A figure deeply embedded in the tapestry of the North East folk music scene, Jed Grimes possesses a narrative as rich and varied as the music he plays.
His story stretches across decades, mirroring the evolution of folk music itself, from the vibrant and socially conscious era of the 1970s to his present-day endeavours.
In a recent, insightful interview, Jed graciously shared reflections on his extensive musical history, offering glimpses into the formative experiences that shaped him and unveiling his exciting plans for a regular music night at the welcoming Seven Stars pub nestled in the heart of North Shields.
Jed’s initial foray into the world of music began when he found himself swept up in the tide of the cultural revolution that defined the 1960s, a period of social and artistic change that profoundly influenced his musical sensibilities.
This burgeoning passion led him to co-found the influential folk group Hedgehog Pie, a band that would go on to achieve considerable success and leave an indelible mark on the folk landscape. A notable highlight of their early career was the prestigious invitation to headline the inaugural Albert Hall Folk Proms in 1975, a testament to their rising prominence.
Reflecting on this period, Jed offers a characteristically modest assessment: “We did alright.”
The years that followed saw Hedgehog Pie embark on extensive tours, their music resonating with audiences in major venues across the European continent. Grimes vividly recalls the dynamic and close-knit folk scene of that era, a supportive community where music served as a powerful conduit for storytelling and a deep connection to local heritage and traditions.
“At the time it was great, I was single,” Grimes reminisces with a touch of nostalgic humour. “I was loving it.” This freedom and energy of youth, coupled with the excitement of performing and connecting with audiences, created an unforgettable chapter in his life.
Hedgehog Pie’s musical identity was firmly rooted in the rich seam of traditional folk songs, yet they fearlessly experimented with these foundations, infusing their music with a distinctive and innovative twist.
They incorporated the driving rhythms of rock beats and drew inspiration from a diverse range of international musical traditions, including the intricate harmonies and captivating melodies of Bulgarian folk music. Jed describes this period as a vital time of artistic exploration, a conscious effort to push the boundaries of the genre and break free from established conventions.
As is the natural ebb and flow of cultural trends, the initial fervent excitement surrounding folk music began to gradually subside.
“The times had changed, you know, and punk rock had taken over. We were pretty energetic but we weren’t punk,” Jed observes, acknowledging the shift in the musical landscape and the emergence of a new, raw energy that captured the attention of a younger generation.
Following the dissolution of Hedgehog Pie, Jed’s musical curiosity remained undimmed, leading him to explore a diverse array of sonic territories.
He became a valued member of the Doonan Family Band, a collaboration that leaned towards a more refined and intricate acoustic style, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He also spearheaded the formation of Dust On The Needle, an intriguing project he describes as a “cajun soul band”, a testament to his willingness to blend seemingly disparate genres and create something entirely new. This genre-bending ensemble garnered considerable acclaim and became a popular fixture on the folk festival circuit, frequently headlining the main stage.
Reflecting on the subsequent decade, Jed characterizes the 1990s as “a looser decade”, a period perhaps marked by greater experimentation and less rigid genre boundaries.
“A couple of the original Hedgehog Pie lineup put together a big soul revue which also played Irish ceilidh music”, he continues, highlighting the eclectic nature of his musical endeavours during this time. This vibrant collective embarked on international tours, taking their infectious energy and diverse repertoire to places like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, where their music found a particularly enthusiastic reception among the expatriate Irish communities.
Among Jed’s many significant contributions to the North East music scene, his pivotal involvement in the Northumbria Anthology Project stands out as a significant achievement. This ambitious 20-CD boxset was conceived with the aim of revitalizing and celebrating the rich heritage of Northumbrian traditional music.
Jed played a crucial role as a producer and arranger, lending his expertise and vision to the project and collaborating with notable figures such as the iconic Brian Johnson. The success of this anthology indirectly led to the formation of The Hush, a band that garnered national recognition, evidenced by their prestigious BBC 2 Folk Award nomination.
Beyond the realm of performing, Jed harbours a heartfelt appreciation for the narratives that underpin the music, particularly within the folk tradition. This deep connection to storytelling led to his involvement in Far From Home, a compelling community project centred around the profound impact of World War I. Through the powerful mediums of music and art, Jed engaged with local schools, sharing personal stories and fostering a deeper understanding of this pivotal historical period.
“My abiding memory was how positive the kids’ response was”, Jed fondly recalls, emphasizing the project’s success in connecting with a younger generation. The initiative resonated deeply within the community, prompting families to come forward with poignant and often untold stories about their relatives’ experiences during the war. Many of these personal accounts are now commemorated by blue plaques affixed to residential properties in and around North Shields, serving as enduring reminders of the sacrifices made and the lives touched by the conflict.
Now, with a wealth of experience and an unyielding passion for music, Jed is embarking on an exciting new chapter at the welcoming Seven Stars pub in North Shields. He is joining forces with the exceptionally talented musicians Niles Krieger and Rupert Hughes for what promises to be a regular and highly anticipated music night.
The trio, aptly named Grimes, Krieger, Hughes, will offer audiences a captivating blend of their own original compositions, carefully selected covers, soulful blues numbers, and lively bluegrass tunes, all performed in an intimate and conversational atmosphere that encourages connection between the musicians and the audience.
Jed’s connection with Niles Krieger is an intriguing tale in itself, a serendipitous encounter facilitated by the vibrant local music scene. Jed used to host a popular weekly acoustic gig at the Low Lights pub and, having heard promising reports about a band called The Kentucky Cow Tippers, decided to book them for a performance.
“I was away touring and I couldn’t be there”, he recalls with a touch of regret. “I asked Liam to run the night and it went down great”, he continues, expressing his delight upon hearing about the evening’s success. In particular, he was intrigued by the glowing reports of a talented American guitarist and fiddle player who had graced the stage that night.
“Apparently he was asking about me”, says Jed, a hint of amusement in his voice. The reason for this interest turned out to be a charmingly unexpected connection. “It turns out his parents liked British folk music and had a Hedgehog Pie album!” This shared appreciation for Jed’s earlier work formed an immediate bond between the two musicians.
Rupert Hughes, a highly skilled guitarist in his own right, was also a key member of The Kentucky Cow Tippers. Since their time together in that band, he and Niles have gone on to form The Often Herd, a critically acclaimed, innovative, and thoroughly contemporary bluegrass band that has garnered international attention within the genre.
Jed’s planned regular music nights at The Seven Stars in North Shields represent the latest evolution in his long and fascinating musical journey. These intimate performances will offer a unique opportunity for audiences to connect with his music in its most essential and authentic form – live, up close, and brimming with the rich character and depth forged over decades of dedicated performance and unwavering passion.
In an ever-shifting musical landscape, artists like Jed Grimes serve as vital anchors, reminding us of the enduring power of music and the deep cultural roots that continue to nourish contemporary creativity. His music continues to resonate and make waves on the River Tyne, a vital and enduring current in the ongoing and vibrant story of North East folk music.
For those who appreciate authentic, heartfelt music that speaks to the soul, seeking out Jed Grimes’ recordings and, more importantly, experiencing the warm and engaging atmosphere of his anticipated performances at The Seven Stars is highly recommended.
It promises to be an enriching and memorable experience, a chance to witness him continue to weave his musical magic.
