North Drive is a band from Winchester (Hampshire) playing Bluegrass - influenced
by Roots and Folk Music. Two of its members are writing original material, and this
material is mixed with covers to provide an interesting and different approach. Arrangements
are mostly original, and with the vocal harmonies provide an exciting sound; All
four band members sing.
Some 18 months down the line, and the Band will have played at least Five Festival
Stages including Orwell, Didmarton and Cornwall, as well as our more local events.
Once the festival season comes to a close we plan to produce the first Album which
we hope will reflect the talent of our songwriters and the band's arrangements of
the material.
Sally Hoke - vocals and song writing. Sally has been singing for some time, but is
new to the Bluegrass genre. She brings a fresh outlook to the band’s approach to
material, and is also half of the song writing duo. She has great voice control,
and a carismatic approach to her presentation, and is by far the best looking member
of the band - but we wont go into that!
Rick Tarrant - vocals, guitar and songwriting. Rick is well known on the local folk
scene around Southampton having played numerous venues and festivals, both as a solo
performer and with Contraband. His flat picking is heavily influenced by Doc Watson
and Tony Rice. Rick is also a lead vocal in the band. Like Sally, his song writing
is of the highest quality as is his guitar work!
Martin Kennard - vocals and bass. Martin is a multi instrumentalist, but for the
moment plays bass and sings harmony in the band. Martin has been involved in many
musical projects over the years, and adds a lot of musical experience along with
a dry sense of humour to proceedings!
Richard Holland - vocals, banjo and guitar. Richard has been playing Folk music for
many years. His involvement with Bluegrass started around 1987 when he found out
what a Banjo was! A keen enthusiast he is now part of the British Bluegrass Music
Association - and a regular performer at many of the festivals. Richard also plays
with Home Territory, Dalebilly and Contraband.
