The Grey Lady Music Lounge, Sunday 16th May 2010

A retro Swing sound with feverish Latino curves, Hip-Hop head nods and a cool dark Alternative rock twist!

Formed and fronted by songwriter, producer, musical ‘mixologist’ Steve Spall -Guitar/Vocals as a platform for his vibrantly original material. The band features Paul Beeching on the 'cupboard of love' aka Double Bass, and rhythmic rebel Matt Wilson on Drums, alongside Spall's mesmerizing vocals and highly revered 'filthy Spy-esque' swing/alternative guitar prowess. Influences include The Jungle Book soundtrack, Portishead, Soundgarden, Brian Setzer/ Stray Cats, Tarantino Sountracks, The Gotan Project, Tom Waits, Beastie Boys & Beyond.

“Fresh ideas, retro vibes and a healthy dose of musical juxtaposition, will engage fans of widely varying musical genres” –Timeout.

A debut originals album ’Far Flung’ was released on the band’s label Pitch-Ray Records in 2008, a mellow yet tantalizingly dark introduction to The Violet Jive sound (available on iTunes), and a new album ‘Rhythm Mythology’ is due Spring 2011.

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Formed in late 2009 by Mike Wilton, The Standard Lamps believe that it's about time that we took things back to basics. During the last two years, Mike has been experimenting with various musicians to produce ‘The Standard Lamps’ which now consists of James Livett on bass and Box on drums.

Playing countless gigs in the South East the band have been pleasing audiences for nearly a year. Their music can be described as a mixture of melodic tunes with a raw blues edge, and with their first EP ‘Portland’ finished in August 2010, they are now preparing to record their first LP.

The Standard Lamps believe in sounding where you come from. The Standard Lamps believe in variety. The Standard Lamps believe having fun with what you're doing. The Standard Lamps believe in giving you a good time.

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A lifelong lover of music, Chris has been writing and performing his growing collection of thought provoking songs for almost 3 years, following earlier appearances in a range of cover bands and as a solo performer. Recently described as an "inspiring modern day troubadour", a "distinctive talent" and a "rare gem indeed", Chris pens lyrics of real substance and meaning. His songs touch on themes and experiences that people can genuinely relate to and captures the attention of his audience from the very first note whether you are listening to him live or from any of his CDs. From passionate and reflective finger picking ballads through to angry, driving protest songs, Chris' songs will get under your skin because they are from the heart. His album is entitled "Under the skin, from the heart".

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Goldie Reed is beginning her enchanting journey performing her honest, lyrical music. Featuring Paul Rippengal on guitar, Rob Harvey on bass, Olly Stevenson on keys and Ben Killick on drums, the group’s firm friendship is portrayed on stage. As Goldie is influenced by artists such as Eva Cassidy, Alison Krauss, Joni Mitchell and Bjork; you can expect her glistening vocals to glide over the top of beautiful slide guitar, stunning keys and a rhythm section full of conviction. Having already played the world famous Troubadour club in London, Goldie Reed is currently promoting her music in the lead up to releasing their debut album. Paul Rippengal is influenced by artists such as Ry Cooder, John Martyn, Tom Waits, Stevie Ray Vaughan and Marc Ribot, thus bringing a whole host of genres to the band. His finely tuned slide playing compliments the music perfectly, whilst his evident blues influence with an Avant Garde twist are all significant in Paul’s defined style. His debut album is in production and will be out very soon!

Olly Stevenson brings a Jazz touch to Goldie Reed. Olly is a wonderful and successful Pianist, with definite aspects of Oscar Peterson and Herbie Hancock in his playing. His twinkling keys add a beautiful delicacy to the music, and entwining solos from both Olly and Paul allows them to further provide their personality and musical friendship to the band. Goldie’s rhythm section comprises of Ben Killick and Rob Harvey. Victor Wooten and Chuck Reiny inspire Rob’s bass playing, and allows his Funky playing to groove tightly with the drums. Ben takes a heavy influence from John Bonham and Steve Gadd, acting as the band’s anchor, solidifying Goldie’s intricate music.

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