Review Centre: Harmonica Players

"Drew Marler's musical style is a homogeneous mixture of the solo troubadour sounds of Dylan, and Young, the power of Nirvana and Janes Addiction, the soul of Al Green and Marvin Gaye, the improvisation of jazz and jam, psychedelic experimentation, and intricately woven harmonies, but it is always deeply rooted with the folk, blues heritage.” ( Washington, Ga. newspaper )"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Had a rocking great night with Denis doing his live show and Denis on the decks for my partners 60th birthday party in the garden. Denis was punctual and professional as usual and everybody have come back to me saying what a great night was had by all. No small thanks to Denis playing 6 hours. We had him for her 50th now 60th and always great entertainment. Sheldon Moss, Wednesday 24 September 2025"

Reply by Denis Cook
Thanks for your review … great crowd and thoroughly enjoyed the evening! Denis

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Denis Cook is the perfect pub and bar-room entertainer: genial, charming and chatty with a charismatic personality, so it's not surprising that the sumptuous Haven Wine Bar & Restaurant in Whetstone booked Denis for several gigs, since he's the ideal 'mine host' for this exclusive venue, encouraging the guests to join in and have a fun time. With many strings to his bow, in addition to singing Denis plays guitar, mandolin, ukulele, harmonica and kazoo, but his greatest claim to fame is that he taught his nephew Norman Cook, alias Fatboy Slim, to DJ! (Denis has been 'spinning discs' since 1969 and the young Norman was soon hooked on music too!) Though perhaps not the greatest instrumentalist to perform on stage, Denis more than makes up for this with his highly tuneful singing voice, careful selection of material and infectious personality. Skill and experience gained through years of DJing shines through in Denis's easy command of banter between numbers, putting many other pub acts to shame, and his sheer dedication to entertaining others certainly evidenced in this three-hour gig undertaken with hardly a break. Starting with the Eagles' country ditty "Peaceful Easy Feeling" and a stripped-down version of the Foundations' "Baby Now That I've Found You" guests knew they were in for something special, loving the laid-back, peaceful easy listening style and the fact that the music was at a very reasonable volume: no blasting speakers here! Then, after just three songs, self-accompanied by guitar, Denis popped out his mandolin for a very enjoyable rendition of the Kinks' "Tired Of Waiting For You" and Steve Earle's Irish classic "Galway Girl" before switching to the ukulele for a charming interpretation of McFly's wistful "Love Is Easy" but, in addition, you'll find plenty of variety in Denis's act, ranging from party numbers like the Mavericks' "Dance The Night Away" and Roxy Music's "Let's Stick Together" to country classics such as Glen Campbell's "Rhinestone Cowboy" and John Denver's "Take Me Home Country Roads" to up-to-date material like George Ezra's catchy "Budapest" as well as some good old rock 'n roll. And - how many performers would be brave enough to attempt Rupert Holmes' excellent "Escape" (The Pina Colada Song); the late Ronnie Lane's rocking "Ooh La La" or Billy Ray Cyrus' witty comedy number "Where Am I Gonna Live?!" Mr Cook will be returning to the Haven soon and my advice is that you might want to reserve a table, since the place is likely to be well be packed in anticipation of this great entertainer. Colin Fenn Lemonrock reviewer,"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We hired Drew to play at our wedding this past fall. We met Drew previously from the Harris Teeter Tavern in Nexton. Every time he played there, he had us singing along. He is an awesome guitarist and also a great harmonica player too. His voice accompanies many songs perfectly and even better when he pulls out the harmonica. If you like a wide range of music from new or old I recommend hiring him for your next event. You and your guests won’t be disappointed!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Scott is a regular performer here and one of our favorites! Not only is he an amazing musician and has developed quite a following at our venue, but he is also very professional and incredible to work with. Even as a solo performer, if you close your eyes you might guess you're listening to a trio! Such full sound and always the highest quality performance. He's just THAT good! I would very highly recommend him."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"After a few hours checking out the Lord Mayor's show, the missus and I headed to the Hoop & Grapes in the heart of London City for an hour or two of cockney singalong courtesy of Harmonica Lewinsky. It was the first time we'd seen him holding court for a while, and I'm pleased to report he's still got it: saveloys, trotters, marrows, no bananas, you name it. Sterling stuff"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Paul plays every month at our venu. Our clientel range from 30s to 60s and every time Paul engages with the customers and plays requests if he knows the songs. He plays a wide range of music/songs to suit everyone. He also has a good following to his gigs. A great choice for events and birthdays . "

Rating: 8 / 10 Share this review:

"Jeff was more than prompt, professional, kind and very talented...it was a hit and a memory for a lifetime. Thank you so much Jeff, we hope to see you next year!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Well now I need to go and plan another event just to have Drew back, so I can enjoy his music a little longer ha ha. That is, if you love the harmonica, guitar and the blues dobro, I could listen to it all day. On a serious note, my memorial event for my father who passed was MADE because Drew was able to take one of my Dads songs he wrote and make it come alive. Along with singing other chosen special songs too, (amazing Grace on the dobro was something I didn’t know I needed) it made the whole event. I was so thankful for the extra time and care he took with the song, and working with me! Definitely recommend Drew, you won’t be disappointed!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We hired Brian & Serena to play at our wedding welcome party and I cannot recommend them enough. From the first communication, they were super friendly and easy to work with. And their performance on the night completely blew our expectations - they were just fantastic. I cannot recommend them enough - thank you Brian & Serena for making our special day even more special! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Rik Basho provided a warm setting for Saturday night's performance. The audience felt deeply connected to the vibe of the music. He told engaging stories between the songs. He opened with his folk-rock song: " Let the music set you free" and captivated the place with his warm-welcoming presence. People of all ages were present."

Reply by Rik Basho
Thank you, so much. I am happy to make others happy, too ! 😊

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Brian and Serena are AMAZING! Both great people and from the beginning, communication with Brian was so easy and friendly. He really took onboard our music preferences and created such a great vibe for our wedding aperitivo. Brian and Serena even let us use their microphone for our wedding speeches. They will go above and beyond for their clients. Highly recommend!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Kimme's Project is an outstanding band. They did a really great job at our wedding. I would hire them again and again. Kept my guests happy and dancing. Thanks guys, Darren D"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"A fantastic performance. Exquisite vocals and amazing guitar playing. Awesomely awesome with an added sprinkle of awesomeness. 5 stars plus!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Made our cruise more enjoyable with good music and craic."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: