SUNDAY NIGHT SHOWCASE – 17/10/10

The Great Sojourn from Southampton

Jon Caws (drums)
Jon Brombley - Guitar/Vocals
James Le Tissier - Bass

http://www.thegreatsojourn.com/
www.myspace.com/thegreatsojourn
www.facebook.com/thegreatsojourn
www.twitter.com/thegreatsojourn


Latest single – ‘Inbetween’ (released in January)
(also ‘Semi-Automatic’, ‘The Rescue’, ‘So Much Love’)

The Great Sojourn are a pop-band in the classic sense of the word - melodic and memorable, but drawing on the roots of folk tradition and meaningful song-writing. Reclaiming the 3-minute format as their own, 'Inbetween' is the band's debut single - a song that will sneak into your sub-conscious with a gentle charm and have you singing along by the second chorus.

The rhythm section of Jon Caws (Drums) & James Le Tissier (Bass) lay down an infectious and toe-tapping groove that underpins Jon Brombley's intimate vocals and lively acoustic guitar playing. From the staccato opening riff, through to the harmony-laden chorus this song is intentionally radio-friendly, reminiscent of acts such as Whitest Boy Alive or a more earthy Maroon 5.

Single proceeds to charity

3-track charity EP of Jon's solo material. All proceeds go to Care & Relief for the Young (CRY).

Biography

Formed in 2009, this acoustic three-piece were formed around singer-songwriter Jon Brombley, however once joined by James Le Tissier on Bass and Jon Caws on Drums (They did briefly consider a fourth member, but couldn't find anyone else who's name begain with 'J') things began to take on a whole new dimension.

Not content to be simply a backing band - arrangements were re-crafted, dynamics changed and new tracks written. Jon's predominantly folk-based material was brought to life with influences across the genres from indie-rock through to classic soul records. The aim of these sessions was simple - to write songs as welcome to the ears of casual radio listeners as the most cynical and discontented critics. To find that delicate balance between catchiness and creativity.

Though musically diverse in their tastes, the boys are united in their love for good-quality pop music. Taking their benchmarks from bands such as Fleetwood Mac, they follow in the great tradition of British song-writing - combining the instant appeal of hook-laden tunes with a lyrical depth. As with their name, The Great Sojourn are a band who write unashamedly about the big themes of the journey through life.

Inspired in equal parts by the thrills of the city, the quiet reflection of the countryside and the frustration of the suburbs, their songs confront the realities of growing up, but with an ever-hopeful quality. Whether that's dealing with the beauty of friendships where you are accepted just as you are (Blue Like Jazz) or the pain of finding people aren't quite as reliable as you thought (Inbetween).