The Big Secret

The Big Secret is rumoured to be the place where you just might stumble across the next big thing and reportedly frequented by industry insiders. The showcase for singer-songwriters is held every Wednesday night at the Ginglik which is a lovely intimate venue underneath Shepherds Bush Green. Formerly a Victorian toilet, it’s a comfortable and cosy place with an artistic feel and laidback atmosphere.



There are fairy lights across the ceiling, tables with flickering nightlights, chairs and comfy sofas, and even an artist in residence, Galen Wainwright, who sketches away during the sets. His work is projected live onto the wall next to the stage and each picture is inspired by the lyrics being sung and completed by the end of each track. This process is fascinating to watch, often amusing and a welcome distraction if the singer’s not very interesting. He sells his drawings after the show and I have one at home from a Big Secret gig a couple of years ago.

Started in 2004, to "bridge the gaping chasm between the gigging singer-songwriter and the professional music industry," the Big Secret evenings are run by Amity Fletcher who introduces each act and chides the audience if there’s any chatter during the sets. Regulars are asked to arrive promptly to minimise disruption and the audience are expected to be attentive and give each act respectful silence whilst they are singing – the songs are the focus.

This week's showcase (Wed 23/1/08) is disappointing for me because Beth Rowley has been pulled from the bill at short notice by her management to do a radio tour. She’s been replaced by Susy Thomas and the other acts are Phil Marshall, Niamh McNally, Jack McManus and Leo Altorelli. Artists that have appeared here previously include Duke Special, The Storys, Nerina Pallot, Polly Paulusma and Shelly Poole.

The Ginglik is a members' only club but "pay as you go" membership is free and it's only a fiver to get in on a Wednesday. It's well worth checking out the Big Secret if acoustic singer-songwriters are your bag and if you want to happen across the next big thing. If you're hoping to be the next big thing, look up www.thebigsecretonline.co.uk.