The John Martyn Project to play The Apex

A virtuoso guitarist with a laid-back but highly expressive voice, John Martyn emerged from the British folk scene in the late 1960s to make some of the most hauntingly evocative and mesmerising music of his era.

The John Martyn Project, (pictured above) which is to play The Apex at the end of the month, started with a special sold out show in 2018 at the Jazz Cafe in London.

This special project features Blythe Pepino, Kit Hawes, Pete Josef and Sam Brookes, each recreating the many different aspects and eras of Martyn’s music, which is delivered in a sensitive and poignant manner.

Blythe Pepino was front woman of Vaults, sung on 2016’s John Lewis Christmas ad and toured with London Grammar.  However, in 2017 she turned her back on the major label existence to pursue her penchant for the strange and leftfield with new band, Mesadorm.

Kit Hawes is a virtuoso guitarist, composer, singer songwriter and mandolin enthusiast. Coming from a musical family, Kit was steeped in folk and roots music from the outset. He has gained a reputation as top class instrumentalist, working with artists such as Seth Lakeman and Cara Dillon.

Pete Josef has always been a soul singer at heart, but his multi-instrumental skills have led him into some interesting situations. For several years he has recorded and performed live with Roni Size and Reprazent, and more recently with Rag ’n’ Bone Man, as well as being a touring artist in Kelis’ live band. All whilst working on his debut album “Colour” which was featured at Gilles Peterson’s Worldwide Awards.

Sam Brookes’ 2011 debut album saw him named as Sunday Times “Breaking Act” and his independently released follow up “Kairos” was picked as one of the best albums of 2014 by The Independent.

Considerable streaming success and support slots for the likes of Willy Mason, Scott Matthews and Joan Armatrading have earned Sam a dedicated following and growing anticipation for his third album.

John Blakeley and Jon Short form a creative and original rhythm section who over the years have played together in variations incarnations with such artists as Yola and Sheelanagig.

You can hear John Martyn compositions, as well as some tunes from his contemporaries, from The John Martyn Project at The Apex on Sunday, January 29, at 7.30pm. See www.theapex.co.ukor ring 01284 758000 for more information or to book tickets.