Iain Matthews - a sell out at the Hinckley ACT

Iain Matthews, founder member of the Fairport Convention and Matthews Southern Comfort made his first Hinckley ACT appearance.

In 1967 Matthews became a founder member of the British folk rock band, Fairport Convention, staying with the group for almost 2 years.

In order to facilitate and develop his growing fascination with American singer/songwriters, in 1969 he formed his own band, Matthews Southern Comfort. This group spawned a massive European hit with the Joni Mitchell song "Woodstock". However, within a year, Matthews felt restricted and began his solo career, signing with the Vertigo label and a new era began.

After 2 albums for the company, once again, he felt the need for newer pastures and in 1972 Plainsong, a quartet, was formed with friend Andy Roberts, where together and to high critical acclaim, they chronicled the exploits of American aviator, Amelia Earhart.

Booking and venue details

The entrance fee for the evening were £13 (£12 for full members) and the event started at 8 pm, with doors opening at 7.30 p.m. 

The Hinckley ACT
Based in the Sketchley Meadows Business Park, Hinckley ACT is a high quality music venue that offers an informal and intimate atmosphere for concerts and for the monthly club nights, where musicians can come along  and ‘take the stage.’ 

Established by company chairman, Keith London, on the premises of his firm Advanced Carbide Tooling (A.C.T.), the venue provides full stage and seating facilities, plus top quality sound and lighting equipment.

There is a licensed bar and ample free car parking.
Telephone 01455 234 000 and ask for Karl London, John Shipley or Keith London. Or email us at info@hinckleyact.co.uk

Text and images reproduced by permission of Ian Matthews.
Image © Karl Maria Hofer.