The team behind a new series of concerts at St Mary’s Cathedral in Middlesbrough is preparing for perhaps its most ambitious event yet.
After the sell-out success of a visit from classical singing group The Priests and an ongoing programme of candle-lit concerts, the Coulby Newham church is now preparing for a major change of gear as it welcomes indie-folk legend John Bramwell.
The founder member and songwriter of Mercury Award-nominated Manchester indie favourites I Am Kloot, John has earned a loyal following on Teesside since the band’s appearances at the late lamented Knights Club and other local venues.
Fresh from the success of a tour with his Full Harmonic Convergence backing band, he is returning to Middlesbrough as he embarks on an intimate solo tour.
And while St Mary’s will probably be the biggest church he has played in, it certainly won’t be the first.
“I’ve played in a lot of churches,” John said.
“When I play fingerstyle guitar and just sing, the ambience in an echoey room like a church is just great.
“You don’t want to be putting drum kits in there. I really want to explore the harmony and spaces in my writing rather than fill them up.”
Earlier this year John released his second solo album, The Light Fantastic, to critical acclaim, with The Times naming it in its Unmissable Albums of the Year So Far, comparing his writing to that of Neil Young and George Harrison.
John’s music blurs the distinction between indie music and folk, with complex lyrics, intricate acoustic guitar playing and haunting, memorable melodies.
Podcaster and music writer James McMahon told his listeners: “In an ideal world, John Bramwell, creator of some of the best music this island has ever served up, would be celebrated for his eccentricities, his relentless artistry and for dreaming big and bold.
“As I’m sure you’re aware, this is far from an ideal world.
“The new record, which is wonderful by the way, which is a word that doesn’t do justice to the grace of the thing – all Neil Diamond-esque melodies, Fleet Foxes-style soundscapes, a lick of Nick Drake, a garnish of John’s beloved Beatles.
“It’s a record which in a sane world would be owned by every music-loving household in the country. And yet it won’t be.”
The gig has been organised by St Mary’s Cathedral dean Canon Paul Farrer, who has been a fan of John’s music since that visit to the Knights Club all those years ago.
“I’m truly excited about welcoming John to St Mary’s Cathedral,” he said. “This event marks a special moment for our community, blending the power of music with the beauty of our church space.
“It might surprise some to see this kind of music in a church, but we believe a church should reflect the diversity of its community. Music brings people together, and we want to create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
“This night is going to be an amazing experience for anyone who loves good music.
“John’s special talent and unique sound will resonate beautifully in our cathedral, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend. I hope everyone will join us for what promises to be an incredible evening.”
- A Night with John Bramwell is on Saturday, September 28 from 8pm and tickets are £22.50 plus booking fee.
On Friday, September 27, the night before the John Bramwell gig, St Mary’s hosts critically acclaimed folk duo Plum Hall, supported by Teesside folk favourite Pete Davies. Tickets are £17.50 plus booking fee.
A full bar will be available at both events.
Visit the St Mary’s Cathedral box office at www.ticketsource.co.uk/middlesbroughcathedral , call 0333 666 3366 or email cathedralevents@rcdmidd.org.uk
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