After a successful stop in Huddersfield, Blues for Palestine are coming to Sidney & Matilda on 7 February. The concert will host several blues singers who all share the same goal of raising money for medical aid in Palestine.
Organisers Love Music Hate Racism (LMHR), Huddersfield Blues Club and Honey Bees Blues Club, decided on Sheffield as their second stop, with plans to keep the tour going to Leeds next.
Performers include Pat Fulgoni Blues Experience, Lightning Threads, The 20ft Squid Blues Band, Slim Wilson & the Swamp Brothers, Joe Armitage and Ash Gray.
Of course, it will all be blues, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be variety. Expect a mix of modern and classic blues, with sets that range from upbeat to soulful. There may be a twinge of country from Texan Ash Gray and a 1950s Chicago-style tune from the 20ft Squid Blues Band. Plus, there’ll be both covers and originals, with some bands even performing unreleased music.
While Blues for Palestine is about having a good time, there is a very serious message and desire to help others. Just before the blues begin, there will be opening speeches from organisation Palestinian Solidarity and some Sheffield councillors, reminding people of the significace of the cause.
Pat Fulgoni, no 3 in the UK blues airplay charts, shared why the concert and its message are so important, particularly as the country traverses a new political climate.
“I think with the rise of hatred and the far right, it’s pretty clear we’ve got to dig in, and music has always been a fantastic way to achieve that.
“A lot of the hospitals that were in Gaza have been reduced to rubble, and children have been operated on without anaesthetics. Blues for Palestine is really serious about the fundraising and awareness.”
The concert will be held this Saturday, February 7th, from 5pm – 10.30pm at Sidney & Matilda on 46 Sidney St.
Tickets are £12 on Fatsoma and can be found here.
