The Grey Lady Music Lounge, Sunday 23rd September 2012

Tom Williams And The Boat formed in Tunbridge Wells in 2008, the six members having been thrown together via the grey lady and electing to leave their various bands to create something new. With a diverse musicianship that encompasses the traditional rock ‘n’ roll of guitar, bass and drums supplemented by piano, violin, harmonica and whatever else works, the band formed their own Wire Boat Recordings to issue early EPs at gigs and it was these self contained releases that caught the eye of Huw Stephens and Steve Lamacq amongst others who weighed in with airplay, sessions and invites to play the BBC Introducing Stage at various UK festivals.

Usually a 6 piece folk rock outfit, Tom & The Boat strip their sound down for their Grey Lady appearances playing just with Tom and Ant Vicary on acoustic guitars, Geri Holton on violin, and Chris Stewart on Piano.

Show full profile »

Frances Yonge is a songwriter, pianist and musical director. She loves being involved with many musical projects, but her heart is rooted in the art of writing songs. For Frances, songwriting is an escapism that provides a sanctuary of free expression.  

Frances’ work takes you on an unpredictable musical journey which has been described as ‘ageless’ and ‘evocative’. 

Despite a saturated music market, Frances remains committed to producing albums, telling her life story in her songs. Her last two albums ‘My Garden’ (2011) and ‘Stonewaller’ (2016) are the result of a fulfilling collaboration and friendship with Miriam Cox (cello) and James Cox (percussion/drums). 

Frances is looking forward to sharing her new album, ‘All you can see is sky’ which will be released in 2018.

Show full profile »

Lou Rivers has been enchanting audiences with his acoustic style across the South east since his early teens. Now through time spent studying a Songwriting degree at the British Institute of Modern music, and the life experiences that came as a result, Lou has both broadened and honed his unique style. 

Having taken a break from live performance to refine his songwriting, Lou is keen to return to the stages which in the past have included the Tunbridge Wells Forum and the London Troubadour.

His sound is comparable to the likes of Elliott Smith, Radiohead, Beck and Neutral Milk hotel, but is constantly taking inspiration from sources both in and outside of music. 

Lou is currently working on a Solo EP followed by plans for a 2016 album release, whilst working alongside musicians of all genres as he completes his degree.

Show full profile »

Elle Watson is a young singer from Sevenoaks in Kent who is influenced by artists like Coldplay, Foster The People, Radiohead and Ben Howard.

She draws influence from her every day experiences when writing and singing and you can't help but be captured by her vocals and the passion with which she sings.

Elle's version of Bob Dylan's "All Along The Watchtower" and her bedroom cover of Taylor Swift's "Dear John" are starting to impact on YouTube with comments coming in on how beautiful and mesmerising Elle's voice is.

To hear Elle's version of All Along The Watchtower and for more information on Elle please visit her website.

Show full profile »