Acclaimed folk musician returns to Whangateau

Award-winning folk musician Bob McNeill will return to Whangateau Hall on Monday November 9, bringing songs from his latest album, Twelve Dreams of the River, to an intimate solo concert.

It will be the Wellington-based musician’s third appearance at the hall in 20 years, but his first performing there alone.

“I’m looking forward to it,” McNeill says.

Originally from Scotland, McNeill moved to New Zealand in 1998, after spending time in the United States. He has since established himself as one of the country’s most respected folk singer-songwriters, with his music attracting audiences both here and overseas.

His songs, which blend folk and rock influences with unusual stories and evocative landscapes, have been covered by numerous musicians. His songwriting has drawn comparisons with Bruce Springsteen, Mark Knopfler, James Taylor and Jackson Browne.

McNeill has won two Tui awards for Best Folk Album at the New Zealand Music Awards, as well as a third for The Little Cascade, recorded with Orcadian fiddler Kenny Ritch under the name Ben the Hoose.

His latest album explores life, ageing and the choices that shape people’s lives. Recorded in Wellington last year, it draws inspiration from three rivers – the Waikato, the Manuherikia in Central Otago, and the Kelvin in Scotland.

He says the songs emerged from four years of collected notes, photographs, fragments and field recordings, with many captured on their first take.

The concert starts at 7.30pm.