Paul Speare
Latest News News
12/06/2024
L-R: Gary Crowley, Julian Littman, Helen O'Hara, Pete Saunders, Paul Speare, Nige Tassell
Following the publication of Nige Tassell's book, Searching for Dexys Midnight Runners, the launch event took place at Walthamstow Trades Hall, London on 11th June. The celebrated DJ Gary Crowley hosted the proceedings. Pete Saunders, from the first incarnation of the band, entertained at the piano with some early Dexys songs. Nige Tassell was interviewed about the origins of the book and his quest to locate past members. Also attending were former members of the band: Helen O'Hara, Julian Littman and myself. It was a very enjoyable evening where we got to meet many of the people - young and old - who appreciate the music of Dexys Midnight Runners.
6/06/2024
Today sees the publication of Searching for Dexys Midnight Runners by Nige Tassell. The author takes it upon himself to investigate the whereabouts of many of the former members of the band to hear their stories and discover what they are doing now. I was delighted to be contacted by Nige for inclusion in this brilliant book which is a must read for anyone who appreciates the music of Dexys Midnight Runners.
21/08/2023
It was a pleasure to play at Herne Bay Jazz and Swing Festival on The Pier Stage yesterday. There was a large and appreciative crowd, and the weather was perfect. We were joined by Andee Birkett on bass guitar who played brilliantly at very short notice. We played a selection of material from the EPs In Search of Avet and Time and Place. The whole festival was an amazing event, and largely free, due to the tireless work of organiser Kai Hoffman.
26/07/2023
The new EP, In Search of Avet, is released on Bandcamp and all streaming platforms.
See Original Music page for details.
Titles are:
Kenny (feat. Ginger Bennett)
In Search of Avet
Daphne Mixes It, Down at the Oast
Ephemeral (feat. Hilary Cameron)
10/06/2023
As work continues on the new EP for release in July, this week saw the string quartet recording session for the tune Ephemeral. It was a joy to work with the Premiere String Quartet and also Ed Deegan at Gizzard Studios in East London. Here is a link to a short video from that session. String Quartet @ Gizzard Studios
25/05/2023
Delighted to have an appearance at Herne Bay Jazz Festival 2023 confirmed! We'll be playing a complete set on the prestigious Pier Stage on Sunday 20th August, mid afternoon. The Festival has been established for a few years, regularly features some auspicious jazz artists and is totally free!
10/05/2023
I've been working hard on four new pieces for release in the early Summer 2023. Here's a recent clip from the studio where Jonathan Ward and Flo Moore are laying down the grooves. This tune, Kenny, was debuted at Pizza Express Live in January.
28/02/2023
Following the successful live debut of Time and Place at Pizza Express Live, London, in January, here's a live recording of our finale, Kenny. Featuring the vocals of Ginger Bennett and some spirited playing by the band.
01/02/2023
I'm currently reviewing and mixing the recordings from Pizza Express Live, London and will be releasing edited highlights on my Soundcloud page.
