2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)

Subject: Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 26 Mar 18 - 10:30 AM

Very sad to announce that Martin Hall, last surviving member of UK trio 'Jolly Jack', has passed away. He had been ill for a while but refused to let it affect his life and died while holidaying on the Isle of Skye.

Larger than life in every sense Martin had a marvellous bass voice that you could feel as much as hear. Brilliant on whatever instrument he picked up, including accordion, concertina and guitar. Also one of the best builders I have ever come across. His sense of humour was brilliant too. He had me in stitches on many occasions both performing and carrying out work on my house!

He will be early missed by his family and many friends.

RIP Martin

DtG

Subject: RE: Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 26 Mar 18 - 10:41 AM

Will a kind mod change 'early missed' to 'really missed' please

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: The Sandman
Date: 26 Mar 18 - 11:28 AM

sad news

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Brian Peters
Date: 26 Mar 18 - 06:20 PM

That's such sad news. All three members of Jolly Jack are gone now: they were one of the best bands in the NW - wonderful harmonies from three well-matched voices, good instrumental skills, and hilarious onstage banter.

Martin was also a fine songwriter - I used to do one of his called "I Never Knew" - a very hard-hitting piece.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: rich-joy
Date: 26 Mar 18 - 07:47 PM

http://folkimages.com/jollyjack/index.htm

performance pics of Jolly Jack and members

Vale, Martin

R-J

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 27 Mar 18 - 03:08 AM

Smashing pictures, R-J. Thanks for the link. A couple of them show Martin playing his 'Parrot' accordion. It was a very early Chinese import. Played very well but the quality control was not what it should be. I remember him telling the tale of when he got it out of the case at the start of a gig and half the bass buttons had fallen in!

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Clive Pownceby
Date: 27 Mar 18 - 03:50 AM

I'd only echo the comments already on this thread. Sad news indeed. The group played the Bothy in Southport, and Martin did one solo booking. What a wonderful team they made and what a gentle soul was Martin with an enviable voice. I think it was Pete Coe who'd persuaded him to 'go it alone' and highlight his songwriting. Brian is right, "I Never Knew" is a standout song.
If only I'd booked him more often but he wasn't one for the limelight. I have the Jolly Jack Fellside CD which I'll now put on today's playlist!

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Clive Pownceby
Date: 27 Mar 18 - 03:55 AM

PS
Not just Jolly Jack on that album - 'Rolling Down To Old Maui' - but a host of other sea song exponents - Martin's bass voice is clearly evident!
If still in catalogue, it's well worth acquiring. FELLSIDE FECD140

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Paul Reade
Date: 27 Mar 18 - 08:16 AM

A sad loss of a fantastic singer and a great friend.

By a strange coincidence I did a floor spot at Skipton Folk Club last night with no time to prepare. “Rolling down to old Maui”, which I learned from Jolly Jack, popped into my mind, although I hadn’t done it for some time - so I just sang it!

RIP Martin

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 29 Mar 18 - 06:49 AM

I was sorry to hear this news. I have added Martin to the "In Memoriam" thread.
Much missed.

RIP

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: rich-joy
Date: 30 Mar 18 - 02:26 AM

Before Martin’s Obit falls off the screen and now that all 3 of Jolly Jack have departed for who knows where, I thought I’d add in a few more references here.

Does anyone know of Jolly Jack clips on YouTube??   Plenty of Martin Hall, but he seems to be a bloke who writes lots of Christian songs, RATHER THAN our JJ-er, and, there’s a Dave (Weatherall) and Martin (Hall) Channel – but with no content! (Dave & Martin's version of TWO YOUNG BRETHREN is amongst my all-time favourites.)

Martin’s comp “I Never Knew” is here in the DigTrad :
/mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=58482#925905

Back in August 2016, I posted a coupla times on the “Long Time Travellin” thread, but it’s relevant to Martin and Jolly Jack, so if you’ll forgive me, I’ll repeat bits of it here :

“I know this is an old thread, but as I noted in 2004 on one of the other related threads, this Sacred Harp hymn entitled "WHITE" achieved being one of my all-time favourite songs after hearing English group JOLLY JACK** sing it, replete with gorgeous male harmonies!

I first heard it on Peter Bellamy's 1979 album "Both Sides Now" (with Waterson harmonies) and then was given a copy of Jolly Jack's heart-stopping recording for Fellside in 1988 (on "A Long Time Travelling" album).

Ever after, I tried to weave it into the repertoire of a cappella harmony groups I sang with! Sad to say, my voice entered a dysphonic era in 2009 and that was the end of that dream :(

Though I quite like The Wailin Jennys, I was a little .... ahem .... "surprised" (shall we say), to find The Net and YouTube [ in earlier times ], fairly swamped with young girlie "covers of their song", LOL! - no one mentions its true origins*** and very rarely does a male version come up for listening.

Come All Ye Singing Blokes out there - seek out that Jolly Jack version of "White" and see how wonderful those bass harmonies can be - then help redress the balance on YouTube - PLEASE!! :):):)


***Sacred Harp 288 "White" / Roud 5732 "To Lay This Body Down" / Apparently called "White" in tribute to Benjamin Franklin White, the 1844 compiler of "The Sacred Harp" - composed by Elder Edmund Dumas.

** [ Dave Weatherall - lead vocals, concertina; Alan Taylor - lead vocals and vocals, fiddle,mandolin; Martin Hall - vocals, accordion, concertina, guitar ]

Cheers! R-J"

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Matthew Hall
Date: 30 Mar 18 - 05:48 AM

Thank you all for your lovely words.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 30 Mar 18 - 07:10 AM

Condolences from us all, Matthew. I lost my Dad about 3 years ago. That was tough enough but at least he was of that age where it was expected. Must be so much harder for you and your family. Send my regards to your Mum. I used to go to school with her and she will know me by my proper name, Dave Polshaw.

John Cartain is keeping us up to date about the arrangements so, if it is ok with you, I will post the details on here when they are confirmed.

Dave

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Susie
Date: 31 Mar 18 - 05:16 PM

Very sorry to hear the news. Martin was a lovely chap. Jolly Jack were one of the best acts to frequent the clubs in the North West back in the day. I've still got one of their marvellous handwritten sheets for 'Paddy West'; they cam to my club several times. Highly thought of.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 10 Apr 18 - 10:42 AM

Just had news that the funeral will be on April 20th. St Bernadette's, Whitefield, 12 noon. Radcliffe crem 1330 then back to St Bernadette's club for music etc.

DtG

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Apr 18 - 03:33 PM

I attended the funeral and all I can say is, what a guy!

Veronica and the family did such a wonderful job of celebrating Martin's life that he would be brimming with pride. It was attended by a who's who of Folk artists and, even though I could not stay that long at the wake, I could tell it was destined to turn into a mega session.

There was a booklet issued that I shall treasure and I have located my cassette version of Martin's album 'Ringing the Chages' which I must digitise soon.

Martin touched so many lives in so many different ways his legacy will live a very, very long time. A fitting memorial.

Dave.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Apr 18 - 05:56 PM

Rich-Joy. White (Long Time Traveling) by Jolly Jack was played as one of the concluding songs.

I want to share part of Veronica's moving tribute to Martin in the booklet. As I type there are tears of sadness but also a feeling of gratefulness and joy that I knew him.

Martin has so courageously lived with a chronic heart condition for the last four years and during this time he lost a lot of his physical function, and to some extent independence, but never his resolve to live life to the full.

Our last days together were on the Isle of Skye; a place of great beauty which touched both our souls. We were in awe of the splendor of the mountains and lochs, and gazed upon the snow capped Cuillin mountain range under a canopy of a blue sky. We shared the darkest night sky, outside our remote cottage, adorned with stars and a shooting star. What a spectacle. A truly wonderful experience for both of us but especially for Martin, who was so in awe of the universe in its totality.

The Lord took him quickly and without discomfort or warning as we relaxed together after the best day in such a wonderful place. I have lost my soulmate and my dearest friend

I am truly honoured to be able to pass these moving words on and to have been invited to attend his requiem.

Dave.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 20 Apr 18 - 06:05 PM

St Bernardette's was my gran and grandad's church. I remember it being built when I was dead little. They lived just round the corner in Mather Avenue and my great aunt and uncle, brother and sister who lived together all their lives, lived in one of the semis that you can see from Bury New Road at Sunnybank, the one painted white, just down from St Bernardette's. I went to my auntie's wedding there. Sadly, she died young of ovarian cancer. Radcliffe crematorium is a fairly new thing. It adjoins Radcliffe cemetery, which I looked after for a summer when I worked on Radcliffe Parks in the early 70s. I even helped to dig a grave or two! Later on, my mum was the registrar at Radcliffe cemetery for a few years before moving to Bury cemetery, next to Gigg Lane. My grandad, grandma, two cousins and two aunts are buried in Radcliffe cemetery and I often drive my mum there. Some of my old schoolmates are there too.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: rich-joy
Date: 21 Apr 18 - 02:49 AM

Sounds really beautiful, Dave.

"White" is also on my List, for when The Great Mandala turns for me.
It still saddens me greatly though, that My Beloved has already preceded me, some 4 years back......

Vale, Martin.

R-J

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Vin2
Date: 21 Apr 18 - 05:22 AM

Farewell Martin - will be sorely missed both as a lovely person and fine musician/singer down at the Oddfellows sessions in Middleton. R.I.P Martin

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Dave Burrows
Date: 11 Jan 19 - 11:08 AM

Dave Burrows

Randomly,today Martin came to mind and I'm greatly saddened to read of his passing.We worked (using the term loosely) together at M/cr Education offices in Crown Sq early 1970s...he was the best of company as we regularly swopped names/songs by obscure folkies.Later,shared some gigs with the mighty JJ as we ('Nightshift' duo) played on same circuit.

I'm sad whilst smiling at happy,old memories...kind regards to family/friends...'meet on the ledge'playing as I tyoe...D

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: The Sandman
Date: 11 Jan 19 - 03:22 PM

RIP,pleasant man ,jolly jack were avery good group i miss them all

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Matthew Hall
Date: 11 Feb 19 - 07:10 PM

Hello everyone. On the 5th April 2019 we are doing a memorial gig for my father. It will be half folk, and half Irish pub music/covers. Anyone that knew him, we would love you to attend. If you wish to pay tribute in music please contact me on: [e-mail] and I will see if we can fit you in.

Matt

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Brian Peters
Date: 12 Feb 19 - 06:52 PM

I was sharing fond memories of Martin and Jolly Jack with Pete Coe last weekend. Much missed.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 13 Feb 19 - 04:24 AM

Hi Matthew

Thanks for the heads up. Can you provide details of where the memorial gig will be for those of us who would just like to pop along without performing? Or is it by invitation only?

Cheers

Dave

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Matthew Hall
Date: 18 Feb 19 - 10:59 AM

Sorry Dave, the memorial gig will take place at St Bernadette's Social Centre in Whitefield. People are free to attend even if they are not performing. We just want a night enjoyed by all people who knew/met my father and loved his music.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 18 Feb 19 - 11:05 AM

Thanks Matt. Much appreciated.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,Dave /Nightshift duo
Date: 21 Apr 19 - 04:28 AM

Thinking of Martin's family at Easter...sorry I couldn't make the tribute session.I'm sure it was worthy of the big man's talents.He'll be missed by many...D

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 21 Apr 19 - 07:23 AM

If anyone is interested, I have digitised my cassette of Martin's cassette "Ringing the Changes". If anyone is interested in getting a copy, I have spoken to Veronica and she has said I can send people links to it for a donation to either MS or BHF.

Subject: RE: 2018 Obit: Martin Hall (ex Jolly Jack)
From: GUEST,View from the Crows Nest
Date: 21 Apr 19 - 08:16 AM

Remember Jolly Jack playing brilliant sets at an early Lancaster Maritime Festival,in a difficult venue.Any other memories or stories of the much missed Maritime Festival?