From the Picnic Area album ‘Classics’ – Limefield Records 2015 - available to buy from CD Baby

Beside the sea

Drinking Song

I scream

Oh the shame

My love reign over us all

Johnny and June

Some made it out of here

Right about me

Hope

Easy rest motel

Wayne McDonald and Andy Callen met on the Manchester acoustic scene in the early noughties. They started working together following the splits of their former bands: "Because They Came From The Wrong Side Of Town" and "The Spinning Fields" in 2005. In 2006 they became "Picnic Area" (on the basis that they were a British band playing country music, and picnic areas are what you find in the British country-side!) As a duo, they released their first album, the confidently-titled "The essential Picnic Area". This was a sprawling 21 track DIY recording made at home in Wythenshawe. It nevertheless drew some favourable comments in early reviews. The additions of Simon Parkin, Matt Crawford, and Paul Manina resulted in a flexible line-up capable of playing any type of gig. The follow up extended player: "You know you want it!" was recorded with legendary producer Bill Leader and engineer/ jazz keyboardist: John Ellis. Simon Parkin left the band in September 2012, to be replaced by Stephen Braithwaite on drums. Paul Bratt joined the band as an occasional member in 2013, playing congas and bongos. Picnic Area play frequently in the Manchester area, including their own monthly "Picnic Club" showcase at Fuel Bar, Wilmslow Road, Withington. They have hosted events at the Middlewich Festival, Cheshire, and have played support to many leading acts on the British new country scene, such as Quiet Loner, and The Good Intentions. They host and play at the annual Manchester Americana Festival, and in 2013 by invitation appeared at the prestigious Grillstock Festival in Manchester. 2015 has proved to be the most exciting year of the bands life, with a highly successful performance at London's "Slaughtered Lamb" along with two Americana festivals at Prestwich and Todmorden. The band rounded off the year by launching their new album "Classics" at Manchester's: "Wonder Inn". The night was a huge success. The album is available through Limefield Records, and features the familiar production skills of John Ellis and significant contributions from Ellis himself and special guests: Dave Rigby and Rachel Donnelly.