Johnny Steinberg and Ichabod Wolf at Libby’s Walled Garden Workshop, Chesterfield

Ichabod Wolf describes himself as a “chunky singer-songwriter type”. It’s possible he may be doing himself an injustice, because we reckon he’s one of the finest songwriters we’ve ever heard – and we’ve listened to a lot of music over the years! – and, yes, he’s a Chesterfield lad. And, it’s not just us who think so, he’s been championed by Steve Lamacq on BBC Radio 6. In 2019 Mr ‘macq said of Ichabod’s single “Painted Horses” – “An amazing thing, quite stopped me in my tracks when I first heard it”. Mr Wolf has followed up his first album “Carry On, Crow” with his 2024 studio album “Too True to be Good”. We’re quietly rather proud that Ichabod has played at Libby’s a couple of times before, and returns to play a live set of his songs this July. If you want a taste of what’s in store, wrap your ears around these: beauties:

Ichabod on YouTube
Ichabod on Bandcamp

Ichabod will be joined by another Chesterfield-based artist – singer, songwriter, drummer and guitarist Johnny Steinberg. This time, he’ll be leaving his drums at home, and performing with guitar. Johnny has arrived in the Peak District by way of his native Barnsley, Norfolk and a fair few sojourns in the US of A. His style is a mix of Americana and contemporary Folk with a strong sense of story. The legendary Boo Hewerdine produced his album Shadowland and played and sang on his tracks which were recorded in Nashville, UK and Denmark with Nashville singer Kira Small. Johnny has had the pleasure of supporting artists such as Dave Swarbrick, Katie Spencer, Kathryn Williams, Reg Meuross, Megson and Vin Garbutt. A highlight was playing with his favourite songwriter Gretchen Peters at Ocean Studios in Nashville. He’s had some great reviews and endorsements for his work:

4 Star “reeks of quality, especially for a debut album” Ian Croft RnR Magazine
“Always a treat to hear his songs and watch him play” Chris Difford (Squeeze)
“Johnny’s songs have tremendous heart, vulnerability and compassion” Karine Polwart-BBC Folk Award Winner-2005 and 2018.

Johnny’s track “New York Tooth and Claw” is on regular repeat in Libby’s Volvo. You too can get a taste of Johnny’s music at:
Johnny’s website
Spotify

Libby’s gigs take place indoors in a cabaret-style format in her Walled Garden Workshop (behind Libby’s Café at 479 Chatsworth Road), When we say “cabaret”, yes, we’re talking subdued lighting, tasteful décor, tables with candles, delicate savoury snacks (sausage rolls), fine wines, beers and soft drinks.. Places are limited, so book early!

Doors open at 19:15 for 19:30 start. We normally aim to finish by between 21:30 and 22:00 to get you back home in time for cocoa and the Shipping Forecast.

If you have limited mobility or use a wheelchair we’d be most grateful if you could contact Libby’s beforehand, so that we can optimise the seating for you to have as comfy an evening as possible