No reason to be sing blues in Leek this a M “
BLUES AND AMERICANA FESTIVAL
usic lovers in the Moorlands will have no reason to sing the blues this autumn as Leek plays host to its first Blues and Americana Festival. The festival of live music is set to take place in venues across the town during early October with acts already announced including celebrated American song writer Slaid Cleaves, acoustic and grassroots music champion Adrian Bryon Burns and Stoke-on-Trent’s very own Elvis Fontenot. Organised by volunteers with the support of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council the Festival will be officially launched during Leek Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 21st September when blues lovers will get a taste of what’s to come with an acoustic session in the Foxlowe Arts Centre in the afternoon followed by live music at The Cock in the evening. The Leek Blues and Americana Festival is all about showcasing the thriving local music scene and helping to promote some of the great venues which support it. In the first year alone organisers have secured over 25 acts to play at 10 venues which are all within easy walking distance of each other. Catch international acts at affordable prices and, thanks to the support of many of the town’s pubs and small business, much of this packed weekend of music will be completely free. Councillor Sybil Ralphs, Leader of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, told Leek Life: “We’re delighted that Leek will be hosting this festival. I know this genre of music is very popular and look forward to welcoming fans to the town to enjoy not only the acts and entertainment featuring in the festival but also the town itself and its beautiful surroundings. “Leek is fast becoming a location of choice for arts and festival organisers and I wish this latest welcome addition to the calendar every success.” Leek Blues Festival Trustee and local councillor Darren Price added: “The Leek Blues and Americana Festival is being organised by local volunteers and funded solely by local businesses. “We have lots of great pubs and a thriving local live music scene in the town and we feel that the Festival is a great way to showcase both of these while having a great time! “We hope this event will become a fixture on the calendar and bring more people into our lovely town centre with all of the benefits that will bring.” For more information, and the latest updates on acts and events, visit the festival’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/Leekblues, follow it on Twitter @leekblues or email dave@leekblues.co.uk.
34 Leek Life September/October 2013