Ma Bessie’s Prohibition Party @ Dufton Village Hall, Sat 12th April 2025
As the sun set on another warm spring day, the village of Dufton came alive with the sweet sounds of American blues performed by the phenomenal Ma Bessie’s Prohibition Party. The hall was full of an enthusiastic audience some of which came from Murton where the band previously performed with Highlights a few years ago. Extra seating was needed meaning the hall was at its full capacity but Ma Bessie (aka Julia Titus) ensured everyone felt included and able to see her engaging facial expressions and rhythmic movement timed perfectly with the music.
The show began with smooth tunes such as: Nina Simone’s ‘I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free’ and ‘Summertime’ – the perfect soulful tune with relation to the recent weather. Interspersed amongst traditional blues there were some well known Gospel songs, and to mark the change of genre Julia wore an original 1920s gospel style hat. This really brought the passion behind the music right into the audience’s eyes and ears as the sequins of her dress sparkled in the warm coloured spotlights. All were encouraged to join in with familiar lines to songs such as ‘Amazing Grace’, creating an uplifting and spiritual atmosphere.
By the interval the jovial mood was obvious to see with excited smiles across faces all waiting in great anticipation about what the second half was going to bring. The energy was raised with fun songs such as ‘Whip it to a jelly’ causing eruptions of laughter. Amongst the fun there were points when the pace pleasantly slowed allowing moments of reflectiveness especially felt during the thought provoking lyrics written by Julia herself based on the tragedy of 9/11 reminding us how fragile life can be. The rawness brought home the true meaning of blues music advocated by Julia herself. When asked if she prefers her original work or covers she said she loved them both. One memorable cover was of Big Mama Thornton’s ‘Hound Dog’; the guitar riff allowed the guitarist to really show his love for, and skill with, the instrument.
It was also a joy to hear the deep notes of the double bass echo throughout the filled hall. Julia and her band all shared their love for performing live at small venues like Dufton and encouraged us all to continue attending live events .
Towards the end of the evening Julia suggested standing up and swaying to really feel the music, at first only a few brave people stood up but before long, everyone who was able was up on their feet all finding their soul as they completely lost themselves to the music. Speaking from a personal point I have never
known the audience of Dufton village hall to be so entranced by a performance.
To send us on our way it was the lullaby tune of ‘Kumbaya’.The familiar lyrics, sung by all, left everyone with the feeling of togetherness. It was a wonderful conclusion to a refreshing evening which was the perfect restoration of life.
Review by Katie Laidlow
Katie Laidlow is a student from Cumbria. She is currently part of our Young Promoters Programme, gaining experience in arts journalism and programming.