Back in 2012 we gave a glimpse into a new documentary being directed by Michael Proudfoot on folk icon and legend Nic Jones. Michael has made documentaries on the likes of Eliza Carthy, Kathryn Tickell and Kate Rusby and the film premiered at the How The Light Gets In Festival in June 2013 as part of BBC Four’s partnership with the festival.
The good news is that the documentary will also be shown as part of the Sensoria Festival of Music and Film on Friday 27th September at Showroom Cinema, Paternoster Row, Sheffield. It will also soon feature on BBC4 (date to be confirmed).
Presented by Sensoria Festival, director Michael Proudfoot explores within The Enigma of Nic Jones the moving story behind an artist’s determination to perform after a tragic accident, and his rise to the stage once again.
Nic Jones is a legend of folk music.
In 1980 his album Penguin Eggs was widely acknowledged as a classic; even recently, a poll by The Observer rated the piece number 79 of the ‘100 Best Records of All Time’ – an amazing achievement considering that the LP never actually charted. His eclectic mix of traditional folk and his funky, rhythmical and percussive guitar style inspired generations, including Bob Dylan’s cover of Nic’s original Canadee-i-o. In 1980 only great things were expected in the future of Nic Jones’ career, and many fans eagerly awaited his next masterpiece.
Two years later, Nic’s life was changed forever. Barely the survivor of a near-fatal car crash in 1982, the musician was left with neurological damage and almost every bone in his body broken. Nic was held in intensive care for 8 months after the accident. No longer able to play, for 30 years the sought after artist disappeared from the public eye.
The summer of 2012 presented an opportunity that no one thought would be possible. Nic returned to the stage for several festival performances including Cambridge Folk Festival, singing alongside his guitarist son, Joe Jones, and keyboard player Belinda O’Hooley.
Like these performances, the film gives fans (new and old) a chance to hear the legendary weathered voice live. Also keep a watch for appearances by many artists who Nic inspired, including a narration provided by the singer/songwriter Cerys Matthews as well as an introduction by Sam Carter, who will be performing a live gig at the Library Theatre later in the day.
Sensoria is the UK’s annual festival of music and film, featuring film screenings, live performance, exhibitions and talks. It celebrates the musical talent in the region and has welcomed many Sheffield musicians and guests from Jarvis Cocker and Richard Hawley, through to hot new band The Hosts. The festival is known for its innovative use of unusual venues and locations across the city; from screening films and hosting conference days and events at the Showroom, to screening films at Sheffield Cathedral, Butcher Works, City Centre urban screenings (A Wall Is A Screen) and an underwater sound system at Ponds Forge olympic diving pool.
Tickets: http://www.showroomworkstation.org.uk/nicjones