We were initially intrigued by Just Zoe when she came on stage, dressed in cowboy boots, hat and shirt. Her musical style was not what one would immediately describe as country, from what we heard on the night, Zoe is just as much influenced by rock and pop as country music, but as the British country scene is an evolving entity, we enjoyed her music for what it was. Playing both guitar and banjo, Zoe brought to The Good Ship stage several original songs as well as a compelling cover of Jennifer Nettles’ reply to “Joelene”, “That Girl”.
Originally from Manchester, Zoe Hodges is studying music in London, and was recently fortunate to visit Nashville Tennessee with some students from her course, a couple of tutors, and a few others. While there they had the opportunity to perform, as well as attend writing workshops and chat with industry people. During her set at The Good Ship, Zoe introduced us to a song she’d played for the first time while on that trip, the lovely, “High Ground”, which featured the beautiful line,
“Don’t kill me now with kindness”
We really enjoyed Zoe, and wish her all the best in the future. She’s started blogging, and having read some of it, we’d encourage her to keep writing, as well as keep playing and performing. Zoe’s banjo especially was very skilled. We were deeply touched by her song, “Where Were You”:
“Where were you when I was lost in Tennessee”
Another song we really liked was “Nothing is Something”, a love song she wrote when she wasn’t in love. Best line was,
“Nothing is something when I’m doing nothing with you.”
Check out Zoe’s blog, British Country Music, and find her on Facebook, Youtube, Soundcloud, Twitter, and her website.
