Ian Parker - ‘Up Close and Intimate’ concert series
Over the last 10 years, Ian Parker has established himself throughout Europe and even the US as one of the leading roots songwriters and performers of his generation. With four albums and two live DVDs released through Ruf Records, Parker has amassed a very respectable back catalogue, and an expansive following to match.
Over the years, Ian has predominantly toured with his four-piece band, delivering a blend of introspective rootsie rock and hi-octane blues. Now, with his current focus firmly on his acoustic driven song-writing, Ian has decided that the time is right to perform a series of concerts in a more stripped down, intimate manner, in order the present his back catalogue and much of his newest material in its ‘purest form’.
The ‘Up Close and Intimate’ series will feature the artist playing in a variety of formats. For the first run of shows in January, he will be teaming up with his old cohort ‘Morg’ Morgan on keyboards. Morgan is known for his sensitive and supportive accompaniment, and the musical complicity he shares with Ian, is widely acknowledged.
The second leg of the tour will see Ian accompanied by another long serving band member, Steve Amadeo, and leading UK slide guitarist, Chris Eaton. Steve studied Jazz on double bass at Birmingham Conservatoire, and has played a wide range of styles over the years. Ian played a series of duo shows in New York in the summer of 2008 with double bassist Brian Killen, and found the improvisational freedom and raw rootsiness of the format compelling.
Chris Eaton met Ian at The BeauvaisFestival, France back in 2001, and the two guitarists have vowed to work together ever since. Finally, the opportunity has presented itself, and it promises to be an exciting union.
In the summer, Ian will again venture across the Atlantic to perform a series of solo shows in the US, culminating in a headlining appearance on the acoustic stage of The Bayfront Festival, DuluthMN in August.
“I’m really excited about the concerts. I think it will be an interesting artistic challenge to perform in such a simplified and exposed way. I’m relishing the opportunity to play my songs in their purist form, and the variety which Morg, Steve and Chris will bring to the series is going to be fantastic” said Parker.
ANDY WHITE
In The Top Bar @ The Queens Head. Friday - 16th October
Doors open 8.15 for 9pm start. £5 on the door.
Belfast-born Andy White is one of the great Irish singer-songwriters. who mixes social concern with great lyrics and a pop sensibility. Touring the world with his acoustic guitar he is Belfast’s 21st Century Troubadour but still very much his own man. His lyric-driven acoustic folk-rock has become more engaging and his social commentary more relevant every year.
