Paul Sartin was a well known and respected member of the Folk Music community, probably best known for being a member of the band Bellowhead who really put the scene on the musical map. But he was also a member of Faustus and known for their comedic folk songs Belshazzar's Feast mainly playing oboe, violin and singing. Sadly, he passed away last September, and this concert was laid on by his band mates and friends to celebrate his life in the best way possible, via the music he made.

The afternoon event at the Ham marquee was opened with a synopsis of his life, which would be added to as the event went on. It was clear that he really was a remarkable talent, first up musically was Jackie Oates and John Spiers playing a combination of squeezebox and violin via some traditional tunes to get it going. The next part was led by Paul Hutchinson, whom Paul had partnered with in Belshazzar's Feast for 27 years.

He described it as a “marriage without benefits” after meeting in a shipping container, it really was nice to just hear the stories of peoples lives. Often concerts are very formal, and you don’t really hear about the people themselves, although it is a shame it must be under such tragic circumstances. Next up was Paul’s “party piece” that would be sung late at night, ‘My Cock-a-doodle-doo’ lyrics including “it’s a very fine cock but its all I’ve got” it’s on YouTube, I can’t really do it justice here.

The next emotional moment (of many) when his sons Will and Joe Sartin took the stage, they are already making music of their own under the name Partagas and it is evident they have certainly inherited their father’s musical talent as well as his sense of humour. Their performance led into the interval. John Wilks was next up who ran the Whitchurch Folk club with Paul who was moved by the sheer number of people that came to the event.

Joe Sartin was soon back on stage with Sual Rose and Benji Kirkpatrick, the latter two of whom formed Faustus with Paul Sartin. One side note, I think Benji must be in about every other band playing in Sidmouth, I am sure I saw him at least three times and wonder how he can remember so many tunes. They were playing the song ‘Brisk Lad’ written by one of Paul’s ancestors and the tune Bellowhead used as their tribute to him in their tour last year. Faustas said they will play it with Joe whenever he wants – if they pay – keeping the humour alive.

This was followed by a tune set when they were joined by Sam Sweeney, including the tune “Aren’t Crisps Brilliant” apparently what happens when you ask a nine-year-old to name your tune. For those familiar with Bellowhead the next step seems to have been somewhat coming, having Saul Rose, John Spiers, Benji Kirkpatrick and Sam Sweeney in one place, there had to be a tune or two coming, while it’s what most wanted to see, I am glad in a way it didn’t dominate the concert, or it would have just been a mini Bellowhead gig. Whereas it was Paul Sartin focussed as it needed to be, celebrating all his musical directions.

That said as a fan it was good to see ‘Sloe Gin Set’, pointing out that they were missing six members and some people to dance, we were asked to do the latter as many took the opportunity to what is normally a more subdued venue in that regards. Though Sam and Benji had a go on stage too at some dancing. Before “London Town” with the obligatory dance moves. The final song had all back on stage and was more moving with emotions clearly showing by all performers, it must have been tough to publicly remember your friend in that way, but we are glad they felt able and shared his music with us one more time.

Artist Links

https://www.paulsartin.co.uk/

https://bellowhead.co.uk/

http://www.faustusband.com/