'First Stages' - Emerging Talent Showcase

For over 30 years Boo Hewerdine has been considered one of the UK’s finest singer-songwriters. As lead singer of seminal band, The Bible, through his subsequent solo work and his long-time collaboration with the incredible Eddi Reader he has become something of a national treasure. Since Swimming in Mercury was released in 2017, Boo has been writing, recording and touring with Eddi Reader, Chris Difford, Kris Drever and Emily Barker among others. He is in demand as a writer, producer and performer. This Autumn he will be undertaking an extensive tour, singing songs from his new album ‘Before’ and his extensive back catalogue. A naturally gifted raconteur his gigs are always a total joy.

Michele Stodart is a solo artist as well as bassist, vocalist and co-songwriter with the much-loved, Mercury-Prize-nominated and double platinum sellers The Magic Numbers. The band recently released their fourth studio album, Alias, in 2014 with several critics calling it their finest to date, receiving **** in Q and Uncut. Over the summer of 2014-15, The Magic Numbers supported Neil Young & Crazy Horse, Super Furry Animals and Train on their recent arena tour. In 2012, Michele released an album of her own songs, Wide-Eyed Crossing, a southern-drenched journey into Americana country blues. In support of the record, Michele and her band toured with Villagers, Duke Special, Slow Club and Ben Ottewell of Gomez. She is currently touring with the Magic Numbers and working on a follow-up solo album to be released later this year. Upon the release of her new solo record Michele will embark on two co-headline tours in Sept with The Goat Roper Rodeo Band and in Oct with Kathryn Williams.