A CONCERT of foot stompin’ swing music from two of the UK’s most exciting young musicians is coming to Cotherstone Village Hall.
Rob Heron and Tom Cronin are founding members of the acclaimed Tea Pad Orchestra and this stripped back duo show explores alternative arrangements of their classic songs on Friday, May 20, at 7.30pm.
The show, which is part of the Highlights Rural Touring Scheme, will also see the pair playing new music created during the last two years.
Blending early 20th century American music – western swing, blues, country, rock and roll – with witty, clever lyrics, their style is more eclectic than most.
With the addition of razor-sharp solos and great arrangements, their music harks back to a golden age whilst staying perfectly modern.
Kate Lynch, director at Highlights says: “Rural audiences are hugely appreciative of new folk music and I know they are going to love the youthful enthusiasm and sheer jaw-dropping talent of Rob Heron and Tom Cronin.
“We are delighted to be able to bring this brilliant duo to rural venues in a new show full of North Eastern swing music.”
Usually a six-piece band, Rob and Tom’s band, The Tea Pad Orchestra are a decade in to a remarkable story that began with four friends studying at Newcastle University and now sees them playing venues and festivals across the UK and mainland Europe.
Based in Newcastle, the Tea Pad Orchestra sound draws on myriad influences – from Hank Williams to Django Reinhard, Tom Waits to The Beatles – yet sounds like nobody else.
Across four albums and a four track EP the band have constantly added new flavours to their sound.
The band tour widely and endlessly, winning friends and fans at each new show with notable performances at Glastonbury, Bestival, Wilderness and Cambridge Folk Festival.
They’ve appeared numerous times on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends, and had their music played by everyone from Marc Riley to Huey Morgan.
Tickets for the Cotherstone show are £12 adults, £6 children and £30 for families.
To book, call 07929 828129 or go to highlightsnorth. co.uk.
