Street Voice UK

So after walking around looking for the venue I decided it might be a good idea to ask two Special Constables for directions. Luckily for me the venue was just a short walk away!

On entering the venue I didn’t have to wait long until I bumped into Jesse Ahern! We sat down to do an interview which can be heard HERE and we chatted for a little while in his dressing room along with the first support act Lauren Marie

We headed upstairs and it was time for Lauren to strut her stuff.

First up was Lauren Marie who can certainly play her instrument but her biggest asset was her voice that grabbed my attention. For 30 minutes delivered some well crafted acoustic songs that really do deserve to be heard on a big scale. I enjoyed Lauren’s set and it wont be the last time I see her play!

While I was expecting the band to play Scott explained that as it was an acoustic show so only one quarter of Lunar Hijack would be playing. Despite my camera having a hissyfit on Scott he did play a fantastic set. I wouldn’t expect anything less as I’d seen him play with his band. Top stuff and so pleased to catch up with him again. Check out Scott with his band or solo – Either way you’re in for a good show!

Just after 9pm it was time for main act Jess Ahern to hit the stage with hit acoustic guitar and armed with a box of harmonicas. I have Jess’ records but didn’t know what to expect from him live and what I heard I was blown away!

Some of you would have heard Jess Ahern before due to opening up for the likes of the Dropkick Murphy’s but if you haven’t imagine Woody Guthrie, Joe Strummer and Billy Bragg fused with the Boston sound!

Great Eh?!!

I loved the hour set and throughout that set apart from well delivered and well crafted songs you realise what an amazingly humble guy Jesse is! I wish more artists were this way!

Throughout the set Jesse told us the stories behind the songs. All meaningful but a couple of funny things thrown it too!

Aside from Jesse’s own songs such as Heartache And Love, Girl From Dorchester and Back Against The Wall being delivered in style he totally rocked Bankrobber by The Clash.

What a set but don’t expect predictability. The set could change as there’s that many great songs in Jesse’s back catalogue so do yourselves a favour and pop along to a show.

Sadly the audience was small but Jesse Ahern has a big heart and delivered a non-compromising set that he would do in front of three thousand people!

Everyone left with a smile on their faces.


Big Love to Jesse – You were brilliant last night!


Visit HERE for all tour dates in UK / Europe and for merch and other information.

Words/Photos – Kat Riot