Kate writes:Hot on the heels of the Fleet Foxes' J.Tillman, In The Dock's fastest selling gig, comes Yorkshireman and Seahorse singer, Chris Helme on November 6, supported by The Lost Brothers.
Chris Helme is described by some as having a voice like he's the love child of Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald. Whether that's true or not, he's certainly an undeniable talent (and a North Yorkshire one at that). John Squire could see it when he handpicked him to head up his post-Stone Roses project, The Seahorses, in the late nineties. After a string of hit singles, 2 world tours and a top ten album the band went their separate ways. Chris returned home to work on his own music and that's when five-piece band 'The Yards' was formed with fellow York musicians and their eponymous first album was released in 2005.
Fast forward three years and you see the solo fruits of this accomplished and experienced musician, whose song writing and singing possesses a honed craft and emotional depth that these days are often hard to find. On stage at The Old Courthouse he'll be performing from his debut solo album, Ashes, which reflects a stripped down sort of sound that echoes the early acoustic work of Neil Young with hints of Tim Buckley-esque vocals. Many of the songs feature only lightly finger picked guitar lines and Helme's emotive vocals: a treat for any acoustic fan.
Supporting the wonderful work of Chris Helme is Irish duo, The Lost Brothers. A pure love of music brought this pair together and their shared passion ensures that the music they make has every bit of them in it. Their smooth voices coast effortlessly over their uplifting, yet subdued, melodies. Though their roots are most certainly in Ireland, you're charmed by the country influences and the Simon & Garfunkel type harmonies. This is the sort of music that sooner or later you'll find your toe involuntarily tapping to as it consumes you in a big bubble of downright loveliness.
Chris Helme and The Lost Brothers will be playing at The Old Courthouse, Thirsk on Friday 6 November, doors 7pm, tickets £10. To buy tickets visit http://www.inthedock.net/, or call 01845 595 980.
