Just a few days ago, on the 15th of August 2023, I had the immense pleasure of hosting the captivating Broken Spine Live event at the iconic Jimmy’s Liverpool. Let me be your guide as I recount the vibrant tapestry of creative brilliance that unfolded on that unforgettable summer night.
Poetry and Music Unite: Broken Spine Live Highlights
Under the enchanting lights and amidst an atmosphere brimming with excitement, I took the stage as your host, Alan Parry. With a heart full of passion for words and music, I opened the night by sharing my own poetic creations, drawing inspiration from my celebrated show “Noir”. These texts had previously enchanted audiences at the Morecambe Fringe Festival and the inaugural Sefton Pride, and it was a privilege to bring them to life once again in the heart of Liverpool.
But the magic didn’t stop there. The night belonged to the diverse array of talents that the Broken Spine family proudly boasts. One shining moment was when we paid homage to the gifted poet Jay Rafferty, whose powerful piece “An Open Letter to the Pope” (Holy Things) left an indelible mark on everyone present. It’s truly a marvel how Jay’s words can touch hearts so deeply.
Collaboration was the essence of the night, and we were graced by the presence of Helen Jeffrey, a performance poet whose raw and introspective pieces shed light on themes of bullying and alcohol abuse. Her words struck chords with the audience, a poignant reminder of the power of storytelling through spoken word.
Welsh songstress Izzy Parker, fresh from her graduation at LIPA, graced the stage alongside her guitarist Wren. Their stripped-down covers of classics by Norah Jones, Michael Kiwanuka, and Leonard Cohen ignited the night with a fusion of melodies that resonated with all in attendance.
Simon Paul Crabb, a masterful songwriter, enriched the evening with his soul-stirring original compositions. Drawing inspiration from revered artists like Turin Brakes and The Verve, Crabb’s music showcased a thoughtful exploration of emotions and experiences.
And then came the crescendo, a moment that left us all in awe. Paul Robert Mullen‘s band, featuring the incredible Martin White on bass, the saxophone virtuoso Mike Smith, and the legendary Paul Kappa on lead guitar, captivated us with songs from Mullen’s upcoming debut solo album. Their rendition of Aqua’s “Barbie Girl” and Gerry Rafferty’s iconic “Baker Street” brought a fun twist to the night, showcasing the band’s versatility and captivating stage presence.
Throughout the night, the seamless musical transitions were artfully curated by Queer This DJ Shaun Ponsonby, setting the perfect rhythm for the diverse range of performances.
What’s Next?
As I reflect on this remarkable night of artistic brilliance, I can’t help but feel gratitude for being part of such a vibrant community. The Broken Spine: Live event was a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and the impact of storytelling through various art forms.
If you missed this exceptional event, don’t fret. Stay tuned for more mesmerising evenings that will bring together talented minds and hearts. Our commitment to celebrating the synergy of poetry and music remains unwavering. Keep an eye on our updates, and mark your calendars for future events that promise to be nothing short of magical.
Photo Credits: A Visual Feast by Gary Dougherty
The enchanting images that accompany this post are courtesy of the talented Gary Dougherty. His visual artistry skillfully captured the essence of the night, allowing us to relive the moments in all their splendor.
Until we gather again to celebrate the magic of art, keep your creative spirit alive and thriving. And remember, poetry and music have the power to illuminate our souls and connect us in profound ways.
Stay tuned for more updates and let the journey of artistic exploration continue.
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The Broken Spine is a poetry and arts collective proudly published on the coastal edge of North-West England. Founded in 2019 by Alan Parry and Paul Robert Mullen – two school friends reunited after twenty years through a mutual love of poetry.
