This event is part of Sharmanka's programme of live performances by local and international musicians, artists and performers.
As soon as we met Ben McElroy in Sharmanka, it was clear he was on the right wavelength to perform amidst Eduard Bersudsky's marvellous mechanical sculptures, so we're delighted this is happening as our live music event for March.
Ben is an ambient/folk musician originally from The Wirral but now residing in Nottingham. He combines acoustic instruments with computer processing to create folk inspired soundscapes.
Ben has been writing music since his teens, with just a basic grasp of guitar and even more basic recording equipment. Over the years hes picked up more instruments and slightly better recording gear, and has been venturing out to perform live since 2022.
Ben has a new album out in April and will be performing material from that, as well as older pieces. He has also just released a short film to accompany the album, funded by PRS Foundation. The music features Debbie Armour (Burd Ellen) and Nick Jonah Davis. The film, shot on 16mm film in Derbyshire, features Ben and a puppet called Widdershins. Think Oliver Postgate's Pogle's Wood and you're on the right track! You can watch the filmHERE [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdj-jlWQnBc].
A shivering seabed of sound, haunted by barely there vocals and stitched together with lo-fi production.- The Guardian
Experimental lo-fi folk music at its very best. - Left Lion
An evocatively curated and wonderfully weird album. Songlines
"Reengaging with the old, he has created something truly unique. Folk Radio UK
More information about Ben:
www.benmcelroy.co.uk [//www.benmcelroy.co.uk]|https://linktr.ee/benmcelroy
The music event will be followed by a mini performance of Sharmanka's kinetic artworks. There are a limited number of tickets to fill this intimate space, so if you want to be there, the soundest advice is to book early!
This continues Sharmanka's 2025 Live Events Programme organised by John Cavanagh /www.johncavanagh.co.uk [//www.johncavanagh.co.uk]
Doors open: 7:00pm
Event starts: 7:15pm (no late admittance)
Running time: approximately 60 - 90 minutes.