IN order to beat the autumn blues, Hemmingways of Haselmere have launched their popular Friday live music nights, and recently featured the Dan Grinter Band.

Over tapas and cocktails, they played their very own cafe rock fusion of blues, soul, pop and rock to a full house.

Bass guitarist Peter Chaplin told The Herald: “On and off we have been playing together and in other combinations for ten years, with breaks and one or two changes of personnel.

“Two of us are from Haslemere, one from Northchapel and one from Aldershot. Dan is the lead singer and plays acoustic guitar. His nickname is Ginjadan and together we cover songs from the 60s to the current date.”

Guests were treated to an array of classic hits by artists including The Kinks, Marvin Gaye, James Taylor, Michael Jackson, Dolly Parton, Elvis, Ricky Martin, Bruce Springsteen and The Beatles and enjoyed dancing until closing time.

Hemmingways owner Stuart Dear said: “The live music nights have been very popular with our customers. Entry is free, but anyone who wants to come along must book a table in advance. One of our staff, Jack Cartwright, is in charge of booking different local acts for each Friday night and has put together a full programme until the end of November so far.”

Forthcoming acts include The Eagle Noke Jazz Collective, Groove Apprentice, an Open Mic Night and the return of the Dan Grinter Band, who will also be playing at Haslemere Hall this New Year’s Eve.

For more information and to make a booking at Hemmingways call (01428) 656904.