The factory in North Devon opened its doors for the first time last week, 'fermez la bouche attended and had this to say:

 'Ladies and Gentleman, you are about to witness the greatest Bhangra show on earth?.....and by Jove they were right! Anyone who can somehow fuse Will Smith, the Knightrider theme tune and the infectious groove of Bhangra, certainly gets my vote! I made my way up in the rain to witness the grand opening of Petroc's newest addition, 'The Factory' , a re-imagining of the venue that appeared in our midst a couple of years ago. Re-located and much better in size and layout, The Factory has the potential to put Barnstaple on the musical map, the capacity should certainly attract the bigger touring bands this way and with a wealth of different genres already being lined up for our entertainment, I suggest you keep your diaries free for all that they offer us!

 Hundreds had gathered to celebrate the unveiling, and opening act 'Petites Annonces'  unfortunately had the task of entertaining the increasing crowd, who seemed intent on socialising rather than fully appreciating the gypsy swing/French chanson that was emanating from the stage. The beautiful swinging melodies transported us to a Parisian cafe, intimate and utterly hypnotising. The double bass set the beat to a foot tapping gypsy-jazz backdrop, with a smoky and rasping vocal that drew us in and enchanted. It reminded me of Yann Tiersen 'Amelie' era, which is a very good thing!

 'Achanak' were simply spell binding, they took to the stage and unleashed a whirlwind of infectious grooves that unified the audience as one, and seemed to get everybody dancing. The percussion was utter genius,  the dhol drum in particular setting the pace throughout, with a quirkily placed keyboardist who added lashings of 80's inspired synth with a bhangra edge! I didn't see one person who wasn't at least tapping their foot, all  worries  seemed forgotten as the old and young of Barnstaple got their 'Bhangra' on! If you weren't there, then quite simply, you missed out! Barnstaple needs more world music nights, and the Factory seems the perfect venue, we are so lucky to have this little gem here, so let's make the most of it! All in all a fantastic night, more please!