TWO DECADES OF MELLOWTONE: LIVERPOOL’S UNPLUGGED HEROES
For nearly twenty years, Mellowtone has been quietly carving out a special place within Liverpool’s music scene. Not with grand gestures or fanfare, but with a soft, steady hum of soulful gigs, intimate gatherings, and unforgettable moments. It’s not just a name; it’s a feeling. Mellowtone nights have always been about more than just music – they’re a celebration of everything that makes live music magical. From candlelit folk sessions to foot-tapping blues, Mellowtone has woven itself into the very fabric of Liverpool’s creative community.
It all began in 2004, with a gig at the now-lost View Two Gallery, perched above Mathew Street. There, in a cosy, intimate setting, Mellowtone found its first home. The concept was simple: create a space where artists could connect with audiences on a deeper, more personal level. From that first night, the heart of Mellowtone has always been about fostering something real and meaningful, with a sense of community at its core. Photographer Robin Clewley, who has been part of the Mellowtone family for over a decade, captures this beautifully: “There is a natural flow to the way that Dave McTague puts these nights together, a warmth of atmosphere and a subtle emphasis on the quality of the Artists you are experiencing, all while being perfectly at ease and enjoying a good chat with friends old and new.”
That sense of ease and authenticity has made Mellowtone nights a staple in Liverpool’s live music scene, and over the years, it’s moved through some of the city’s most beloved venues. From the Kazimier to Leaf, St George’s Hall to the intimate corners of the Everyman, Mellowtone has created spaces where artists and audiences can connect on a deeper level. It’s a place where musicians, visual artists, spoken word performers, and DJs come together, not just to perform, but to be part of something bigger.
Some of Liverpool’s most exciting acts played their earliest gigs at Mellowtone. She Drew The Gun, for example, took to the stage at one of these nights for their very first gig, while a young Laura Marling, at just 17, performed at Zanzibar. These moments, often before fame found the artists, are a testament to Mellowtone’s magic – creating spaces where raw talent shines. Robin Clewley reflects on this unique atmosphere, describing it as “a celebration of the power of Art, Music and Community” and noting that Mellowtone nights have always been “understated evenings” where the quality of the experience takes centre stage.
In 2014, Mellowtone marked its tenth anniversary with a special compilation album featuring 18 of the many artists who had played at their shows. But this wasn’t just a nostalgic look back – it was a step forward, leading to the launch of Mellowtone Records in 2015. The label extended Mellowtone’s mission of seeking out music with soul, magic, and alchemy. As Dave O’Grady, musician and songwriter with Seafoam Green, puts it: “I started working with them around age 19 when I was lucky enough to get on one of their shows. Now, some time later, we have collaborated on several projects and live shows, as well as my band Seafoam Green’s debut album being released on Mellowtone Records.”
The label, while on pause in recent years, has released music that continues to resonate with its audience, from artists like Edgar Jones, Ragz Nordset and Nick Ellis to Seafoam Green. It’s never been about following trends – Mellowtone Records has always been about finding music that speaks to the soul, that stays with you long after the night is over.
What has always made Mellowtone special, however, is its deep sense of community. It’s not just a music night – it’s a gathering of like-minded people, a chance to experience something different. The visuals are just as much a part of the experience as the music, with local illustrators bringing each night to life through their designs. Laura Kate Chapman, an illustrator who has worked with Mellowtone since the early days, highlights this beautifully: “One of my first professional design jobs after graduating was with Mellowtone, so to be a part of their 15th birthday celebration was an honour. As an organisation, Mellowtone continues to support both musicians and artists, which is refreshing and of fundamental importance, especially given the current climate.”
This collaborative spirit extends beyond just local artists. Over the years, Mellowtone has worked with cultural institutions like Africa Oye, LIMF, and Liverpool Philharmonic, curating stages and hosting special events. A standout collaboration has been with Seafoam Green, whose sold-out shows paying homage to The Last Waltz ran for three years, culminating in a stunning performance at the Philharmonic Hall.
As Mellowtone approaches its 20th anniversary in 2024, there’s no grand celebration planned – in true Mellowtone fashion, they’re keeping things low-key. Instead, they’ll be inviting the community to share their memories. After all, Mellowtone has always been about the people who have made it what it is – the artists, the audiences, the venues, and everyone in between. Robin Clewley’s words ring true here: “It’s always a real pleasure to be part of a Mellowtone night, and I take great pride in having documented so many of them and look forward to being a part of many more.”
While live events may be on pause for now, Mellowtone will return to the stage in early 2025 with new shows and new magic to share. Until then, their legacy stands as a testament to two decades of soulful, intimate nights that have shaped Liverpool’s music scene in subtle yet powerful ways. As Dave O’Grady says, “Long may it continue.”