishment. Well worth a visit.
Fabulous afternoon, big thanks to all. Check out Henry Parker and David Ian
Roberts Chasing Light on bandcamp, as well as Henrys' back catalogue.
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