Hear Me Out

Band From The Barracks performed a joyful set at Dover Multicultural Festival on 21 June – but one which might be a one-off for this talented group of musicians, none of whom had performed on stage before.

In just six weeks, this latest incarnation of Band From The Barracks met, formed a band, shared and learnt songs from their countries of origin, and wrote two original songs together. They overcame challenges that would break most touring bands – including one of their bandmates being moved halfway across the country to new accommodation in Wolverhampton. The intrepid Olu couldn’t miss the gig, so travelled back to take his place on the stage.

Olu: “Hear Me Out is a great thing, honestly, yeah, vibes... I don't know what adjective I can even use.”

The Dover Multicultural Festival takes place in Pencester Gardens in Dover, and the there was a good feeling in the air – with plenty of audience visiting information stalls, eating food, and sharing good times. The intense heat only added to the festival feel. As the band performed, they could feel the solidarity from the audience – with so much clapping and cheering.

Napier Barracks – where the band members met Hear Me Out – was due to close to those seeking asylum in September. However, since the gig, it has been reported in the press that the Barracks will now stay open longer. At time of writing, we're unsure which members of the band will still remain at Napier at the time of their next gig - an uncertainty that is always present in the lives of those we work with.

Hear Me Out hopes to continue working at the Barracks as long as it is open, and the Band from the Barracks members are convinced of the importance of the project:

Bryan: “It does help us a lot, because sometimes we've been there, doing nothing, reminiscing on the things that got us where we are now, thinking a lot, you know. Hear Me Out coming into Napier [is] a big distraction. So it means a lot.”