FAUSTUS – The Guildhall, Leicester 26th April 2013

faustus bandThe historic Guildhall in Leicester, currently next door to the highly prominent  Richard III museum, played host to folk trio Faustus on Friday 26th April.  A magnificent setting and deserved sell out as Faustus is made up of 3 superbly talented singer/songwriter musicians, 2 of which are well known in Bellowhead.  A rare treat when they are able to fit in a tour as Faustus due to other commitments, it was a real pleasure to be there.

Comprising of mandolin and acoustic guitar, fret board wizard Benji Kirkpatrick has played with amongst others – The Oysterband, Seth Lakeman Band, Eliza Carthy and Cara Dillon and is a member of highly acclaimed and multi award winning Bellowhead.  Paul Sartin, another member of Bellowhead, and founder of Dr Faustus and Belshazzar’s Feast, has impressive theory and studying credentials behind him, including a 1st in his Masters Degree studying Traditional Music.  He plays a might fine Oboe, sings in various choirs and apparently is a stand up comic too!  Saul Rose is one of the finest melodeon players in the country and was spotted by Eliza Carthy in the early 90’s. Saul is very involved with traditional music and has played the melodeon for most of his life.  He spent most of 2011 in Warhorse which was playing in the West End.  He has worked with an impressive list of prominent people.

The set list comprised of mainly songs but we were treated to some tunes as well.  7 for the first half and 7 for the second, finishing up with Willow as the encore.  The audience were singing along to Faustus most of the time, and clearly appreciated the talent, humour and musicianship coming at them from the stage.

On speaking to them afterwards, they were very happy with the evening, and had enjoyed themselves. I did send Benji off to see the Richard III exhibition, which the staff had kindly left open for the evening, and felt guilty when Paul couldn’t find him!

They do have two albums out for your delectation in-between gigs!

I hope it won’t be too long before they tour again.

Jean Camp

Artist’s website: www.faustusband.com