END OF AN ERA - THE FINAL CA GIG

After three and a half years of promotions, Cool Acoustics brought the final curtain down with a farewell gig at its Royal Park Cellars home last week. After many memorable gigs and 2 DVDs, the concept which brought a who’s who of acoustic acts to the renowned venue, went out in a blaze of glory. First on stage was folk-singer Heather Woodhead making her first appearance for CA and accompanied by Alison Battye on flute. Her experience shone through the traditional folk songs with a voice, which was at times angelical before changing to hauntingly impressive, with a highlight being a memorable rendition of “Blooming Heather” which was enjoyed by the captive audience. Jenni Noyes followed and gave as polished a performance as any witnessed over the past CA promotions. Her controlled vocals complimented her solid guitar playing throughout a set, which included a topical track titled “War” which contrasted well with the love song “Sleepwalking”. Co-host of LSRFM’s Folk Off programme Natasha Johansson, then entertained the ever-increasing audience with a collection of her own renditions including an autobiographical “365 Reasons to Smile” and an inpromptu sing-a-long to the ABBA classic “Supertrouper” which added to the already memorable evening, A triumphant return to the Royal Park Cellars venue was then provided by Amelia Orgill, who, since her last performance at the venue has matured into an even more enthralling singer-songwriter. With tales of mermaids and Cornish folk-tales to entertain, Amelia looks destined to be a leading light in the acoustic/folk world for many years to come. It was fitting that the final act of the Cool Acoustics journey, was provided by two of the brightest young musicians on the circuit today, as teenagers Sarah Horn and James Cudworth, took the evening to an uplifting finale with a set including Scottish Reels and Jigs and a foot-stamping end to a wonderful night of classic acoustic brilliance.

The Leeds music historians in years to come, will hopefully acknowledge all the hard work and effort made by CA during one of the most demanding recession hit era’s for the “Live Music” fraternity. Thanks for the memories CA, you will be missed.

WEBSITES
SARAH HORN

AMELIA ORGILL

NATASHA JOHANSSON

JENNI NOYES

HEATHER WOODHEAD

MUSICSUCCESS