Sat 3rd Aug 19 – Mama’s Broke (Canada) + Shipcote & Friends Trio Pic’s & review Juan Fitzgerald.
First weekend in August is the annual visit in summer to Durham & the Old Cinema Launderette. And as always hosted by (& sporting a majestic “Nev Clay is God” black t ‘shirt) – Mr Wishy Washy, who proved to be a great asset to the Jumpin Hot Club event. No only letting the venue out but also the lone ranger behind the bar & also the spin dryers! As always this was totally acoustic affair (no PA) set in front of the washing machine’s & OMO powder to freak you out. Our young guests & North East debutants Mamas Broke were Amy Lou on vocals and banjo/guitar/sticks and Lisa Maria on vocals fiddle/mandolin/guitar and foot percussion. The very talented duo were all the way from Nova Scotia in Canada & delivered a country folk noir set that covered a wide range of folky good self penned tunes & for the second half, traditional tunes & song with ever so haunting harmonies to match. From gems mostly from their latest release “Count the Wicked” that were delivered with amazing musicianship, songs such as a very Gillian Welch like “Black Rock Beach” & “Dirty Mattress” all about life on the road, they easily won the crowd over. They showed diverse influences too, from European Gypsy music to some low- down pre war blues with the surprisingly cheerful Blind Blake “Dying Blues” that was absolutely stunning – All in all the gig had just about everything & the seated crowd were kept enthralled all night long. The Canadian duo where ably supported by the always popular local quirkster’s Shipcote and Friends playing favourites such as “Why Worry” and “Sanctuary Street “and the sure fire hit “Crazy Country Fool” if Michael Buble could get to Gateshead to hear it. So, another brilliant gig in the Launderette, with a great host & great people & great cheer. .