The guest at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 6th July is Bob Wood. He is described by Ian McCalman as ‘one of Scotland’s best kept secrets’ and Bob’s debut album remains as one of Ian’s ‘most played’. Not a recommendation to be sniffed at! Although a native of Ayr, Bob moved to the bright lights of London a number of years ago and there he has remained. He is a founder member and organiser of The Ram Folk Club in Surrey and it is in and around London and the Home Counties that Bob has established himself as a very accomplished finger style guitarist and an excellent singer. Artists of the calibre of Archie Fisher, Tom McConville, Steve Tiltson and Jez Lowe all wax lyrical about Bob’s expertise and they know a thing or two about good music.
Bob has played at countless Clubs and Festivals throughout the UK and has contributed to a number of albums by other artists. Being in demand to appear on other artists’ CDs probably accounts for the fact that he has released only two of his own. His deft and much admired guitar picking skills make his guitar workshops very sought after. The workshops focus on alternative guitar tunings and song accompaniment. His extensive repertoire of songs includes traditional material as well as more contemporary songs. As well as his solo career, Bob does regular gigs with Benny Gallagher of Gallagher & Lyle fame and it’s a partnership they they both very much enjoy.
Therefore to hear the much respected Bob Wood from Ayr on his second appearance at Irvine Folk Club, get along to Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry Road on Wednesday 6th July for 8pm. It’s BYOB at the Club and there’s also a good café available.
Elsewhere, two glorious parts of Scotland are hosting Trad Music Festivals. First up is Falkland this weekend 1st – 3rd July and, from 7th – 9th July it’s the turn of Newton Stewart & Minigaff. Superb places to visit plus good music equals wonderful!