As if to usher in the start of the summer, the nice people at The Fishes pub in North Hinksey Village had organised, along with Oxford Music Meet, an enjoyable evening of acoustic brilliance and serious funk & soul on Thursday 31 March, 2016.
It all kicked off at 8.00pm with James Kirby, who was introduced as being on a “world tour”, but James denied this explaining that he did play here and there when he can, and as he told me later, is going off to play a few shows in Europe soon. James is a solo musician armed only with an acoustic guitar and voice. It is refreshing to hear such a talented singer/songwriter like James Kirby. There is a very good and positive upbeatness that his music brings. His infectious songs warmed the Fishes crowd into a party mood, and if you haven’t heard his music it is well worth checking out. You can see and hear him by going to Jameskirbymusic.com.
After a wander around the garden at The Fishes it was good to see that they have re-erected their tipi for the summer fun and also added a chrome Airstream bar to their list of attractions!
Back into the bar for the next slice of entertainment. A packed pub welcomed Funkbrother and the Sisters of Soul. I was wondering whether they will one day abbreviate that to “FBATSOS”? but I quickly disregarded that last thought as they got the crowd dancing. I was told that this was their first gig as the above mentioned and you wouldn’t have guessed it! They played a lot of covers all done in their own style. If you want a party band then look no further. Funked up versions of many favourite songs. The guitarist impressed me going from guitar to sax occasionally. As for the chorus of female vocals, reminded me a bit of The B52s. Go check them out when you can!
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By: Dave