Nibs van der Spuy (+ Helen Walford)

Leek Blues & Americana are delighted to partner with our friends from Foxlowe Arts Centre, Leek to offer an innovative and intimate evening of world acoustic music and song, accompanied by pintxos, a type of tapas presented on a wooden skewer, commonly served in the bars of Northern Spain (included in the price for Advance Ticket sales only). Those of us who were lucky enough to attend last year’s event with Nibs and Helen will remember what a magical evening it was, in the fabulous setting of the Georgian Drawing Room.

Nibs is one of the most extraordinary and exciting world acoustic guitarists to come out of South Africa. Raised in Kwazulu-Natal, growing up listening to The Beatles and learning first hand from traditional Zulu Maskandi guitarists, he quickly soaked up a rich tapestry of his close surroundings and has formulated a truly consummate and original sound.  After playing the local folk scene around South Africa for years, and gathering up a loyal following, his big stage break came when supporting Crosby, Stills and Nash on their 1996 South African tour. After that he was signed to the SHEER label (South African World Music label) where he has released over 10 albums.  His third solo release, BEAUTIFUL FEET received highly acclaimed accolades around the world, where it was album of the month in four German publications and RADIO FRANCE FIP pick of the week. Nibs continues to spread his musical beauty around the world, where he has shared stages with the likes of Ben Harper, Bonnie Rait, Taj Mahal, Gito Baloi, Kelly Joe Phelps, Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin and Shawn Phillips, as well as recording the critically acclaimed, ‘In the shade of the wild fig’, with long-time friend and collaborator, Guy Buttery.  Nibs’ new solo album, NATALIA, was recorded with world renowned producer Mark Tucker (Portishead, PJ Harvey, Jethro Tull), and is available now.

Born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, but now residing in Leek, Staffordshire, Helen describes herself as

‘An American girl with a guitar, sometimes alone, better with friends’ her influences include Lucinda Williams, Tom Waits, Bobbie Gentry, Cyndi Lauper, PJ Harvey, Cat Power and Jeff Buckley.