This felt like a really special event to be a part of. I was asked to take some images and write a short piece on each of the artists I captured for Brighton and Hove News at Girls Night Out Fest, and despite not being the most skilled of music writers, I was happy to jump on board. Thankfully my fellow Brighton and Hove contributor Christian Le Surf was there to take over reviewing duties. Which left me free to enjoy the music.
The festival took place over three grass roots venues in Brighton in support of local women and non binary people in the music industry. All profits then went to the Brighton Women’s Centre.
The venues hosting included Pink Moon, providing a space for folk, indie and singer songwriters in the courtyard – with workshops, talks and film screenings in the gorgeous upstairs space. Then The Folklore Rooms line up brought a mix of indie, soul, R&B and jazz vibes. And for the rock, alternative and shoe gaze, Green Door Store was the place to be.
This was a dream of a festival for me. Not only offering a beautifully curated line up, but also incorporating The Arts in a broader context with writers talks and film screenings. And my choice of venue was the unquestionably individual Pink Moon. With its super cosy bar space, gorgeous upstairs room with cabaret seating and fairy lit outside area.
It being June of course we were blessed with heavy downpours throughout the afternoon, and high winds that threatened to carry the gazebos away. But for me this just added to the atmosphere. It also meant a great excuse to pop inside and enjoy the venues delicious pastries in the downstairs room. I chose the cinnamon and caramel knot – which I would highly recommend!
So – on with the music. I was only able to attend for the afternoon due to another booking, but what a treat these five acts were. Please do follow the links to explore their music. I am sure you won’t regret it, and supporting local talent is one of the reasons we are part of these communities.
Eva Nagy
Starting the whole day perfectly, surrounded by the pitter patter of frequent raindrops, was the singer-songwriter Eva Nagy accompanied by Rhys on acoustic guitar. With tracks from her recently released EP ‘Homesick’, along with some new gems, she smiled throughout despite the gloomy weather. Drawing comparisons with Phoebe Bridgers and Adrianne Lenker, her style of song writing using storytelling and soft melodies allows an instant engagement to her songs.
Sekinue
I am always excited to see a harpist on the bill and the performance from Sekinue did not disappoint. As a multi instrumentalist who has become more involved with the harp in recent years, Sekinue explores the struggles of everyday life in their lyrics, with a touch of dark humour and raw emotion, lifted throughout by the swirling intricate harp instrumentation. I have listened to their single Knives several times since the performance! Haunting beauty!!
ALY
Another breath of joyful energy in the courtyard – defying the weather in its attempt to bring down the mood. Through smiles at the strong gusts of wind and sudden falls of rain, Aly brought a more upbeat vibe to the proceedings. Her vocal range and powerful delivery echoed beautifully in the outside space. Hailing from Greece originally and now based in Brighton, her songs explore themes of ‘existentialism and self discovery’ with an interesting mix of indie rock and ethereal pop.
Georgie Moon
Georgie Moon came along with a full band in acoustic mode. Bringing a bigger sound but still very much delivering a stripped down set. Her delicate vocals suiting the intimate setting perfectly, Georgie and co had the audience entranced. Citing influences including Amy Winehouse and Joy Crookes, the melodic soul/pop songs are instantly relatable and memorable. Look out for her upcoming EP release of ‘Lucky You’.
Máidin
My final act of the festival sadly – but a great way to end it. Máidin’s upbeat energy was immediate as she entered the gazebo. AKA Jessica James, Máidin not only performed this beautiful set, but is also one of the organisers of the Girls Night Out Festival. Playing with Matt Sheeran on acoustic guitar, the indie folk vibe coupled with Jessica’s powerful and versatile vocals left a lasting impression on me. A perfect close the my afternoon of festivaling!
Photography Stuff
Using my go to kit of Canon EOS R couple with the 85mm 1.2 and 35mm1.8 lenses the outside, daytime lighting made for an easy shoot in terms of sharpness and colour. There were limitations related to moving. It was a small space with a packed group of people under the Gazebo and venturing outside from under the shelter meant the risk of showering my camera during the heavy rainfall. But there were some great opportunities for capturing the raindrops.