Opus Acoustics 1st Birthday
Would you believe it’s been a year since the Opus Acoustics series was launched?
On simple reflection of the artists we’ve been privileged to have put on since its conception, it seems hard to believe, with a figure approaching 100 fine musicians, poets and general creative types, from all over the country gracing the Riverside Stage.
If you aren’t familiar with Opus Acoustics, we run weekly shows down at the Riverside Bar each Thursday with some of the very finest in acoustic music/spoken word, ranging from trend setters in alt/indie Folk to more traditional Americana, Blues, Gypsy Jazz artists. Add to this Ambient, classical and experimental types, insert here more genres, and beyond, always Free Entry and in intimate settings.
To celebrate our passing this milestone we’ve selected a variety of videos from some memorable artists that have played on our stage at some point over the year. It is by no means an exhaustive list.
All the artists in this first post can be found on our newly released OPUS ACOUSTIC CD – ‘AT THE RIVERSIDE’, containing 16 tracks from some of our favorites thus far (if you haven’t already got a copy of can be found here). Hopefully we ll have a few of them back in the next year! (2nd post up soon – showcasing some other artists outside the CD).
For more info or to give us a ‘like’ on our Facebook page see here.
1) LIZ GREEN – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 6/10/11 and 31/03/12
Undoubtedly on a one-way trip to stardom, with daily national press and editor’s picks left right and centre, we’ve been lucky enough to have had down twice, both solo and with band, and each simply stunning.
2) RACHAEL DADD – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 6/10/11
Easily one of the best performances of the year. This is indie folk at its best, with heartfelt and original tracks delivered to create that rare bond bond between artist and audience in less than an hour.
3) THOMAS LEEB – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 27/10/11
Considered one of the finest acoustic guitar player on the planet right now, his take on new fingerstyle with its tappings, slappings and general percussive approach is something to behold and held a packed crowd baying for more.
4) BELLEVILLE – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 01/09/11 and 15/12/11
Head nodding, foot tapping, good times tunes that brought an wide smile to the faces of all down the Riverside. Over for the night from Leeds these guys deliver high energy pumping gypsy Jazz and with some great originals and reworkings of classic Django Reinhardt tunes.
5) DEAN MCPHEE – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 09/06/11
Dean is a solo electric guitar player, developing lush soundscapes, with emotive and effortless playing and is generally all round amazing. Check him live in action here.
6) ROZI PLAIN – Featured at Opus Acoustics on 24/11/11
Rozi was another stunning performance. She manages to fills her listeners with warmth and admiration with a wonderful openness on stage. This shows it all.
That’s your lot for part 1. Part 2 up soon, shining the spotlight on some artists not featured on our highlights CD.
Please come down and join in our celebrations with a party at the Riverside on Thursday 17th May with the almighty Honey Feet, Manchester’s finest ethio-trad, folk-hop & barrelhouse-pop exponents. Details here.
Bye
