Three top singersongwriters present a SONGWRITERS CIRCLE concert in this iconic venue. Greg Hancock, Alex Seel and Minnie Birch will take the stage together and then in turn, perform selections of their compositions. This is a perfect format to compare and contrast styles and techniques, and there will be plenty of interaction - both musical and verbal between the performers!

Greg Hancock only began performing a few years ago after many years living overseas but has quickly built up a solid reputation as one of the UK’s most original songwriters and skillful guitarists. He makes observations on the human condition that can be serious, but are always imbued with a wry sense of humour and an unexpected turn of phrase. There are echoes of influences such as Nic Jones, John Martyn and Joni Mitchell in his work... but the overall sound is completely his own.

“A master guitarist, exquisite songwriter and beautiful arranger of music... one of the finest songwriters in the UK and should be heard by as many music lovers as possible!”

Blues and Roots

Alex Seel’s songs go right to the heart of the matter. Whether he’s exploring themes of love, life or modern society, he weaves his deceptively gentle lyrics around subtle and sophisticated melodies and song structures. More Americana and blues influenced than Greg, his virtuoso guitar playing ranges from the sweetly melodic to a crisp punchy rhythmic style that is entirely unique.

“His voice is a thing comprised of equal parts comfort and mystery, and it perfectly suits the songs, which are intimate but at the same time just a little bit untamed.”

folkradio

Greg met Minnie Birch at Busk Love festival in early 2019 having previously been introduced to her music via a mutual friend. In performance Minnie has a quiet intensity that draws the listener in as she weaves her wonderfully original lyrics around subtle melodies and some lovely guitar playing. Minnie writes dark, plaintive, beautiful music about life, love, adventures and fairy tales. Following slots supporting Joan Armatrading and a stint at Edinburgh fringe, Minnie has been wooing audiences all over the place with tours in Iceland, America, Europe and all over the U.K under her belt. Her debut album received national airplay on BBC radio 2, BBC 6 music and on BBC Radio 1 as Huw Stephen’s Introducing artist of the week. Minnie will provide a great counterbalance to Greg’s earthier attitudes and to Alex’s more bluesy sound!

"Her riveting and sometimes shocking lyrics are getting the recognition they deserve" Time Out Magazine