The Grey Lady Music Lounge, Wednesday 10th February 2010

Son of Kirk began life as a solo project for Mick Crowther. As a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, Mick had always performed and recorded as a member of a band, playing styles as diverse as post rock, garage/punk blues and trip hop. Inspired to go back to pure song-writing and use acoustic instruments; ideas based on finger picking guitar styles and impressionist lyrical imagery formed the basis of a new set of songs.

After playing solo gigs and open mic nights around London and South East England Mick recorded a solo 3 song CD at the end of 2007, which was received warmly and enthusiastically by everyone who heard it.

In spring 2008 Mick heard Mischa trying out some acoustic guitars in a music shop and joined him for an impromptu jam on some old blues and traditional songs. Mischa had played in various bands from blues to Samba and Jazz; being a multi-instrumentalist not always as the guitarist. Occasional jams became regular rehearsals and the need for more band members became apparent.

Nick started playing bass with Mick and Mischa around a month later; it was important to have an upright rather than an electric bass, tone over volume every time. Nick has been playing bass since his teens although he does play a mean mandolin when encouraged.

The band gigged regularly through to the summer, writing and working on new songs and ideas.

Kristina joined during the summer after meeting Mick in the local library and being asked to leave for talking too loudly. Kristina has sung in numerous jazz, soul and funk bands; she has become more and more interested in acoustic music since joining Son of Kirk, especially folk and blues.

The music has been described as bridging the gap between Nick Drake and Tom Waits. It has also been described as psychedelic folk, folk blues or simply atmospheric and haunting.

Son of Kirk combine interweaving guitars, vocal harmonies, soaring violin, expressive wordplay and the round warm sound of a double bass to create their own take on new/alt acoustic music, which they like to call ‘Blackgrass'.

Paul's music is best described as contemporary piano based pop with a classical twist! The live sound features Paul's distinct pure tones and engaging piano melodies which are embellished further by beautifully crafted string and flute arrangements which Paul and his ‘Crew' compose together. Paul's regular Crew members include; Jenny Maslin, Charlotte Andrew, Anna Wynne, Cecilia Lamon, Geri Holton, Hazel Ross (violins), Miriam Evans, Ann Lines, Liz Curtis and Caroline Stead (cellos), Lianna Jeffrey, Phoebe Stamford, Fleur Chaffé and Becky Andrew (flutes) and Fiona Keeler on harmony vocals. Paul's current album entitled; ‘Train of Thought' has enjoyed very positive national reviews; "Train of Thought has a solid consistency, both in quality and tone achieving a solid equilibrium between the importance of lyricism, timeless songwriting and the passion driving both''. He is due to provide the soundtrack for an upcoming international film release and continues to actively gig across the country at numerous prominent venues, including a recent performance at London's British Design Museum. Paul is due to release his third album later this year. The album is to be recorded live at The Ship Theatre, Sevenoaks in October.

His twice weekly show entitled ‘An Evening with Paul Dunton & Guests' at The Grey Lady Music Lounge situated on the Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells is regarded as one of the finest acoustic music evenings in the South East with the focus concentrated on local soloists and acoustic bands. Such is the demand to play at the show, Paul currently has 142 local acts performing on a regular rotation offering unparallel variety and the standard of musicianship, songwriting and vocal talent is first class. Paul expanded the shows to the revered ‘Music Room' at Pizzaexpress Maidstone earlier this year and to the ‘Music Club' at The Bull Inn situated in Benenden both on a bi monthly basis and every show to date has sold out!

Formerly based in Crowborough but now Brighton, East Sussex, Reo Rae's interest in music grew from the experience of playing various instruments including violin, piano and clarinet. At 14 years old she decided that she wanted to learn to play the guitar. With the help and encouragement of Simon (her older brother) they formed an acoustic duo called "Reo". This was the first musical project for both and Rae's debut as a lead singer. They are receiving considerable plays on youtube and myspace and perform at various different events across the county. However, with the departure to university of backing singer and guitarist Simon, Rae was left to continue the work alone. This sparked the idea of becoming a solo act and her songwriting skills began to take shape. Five years on she is now living and performing in and around Kent & Sussex as a solo artist and occasionally performs with her backing band - Rick Eastwood (drums) & James Watts (bass guitar).

Having played gigs since the age of 11, Mike Wilton is a multi-instrumentalist/singer-songwriter from Brighton via Crowborough, East Sussex. Mike delves into different types of musical genres and plays both electric and acoustic sets.

With 2 solo EP’s under his belt his aim to keep the music as truthful as possible. Expect melodic indie, roaring blues and soundscaped folk songs with a bit of harmonica thrown in for good measure.