FEATURED ARTIST – AMAZING KAPPA CAL RUDDY
This young whippersnapper is a true gent . Courteous , cool and above all talented . Cal is a singer / songwriter with his own , unique style . Influences of Americana , Rockabilly and Country are evident in his current album , Ellison Place . He delivers a high energy show encouraging audience participation and nailing it every time .
Check him out on social media for upcoming gigs . www . facebook . com / calruddymusic
Guitarist and singer Paul Kappa created Amazing Kappa Band in 1998 . For the last twenty-three years they have held a twice weekly residency in Liverpool ’ s famous Cavern Pub and Club on Mathew Street , thrilling a local and international crowd from all walks of life .
A brick in the wall of fame on Mathew Street honours their contribution to the music scene on the sacred stones of Liverpool ’ s music Mecca .
In terms of influences and diverse directions think ; Led Zeppelin , Jimi Hendrix , Johnny Cash , Motörhead , Dolly Parton and Ravel . It doesn ’ t make sense , but it does when you see them play .
The mix is eclectic , but amazing . The powerhouse rhythm section of Maria Alan on bass and Charlie Skeggs . on drums complements the frontman perfectly . And what a frontman . Kappa will play the Bolero on guitar behind his head , whilst strutting the moves . He will rock out to Zepplin and cram emotion and enthusiasm into a song were you never thought possible .
Paul Kappa is one of my personal favourites . He plays from his soul and each time you see him , it is like watching him for the first time . www . facebook . com / amazingkappa
JADE THUNDER
Jade has developed into quite the musician . A self-taught guitar player , Jade can read music and pretty much get a tune out of any instrument she picks up .
I have watched her develop into a strong , creative songwriter and an ever more confident performer but still believe the best is yet to come . Her new album launch has been set back a few times but is due for release early 2022 . Alchemy is an accomplished piece of work showcasing many influences and exploring a new side to Jade ’ s voice . www . jadethunder . com
BRIAN SAXOPHONE JONES
I first saw Brian at the age of 14 ( me , not him ), in Tranmere Rovers Club . I don ’ t think he has aged one bit and his saxophone playing is as good if not better than it was then and that is saying something ! Completely selftaught , the saxophone is an extension of his body and it is totally evident in his playing . From the Pink Panther to Rock ‘ n ’ Roll , Brian can play it all , standing on his head !
The new year will see him continuing to perform with the band he joined in the early 60 ’ s - The Undertakers . They are still going strong playing to venues across the country - professional to the core and sounding as good as ever . www . briansaxjones . com
GARY MURPHY
I can ’ t recall how long Gary and I have known each other but I know I would rather not count . I was fortunate to guest with him and the band on many occasions and loved every minute . I have since past the baton to my daughter , Jade . Gary is a superb musician , renowned guitarist and award-winning songwriter . He has released successful albums across Europe and filled venues for years with his skill and showmanship .
You will catch him locally every week at the famous Cavern Club and we can look forward to the band performing in many of Merseyside ’ s theatres . www . garymurphy . rocks
MARK SEBASTIAN D ’ LACEY
Photo © Adrian Wharton
A seasoned professional and one of a few from our shores who should have made the big time . I have known Mark since we were teenagers and he always stood out from the crowd . A superb frontman with a voice to match , he can fill any venue with his charisma alone .
Mark is embarking on a new venture next year , Sebastian and the Poor Valley Marauders an originals band with a gospel , soul , country and blues vibe . This is sure to be a hit and will showcase Mark ’ s song writing performed by a handpicked band . www . facebook . com / mark . lacey . 735 merseylife . com 57