Jess Mason - Wilkes:

Live at The Park public house, Kimbolten Rd. Bedford.

October 5th 2005. Part of The Essential Sessions Wednesday evenings.

Ventured down to The Park pub tonight to check out this week's Essential session. Jess Mason put on an acoustic set with the help of Dan on the bass guitar/harmonica.
The first half of the set was a mellow, relaxed affair and really demonstrated what a talent Jess is. She's got a great voice and is a real talent on the guitar, sort of like a mellow Sheryl Crow. Not taking anything away from Dan on the bass, his simple bass lines complimented the songs really nicely and gave the music a bit more presence. A very enjoyable start to the set and it got peoples attention ready for the second half.
After a brief recess and a drink top up, the pair returned for the funkier part of the evening. The music was a little rockier then the first half but kept the relaxed atmosphere. They did experience a couple of unavoidable technical hitches but managed to keep things moving nicely. For one of the songs Dan took over the guitar and proved he is just as capable on the guitar as the bass. Not only that he introduced a harmonica for a song which kept the crowd interested and gave the set a varied sound.
It was a really nice way to relax after a hard days work and with free entry makes for a cheap night in a good atmosphere with good people. I've experienced a few of these essential sessions over the past few weeks and I've never been disappointed, in fact they seem to be getting better and better with each week so if you haven't checked one out yet I recommend you get yourself down The Park next week.
Live music is for life not just the weekend.

Review by Tysoe www.bedfordmetal.co.uk