BarlowCree at Rumney Folk Club

We weren't sure what to expect when we set off last Friday (15th October) to visit Rumney Folk Club.  The club meets monthly at the St Augustines Church Hall in Rumney, Cardiff, for an open mic night.  We arrived early, as recommended, in order to try and get our names down for a slot to play.  Others had the same idea and we only just scraped in, getting the 11th slot out of 12.

What a treat this little club is!  The atmosphere was warm and cosy, with tables, candles, subdued lighting and background music.  The bar had some decent ale the folk running things were enthusiastic and welcoming.  The organisers worked hard to make the evening run smoothly whilst retaining a comforting sense of wartime do-it-yourself-ness!  The range of music was diverse and the audience were encouraging of all, regardless of ability or experience.  It was particularly good to see a number of teenagers throwing their hats into the ring and having a go.

When our turn came, we felt a tangible sense of having made a real discovery.  There was time for two songs only as more players registered after us which necessitated additional slots being shoe-horned into the schedule.  Thus was the spirit of the club - it was all about the music!  We did a couple of our old favourites - Boondocks and The Quay - to a receptive and affirming audience of around 75.

We'd like to extend our thanks to Elaine, the Talgarth crew and everyone who made the evening a success - we'll certainly be back for more next month (19th November), and the months after that...