'˜Our grandparents showed us how to dress and dance...'

You'll remember Johnny Hates Jazz.

When the late eighties were in full flow, JHJ hit us with the single Shattered Dreams which became a chart smash and a radio staple.

Their debut album did swell too, debuting in the top spot and going double platinum.

Expect a clash of old and new this evening when they return to The Stables.

Stage 2 will be held by Beth Porter & the Availables, an award-winning classical player who has embraced the folk scene and been taken in by their fraternity.

Chris Martin will see you in Stage 2 tomorrow night. Nope, not Coldplay’s ever-so-nice but frankly dreary frontman. We’re talking about the stand-up fella.

Join the observationalist as he cuts loose his This Show Has A Soundtrack work.

If you are a fan of the fret and love the widdly-widdly, The Story of Guitar Heroes on Saturday night is for you.

Phil Walker is the man with the six-strings, although strictly speaking he’ll have plenty more than that – with some 20 guitars used during the performance.

Or turn to your vintage side and enjoy a vist to Hedna’s Vintage Nightclub in Stage 2. Strip off your bland clobber, don your best classic clothing and step back in time to the 1930s and 40s.

“It is not just another music club, it is about fashion, dance and style,” organiser Edna said.

“Our grandparents showed us how to have fun, be glamorous and sexy in tough times. They showed us how to dress and dance.”

The Eskies will be in Stage 2 on Sunday night, and if you part with your hard earned cash for this lot, you’ll certainly get your money’s worth; ‘Purveyors of music that meanders from sea-soaked waltz to Italian tarantella, from brassy funeral march-esque lament to weep along klezmer knees up, from chain gang holler to rag time finger snap.’ Wow.

One time Argent vocalist and guitarist Russ Ballard appears on Tuesday evening with classics like Hold Your Head Up and God Gave Rock and Roll to You (Yep, the Kiss hit, but it wasn’t their track), and material from his new album.

The Andy Payani Trio present Tenor Madness on Stage 2 as Andy pays tribute to the jazz-ability of Sonny Rollins.

On Wednesday, Limehouse Lizzy deliver the music of the late Phil Lynott and co.

Last up this week is Hannah Sanders, over in Stage 2.

A little over a year ago, she released a folkin’ great debut album, in the shape of Charms Against Sorrow, and her captivating intimate live performance is turning heads and filling ears.

She grew up travelling Europe delivering unaccompanied folk songs with her family band, The Dunns.

Then she pursued a career as a cultural anthropologist, becoming a leading expert on contemporary witchcraft, before making a return to folk singing. Creatively astute, and with an alluring intensity, she is one to watch.

To book call 01908 280800.