THE multi-national five-piece band Celloman blend Middle Eastern and African rhythms, Eastern and Western classically inspired melodies, hypnotic harmonies and driving funky bass and drums to create a unique sound.

Celloman himself is Ivan Hussey, from UK/Zimbabwe, who plays an electric cello. The other band members are Samy Bishae (UK/Egypt), on electric violin, Oli Savill (Portugal) on percussion, Cosimo Keita (Italy/Mali) on drums, and Oroh Angiama (Jamaica/Nigeria) on bass guitar.

The band has performed extensively around the UK appearing at most of the big festivals, including Glastonbury, Glade and Womad. They have performed in Serbia twice and done a series of gigs in Spain as well as performing at the International Cello Festival in Belgrade.

They have developed a fine reputation for their live shows and CDs, and have just produced their fourth album Sharptown, which Songlines described as ‘typical of their own unique and beautiful sound.’ Audience members can get in the mood for the show beforehand at The Place Upstairs, Ludlow Assembly Rooms’ Café Bar. There will be a special menu meal deal offering a two-course meal from an exotic menu for £9.95 including a glass of wine and coffee; choices include Jawaneh (grilled chicken wings with lemon and garlic), Aromatic lamb meatballs, and Moroccan Rice.

Celloman will be performing at Ludlow Assembly Rooms on Friday, September 18 at 8pm. To book call the box office on 01584 878141