- Orfila
- James Kirby
- Beki Robinson
Friday 26th April 2013 saw this years relaunch of Imperial Sounds, held at beautiful Hythe Imperial Hotel by James Vince and Ted Clark. This event had much success last year seeing some top class artists perform for a free entry evening held once a month. If this evening was a taste of what is to come, I would highly recommend you go down for the next one, for an evening of quality music in a relaxing environment.
Beki Robinson is a 21 year old artist/singer/songwriter from Ashford Kent. Having taken a bit of a break since August 2012 after trying out different styles of music, she has regrouped and is writing new material which she is currently recording. Although Beki has been a bit quiet on the gig scene of late, her reputation still preceded her and I was very much looking forward to her performance. Taking to the stage, a vision of red loveliness with her piano, Beki started the evening with an original song. The very first note told a story of what was to come with a stunningly melodic sound floating across the room, filling every corner of the bar. The set included a lovely mix of originals and covers with an unusual twist, making them unique to Beki. These included a particularly beautiful version of Emelie Sandie – I’ll Be Your Clown for which Beki did more than justice to. The last part of the set saw her joined on stage by Alex Budd and Beki stepped away from the piano to sing a few more covers with an amazing guitar accompaniment. Two extremely talented musicians then performed a surprising rendition of Jessie J – Do It Like A Dude, in a style I don’t think could ever be repeated. For me I actually preferred it to the original with a modern vibe but still chilled lyrical twist. I am very anxious to hear what new music Beki produces this year and will be eagerly keeping an eye out for the recorded material.
Beki Robinson & Alex Budd
James Kirby is a musician from London who has been performing for over 18 years. During those years he has opened stages for the likes of Labrinth, Sarah Cox (Radio 1), Kids in Glass House and Eddie Reade, which in itself tells you his caliber. James is indeed both an extremely talented musician and singer, starting his set with beautiful melodic chilled out original songs and very clever use of a loop pedal. Stilling on the sofa, enjoying the relaxing sound of the guitar and amazing vocals gently floating from the stage, I was suddenly jolted into paying attention. James somehow manages to flick a switch and jump between gentle beautiful music and upbeat lively country style tracks that slam into your face. It is rare that an artist can do this so smoothly, the transitions seamless without feeling disjointed in any way. Just as the audience relaxed and quietly chatted among themselves, he would produce a lively, toe tapping affair that captured every ounce of your attention and made you focus attentively. The instrumentals, voice and style of this artist is somewhat jaw dropping and it really isn’t hard to see why he has been chosen to open the aforementioned stages. Once home I immediately looked him up and checked out some more of his music, I would seriously suggest you do the same.
James Kirby
Orfila are a self titled band, self titled due to Abi, Louise and Matt being three siblings with the surname Orfila from Folkestone. I have to say right from the onset that this family should be producing a new super breed of children in the future that will be taking over the musical world. How can one family produce so many talented singer/songwriter musicians? A question I’m pretty sure I will never discover an answer too. There followed a beautiful mix of originals and covers from the stage, including performances of their upcoming debut EP. Amazingly each sibling has written a track for this EP and you can hear the slightly difference styles brought from this influence, but each complimenting each other beautifully. Already having gained success and having supported the likes of Beverley Craven and Albert Hammond they performed the most catchy rendition of Albert’s song I’m A Train I have heard. Covers from The Beetles, Taylor Swift and Mumford & Sons floated off the stage with the most stunning angelic harmonies I have heard in a long while. Throw in some harmonica and guitars and you have yourself if an amazing band I could never tire of seeing live! Roll on this debut EP is all I can say.
Orfila
Sarah Quinn – GIGgle Pics & Kent Sessions
Find Beki Robinson Music on Facebook
Find James Kirby Music on Facebook
James on souncloud – go have a listen!
Although I took my camera along and took some shots, James did such a sterling job it seemed pointless me reproducing more of the same. Therefore I bring you James Vince’s photography by kind permission. Check out his Live In The Living Room Project.
GIGglepics 