Pouring Passion into Live Music: a Chat with Artisan Tap owners Scott and Jane Evans
The pair took over Hartshill’s Artisan Tap last October, which is a showcase for local talent and international acts. Read on for their take on the Stoke music scene…
How did the Artisan Tap start out?
The venue has been many things in the past, including a theatre prop workshop and garage. More recently, it was a recording studio. It was made into a venue in the last few years, and we took over last October.
What can we expect from a typical gig night at the Artisan Tap?
You can always expect a very welcoming and friendly atmosphere; the venue has a real sense of community. We have a great lighting rig and a brilliant sound system, giving an experience of a much larger gig in an intimate venue.
Do you specialise in any particular musical genres? Are any genres particularly popular at the moment?
We cover all genres of music: rock, blues, country, bluegrass, electronic, although we don’t do that much metal, as the Rigger and Underground have that covered. We have a lot of touring artists, in particular from America. The general singer/ songwriter genre is popular at the moment, particularly female singer/songwriters.
What have been some of your favourite gigs to date and why?
Anna Moss, a New Orleans jazz singer, that gig was exceptional; the musicianship was just incredible. Other highlights have been Lucca Mae, a London-based singer who’s very similar to Amy Winehouse. Eve Buckley, a jazz singer originally from Stoke was also an incredible gig… she played with a full band for her EP release. I could keep on going as there have been so many! There is some amazing talent out there.
Are there any local up-and-coming musical artists the readers of The Knot should know about?
Daniall Lee is proving to be a really interesting and different artist, something close to David Bowie meets musical theatre, an incredible talent. Mara Liddle gets better with every gig and release. I think she could have a solid chance of making it. Readers should also check out Kez Liddle, crowspeak, Dead Bird Lady, Hannah Sophie, Hotel Cola, Koala… there are so many!
Is the live scene in and around Stoke and North Staffs in good health at the moment? What one thing would improve running a live venue like the Artisan Tap and ensure its future?
While there is great talent within Stoke, most gig attendance comes from outside the city. We need to get the good people of Stoke back out going to gigs and events, supporting local artists and welcoming touring artists.
To keep up to date with what’s on at The Artisan Tap, visit their website, Instagram and Facebook page
Do you want to nominate someone local to be profiled by The Knot? We’d love to hear from you! Email james@theknot.group with your suggestions
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