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2011
201111
Caithness Country
Music Festival
2011Caithness
Country
Music Festival
2011
This Programme may be Subject to Change
20112011Caithness
Country
Music FestivalCai
thness Country
Music Festival
22nd - 24th AprilIndoor Riding Centre
Halkirk Caithness Scotland
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SOUVENIR PROGRAMMESOUVENIR PROGRAMMESOUVENIR PROGRAMME
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Chairperson’s Welcome
Feedback from last year's event was music to our ears when fans
described the festival as the 'bestever'. However very quickly
reality kicked in and the committee realised we were left with
theproblem, how to beat it.
We decided that we were going to give it a good try and pulled
out all the stops securing anothervaried and impressive line up
which, we hope over the course of the weekend, will cover all
stylesof music, offering something for everyone.
Budget has been tight again this year so once more we are
indebted to local firms and businessesthat have provided us with
sponsorship and supported us both financially and in kind.
Returning to join fans will be a TV crew from BBC ALBA who will
be recording the event andcapturing the atmosphere of the weekend
to be broadcast later in the year.
I extend a warm welcome to all you visitors joining us for the
first time and a big thanks to all theregulars who turn up and
support us each year.
Special thanks to all the committee and our behind the scene
helpers who work hard not only overthe course of the weekend but
also all year round planning and arranging such an event.
Happy Easter and have a great weekend.
Christine GrayChairperson NNCCMF
MacGregor IndustrialSupplies Ltd.
Would like to wish
Northern NashvilleCountry Music ClubContinued SuccessWith Their
Fantastic
Music Festival
Free Delivery to Caithness AreaEvery Tuesday & Thursday
Tel: 01463 717999 Fax: 01463 7171888Email:
[email protected]
www.macgregorsupplies.co.uk
For further details please contact
Dr George Green
Tel: 01925 287 300
Fax: 01925 287 301
ABS Consulting (UK) are pleased to support the
Suppliers of Nuclear Safety andEngineering Services to local
businesses
Northern Nashville CaithnessCountry Music Festival
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RUNNING ORDER
2000 - 20452050 - 22052220 - 23500005 - 0105
Sunday Evening
Tony BoothLandon DoddGene WatsonThe Jacks
2000 - 20552110 - 22252230 - 23450000 - 0100
Saturday Evening
Slange Ava
Ron Williams
Justin Trevino
Sharon Nixon
1300 - 13201330 - 14151430 - 15151515 - 16001615 - 1700
Sunday Afternoon
Company of Liars
TrevinoThe Kate Bain Band
(Wick Media Band)
The Chicken PickersTony BoothJustin
(Please note times are subject to change)
1300 - 13201335 - 14151415 - 14301435 - 16151630 - 1715
Saturday Afternoon
Thurso School BandNashville UnionSGail DaviesSouth Mountain
imon Peters with Nashville Union
UNIT G3, SCRABSTER BUSINESS PARK,SCRABSTER,THURSO, CAITHNESS
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Friday Evening
South MountainHighway 101Dominic Kirwan
2000 - 20452100 - 22002215 - 23302345 - 0100
Manson Grant & The Dynamos
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Tel: (01955) 604444 • Fax: (01955) 602316E-mail:
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EXECUTIVE TRAVELFOR THE
NORTH OF SCOTLAND
ORMLIE LODGE, ORMLIE ROAD
THURSO, KW14 7DP
Tel: 01847 896888 • Fax: 01847 896851
E-Mail: [email protected]
Buldoo Contracting
Fencing,Land Drainage,Site Clearance & Foundations
Supports theNNCCMF
Contact Graeme on 0770 8075743
MEIKLEJOHN’STAXIS
EST. 1944
THURSO892827
GailDaviesGailDaviesGailDavies
Gail was one of the most popular acts at our first festival and
we are delightedshe has agreed to return this year.
Gail has been described as one of the most important and
influential female singer/songwriters to have been involved in
country music in the last twenty years.
She was the first female record producer in country music and is
cited by many of today's popand country divas as their role model.
'The person who kicked open so many of the closeddoors on music
row'.
Though often best known for her pioneering production work, Gail
is also a gifted vocalistand prolific songwriter.
Her compositions are some of today's country radio standards and
been recorded around theworld by internationally renowned
artistes.
As a singer Gail's voice has earned her numerous nominations
from the CMA as well asthe coveted award from the D.J's of America
for Best Female Vocalist.
One of the few artists to have received a standing ovation in
the Grand Ole Opry, Gail is aconsummate performer who has played
venues from the Ryman Auditorium to the RoyalConcert Hall along
with John Prine.
Gail began life in Oklahoma, moving at the age of 5, to
Washington State, following hergraduation she went to L.A. and
after a brief career in jazz her initial interest in
recordproduction began.
Gail settled in Nashville in 1975; where she released her debut
album in 1978 goingon to produce her own records the following
year.
In 1985 Gail signed with RCA records forming a country rock band
beforereturning to a solo career in 1988, later forming her own
label Little ChickadeeProductions.
Gail is a genuinely sincere person, we met up with her a few
years ago when wewere in Nashville and she kindly met and arranged
for us to go back stage at theGrand Ole Opry, and used her
influence to introduce us to George Jones.
--- Yes Gail we owe you one ---
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Our growing team at Scrabster has vacancies for a number of
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For further details please contact:
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INVESTORS IN PEOPLE
Born in 1943 this
guy may be a veteran
in the business but if
you ask any number
of country singers
who their hero is
and a large number
will respond
Gene Watson.
This masterful country stylist from Houston, Texas has been
thrilling audiences for more than 30 years.
The depth of emotion in his singing, his brilliant phrasing, his
jaw-dropping range and the power in the
lyrics he chooses are all factors in the awe he inspires in both
fans and his musical peers. His stunning voice
captivates audiences and keeps his fans coming back again and
again.
Gene Watson's tally of 75 charted titles, 23 top-10 hits and six
number-one records has led to membership in the
Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. Radio listeners are still
transfixed whenever classics like ,
or are played.
At an age when most people are contemplating retirement, Gene
Watson is still making some of the greatest records of his life,
receiving such
accolades as Album of the Year and even Album of the Decade.
On his 2009 album release , Gene Watson & Rhonda Vincent
scored a no 1 for their single . Of the
album gene states “I'm working harder to be better each song is
very personal and has a special meaning to me”
Watching Gene perform he has the skills to give a powerful vocal
performance and drain the emotion from his selected material
without
effort. Gene, affectionately known as The Singers Singer, says
“I'm really looking forward to performing at the Northern Nashville
Country
Music Festival. We have been trying for a number of years to
make it to Scotland as there are so many great fans there and I
know they are
fans of the real thing---traditional country music---I'm very
honored to be invited to this wonderful festival”.
Farewell Party
Fourteen Carat Mind Love in the Hot Afternoon
A Taste of the Truth Staying Together
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arne
Forss Business & Technology ParkForss Thurso
Caithness KW14 7UZ
Phone : +44 (0)1847 808100Fax : +44 (0)1847 808161
wouldlike to
wish the
Northern Nash
ville
Caithness Co
untry
MusicFestiva
l 2011
all thevery be
st.
This year we welcome back
Highway 101, the very popular
band who were part of our 2005
event, and more recently playing in
our club gaining them an ever
increasing fan base in Caithness.
It all began way back in the 80's
when a very talented group of
musicians pooled their collective
experience in the area of rock n' roll
and country music song writing
and performance.
T h e i r s p e c i a l s o u n d w a s
established after recording
, which
prompted an album deal with a
style that had never been heard
before in the world of country
music.
From the moment they formed
Highway 101 presented a new
approach to country music. They
helped catapult the country genre
forward, tapping into a whole new
audience and paving the way for
such mass appeal artistes as Garth
Brooks and Alan Jackson.
The
Bed You Made For Me
Although Highway 101 have been through
different incarnations since their original conception
they have continued to enjoy a great deal of success
both in their recording and live performances
fronted by female singers.
The group present a diverse
musical act treating fans with
everything from Roger Miller
classics to Dire Straits in addition to
their own material.
To quote Curtis Stone “It doesn't
matter what the song is it's how we
make it sound”.
Drummer Cactus Moser states
“One of the reasons we have
continued to be successful over the
years is because we always strive to
maintain the musical integrity on
our live shows as on our records”
The bands belief in music is their
constant vision “ We still share the
sincerity about the music and never
pretend to be anything other than
we are” a band that loves to play
music- and we are certainly
looking forward to them playing
for us again.
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Last years festival featured Leona the mother, this year it's
the turn of her son Ron.
Ron comes from an amazing family rich in musical tradition,
former step-son ofthe famous country music legend Merle Haggard. He
has been surrounded bylegends of country music since childhood,
often sleeping in a guitar case as aninfant while mum was on
stage.
By age of 17, Ron began pushing his own unique style of country
music withinfluences including, Glen Campbell, Marty Robbins and of
course MerleHaggard. Ron has consistently proven that he is a
genuine country artist andworthy of being referred to as “the real
deal”.
Ron, has performed with some of country music's biggest stars,
including GeneWatson, Sammy Kershaw and Lori Morgan and his song
writing credits includea co/written single with Joe Diffie and the
title track on the gospel album fromJustin Trevino.
I have 3 of his albums and believe me every track is a winner, I
can see why he isin demand all over the U.S.
He has hosted the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree on multiple
occasions,appears regularly on RFD TV and performs frequently on
stage at the RymanAuditorium. Also recently filmed a television
pilot for the new country musicshow from Willie's place in Carl's
Corner, Texas with Charley Pride, WillieNelson and others.
In the past Ron has played in Ireland and due back later this
year as part of UTVCountry Fest, he is now looking forward to
playing in Scotland which comeshighly recommended by his mum.
Ron WilliamsRon WilliamsRon WilliamsRon Williams
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Although many of you might not be familiar with the name Tony
Booth you will certainly
know his music.
Tony is the guy responsible for such hits as , , and
to name a few.
Tony was born in Tampa Florida but has been resident in the Lone
Star state for over 30 years,
and in 2006 was commissioned an official Texan by the governor
for his contribution to country
music in the state.
Tony has a long list of titles to his credit these include 4
time award winner of the Band of the
Year from the Academy of Country Music being nominated along the
way with such names as
Conway Twitty, Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, Ray Price& Charlie
Rich.
In 2009 he was male vocalist of the year from the Academy of
Western Artists, and in the same
year was nominee finalist for song of the year with Is .
Tony has had over 3000, performances throughout the United
States as narrator and band
leader of Tommy Tunes, best little Whorehouse in Texas.
He was a member of Buck Owens, All American Show and was a
regular performer on Buck's
Ranch Party television show and made numerous appearances on
Hee-Haw.
Over the years Tony has worked with Buck Owens, Merle Haggard,
Gene Watson, Randy
Travis, Heather Myles & Justin Trevino.
When not out on the road Tony's hobbies include attending one or
two Nascar events per year
as well as watching them on TV, cruising on his Harley Davidson,
and watching the Miami
Dolphins as well as fitting in the occasional game of golf.
Sounds like a very busy man so we're privileged he found time to
be part of our festival.
The Keys In The Mailbox Lonesome 77203
Cinderella & Happy Hour
This All There Is To a Honky Tonk
North of ScotlandNEWSPAPERSPublishers & Commercial
Printers
NEWSPAPERS • MAGAZINESBOOKS • COMMERCIAL PRINT
42 Union Street, Wick, Caithness KW1 5EDTelephone: (01955)
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Home of the
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John O’Groat JournalCaithness Courier
TonyBoothTonyBoothTonyBoothTonyBoothTonyBoothTonyBooth
Best Wishes toCaithness Country Music Festival 2011
A' guidhe gach soirbhicheasdo Fèis Ceòl Dùthchail Ghallaibh
2011
Fàilte
Watch out for future coverage of the 2011 Festival
on
on
BBC ALBA
Sky 168 Freesat 110 www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer
.... and coming soon to Freeview!
BBC ALBA
Co-bhanntachd eadar MG ALBA agus am BBC /
A partnership between MG ALBA and the BBC.
-
Rick Trevino
Amber Digby
Fhiona Ennis
ThomasMaguire
Manson Grant& The Dynamos
Photographs by
Festival2010
Memories of
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The acts we had from Texas last year went down a storm and
there's lots more on
offer this year including Justin Trevino.
Justin is a retro honky tonker from Austin Texas, who teethed on
some of country's
greatest artistes thanks to his father an avid country fan and
record collector.
At 7 years old Trevino got his first guitar and started taking
lessons, he started
listening to guys like Ray Price and Johnny Bush and when he got
old enough
thought “Wow that's how I want to sing”.
By the time he was in his early teens his father started
persuading local club
owners to let his son get up and perform. By the time he was 13
Justin landed his
first professional gig and whilst in high school he had formed
his own band,
playing around the beer joints and honky tonks in Austin.
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Wide range of paints, wallpapersand decorating supplies
can be found atthe Paint Spectrum
Couper Square • Thurso
Tel/Fax:01847 890940
Justin Trevino
In his home studio during 1997 after having two albums under his
belt Justin began recording artists who were interested in
making
traditional country records these included Leona Williams,
Johnny Bush and Tony Booth.
Over the years Justin has won many awards including the Academy
of Western Artists , Pure Country Music Producer and his version
of
was named Song of the Year in 2008.
Justin has made numerous recordings proving that his powerful
high pitched voice deceptively smooth but with a piercing edge is
made for
singing good old fashioned Texas country music.
His recently released duet album with the popular songstress
from last year Amber Digby is brilliant and played in the Gray
household
constantly.
Justin enjoys hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree during
his trip to Nashville but most of the time you can find him in the
Texas
dance halls doing what he does best playing hard core country
music, or recording in his studio in Brady, Texas.
When She Does Me Right She Does You Wrong
-
52 Princes Street • Thurso • Caithness • KW14 7AETel: 01847
891570 • Fax: 01847 890222
E-mail: [email protected]
Members of the Financial Services Authority
Contact: Alan Currie or Hugh Boydfor all your
commercialinsurance requirements
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52 Princes Street • Thurso • Caithness • KW14 7AETel: 01847
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Landon Dodd was born on August 28th 1974 in Fort Worth, Texas
and you could say “honky tonkin” was in his blood.
Music has always been a big part of his life constantly playing
in his childhood home as well as the gospel songs sung at
church.
While his parents listened to everything from Foreigner to Jimmy
Buffet to Willie Nelson and Bob Wills, Landon preferred the
traditionalcountry music sound and shuffle beat.
Landon's father bought him his first guitar at seventeen. He
immediately fell in love with the instrument and knew that playing
and singingwere going to be a permanent part of his life. He spent
some time at Abilene Christian and Tarrant County College, studying
music. Fromthere, he was in and out of bands for the next few years
and formed a few of his own. After taking some time off from the
music business, hemade a comeback in 2006 and formed his current
band The Dancehall Drifters.
The band has opened for Gene Watson, Johnny Rodriguez and Moe
Bandy. Landon Dodd and the Dancehall Drifters were the Academy
ofWestern Artist pure country band of the year and performed along
side country stars Doug Stone and Johnny Bush.
Landon and his band The Dancehall Drifters have been gaining a
large following for those who love the true shuffles with an
emphasis onfiddle and steel guitar. They have played dancehalls all
over Texas gaining many followers along the way.
Dodd's first CD produced by JimLoessberg, debuted on January 13,
2010 on Heart ofTexas Records. It features the Texas A
TeamMusicians along with two special duets with AmberDigby and
Leona Williams.
Landon is certainly the full package a talentedmusician and
singer with an award winning voicewho goes to great lengths to
replicate a vintagecountry sound.
A hard core country act whose stage show willinclude country
shuffles, waltzes, and balladstimeless classics by country greats
like Ray Price,Johnny Bush and Buck Owens.
Call of the Wine
Landon DoddLandon DoddLandon Dodd
Tel: +44 (0) 1847 893251Fax: +44 (0) 1847 804044
www.parkhotelthurso.co.uk
PARK and relax!PARK and go touring!PARK and do business!PARK and
enjoy!
The Park Hotel
We would like to wish
NNCCMF All the Best
for this years’ Festival
-
In addition to those sponsors with adverts in this programme
the NNCCMF committee would also like to thank the
following businesses for their involvement:-
They would also like to give a big Thank You to the
following organisations & individuals for their
involvement:-
and finally a very Special Thank You to the countless
others who have been involved in the Festival in one form
or another, especially our
Derek Anderson
Small Town Audio
Clydesdale Bank
Special Thanks to all local hotels and B&B's who show
such kind local hospitality to our artistes and visitors
Halkirk Football Club
Halkirk Ross Institute Committee
Pentland United Football Club
Thurso Red Cross
Triple C CMC
Caithness FM
Scottish Indoor Riding Association
Caithness Group R.D.A.
Halkirk School
Gerry & Helen Henderson
Band of Helpers from within our Club Membership
(Electricial)
(Access & Car Park)
(Catering)
-
Caithness Sound & Light Event ServicesSound & Lighting
Systems, Mobile Disco's
Uplighting, Mobile Recording StudioProjection Services,
Staging
Contact Chris on 07933 048427
[email protected]
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-
George Malcolm
South Mountain
Dominic Kirwan
George Malcolm, as many of you know, compered our first ever
NNCMC club night way back in 1987, and also our first
festival. We were delighted when he did the honours for us last
year and look forward to him keeping the whole event running
like clockwork for us again this year.
Whilst he was here last year George kindly went along and
entertained the residents in Bayview and Pentland View
residential
homes and has agreed to go along and do the same this time
again.
George is originally from Edinburgh but has been resident in
Caithness for spells in the past where he played as part of the
Dukes
of Hazzard and then The Duke Boys. More recently he has been
resident musician in bars in Tenerife and Turkey before moving
to Thailand, only making very brief visits here to the
disappointment of his many fans that have remained loyal to him
over the
years.
George recently said: “Having been involved at the inception of
the festival in Thurso some eight years ago, and had the
privilege of being made an honorary member, it has never ceased
to amaze me how popular the event has become.
The festival is very aptly named the Northern Nashville
Caithness Country Music Festival its popularity is so that it
has
attracted some of the best country singers, not only here in the
UK but worldwide. Staring life in a marquee moving to the
Indoor Riding School in Halkirk, it's quickly built up the
reputation of being one of the most popular events on the country
music
calendar. I feel privileged to be part of such an up and ever
increasing popular event. The quality of the performers is
testimony to
all the hard work of the festival committee, and their
commitment to provide the north of Scotland with one of the
brightest and
dynamic venues has only made the success of this gathering an
event not to be missed and I am glad that I for one won't be
missing out.”
Completing this year's line up from across the pond four
talented musicians from Ontario Canada
who go under the name of South Mountain. Shortly after their
debut record release the band created
sufficient impact to capture the Canadian Country Music
Association's coveted 'Vista Rising Star
Award' honours as top new artists of 1991, this being the first
of many bestowed on the band.
When you consider the depth of talent and record of achievement
within the individual members of South Mountain plus the
unique sound created by the combination of their strong vocal
abilities and years of experience success would have been
impossible to deny.
The voice of South Mountain and bass guitarist Kurk Bernard
ensures the band continues to have the success they have had
all
over the world. Kurt, who has country music in his family blood
line for three generations, started singing and by the time he
was 8 years old country music became as natural as
breathing.
Jay Riehl, lead vocals and drums has been around country music
all his life, following his father into the entertainment
business.
Jay one of Canada's most sought after drummers when not touring
keeps himself busy in his own recording studio.
When it comes to pickers Steve Pitico is in a class of his own
and has become the bench mark for seasoned professionals and
developing players alike. As a result of his distinctive sound
and style Steve has toured and recorded with an endless list of
who's
who in country.
Completing the line up Tyler Beckett on fiddle, he began playing
when he was 3, and has performed across Canada and the U.S.
He is the Ontario open fiddle champion and, along with sister
Linsey, is a 2 time Canadian Duet Champion.
They currently hold the title for the best live show beating the
likes of Shania Twain, that's certainly something - maybe a little
bit
different but certainly entertainment at its best!
Country music legend Dominic Kirwan needs no introduction, he
has been on the road for 22 years and his live stage act is
still
regarded as one of the most vibrant and exciting in today's
country scene. With his rich voice and wide repertoire Dominic
offers
something to please even the most ardent music critic.
Dominic's latest album recorded in 2009 has reached top
positions in the British album charts. It's a
selection of country songs that features a wide variety of
influences, reflects his love of music and respect for material
both old and
new.
My Kinda Country
(continued over)
SMouth
ountain
-
Dominic Kirwan (cont.)
Sharon Nixon
Manson Grant & The Dynamos
Dominic began Irish dancing in his home town of Omagh at the
early age of 4, shortly after that one of his primary teachers
approached his mum and informed her that her son had a good
singing voice. Subsequently over the next few years Dominic
entered all singing and dancing competitions all over Ireland
and further afield giving him valuable experience for the career
that
lay ahead.
Dominic formed his first band in 1979 playing all over the west
of Ireland, going solo in ‘84, however it wasn't until 1988 he
finally managed to break through and sign a contract with Ritz
Records.
Many of Dominic's hits originate from this time and thus began
his hectic touring schedule which would take him all over the
globe offering him the opportunity to work with great music
stars as Charley Pride, Tammy Wynette and Don Williams.
Recently Dominic has been joined on stage by two of his sons
Colm and Barry, both fine musicians in their own right.
He continues to tour extensively being seen these days mainly in
big theatres and concert venues, so we are fortunate that
Dominic has taken time put of his busy schedule to once again
perform for his many fans here in the north.
Adding glamour to the stage a wee Irish colleen with a big voice
and personality to match will be the bubbly Sharon Nixon.
Sharon wowed the Northern Nashville club members when she
appeared at the club during the summer and I am sure she will
do the same again for the festival audience.
This petite blonde bombshell was described by Charley Pride when
she supported him on his Irish tour as a 'dynamic &
extremely
talented newcomer'.
Sharon, a native of Derry, draws her musical influences from
country greats such as; Loretta Lynn, Buck Owens, Joni Harms,
Dolly, The Hag & The King! Her energetic performance, fueled
with an electric passion for country music, is one not to be
missed. She has been singing publicly for 10 years, all covers
from her influences in the music business.
She has had several television performances including a stint on
ITV's Michael Barrymore shows My Kinda Music & My Kinda
People, the BBC's Ceol country programme, The Hugo Show. RTE's
Eurostar & The Late Late Show.
In 2007 Sharon & her band, Baton Rouge, achieved the title
of Best new band at the Irish country music awards, held in the
Setanta House Hotel, Kildare.
To date Sharon has recorded three CDs: the debut album titled
and the follow up
Her brand new CD ' ' is currently receiving tremendous
airplay.
I missed Sharon in the club as I was in Ireland, but managed to
catch her there, so am looking forward to her performance in
Halkirk, Sharon's voice is distinctively different it has slight
warble in it making her even more unique.
I can think of no one better to open up our festival and set the
tone for the whole weekend but our very popular local band
Manson Grant & The Dynamos.
Manson, Robert and Keith started the years’ entertainment off on
a high for us in the club giving, as ever, a flawless, polished
performance. I for one particularly enjoyed their cabaret spot
which had a distinct country feel to it.
Robert said recently “Another Easter, another Northern Nashville
Caithness Country Music Festival, it has become 'the thing to
do' at Easter to attend the festival in Halkirk both for
artistes and audience alike.
We as a band don't travel the highways and byways anymore so for
us it is a great chance to catch up with supporters and friends
of old and make new ones. As our regular supporters are aware in
a normal programme we cover a variety of music, however
this year we plan to feature mostly country music and hopefully
some Cajun, we haven't done that in probably 15 years.”
One of the most popular songs we recorded was in 1981 ' ' which
Manson took from Tony Booth,
also another popular song ' ' by Gail Davies, so they are really
looking forward to
seeing both these artistes this weekend. Gail Davies appeared on
the first NNCCMF in Thurso and when Gail sang '
' a lady from down south went up to Manson and said “she's
singing your song” to which he
replied “I wish”!
Tell Me Bout The Good Old Days Boots
'N' Wranglers. Are We There Yet?
The Key's In The Mailbox
Someone Is Looking For Someone Like You
Someone
Is Looking For Someone Like You
-
The Kate Bain Band
Slange Ava
The Jacks
Another blend of local talent flying the flag for Caithness at
our festival is the Kate Bain Band. Hailing from Mid-Clyth in
Caithness , The Kate Bain Band has gone from strength to
strength over the years playing the length and breadth of Scotland,
and
sharing the stage with American Country legends such as Becky
Hobbs , David Ball , Highway 101 and Gail Davies at the
Caithness Country Music Festival in Halkirk since the first ever
festival.
The band has a cutting-edge contemporary style featuring hits by
Martina McBride, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Reba McEntire
and the Eagles. Kate has a certain velvet smoothness to her
voice yet at the same time, an edge which allows her to carry
off
numbers such as Gretchen Wilson's ' ’.
Kate has two albums to her credit, including her debut album ' '
and her latest album '
' released on Pan Records. The albums feature a mixture of
well-known and lesser known material including covers from
some of the new ladies of country music. The band members are
Kate on lead vocals and piano, husband Richard Bain on
drums, Andrew Polson on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, and
Gordon Davidson on lead vocals, lead guitar and mandolin.
The Kate Bain Band look forward to once again appearing at the
country festival over Easter weekend in Halkirk where they
enjoy catching up with old friends meeting other musicians. They
wish the committee all the very best for the 2011 festival.
Another successful year for local band Slange Ava and things are
continuing to go well for them. Since last festival they have
been busy in the recording studio and just before Christmas
released their 1st DVD, and fingers crossed their debut CD will be
on
sale at the festival. Their DVD was recorded live locally at the
Lyth Arts Centre (with a few well known faces present) and
released through Pan Records.
The boys have had a few highlights throughout the last year they
were Band of the Year in the Triple C Club in Wick, and in the
Northern Nashville were voted by the members and won by a clear
majority the Sandy Swanson Memorial Trophy.
Keith, James Donnie and Chris wish to say a huge thanks to all
who voted for them, it’s nice to see our local bands winning
these
awards.
The boys did us proud over the weekend of our Christmas Shows;
the weather wasn't kind to us and forced us to cancel one of
the
acts who were travelling from Ireland. They did the honours for
us both nights, braved the elements entered into the spirit of
things ensuring they gave the members two super nights of
country music.
The band have been travelling a wee bit further afield and love
meeting and making new friends, I think they have now just
about recovered from their trip to Shetland,--- took them a
while---.
Keith says “We hope you have a fantastic festival.....I know we
will..!!
This band have enjoyed coming to this festival since it began
and probably most of you will have seen them before. Essentially
a
family band from nearby Golspie they are considered 'local',
however they have taken their own style of country music to
many
countries around the world.
The 4 guys on stage, Geordie Jack, Kevin Jack, Trevor Jack &
Dado Duncan, between them will keep you entertained with lively
combinations of the 9 instruments & 4 voices they deliver
with their easy personalities.
They have been playing together as The Jacks for over 20 years
now and between them have a collective musical career of over
120 years! (ouch!) yes we are all getting on a bit.
Looking to the future, they have a studio album close to being
complete, and as busy as ever playing gigs at home and abroad.
These guys had no hesitation in helping us at NNCMC out when the
bad weather interfered with our plans for our Christmas
show. On the Friday when the road was open Geordie, Kevin and
Trevor made it over the ord and gave the crowd what they
were looking for - a party! They got into the swing of things
delivering all styles of music right down to a strip the
willow.
As has become a tradition The Jacks will bring our festival to a
close and there can be no better finale, they will get the
crowd
eating out of their hands from the minute they strike the first
chord and leave them shouting for more.
Redneck Woman
I'm Not That Lonely Yet Behind The
Smile
-
Nashville Union
Chicken Pickers
Making their debut at this years festival is newly formed local
band Nashville Union, but while the band might be new it
features
some of Caithness' most talented and experienced musicians.
It all started back in the late 60's when Colin McFeat and Nigel
Slater became friends when playing in bands in the Tayside
area.
In ‘75 they teamed up as Duo Gelco playing to packed houses in
the Thurso area.
Going their own ways in 1980, Nigel became drummer with the very
successful Duke Boys, who toured Ireland and Europe with
such famous artistes as Conway Twitty, Freddie Fender& Tammy
Wynette. More recently he has been a member of Nickels and
Dimes playing at all our festivals having their own spot and
also backing some of our American acts including Jett Williams
and
Becky Hobbs.
Alisdair Wordie has been part of the north's music scene since
the 60's playing bass, rhythm, harmonica, piano and little
banjo
with such bands as Arizona and Gheorge. More recently another
member of Nickels and Dimes, he enjoyed the experience of
sharing the stage with top notch acts.
Barry Reid started his musical career in the 70's joining the
Dynamos, going on to play with Newmen, Kate Bain, Harmony and
Half Canned. During that time Barry has played accordion, lead
& bass guitar and mandolin, supporting many popular Irish
acts.
Joining our locals is much sought after pedal steel guitarist
Willie Murdoch; again you will have seen him as part of Nickels
and
Dimes. Willie is a regular visitor to the Texas steel guitar
jamboree in Dallas where he has rubbed shoulders with the world's
top
steel players.
Lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Colin McFeat needs no
introduction to country fans after a few years break from the music
scene
he is ready to make a long overdue comeback. Colin fronted
Silver who played all over the country earning themselves many
prestigious awards. All of you who remember their successful
album released in 1991, dig it out to remind
yourselves just how good it sounded.
--- A very exciting musical event for Caithness---
This has been a very quick, but eventful year for The Chicken
Pickers, the boys are going from strength to strength, thy went
down
a treat when they played for us in the club in February each
time I hear them their repertoire and confidence increases.
Lead vocalist Mikie states “After the festival last year we
stopped playing to begin to study for our Standard Grade
examinations;
which finished at the start of June.
As a band we had a fairly quiet summer as everyone had their own
things going on and family holidays booked. Mid August we
were to start playing properly again and were booked up for
weeks; unfortunately at the start of the month we had an
unexpected
line-up change. However I think it's safe to say we now have a
solid unit and hope to stay together, doing what we all enjoy
for
some time.”
The line up is as follows; Mikie Henderson, Andrew Reynolds,
Ryan Bain, Michael Simpson and Chris Boxall. From Mid-
August right through until New Year the band were almost fully
booked and appeared in all the local pubs, Triple C's country
music club Christmas show, village dances and various private
functions, as well as gigs further afield in such places as Skye,
Elgin
and Golspie. They also had a very busy run up to Christmas which
saw the boys performing weekday shows also.
To top off the busy run of gigs the band once again headlined
the Hogmanay Street Party in Wick. Into the New Year The
Chicken Pickers played more dances and private functions,
including the local County Ball, an NNCMC club night alongside
Lisa McHugh, and more performances away from home in Skye and
Skerray.
The exciting news is that the band have started recording a CD
which will be released later in the year.
The boys cannot wait to return to play the festival and look
forward to seeing everyone there.
Up Hill All The Way
As many of you will know by now we are keen to promote Country
music within the younger generations and
therefore give up & coming young bands and stars the
opportunity to show us what they are capable of at the
festival.
The Chicken Pickers above were one such band and have proved
that a festival spot can be just the start. The
following acts are this years selection so please give them a
huge welcome.
-
Company of Liars
Thurso High School Band
Simon Peters
Not quite sure how a group of teenagers decided to give the
name Company of Liars to their band, maybe better we don't
know they looked a nice bunch of guys to me I'm sure they
just
wanted a name that would stand out
The band comprises of Kirsty Mackay and Michael Simpson on
vocals, Michael also plays bass, Aaron Stephen and Ross
Winfield on guitar, and the drummer is Ross Bain. Together they
are the band lucky enough to have been elected to represent
Wick Youth Club Music Link Media group at this year's
festival.
Michael and Aaron are no strangers to the festival both have
played as part of winning bands in the past, so no doubt they
will
offer advice to help the first timers overcome their nerves.
However, the two Ross's along with Kirsty got together especially
for
the festival audition.
The youngsters have a variety of musical influences including
heavy rock bands such as Led Zepplin, Thin Lizzy and Metallica
as
well as country artistes like Taylor Swift and Johnny Cash. They
are very excited that they were lucky enough to be chosen to
represent Music Link Media at Halkirk and I am sure they will do
them proud, take it all in their stride and enjoy the
experience.
This year's country band from Thurso High School consists of
Danny Mackenzie on vocals and lead guitar, Lucy Owen on vocals
and guitar, Danny Gunn on bass, Thea Mainprize on mandolin and
guitar, and Leslie Hibbert on drums.
Despite being a bit anxious the band are looking forward to
playing in front of such a large
crowd - for two members this will be their first time performing
at the festival for the other
three it will be old hat as they were with us last year.
The band are practising hard for their Saturday afternoon spot
particularly since they
know they will be recorded for television again this year,
however with them all
studying hard for their A Levels it not easy fitting everything
in.
Some of these teenagers admit to not being great country fans,
but say their influences
are Johnny Cash, Dixie Chicks and Brad Paisley looks like we can
expect a varied spot
of both old and new country.
These young musicians will have the full support of the audience
and I'm sure there will
also be proud parents and grandparents in the audience to cheer
them on.
We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to include
this young man on our programme. Simon, from Donegal, is a
confident 11 year old with a great singing voice and big
personality, and is Ireland's newest singing sensation, who will
charm the
festival audience over the course of the weekend.
Simon said recently “I wrote my first song when I was 8 years
old and recorded it when I was 9. It is a song about one of my
favourite Irish Country Singers, John Hogan, and called the . It
got great air play on all of the local radio stations.
Then when I was 10 yrs old I got the opportunity to record a
duet with the man himself John Hogan, and while we were in the
studio I also recorded another 3 songs. I went on to bring out a
new 4 track album and the title is a song that I wrote myself
called
which is what I am doing. Since its release in March 2010 I have
been very busy travelling up and down the
country making guest appearances at lots of concerts and dances
and recently made a DVD of all my songs.
In November I got invited to Nashville by George Hamilton IV to
sing on the Midnight Jamboree live on WSM radio, whilst
there I also sang with Johnny Cash's brother and sister on
Cowboy Church, and it was the most amazing experience I have
ever
had. I also got to record a new single while I was in Nashville
with some of Nashville's top musicians, it was amazing! I have
also appeared on a few TV shows such as Hot Country, The Late
Late Toy Show, shown on RTE, have just finished recording my
new album, and have received an award for being Ireland's
youngest entertainer and am up for another few later in the
year.
I have always loved country music and have never been interested
in anything else, this is what I want to do and I hope I can
continue doing it. I am very much looking forward to coming over
to Scotland playing my music for you all and meeting up with
all the other stars.”
Offaly Rover
Living My Dream
www.wycmusiclinkmedia.co.uk
-
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Thank You for
coming and hope to
see y’all next year!
www.nncmc.co.uk
Thank You for
coming and hope to
see y’all next year!
