If you don’t know about Sofar Sounds it’s a global live music phenomenon – a network of bands and organisers in over 400 towns and cities across the globe. And it’s arrived in Hastings.
The principle is simple – and effective.
You buy a ticket for a show, but all you know is the time and the date.
On the morning of the gig you’ll get an e-mail telling you where to go – and, this is the fun bit – it won’t be any of the standard local venues.
Instead it might be in somebodies front room, or in an estate agent’s office, or in a library – or pretty much anywhere that can comfortably seat 40-50 people.
You often get to bring your own drinks – and you listen to some amazing music.
That’s it.
The first Hastings Sofar Sound show (organised by local musician Jamie Smart) was held in the backstage green room above the Blackmarket VIP Venue.
It featured Lilo’s Wall, Emma Jollife and Jack Francis, and set the bar tremendously high for future events.
If Simon and Garfunckle were two unassuming young women from Winchester then they would have called themselves Lilo’s Wall. That pretty neatly sums up the quality of songwriting and delivery.
Emma Jollife is a poet and spoken word artist with a real knack for observation and a special talent when it comes to regional accents. Her show held the audience rapt.
Last up, Jack Francis, is the epitomy of the travelling singer-songwriter troubador. The Southampton-based musician is already taking his first steps onto some major festival stages and it won’t be long before it becomes difficult to see him in such intimate settings.
Put 25 April in your diary for the next event and buy your ticket here.
Photos by Sara Bowrey
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