Review: Lyme Folk Revisited - The Marine Theatre, 14th March 2015

Following last year’s successful Folk Weekend, the organisers are putting the finishing touches to this year’s event, to take place August 21 to August 23.

Saturday night was a fundraiser for that event and a chance to introduce the new patron, Devon based Jim Causley. All the acts performed for free to keep costs down.

First up, and also acting as compere for the night, was Jim. Singing a cappella or self-accompanied with an accordion, Jim’s rich voice was both a reminder of British folk roots and a celebration of the strength of the current modern folk ‘revival’. And all delivered with a smile and gentle wit that was fully inclusive, at odds with folk’s serious, elitist reputation of the past.

Local brother and sister duo, Six Days - Ellie and Ollie Harris – set off at a blistering pace and maintained it throughout their 30 minute set. With sublime harmonies supported by Ollie’s accomplished acoustic guitar, they were reminiscent of early Fleetwood Mac – indeed they covered Rhiannon, as well as an intriguing version of Michael Jackson song, Liberian Girl.

Lee Rahn was up next, finger-picking his guitar on his lap for his first song, before standing and playing conventionally for the rest of his set of Nick Drake/John Martyn inspired compositions. Morgan and Knapp followed, harmonising and playing acoustic guitars with gusto and skill, especially on a cover of All Along the Watchtower.

The final treat was Aimee - a young family trio lead by Aimee Mackenzie. They summed up the night – entertaining, professional and superb musicality.

I would recommend all the acts on the bill. Make a note in your diary now to catch them back in Lyme in August.

Neil Harvey