The Mandolinquents are Britain's first modern mandolin quartet with mandolins of all shapes and sizes, and the superb voice and mandobass(!) of Hilary James. Their infectious fun and off-beat humour influence everything they play, from lively reels to traditional airs, hot swing and ragtime, plus the occasional Chinese or Brazilian tune.
In the 1930s mandolin orchestras were all the rage - every self-respecting town had one. Today the mandolin is undergoing a revival in folk and indie bands as well as in classical circles, with Captain Correilli's Mandolin adding to the interest. In the USA it ranks alongside pizza and Frank Sinatra as one of Italy's greatest exports, while back in Europe, despite Hitler's attempt to ban it (he considered the tiny instrument a threat to Third Reich!!!) there are now 476 German mandolin orchestras. The UK has been a bit slow on the uptake, but years of confinement to back bedrooms, where legions of enthusiasts have been hiding away, are at an end.
As the world catches its breath, possibly, at the dawn of a new age of mandolin activity, that most dazzlingly dextrous protagonist of the instrument Mr Simon Mayor assembles an all star cast. The mission: to pay homage to the heyday of mandolin orchestras (the 1920s, 30s, 40s, and 1780s) and to raise the level of mandolin consciousness for generations to come!
But how could musicians be found for such diverse endeavour...?
Fresh from recent tours of the Arctic Circle, China, the jungles of Borneo and most places in-between comes that most refreshing of classical guitarists, Mr Gerald Garcia.
And could a finer vocal talent suit such multifarious mandolinquency as the wielder of the mighty mandobass (“yes, I think we have one in stock, Madam”) Ms Hilary James?
Finally, from the world of hard-driving bluegrass, arguably the baldest member of the celebrated quartet, Mr Richard Collins proves his talents on mandolin and five string banjo to be equally hair-raising.
The Mandolinquents last performed in Chipping Sodbury in March 2012 to great acclaim.