I went to school with Owen in #rdg (Theale Green if you're asking - before it got the 'community' bit added on). He was a few years above me and one of my brother's friends...and performed at every house evening/social event you could come across. Just as comfortable on guitar as drums, everyone was aware that the school had a talented musician in their ranks, and none would be surprised to see him still performing to the same standard today. So it should be equally as unsurprising I was keen to get him to perform here at The Jazz.
Now part of the formidable Club Soul, I asked him to give us a (very) brief lowdown on the band before their concert here this Saturday.
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Club Soul - Owen Martin
How long have you been playing the drums?
Getting on for 18 years now.
What influences have their been in the formation of Club Soul?
We share a love of soul and funk music from the 60s, 70s and 80s, as well as a love of free food and buffets.
What personal influences have you had as a musician?
Too many to list, but I guess it would start with my parents’ band - who I began sitting in with at a young age
Who is the best drummer of all time?
I can never narrow it down to one, so I’ll just say Ringo
How would you describe Club Soul's ‘sound’?
Well we’ve got a definite 70s and 80s vibe going on, but then there’s reggae, jazz, soul, blues too – everyone brings something different to the table!
You get booked for a lot of weddings etc – what do you prefer, private bookings or venue bookings?
Both have their advantages and disadvantages – venues often provide a better atmosphere, but then we’ve played some great weddings too. And there’s often free food.
If you could pick one song that the band enjoy performing most, what would it be?
It’s got to be All Night Long for me. Can’t beat a bit of Lionel J.
(Hear Club Soul playing some of their songs here).
What do you make of the music scene in Reading?
I’ve not lived locally for a few years, but it sounds pretty exciting – there’s a good few Reading bands gaining national recognition now
You're back in Reading for your performance at The Jazz Cafe - are you looking forward to seeing some of your friends at the gig?
Some of them I'm looking forward to seeing yes....:) We're all really excited about the gig though, me in particular. Returning to play in Reading always brings the best out of me!
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You can gain entrance to this unique concert for just £5 if you arrive before 9.30pm.
Hear examples of Club Soul's live performances here.
Call 01189681442 if you wish to reserve a table in our restaurant for the evening or to pre-book your entrance tickets.
See what else is coming up at The Jazz Cafe here.
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