Ahead of this year’s M-Fest on Saturday, 14th July, The Journal has spoken to the artists performing on the day, allowing them to introduce themselves in their own words. Returning to the stage at a later time this year, The Publicans will be bringing a mix of lively, original folk songs to the High Street that you can tap your feet or dance to.

Last year’s event saw the first-ever performance of The Publicans, a five-piece original Irish/English/West Country-themed “indie folk” band.

“We had a hoot and the crowd seemed to enjoy what we were doing – which is always a bonus! It was great to have a whole day of live music in the heart of Midsomer Norton,” said Jon Bull, the band’s pianist.

The group is completed by singer and mandolin player Peeg, bass player, Colin Stroud, guitar player, Craig Palmer and ‘Slammer’ on drums.

Jon, a lifelong Midsomer Norton resident, has been an avid supporter of local music in the area for nearly four decades, having been heavily affiliated with the?Midsomer Music Festival in the late-‘80s and ‘90s, and The Wunderbar from the ‘90s and into the 2000s.

Jon’s dedication to music began at a young age. “Like many people, I was sent along to piano and recorder lessons as a six-or-seven-year old. Luckily, I had fantastic teachers who encouraged me to play the pop tunes of the day, which kept my interest in playing.

“My brother, Wilb and I shared a bedroom as teenagers which was full of all kinds of instruments, including a drum kit – which the neighbours were very happy about!

“Norton Radstock has always had a very healthy live music scene. I’ve been watching local bands since the days of Reg’s Wine Bar and the legendary, sorely missed, Wunderbar. We actually took on the bar from Reg to ensure that a live music venue was kept in the centre of Midsomer Norton.

“It’s sad that so many interesting, non-corporate venues have gone. Independent venues haven’t been encouraged by the ‘powers that be’, and that is to the detriment of everyone in Midsomer Norton, I think.

“If Norton is to thrive again, the night-time economy needs to be encouraged and not seen as a problem to be closed down. Political rant over! I’m very pleased that M-Fest is happening, as it’s a very positive event for the musicians and the town.

“The Midsomer Music Festival in the 90’s was as much a part of the musical calendar as Glastonbury, and had some performances that have gone down in local folklore.

“I would say Norton Radstock has always punched above its weight in terms of local bands and songwriting talent. This heritage continues to this day with loads of young, exciting bands and solo performers in the town.

“One of the first local bands that I enjoyed seeing were The Labradors. They had a strong gang mentality that was great to watch. The Glee Club was another local 80’s band that had some of the best musicians I’d ever seen. I often wonder what happened to those guys.

“My first playing-gig was at Butlins in Minehead in 1972! We were on a school trip, and entered the talent competition. We were a three-piece and played ‘Beg, Steal or Borrow’ by the New Seekers. A classic! I can’t remember much more about it.”

When asked about the highs and lows of his career, Jon said: “I’ve been in several bands and played some cracking, rowdy gigs at The Wunderbar – most memorably on St Patrick’s night in The Craic Heads.

The low point was while I was in another band and having to cancel a performance at the Midsomer Music Festival because the singer and bass player had a fight the night before!”

M-Fest takes place in the High Street, Midsomer Norton on Saturday, 14th July. The event is free and family-friendly, with live music taking place between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m.