Review Centre: Acoustic Bands

"Darren's band played at our graduation ball at Crewe hall and were absolutely fantastic! They played fun and lively music at the drinks reception and gave the whole room a buzz of energy. The only downside was that we didn't have enough time to have them play for longer!"

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"David played for our wedding ceremony and during the reception afterwards; he is just brilliant. Our guests kept commenting on how fantastic the music was and he is so friendly and professional too. Thank you! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Tony Vani is almost as well known for generously encouraging and showcasing fellow musicians as he is for his versatility as a musician in his own right. His focus is on blues and classic rock with his band, “Stir” (Mark Bishop, bass; Shirley Dianne Baker, vocals; and, Christ Whiteman, drums). He also plays gospel blues with “Tony Vani and the Holy Blues Band” (Vitas Slapkauskas, bass; Matt Smith, guitar and, Chris Lingard, drums) and performing Delta blues in his duo with slide guitarist Kenny Pauze or by working solo. As every musician knows, you are not a true musician unless you have had that nightmare gig. Tony recalls one night at a club in Napanee when he had to do the walk of shame after being fired on the spot because his guitar string broke. Thus, he learned the great guitar player lesson: “though shalt not leave home without a spare guitar and have it tuned up, ready to go”. His most memorable gig was when he performed for his Mom on her 80th birthday – it was the first time she had ever heard him. Over the years, he has generously and tirelessly organized many open mics at The Belleville Club featuring a mix of amateur and professional musicians who perform solo or join in with others. He creates such a relaxing atmosphere that it feels like the concert is taking place in your living room. “I enjoy bringing out new people and watching their confidence grow. Music is therapy. People have the opportunity to try out new things, have a safe place to practice performing in public, and besides, it’s fun”, he laughs. Known predominantly for his harp playing, his favourite harmonica influences include Little Walter, Paul Butterfield, Charlie Mussellwhite and Corky Siegal. “I am so impressed with their tone, virtuosity, rawness and overall feel”, he says. Other musical influences include Eric Clapton, The Allman Brothers, John Mayall, Muddy Waters and Robert Johnston. Self-described as self-taught, he says: “I always had awareness of what my personal style would be and I sought out teachers or I learned from playing along with records. I followed my passion.” He has just released a new CD of original material entitled “Her Blues” based on his own personal life experience of living with a loved one’s suffering. It’s a 7 year labour of love that is deeply reflected in the songs he has included on this album. Tony divides his time between his music, working with physically and mentally-challenged adults and living with his partner Debbie Hoskins, owner of the seven dogs who run their household. Find him at www.tonyvani.com or on Facebook @TonyVani and go out to support live music because #livemusicmatters."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Wow. How to describe this musical duo? Tony's voice is deep, powerful and utterly intoxicating. His natural ability shines. No effort. It simply oozes. His guitar was played with natural rhythm and finesse. Donna's gorgeous mellow tones synced so well with Tony. They are perfect together. They're natural entertainers and bring a touch of class. Do not hesitate to book them. They are worth every penny. Tonight was made even better by there two. Cannot wait for them to come back."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Many thanks to Paul ,for making my daughters special day even more special! Paul is not only a very talented singer and musician, but also very likeable which endeared him to the guests. His very varied song choice was ideal , and would be very well received at all types of occasions I’m sure. Thanks Paul, keep up the good work, and hopefully see you again at our sons 21st. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Best addition to our ceremony! Both musicians are so talented and professional, and the music created the entire vibe and set up the moment to be perfect. 100% would recommend and book again for other events! "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"A massive thank you to The Cheers Function Band who provided the evening music at our wedding. The communication was excellent throughout and made the whole process very easy. The band were fantastic and kept everyone on the dance floor all night. Would highly recommended!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We hired this pianist for an elegant private event in Siena, and the result was outstanding. Everything was handled professionally, from communication to execution. The music created a refined and welcoming atmosphere that our guests truly appreciated. A top-level service."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We had our bagpipe player back out at the last min. Literally 45 min. Before our graveside service was to begin. We found Johnny Miner and we consider him to be a tender mercy! He dropped everything in his busy morning to play the bagpipes for us and it was so lovely, it couldn't have been better if he had any time to prepare.. which he didn't! I would recommend him to anyone. He is very talented and cared more about us and our situation than his own. Thank you Johnny!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We have used Damien for many of our parties and he is always excellent! Great music, very professional and also a lovely guy."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"excellent work during their time as a house band, performing in all restaurants and in the lobby. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Both artists were very professional and did their job well. Punctual and accurate, arrived at the place of the event and for any other meeting on time and ready to do what was needed, flexible even when some changes needed to be made at the last moment. Communication up until the event itself was also always prompt and it was no problem to discuss with them what we need and find solutions. Thank you."

Reply by Duos Duet
Thank you so much, Linda! We truly appreciate your kind words. It was a pleasure working with you and being part of your ceremony.

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Mr. Minor was extremely professional throughout the whole process. He was at the cemetery for my mothers graveside service well before we arrived and played beautifully. He has a large repertoire of songs and is willing to learn songs if he doesn’t know them. Not at all pushy about money and the price was extremely fair. I of course don’t want to have to call him for funeral services anytime soon, but the next time it comes up I will definitely call him first."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We had a brilliant night thank you very much for the music it was very much appreciated let's hope you can come again soon 👏🎸🎤 "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Power duo Moving Lines debut release, ‘Dreams Will Never Die’, is one of those songs that you put on loud on a sunny day while driving down the strip, hanging out in your backyard with friends or dancing around your living room playing air guitar. Jill Fai has one of those rare hard rock voices that reverberates with echoes of Heart and Ellen Mcilwaine, and sends a tingle down my spine. I just love big female voices that can shake a stadium and Fai has it. Hubbie, Kevin Fai backs her up with impressive rock guitar licks, over him also on bass and drums! You can tell that they have honed their craft on stages for years to bring such a seasoned sound to their first original work. This track is made for radio, for summer and just for rockin out! Randy Raine-Reusch April, 2021 (World Multi-Instrumentalist Featured on Aerosmith Pump Album) "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: