Squil - Lead Vocals, flute, various penny whistles (C, D, F, G and Low D), guitar
Robin - guitars, vocals, technical wizardry
Influences
Our influences are not so much what we listen to regularly, but more those artists and perfomers that we grew up with, and that have had a concious or subconcious effect on how we sing and play. This list is therefore incomplete, and will be updated as we are reminded of those that have left their mark on us in some way....
Squil - Duran Duran, The Beatles, Blondie, The Cranberries, Enya, Clannad
Robin - Queen, Brian May, Magnum, Tony Clarkin, The Housemartins, The Cranberries, The Proclaimers, Steve Taylor, Dave Perkins, Dave Bilborough, Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams, Elvis Presley, The Shadows, U2, The Edge, REM, Barclay James Harvest, Pete Townshend, Bryn Haworth, Stuart Townsend, Paul Poulton, Paul Field.
At present we are listening to: Casting Crowns - Lifesong, Third Day - Wherever You Are, Magnify - In Wonder, Day of Fire - Day of Fire, Relient K - MmHmm, Kutless - Live in Portland, Paul Poulton Project - Dumb Dogs, Paul Field - Cargo, Noel Donalsdon - Strange Days.
Sounds Like
In the main we have a soothing relaxing sound akin to Enya and Clannad, although we are capable of some more energetic moments! Squil's voice has been likened to a whole host of great singers - Alison Moyet, Sheila Walsh, Debbie Harry, Joni Mitchell and Madonna to name but a few. Its an eclectic and spiritual brew!
Ever since winning the Vocal and Instrument Duet class in the Hull Music Festival, husband and wife, Rob and Squil, have felt a strong desire to work together as an acoustic duo. Their musical heritage is certainly varied, from Christian Rock bands such as “Whitegold” and “Giants will Fall” to appearances in the opera “Carmen” and various Gilbert and Sullivan productions. However, the most importance influence in the current Living Hope sound comes from Squil’s early days in “Mediaeval Fete” (pronounced feet!), a successful folk sextet. This interesting and eclectic mix fused with a strong Christian Faith produces a soothing, haunting sound with flashes of energy and vibrancy. It’s a sound that feels at home in many environments and it is no surprise that you will find Living Hope in a variety of venues from churches to pubs and concert halls to coffee shops.
The band are UK based and have played in various towns and cities up and down the country, however, in 2006 Living Hope’s music hopped across the pond when they undertook a successful mini-tour to the USA. Their 2003 worship cd “…with Faith” was re-released in 2006 to include the single “Echoes” and a new cd, featuring a broader representation of Living Hope’s music, is planned for release in 2008.
Rob and Squil are also youth pastors at their church, Christchurch, Cottingham in the UK.
What people have said about Living Hope:
"You two are very gifted by the Lord’s goodness.Your vocals are so pure and angelic,your guitar playing exquisite and perfectly matched":
"Like your sound really sensual and rootsy!!!":
"I love all your songs what a blessed message":
"Your songs, arrangements, instrumentation and singing are so peaceful and God centered.It is just a great experience to soak in the Love of God while listening to you both."
God, give us eyes to see the beauty of the Spring, And to behold Your majesty in every living thing. And may we see in lacy leave sand every budding flower.The Hand that rules the universe with gentleness and power. And may this Easter grandeur that Spring lavishly imparts Awaken faded flowers of faith lying dormant in our hearts, And give us ears to hear, Dear God, the Springtime song of birds With messages more meaningful than man's often empty words. Telling harried human beings who are lost in dark despair. 'Be like us and do not worry for God has you in His care Amen
Thanks for your comments about Larry Norman. There was a tribute show on Crossrhythms radio last night, I gave a little tribute to Larry on it. There were a lot of people listening throughout the world it seems. It continues tonight I believe.
Yes we've been back in the studio recording a few songs. Joe and I were in yesterday, today Ross and I are rehearsing with Emily because Joe can't make all the gigs. We're off to Liverpool.
Yeah the new CD is called "Looking For Someone To Blame".
Just wanted to swing by and say have a great week! Thanks so much for being a friend of mine. Stop by when you get a chance and let us know how you are doing. Don't forget to check out the blogs section and sign up for our monthly newsletter so you can stay up to date with everything that God has us doing!
May God make your year a happy one! Not by shielding you from all sorrows and pain, But by strengthening you to bear it, as it comes; Not by making your path easy, But by making you sturdy to travel any path; Not by taking hardships from you, But by taking fear from your heart; Not by granting you unbroken sunshine, But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows; Not by making your life always pleasant, But by showing you when people and their causes need you most, and by making you anxious to be there to help. God’s love, peace, hope and joy to you for the year ahead.
Happy New Year, well almost! I hope and pray that your new year is far better than 07 with more laughter, joy, peace, love, and friendship, and that you grow closer to the Lord than ever before! Have a safe holiday season and we will catch ya next year. God Bless and Keep rockin for Jesus Dave
I hope you all are well... it's been a long time since I stopped by your page. Life has taken a busy turn for me at masters commission but i'm loving it! I pray you all are doing well and that you had a merry christmas... I also wish you the best this new year!... Keep in touch
