Ian Simpson with Dave Alley

A butcher’s son, Ian Simpson hails from England, and grow up as a child to a soundtrack of classic 60s’ rock. Rolling Stones and The Beatles seemed to be on constant rotation and, though his dad wasn’t a musician, he loved music and would sing and tap rhythms on the dinner table.

At age 11, Ian played clarinet and found a true calling in performance; his pinnacle school experiences were around playing music: it seemed that he’d found his calling.

Ian moved to London, found a guitar teacher, and spent hours strumming tunes he loved just so he could sing along to them, confirming that he had found something he loved doing and could do well. Ian joined a student band, playing a solitary gig, which nonetheless cemented this musical calling.

After migrating to New Zealand, Ian gravitated to performing, playing his first-ever original show, frequenting open mics and – a seminal experience – joining Valve, an original band, which got him out on the road touring the North Island.

During this time Ian continued to compose music, and met Dave Alley, a young, hot-shot guitarist with his own band and also jamming around the Auckland music scene. They became good friends and began performing together in what is now a twenty-year collaboration.

While Dave is no stranger to Katikati, this will the first time Ian has played at the club, and the show will be a melting pot of the music they have played together over the years: from folk to pop rock with maybe some Motown thrown in... and possibly a few curve balls.

Look forward to a fun-filled evening of music ranging from their own heartfelt originals to foot-stomping familiars.

At half time there will be the usual comforting tea, stimulating coffee and a breathtaking range of inspirational biscuits. Be sure to be there!

NB: The Arts Junction isn’t licensed, so if you'd like a wine or beer then it’s a BYO scenario.