Woodman Folk Club - Newsletter

Hello Folketeers!

Derry here:

On Friday, the 7th of November, at 20:30 hrs, we welcome the return of a much-loved duo, friends and highly respected performers, Ruth & Ken Powell who come to us from the beautiful Welsh countryside, just next door to Lake Vyrnwy.

A formidable pairing, two thirds of ‘Risky Business’ but now an excellent duo, they have played the Woodman many times before and were last with us in February '24. As well as being a masterful guitarist Ken is also a superb luthier and you can bet that tonight’s instruments will all be of his own construction. Just a note: Ken has retired from building guitars nowadays, so regrettably you can’t buy new “Powell Guitars” any more. Ruth is just simply a brilliant vocalist and together they make superb choices to do excellent covers of much-loved classics. Ruth & Ken Powell will put on a show that will leave you wanting more and more. Ruth & Ken are the consummate professionals, but watch out, they do like a laugh!

Due to unforeseen circumstances Ken and Ruth Powell have had to cancel,
They will return x

We have managed to fill the vacancy with the most excellent Paul Downes, who will be making his fourth appearance at the club as a solo artist. He has a superb pedigree having worked with Phil Beer, The Arizona Smoke Review and many more. He is rightly regarded as one of the folk world’s finest musicians, and it is a real treat to see him deliver a solo performance. His guitar and banjo playing is effortless, and his vocals are crystal clear. Paul generates genuine empathy with his audience and this will be a night you won’t want to miss.

Then, on the 14th of November at 20:30 hrs we have the famous Songman himself, the brilliant Bob Fox. Believe it or not it was back in April 2017 that Bob Fox last entertained us at the Woodman, I know, hard to believe, isn't it? So naturally tonight we'll be welcoming him back as a long overdue, and very welcome guest. As we all know, Bob is from the north-east of England and his songs reflect the culture and humour of his homeland and he accompanies them all with stunning guitar playing which he makes look simply effortless. He has been performing and touring now for 40 years as a solo artiste and, from time-to-time, in various duos and bands, so you’d expect him to be quite good………. but that’s an understatement, he’s superb, the very best! You have to, to tour with the mighty Fairport Convention, play at Fairport’s Cropredy Convention, and travel extensively all over the world presenting and performing the very best in British Folk music. Oh, and we mustn’t forget his highly successful collaborations with Stuart Luckley, and also Billy Mitchell, Benny Graham, and Jez Lowe as The Pitman Poets. Then there was a long stint in the massively successful War Horse show as The Songman.

On the 21st of November, at 20:30 hrs, we have one of the Midlands seminal bands: Mick Bisiker’s Rack & Ruin Acoustic. As I'm sure many of you know Mick Bisiker has graced the Woodman 'stage' on many previous occasions and never fails to put on a good show. A very talented musician, excellent singer/songwriter and he always performs with some very classy musical friends. Featuring: Deb Bisiker on Sax, Chris Radley on Bass and Jane Hargrave on Violin, a great night's entertainment is definitely guaranteed. Be warned, it will be lively!

On the 28th November at 20:00hrs, It’s another Wonderful Woodman Singers’ Night! You definitely need to get there early to book your spot as Singers' Nights are very popular and slots are limited Alternatively, to be sure, it would be best to book a spot in advance by contacting Debby & Derry - contact details are on the home page. Please note that if you have pre-booked a spot you need to be at the club before 20:00 hrs to confirm, or the slot may be re-allocated. Just a quick reminder: Both the bar, door and membership are cash only.

You might also like:

Bob & Des do Radio! Tune in to Black Country Radio Xtra to listen to Folk & Beyond with Bob Bignell and myself, you will hear some of the best Woodman FC, Bromsgrove FC and other local folk club guests and international folk legends from past, present and future. There is a link on the home page.

Don’t forget, support live music venues whenever you can. Use it or lose it!

Well, Folketeers, that’s all from me for now. I’ll be news lettering again in December.

Enjoy Yourself!

Derry xx