The Whole Punch: HOOTENANNY!

Jools Holland, for the deprived among you, is a music genius. As host of the aptly titled "Later...with Jools Holland" he has seen an audacious who's who of musical pioneers pass through the doors of his BBC show. Having celebrated it's 250th-episode-anniversary in September I'm devoting this post to the show due to it's impending HOOTENANNY on New Years Eve. This is a special annual show that sees the glitterati of UK entertainment crammed into one colossal studio for, hands down, the greatest NYE party. On such an occasion you can expect to see a husky voiced Motown diva duet with the bassist from Slipknot.

The show has an uncanny ability to demand respect from the all time greats who jump at the opportunity to be involved in the institution. Jools is also credited for igniting the careers of many musicians and scouting out obscure and exhilarating live acts. Below are a few of my favorite performances, by no means exhaustive but offers a brief insight into the wonderful world of Jools.

Stornoway, an upandcoming indie/folk band from Oxford, stand out for me for three reasons. The lead singer's relentless intense stare that make's him look possessed by the music, the keyboardist's resemblance to a young Quentin Tarantino and, most importantly, their ability to stand out in a line up that included the Foo Fighters, Jay Z, Sting and Norah Jones. This was in one weekly episode. No special event. No occasion. This show should cost millions but it doesn't; everyone wants the honour of performing and they do so alongside small bands who are given a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Seasick Steve with his Mississippi drum machine - if ever there was an example of how one performance can change your life

Mona - A recent addition but they look promising. No sign of an album yet. Just goes to show that the show can grasp you from obscurity and throw you in front of millions without flinching.