Photographs: Joshua Billington
Around 100 lucky people, including local competitions winners, got the opportunity to experience a rare musical treat as rock band Feeder played an acoustic set on a boat cruising up and down the Camel Estuary, resting for a while over the Doom Bar sand bank.
The guests of Doom Bar brewer Sharp’s Brewery were invited to make the journey to Padstow and to board the Jubilee Queen boat for the gig, complete with on-deck catering.
During the session out on the water, the band played many of their greatest hits, including Buck Rogers, High and Feeling a Moment, as well as a cover of the Tom Petty classic Learning to Fly. After the gig, the band relaxed at the on-boat bar with guests enjoying a well-earned Doom Bar.
Lead singer, Grant Nicholas, said: “It was really good fun actually because it was the first time we’ve really done quite a few of those songs in a very intimate environment.
“Obviously I normally have a big wall of amps behind me and big layered guitars. But it was quite nice to really strip it all back, and that’s how all the songs start off. People just had a really fun night and we really enjoyed it.”
‘Stripped back and refreshing’
Sharp’s Brewery’s senior brand manager, James Nicholls, said: “Feeder played lots of gigs in both Cornwall and Devon in their early days and I know the guys were really pleased to come back and perform a number of their classics in such a stripped back and refreshing way.
“It really brought the songwriting and the musical elements to the fore, and it was especially poignant for myself and the team to experience this music as we sailed out over the Doom Bar, which even in the misty conditions, is a stunning place.
“Everyone on board was having the best time, and we would like to thank all involved for making it a memorable night.”
The Jubilee Queen also recently hosted legendary DJ Norman Jay for the inaugural opening Doom Bar Session, and another night is planned for December, as part of the Sharp’s Brewery support for the ever-popular Padstow Christmas Festival. Ticket sales for that session will be announced as soon as possible on the Sharp’s Brewery social channels.
