LongMan Records was created back in 1994 by renowned concert guitarist, multi instrumentalist, composer and producer Richard Durrant as a vehicle for his own releases and other artists he produces at his studio on Shoreham Beach, near Brighton. The name comes from the mysterious chalk figure carved into the Sussex Downs, beneath which Richard grew up in the 12th century Benedictine Priory of Wilmington. The label is now much loved, vibrant community of musicians, artists, poets and friends who's products can be heard worldwide.
Among the label's roster is the mighty Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain, whose album 'The Secret Of Life' is a unique collision of post-punk performance and toe-tapping oldies reinterpreted on Ukulele's. The band have been selling out shows all over the world and appearing on many TV shows and radio stations, most notably BBC's Jool's Holland's Hootenany, Blue Peter, Radio 1 and Johnny Walker's show on BBC Radio 2. The NME said 'Most people have to die before they become immortal. The ukulele superstars have no such worries.'
Another artist on the label is legendary busker and one-man band Don Partridge, who rose to fame in the late sixties with his chart hit single 'Rosie' and became a household name. However, Don was too unconventional even for the music business and abandoned stardom for a life on the road. After more than thirty years of travelling, kept alive by busking and selling books of poetry, Don Partridge agreed to record a selection of his songs for Longman Records. The album 'The Highwayman' is eleven songs which allow us a glimpse into the life of this remarkable man who is surely the undisputed 'King of the Buskers'. If you're lucky you may still catch Don busking in town near you, he recently appeared as a guest on tours with Lemon Jelly and British Sea Power.
More recent artists on the label include Simon Stewart, who's track 'Oh My Love' from the album 'Across The Land' was recently voted number 2 in Mojo magazine's readers charts, Jack Cryer daughter of comedian Barry Cryer with her lushly produced soulful pop debut 'The Way I Feel', Mike Read and David Hamilton favourites 'Ungagged', young flautist Phillipe Barnes and many other widely talented artists. Here you can hear a selection of their music and be kept up to date with their news, gigs and releases.
After you've finished here, you may like to hear this poem sung on myspace...
Poem 2 of 230, WalkaboutsVerse (please see my blog): WALKABOUT WITH MY PEN
Once drove an old sedan, up north, From a place in Sydney to Cairns; Then to Kuranda I went forth, By train, to look without set plans.
I browsed through the trendy market, With fresh fruits of tropical kind; Walked to the creek through lush thicket - Nature’s hand giving peace of mind.
I dined in a scenic cafe; Then, outside, as I wrote for yen, Some passing Kooris called-out: “Hey, You go walkabout with your pen.”
Request or question, I don’t know - Assured voices, elderly men. That’s now several years ago, And I’ve seen the world - with my pen.
Thanks for adding the Brighton Metal Scene to your friends. Check out the new tracks for this year and visit the page to see when and where the best metal gigs in Brighton are going to be. There are new reviews and photos coming soon so keep checking for updates and subscribe to the blog.
Thanks so much for the Add and for all the things you do to promote good music.
We enjoyed your music very much. We hope you and your friends enjoy our music, too. It's a pleasure having you among our friends! We wish you and your company the very best.
Onward and Upward with Music! Thom & Lorry Gambino New York, New York
