Concert Review
Saltburn Community Hall Friday 19th September 2025
Union Jill supported by
Stormcrow
Saltburn Folk Clubs' concerts now take place in The Community Hall in the heart of Saltburn
The evening began with a strong 45 minute set from local husband and wife duo, Mark & Amanda Hadlett, more commonly known as 'Stormcrow'. Mark writes all of their material and creates tales of Pirates & Werewolves as well as songs recounting episodes of local history.
The couple are well known in the local area and many of their songs were familiar to members of the audience who joined in enthusiastically with many of the choruses. Amanda's powerful voice was well backed by Mark's guitar and vocals. Mark also debuted a new instrument, a Laud, which was formerly owned by Vin Garbutt.. Their set made a great opening to the evening.
Union Jill
​
Helen Turner and Sharon Jagger have been performing together since 2006, or as they told me "tolerating each other for 20 years". After discovering a shared love of folk and acoustic music they soon realised their voices were meant to be together. Both bring distinctive songwriting styles to Union Jill and achieve some spellbinding effects with their voices and instruments (mandola, guitar and anglo concertina.)
​
They've gained a reputation for quality performances and well-crafted songs. Their onstage presence is natural, funny and personable and, whilst their material touches on the darker side of life at times, they enjoy a natural rapport with each other and with the audience leading to banter delivered with a light touch.
They performed two sets of songs covering a wide range of subjects, some serious, some amusing, some with a feminist theme but all entertaining. Their voices blend wonderfully together and they both play their respective instruments with great skill.
​
Overall the evening was highly enjoyable and was well appreciated by the audience.
​
Richard Bell - Photos by John Davis
