I read the news today, oh boy…

…and the news is good. Handshake have over the past few months since the last update been rather busy. They have continued to export their unique brand of folk throughout London, giving a number of important performances including ‘Winchester Live’. Alongside the likes of Nat Jenkins and JJ Pistolet the band have continued to further their musical vision. Recently the band has been working on new material including ‘The Russian Way and ‘Broken Flint’ which they will introduce into their live repertoire over the next few performances.

Speaking purely as an observer it is apparent that the band has stepped up a gear. First by gaining a full time drummer and by experimenting with new instrumentation (such as a saxophone) and it seems they are refining their sound. The band continues to go from strength to strength. Folk is obviously a passion they all share and they continue to perform with the next gig, Komedia with the Three Daft Monkeys on 11th November in Brighton. Their passion is a flame that continues to shine brightly.

The past couple of months have been a hectic time for Handshake as they embraced life on the road. They have much to reflect on as they’ve brought their folk to audiences in venues ranging from Bath to London and Southampton. Each performance has been imbued with Handshake’s characteristic love for their art. This dedication has not waned from the outset, and through their skilful arrangement, vocals and instrumentation they left a definite feeling of enjoyment and admiration amongst the audiences in their wake.

Handshake were even able to bring their folk to support Strummerville and lend their musical talent to a bill which boasted a variety of performances, including poetry readings and Clash renditions. Notably a live version of ‘The Guns of Brixton’ by Mick Jones. Handshake’s set went extremely well and I’m sure Strummer himself would have appreciated it. I think it is apt to say over the past couple of months Handshake have succeeded in rocking the Kasbah.

Hey all,

Just thought I'd give you an update on how the band are doing. It's all going great at the moment, and they are really immersing themselves in the music. Here's the latest:

MONTO WATER RATS (KING'S CROSS - 11/5/08)

Handshake had played the famous Monto venue before. Having been asked back, they prepared to take to the stage again and unleash their unique brand of energetic folk on the Monto music masses. Armed with their usual array of instruments and even some rather unusual additions,(including a suitcase), they delivered a great set including 'Laika', 'Shackled to the Ground', the surreal 'Bogmurtle Boy' and the historically influenced 'Bad King John'.

They all complemented one another perfectly, supported by great vocals and showed themselves to be equally adept at instrumentals. This really entertained the crowd, creating a great atmosphere. As the fiddle sped up and was joined by the guitar and Bodhran hand drum you could see that Handshake have a real appreciation for their folk roots. At the end of the set and as each band member was introduced their was great applause, which showed that folk was not a just dying art that had been the lifeblood of Greenwich Village NYC in the 60's/70's. Indeed, for their forty minute set it had been the lifeblood of the Monto too.

Bob, Beth, Fizz, George and Kez were really happy with the gig, and would just like to say thanks to all of you that made it along. Your support is really appreciated and it's you guys that make the music worthwhile.

UK SUMMER TOUR - 2008

Several dates have now been booked for the Handshake 'home town' tour in summer '08. Gigs planned in Oxford, Bath, Southampton and London amongst others. More information will be posted here or on www.myspace.com/handshakemusicuk before the dates, so keep an eye out!

Next one is

MONTO WATER RATS, Kings Cross 10th Feb

Then

BEDFORD BANDSTAND, Balham 3rd March

Cheers