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Veteran Auckland singer/songwriters Mark Laurent and Brenda Liddiard are heading north for a guest appearance at Whangateau Folk Club on Monday, October 20.
The duo have been writing songs and performing since the 1970s and 80s and have built up a big following for their grassroots folk and blues style.
Laurent has been a professional guitarist and vocalist for 50 years and can turn his hand to pretty much any style of music, though the blues is where he’s happiest – it’s been said that he plays like his life depends on it, with “blistering, brilliant acoustic guitar licks”.
He’s also a renowned poet, and has had several books published.
Liddiard’s heartfelt singing and songwriting style developed from authentic folk, protest and alt-country music of the 1970s and 80s, especially English and US acoustic songs, as well as her passionate involvement with environmental and anti-nuclear issues.
She plays guitar and mandolin, and her solo album, Box of Memories, was a finalist in the 2013 Tui Awards for Best Folk Album.
Together, the pair have played everywhere from busking on city streets to major international folk festivals, including a couple of visits to Whangateau in the past. They have recorded many albums of original material in a wide range of musical styles, with their songs being covered by other artists, used in film soundtracks and garnering awards over the years.
Music fans should note that the October club night is being held a week earlier than normal, as Wellington Folk Festival runs the following long weekend, October 27.
The first half will be floor singers, followed by Laurent and Liddiard. The music starts at 7pm and tickets cost $15. Info and bookings: Email whangateaufolk@gmail.com.
