The Grey Lady Music Lounge, Wednesday 6th January 2010

Singer Songwriter Zoe Nicol is a maverick in the world of folk music- a storyteller with a lyrical twist, but more than that, Zoe is an artist who possesses the rare ability to leave an audience breathless. “I recall the moment I first heard Zoe sing I felt completely moved and inspired, you could hear a pin drop as the audience listened intently, everyone present was totally absorbed by her performance. Her songs are beautifully crafted, rich in both melody and creative edge” Music promoter - Paul Dunton

Zoe grew up with the influence of Joni Mitchell and Eva Cassidy who inspired her to become the sincere and heartfelt artist her fans have come to love. Her debut EP entitled ‘Walk Against The wind’ was released in the summer of 2008 and sold out by the winter of that same year. Her captivating stage presence is embellished further by her modest and enchanting persona, she is able to reach out and connect to an audience through her live performances and recordings.

Zoe hails from Tunbridge Wells in Kent and is currently attending Liverpool institute of performing arts (also known as the Paul McCartney Music School) studying performance and song writing, as well as recording her full-length debut album titled “these are the stories” to be released in April 2010.

Tunbridge Wells-based singer/songwriter Fran Hemsley's alternative style is laced with mood and atmosphere, edgy lyrics and distinct vocals. In her own words she says " Having previously collaborated with other musicians and gaining experience in a metal band from 2004 to 2007 I felt driven to carve out my own sound. For me it was all about cutting down to the basics of piano and voice, so that I could air all the influences and experiences that drive me. For me the words are important and I find those artists who communicate honestly and intelligently are magnetic. I number among my influences The Stooges, Patti Smith, Al Stewart, The Doors, Thom Yorke and The Pixies. When I listen to music and hear something that I can relate to, I feel moved and inspired and that is what I aim for. I strive for a raw and interesting sound and a lyrical honesty that is not glib or affectedly pretty."

Matt Hovenden is a 20-year-old guitarist/ singer/ songwriter from Tunbridge Wells. Born of English Parents in the city of Lyon in France, Matt has since lived in Gillingham, Tunbridge Wells, Coventry and recently made his return to Tunbridge Wells. Matt’s distinct sound and stlye combines his crafted melodies performed on the steel spring guitar alongside his versatile, warm tones. He draws inspiration from a wide and varied range of modern day influences, which include; Dire Straits, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam) and Switchfoot.

With influences such as modern day artists; Ben Folds, Anthony & The Johnsons, Burt Bacharach and composers such as Barber and Rachmaninov, Kent based singer-songwriter Paul Dunton offers something unique! Paul’s music is best described as a captivating fusion of popular contemporary and classical. He composes and performs both instrumental pieces and songs. He is due to provide the soundtrack for an upcoming international film release. For smaller intimate shows Paul (piano/vocals) performs with along side his quartet know as the ‘Crew’. The atmospheric and ethereal live sound features Cello, violins and Flute. Paul is due to release his third album at the beautiful King Charles Martyr Church near The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells on Friday June 11th. That concert will see both Paul giving away a free signed copy of his new album entitled ‘Escapism; to all who come and paul will be performing alongside his ‘full’ crew known as The Paul Dunton Orchestra which comprises a line up of 10 violins, 5 cellos, Flute, Guitar, Percussion and vocalist Fiona Keeler.