Patrons at famous Harrogate venue The Blues Bar will be able to enjoy live music for the first time since March tonight.
Local blues musician Howlin’ Mat will perform a stripped back blues set which co-owner Simon Colgan described as “back to basics” for the famous bar.
Simon told the Stray Ferret that the musician is the perfect choice as everyone will be seated inside — meaning it won’t be the usual “raucous” crowd.
He said:
“I wanted anybody who was new to the town to get what they would expect from a blues bar, which is a solo musician who plays with feeling. Howlin’ Matt is a racounteur too so he also will stories in between songs. “
The Blues Bar is renowned for multi-instrument bands playing high tempo, rocky blues but Simon said because they can’t have a crowded stage due to social distancing, they are focusing on solo or double acts.
Next Saturday night Gypsy Bill Williams and his wife will be performing who Simon described as “real authentic blues with stories”. Blues Bar staple the Jed Thomas Band will be playing the following Saturday.
Simon said he will assess how the next couple of Saturdays go before bringing live music back 7 days a week
He said:
“Our only problem is some of our regular musicians are very concerned about social distancing. They will need convincing. Especially those with health conditions and those of a certain age.
Simon added customers are looking forward to getting their live music fix at The Blues once again.
He said:
“A lot of people are coming to Harrogate and saying ‘I come to The Blues Bar for the live music and can’t wait for it to come back’.”
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Harrogate’s Majestic Hotel will also be hosting live music this weekend at its Frederick’s Sun Terrace.
Tonight sax and rhythm duo Laurie Covell & ANDY will perform and on Sunday there will be live jazz piano from Leach.