13 September 2012

Bringing eco music to a town near you

I must confess I had my doubts when I began to plan a national concert tour. Would people get excited about songs about fossil fuels? Would I find venues to play them in?

But happily my fears have faded now the tour's under way. I couldn't have predicted the variety of venues I'll be playing in - a cathedral, churches, theatres and even a prison.

Four years ago I decided to embark on a career as an eco-musician. I wanted to get the word out about environmental issues with songs that people would enjoy singing.

My local Friends of the Earth group in Camden has played a vital part in this. Without the support of my friends in the group I doubt the tour would have happened.

They have helped with song ideas, watched rough cuts of videos and will host one of the concerts. Local groups in Bradford and Chester are doing the same. The concerts are a great opportunity to promote The Bee Cause and Clean British Energy campaigns.

Luke Concannon - the man behind Nizlopi's 'JCB song' - also played his part. We met at climate camp in 2008 and spent the afternoon singing songs for everyone there. It's great that Luke is joining us for half the tour dates.

It's not just music. Each night during the show cartoonish Danny Fenster will turn suggestions from the audience into a unique satirical cartoon.

Find your nearest show - we would love to spend the evening with you.

Jess Gold, Camden Friends of the Earth

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