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"Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band, The Globe, Cardiff, January 31st Jan Louder Than War’s Nick Fisk catches Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band for an evening of soul classics, resulting in him feeling like he probably should have seen them sooner. There’s something life-affirming about tonight. We may be specks of dust on a chunk of rock spinning around in a seemingly meaningless way, but when people come together for this band, somehow it’s as if sense is made of the world after all, if only for the duration of the gig. Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band have been treading the boards for some time now. And with it being such a large band, you’d think a lot of those boards must have been worn right down. They’ve been known to play in pubs and clubs the length and breadth of Cardiff, including pubs near to this very venue, like the Claude. Have always meant to catch them, but somehow never did, and as a result, this was my first time. I always thought The Regular Fries would have made a good support act. In terms of musical styles, the two bands are like chalk and cheese, but then again, if you think about it, a hamburger and a potato chip are not really similar food stuffs, but are great as a combination. But the London baggy propagandists split up some time ago, while Big Mac has just carried on. The name of the band pretty much gives it away in terms of which genre Big Mac’s fit into – unapologetically in the style of The Commitments (though they actually began before the film came out, and have even supported the band), this is a great, big band, playing all the soul classics you might expect to hear, but in such a smooth, polished style that they can rightfully claim to be the best in South Wales – it would be a brave effort to try to steal this band’s mantle. They have the look, the sound, the lot. Dressed smartly in black, there is a proper feel of professionalism, with just that little bit of gangster-chic thrown in for good measure, with the heavies on the right on the brass, the ladies on the left on backing vocals, and Mike “Big Mac” McNamara himself, proudly centre stage, with something of the look of Al Pacino about him. He has a fantastic voice, with a great range, which he can vary according to which song he’s covering – he can be deep and gravelly at one point, but then switch to softer and smoother, but all the while, extremely strong and confident – he’s a great leader, always with a smile. It’s hard to say which are my favourite songs of the set, they do them all so well. “Mustang Sally” is definitely one that seems popular with everyone; I’ve always liked “Build Me Up, Buttercup” for some reason. We have two whole sets of all the greats, plus an encore, so value for money is never in doubt. When it’s done right, I guess it goes without saying that soul music is good for the soul, and Big Mac’s Wholly Soul Band are proof positive of this. This gig was a sell-out, and there will be many people greatly looking forward to seeing them again in a few months for their 25th anniversary in Newport. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Roberto gave an exceptional performance at our wedding. His musical repertoire, talent, and energy were a sensation during the appetizers! Our guests—both national and international—were delighted and congratulated us on Roberto's great performance. We will definitely be working with Roberto for future events. Thank you so much, Roberto!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Hace 5 meses Ha sido una sorpresa en el día de nuestra boda para mi amado esposo! Gracias a Pamela por hacer de nuestro momento algo tan especial, por estar tan dispuesta y por cantar nuestras canciones, nos permitió escoger libremente todo el repertorio y cantó todos los géneros musicales que le pedimos (Rock, pop, vallenato, boleros, salsa y música en inglés) todo genial!!! Tiene una voz hermosa y hace suya cada melodía poniéndole su toque personal, todos los invitados y especialmente mi esposo quedamos felices con la presentación. Gracias Totales!!! ❤️??‍♀️??‍♂️?"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Rebecca was amazing at our Civil Partnership yesterday when she stepped in to perform at the very last minute. A beautiful player and a warm and lovely personality. Cannot recommend her enough. 12 out of 10. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I have hired Steve for several events over the last few years and he has always been wonderful to work with! Whether it's been a corporate event or a holiday party, Steve is a great entertainer and our guests rave about him - he brings a great energy and creates a fun ambiance. He has a wide range of music and a beautiful voice. Steve is incredibly responsive and easy to coordinate booking for an event and always very prompt, professional, and prepared with all of his equipment. He is my go-to for any event I am hosting - Thanks, Steve!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"SPECTACULAR!!! The trio made the whole wedding a BLAST!! I can't thank you enough."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"It was a 100% positive experience from beginning to end. We were accommodated to our every wish, given the best advice where we were unsure, and guided through the important journey of our wedding with the utmost professionalism, punctuality, seriousness, kindness and sympathy. Sarah is a very good singer, Mirko an excellent musician and organizer. We would recommend them to anyone who asks, because we are very happy to have met them. And who knows, if the family ever expands, we certainly already know who to contact for the baptism! 😄 Thanks from the bottom of our hearts, from Simone and Elisa."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Megan sang for our daughters wedding last week and what an incredible voice she has. Even managed to get a video of Sarah walking down the aisle. Thank you Megan for all your hard work. You made a special day even more special with your beautiful voice xxx"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Lou's voice and guitar playing made our wedding ceremony extra magical. Her repertoire for the drinks reception was just what we wanted, heartfelt classic songs people recognised - it created a wonderful atmosphere. She was also very quick to learn a song we requested last minute for the vow ceremony. Such a lovely person too. Could not recommend her highly enough!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"They were AMAZING! 🤩 we hired them for a huge venue Mardi Gras festival, and they went above and beyond. Highly recommend "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"A Duo or 7 piece band that specialises with jazz , pop, RnB and soul . You can book for weddings, funeral and other events "

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review:

"We thought Ben was brilliant and would thoroughly recommend. Provided a really cool and relaxed atmosphere which all our guests really enjoyed."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Ils ont été très utiles et ont répondu à toutes mes questions ! Merci"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Michael did such an amazing job at our wedding and exceeded all expectations. So many guests were talking about the amazing music he played and it really brought our ceremony to the next level. Michael even came outside to play during our “bubble exit” and did such a wonderful job. Very talented!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!! Toni and Brock were hired to pipe music for a special event in Miami. They gave the gift of their music and it was such a treat to have them and on time! Very professional in attire and communication skills the entire time. We'll hire them in a second as we have quarterly events throughout the year. We can't wait to hear them again!"

Reply by Celtic Bagpipe Team
Appreciate your warm review! Such an honor for us to layer in your amazing event. We're your 'Go To Pipers' as we move forward together! Thanks again- Brock & Toni

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: