Reviews

Press Release 8.5.11 * Press Release 8.5.11 * Press Release 8.5.11 * Press Release 8.5.11 

Music, Song and Sticky Toffee Pudding at the 
Bluebell Café
by Steve Cook

The Bluebell Railway is not the only interesting development to come to East Grinstead in recent times. As the town, which stands proudly at the nexus of four counties, gradually re-invents itself as a cultural centre, something pleasantly musical is stirring at the railway’s namesake, the Bluebell Café.

The Bluebell Café’s live music night has now taken hold as a popular venue and permanent Thursday evening fixture. In it one is reminded of the traditional Jazz and Blues music cafes and clubs of old. Such clubs were the intimate proving grounds for bands, singers and songwriters who went on to establish themselves as icons of their respective musical traditions. Names such as Ella Fitzgerald, Muddy Waters and the Beatles spring readily to mind.

In so saying, one is waxing lyrical perhaps but after Thursday’s pleasant and entertaining evening at the Bluebell, the likenesses are inescapable.

The atmosphere was intimate and pleasant, the clientele embraced at least three musical generations and the music was right out of the top drawer.

Sinead Laws, the town’s native born singer-songwriter was in scintillating form, bringing her remarkable voice to bear with warmth and aplomb to a delightful mix of rock and blues classics such as “A Little Help from My Friends,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stuck in the Middle with You” and Free’s “All Right Now” as well as originals, “Good Thing Going On” and “Singing No More,” from her own album.

In this she was more than ably assisted by the legendary and seemingly ubiquitous and certainly irrepressible Dave Press and his band, who brought to the occasion their customary high quality musicianship and, from Dave, the good-natured wit and humour we have come to expect.

We were treated too to a debut from Twenty One Ninety, four young men whose accomplished performance and delightful vocals belied their tender years and mark them out clearly for much future success.

All in all this was a thoroughly enjoyable evening and a treat for anyone who appreciates quality live music in a vivacious but friendly atmosphere, where the performers themselves are clearly enjoying their rapport with the audience.

The café itself should receive a well-earned mention too. The staff are friendly, the service efficient and the fare delightful. I particularly recommend the sticky toffee pudding.

END