Manningtree musician 'moved' by response to his new gig night

Benjamin Brown, a well-known songwriter and performer from Manningtree, has launched Capturing The Moon, a monthly concert at the Red Lion, in South Street.

The shows strive to bring exciting up-and-coming bands to what is the country’s smallest town while ensuring they are fairly paid and looked after.

The first evening of live music was staged last Friday and featured The Early Mornings, Bag of Cans, and Ben himself, who performed a solo set of original songs.

Ben, who has 15 years of live music experience, said: “It was absolutely fantastic and I was genuinely moved to see so many people having such a great time.

“People after the show were all smiles and telling me it is just what the town needs - it felt like we could have been somewhere in London at a trendy show.

“But we were somewhere much cooler - Manningtree. I can't wait to see everyone again at the next one and my advice would be to get your tickets now.”

Alan Jones, founder of Black Cactus Studio and sound engineer on the night of the first official show, said it was a privilege to be involved.

He said: “After the last two years with the pandemic, live music has never been more important, so it is great to be helping Ben deliver shows to eager gig-goers again.

READ MORE: 'We've taken the plunge!' - Popular musician turns promoter with new monthly gig night

“The first night is always the most nerve-wracking one because you want to make sure the audience leaves at the end of the show wanting to return for the next gig.

“But the bands were terrific, the venue was packed, the audience was brilliant and overall I think it went really well and I already cannot wait for next month’s show.”

The next Capturing The Moon gig night takes place on July 29 and boasts a line-up of Enjoyable Listens, My Fat Pony and Ben Brown.

To find out more information about Capturing The Moon, visit Instagram.com/capturing_the_moon or head to redlionmanningtree.co.uk.