Greenwich Meantime

As one of the most sought after Celtic music groups in North America right now, the members of Greenwich Meantime are enjoying their new digs. Shelley Downing, James Libbey, Nigel Gibson, and Steph McAlear formed the group when a falling out in a former incarnation freed the four up to pursue their own musical aspirations. The addition of singer/songwriter Nicholas Matthew on lead vocals and guitar completed the picture for the new group in the fall of 2005, and the wheels were set in motion for what was to become Greenwich Meantime.

Downing, Libbey, Gibson, and McAlear were all seasoned performers and quite well known for their lively stage antics, and Matthew, being from a TV and theatre background, fell naturally into the center of it all. But the five were also determined to explore Celtic music from a brand new perspective. They paid special attention to all of their influences from Jazz to Rock, from French Canadian folk to African rhythms, and fused it all with traditional and contemporary Celtic styles. The result is a vast and passionate sound that mostly makes you want to dance, but will also make you think.

In early 2006 the band released its 16 song, self-titled, debut CD that has received critical acclaim for its scope and passion in a genre in which offerings can often be cookie cutter, and rave reviews from an ever-growing number of fans who find that it never leaves their players.

James Libbey has since moved on. Jesse Sauve, a lead guitarist, has joined the group and brought with him a wide range of music. This fabulous group is one to be seen! Their music is infectious, their personalities wonderful and their concerts just plain fun! Don't miss GMT when they play in your area!