Thoughts of racism, discrimination and prejudice in the UK are usually associated with large cities like London, Manchester or Luton not small seaside towns like Folkestone.
However it is this generalisation that encouraged us to bring home the important message that “Love Music, Hate Racism” sends out to its fans and followers, and Folkestone needed to hear it.
On Friday 1st April, the Lanterns (Rendezvous Street) showcased some of Folkestone greatest musical assets: bands, soloists, electric, acoustic, hip-hop, rock, all in one venue, sending out the same message to the crowd.
Opening the evening was the brilliant Nika Van Halderen-Moss and guitarist Anthony.
The duo’s acoustic set was energised by the 18 year old’s powerful, soul-esque vocals and the crowd enjoyed the bluesy flair to their covers and original tracks.
Next to take the stage was another local Folkestone gem, Diane Dunn.
Singing and playing songs from her much-loved Blues and Folk style, she wowed the crowd with incredible vocals, soft acoustics and a percussion assistance.
The hall was filling up: the wrist-bands a-plenty, the drinks a-flowing so we decided it was time to introduce our first speaker. Christine Dickinson from the NUT (National Union of Teachers) kindly agreed to share a few words of wisdom about the actions of her Trade Union and her experiences with Love Music Hate Racism. The crowd lapped up the energetic, positive message of the anti-fascists with encouraging cheers and applause.
After a few more drum ‘n’ bass beats from the brilliant Folkestone DJ “DJ Sie”, it was time for our first band of the evening: Chutes.
Indie Rock/Pop band Chutes (formerly Belingo) are a popular, up-and-coming 5-piece from Kent who produce refreshingly talented, superb music.
"Our audience literally doubled for their much-anticipated, lively, skilled, top-quality set. And fuck-me did these guys deliver!" - Vicky
In between sets, we'd provided a Love Music Hate Racism merchandise stall selling only badges and bags but providing information about the campaign and further details to stay in touch.
We had also set up our Shepway Campaign Against All Cuts (SCAAC) stall where members of the campaign were on call to answer questions and provide any details, information or contacts. (For more information on this campaign please follow the link provided.)
It was in fact our wonderful chief campaigner Eric Segal who was next to take the stage. Explaining the promises, reasons and activities of SCAAC alongside the importance of the Love Music, Hate Racism message: Eric was well-received, brilliantly energetic and thoroughly enthusiastic; a real highlight of the evening.
The growing audience were then treated to the power-pop anthems of Folkestone’s great Yamaharahara.
With electric-esque undertones and an incredibly talented collective the result was an exciting performance, an energetic crowd and a brilliant highlight to everyone’s evening.
Next up, AMS or “Altered Mind State”. They are a 3-piece hip-hop act who are infamous and extremely popular in Folkestone.
Their dark humour and skilful beats are always a crowd-pleaser and their set bought another dimension to the evening as a brilliantly different genre.
"And a very Happy Birthday to Jessta - Thanks for performing on your birthday dude!" - Adam
Next up, our favourite reverend took to the stage. Kai Motta or “The High Priest of Rap” is one of the most controversial, thought-provoking, fearless acts around. His dark political/social acoustic-guitar-assisted raps are the climax to any evening and the crowd loved his edgy, risqué set.
It was then that the headliners took to the stage:
These guys are one of Folkestone’s most popular acts with an ever-growing fan-base and numerous unsigned band competitions under their belt; they are definitely ones to look out for.
Their catchy pop/rock sets always get any crowd dancing and they were a fantastic end to a fantastic night.
We closed the night with a long list of thank-yous and feeling thoroughly pleased with the evening.
Love Music Hate Racism has an incredible message that is portrayed through the energy of music and live events and it was an absolute privilege to be part of that message.
We are all equal: whatever colour or creed, whatever style of music you listen to, whatever clothes you wear, however much money you have, we are all equal. - It was amazing to see everyone come together to celebrate that equality.
This was only the beginning of Love Music Hate Racism in Folkestone and we are determined to host bigger and better nights continuing to spread the anti-fascist, anti-racist, equality message all over our town.
Watch this space...
- Stickers
Hello, I'm doing a radio piece about whether racism in increasing in Folkestone. Were you one of the organisers of this gig? It'd be great to chat.
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