On Thursday we welcomed the wonderful Barbara Dymock back to the club for the first time in well over 10 years. This time she was accompanied by Chris Marra, the brother of the legendary Michael Marra, and a hugely talented musician and entertainer in his own right.
Barbara and Chris provided a real treat: old and familiar traditional bothy ballads (usually abridged – sometimes these ballads can go on for ages), along with a couple of superb musical interpretations of the poetry of Violet Jacob, ‘The Brig’ was the standout here, with a beautiful, haunting melody composed by Chris. A wonderful performance of ‘Neil Gow’s Apprentice’ soon had us all singing and tapping along.
Brother Michael’s legacy could not be forgotten, of course, and a sterling performance of the (in)famous ‘Muggie Sha’ reminded us of just how memorable a songsmith he was. A truly wonderful song from a much missed figure on the Scottish music scene and the audience, of course, ‘jined in’ appreciatively in the choruses. Also included was a heartfelt rendition of an unrecorded song ‘Eternity’. Chris also showed us what a fine slide guitar player he is with the traditional song ‘Edward’. A versatile man indeed.
The show closed with a couple of great old singalongs: ‘In Friendship’s Name’ and ‘Todlen Hame’, and it was all over far too soon. Don’t stay away so long this time. A wonderful evening’s entertainment from two of Dundee’s finest.
Floor spots were provided by Ronnie, Paul, Dennis, Keith and Ian, with a cheeky wee poem from chairman Charlie finding its way in there. Our guests always marvel at the home grown talent we have at the club. The ever popular raffle (a must in any folk club) raised some welcome funds for the clubs coffers and, as always some fabulous prizes were on offer.
Next month we welcome a real old friend as Alastair McDonald returns for the first time since lockdown. Alastair is a regular visitor and he has an inexhaustible library of songs with which to entertain – I doubt if he’s ever performed the same set twice. We very much look forward to seeing him back and we sincerely hope that you’ll come along and join us for what will be another wonderful evening at Nitten.
The Committee.