Open mic night at The Talbot

Laky, the entertainer

Talent and modesty often don't go hand in hand, however the artists performing at The Talbot pub on open mic night have an abundance of both.

Each act receives a free drink after they perform. The first act I saw was a guy called Stu with fluffy dark hair that hung off his face and an attractive emo style. As he sung softly into the mic I was greeted by the organisers of the event, Mary Sheehy and Jon Brough, a couple who are passionate singers themselves.

This is the second open mic event they held at The Talbot, where any musician can go on stage. The plan is to hold one every second Thursday of the month for as long as there is an audience. I have a feeling they have no idea what they've gotten themselves into, as I don't see it ending for a very long time.

Mary and Jon sung some songs including "Stand by your man" by Tammy Wynette, with John playing the guitar. On stage it's clear to see the couple have a good musical relationship reflecting their personal one.

One performer who really was surprising was Jonesy, a man with wild long white hair, looking like a true heavy metal fan. He sat down and strummed the guitar at what seemed like the speed of light, his music was high energy, but at times his voice softened and was soothing. He said he had been a drug addict for 30 years and had cried out to God before his prayers were answered.

Another performer who left a strong impression on me was Bournemouth university student called Lacky. He made the audience crack up with laughter with improvised lines like, “I wrote myself a Valentines card when I was drunk the other night.” Along with his sense of humour was undeniable talent. He sung with a difficult to place style that can only be described as rock with a twist of Red Hot Chilli Pepper inspiration heard through the fast singing and punchy guitar chords. He can often be found performing in places such as the Buffallo Bar, Inferno and Bar Me in Bournemouth.

Not one musician who took himself seriously on the night could be described as less than a competent performer.

The Talbot pub in Winton, with a very exclusive and friendly atmosphere, is very much underrated. It’s only a 20 minute walk from the university so it’s ideal for students at the Talbot Campus.