Go country in Albany

Red Beach singer-songwriter JamesRAy celebrates five years of performing at JR's Acoustic Country Sunday at Africa Restaurant, Bar and Function Centre in Albany on February 21.

The family-friendly show is hosted each week by the multi-award winning American-born entertainer who toured with Bob Dylan in the mid-1990s before settling here.

"I've been told by reliable sources that our weekly live acoustic show is the longest-running show of its kind in Auckland, if not all of New Zealand," says JamesRAy.

His show runs from noon to 3pm, and during spring and summer it's outside in an inviting courtyard full of family and friends who enjoy all the food and drink the venue has to offer.

Autumn and winter sees a retreat indoors near a cosy fireplace.

"It's the only show of its kind that pulls in the best bunch of loyal country music fans you could ever imagine," says centre general manager Max.

"I didn't even think I liked country music until I got to experience it this way.

"Now I've gone country."

Each week JamesRAy has a featured guest artist, often including international performers.

Many return for the February 21 celebrations. They include Kevin Greaves, Tami Neilson, Marian Burns, Dave Khan, Kylie Austin, Trevor Stevens, Ross Tizard, George Boyd, Michael and Ashley, Micheal Young, Paul Symons, Clark Reid, Maria Scott, Karen Davy and Denis Marsh.

The event is free.

Information, visit www.jamesray.co.nz or call Africa Restaurant, Bar and Function Centre on (09) 414-5428.

- © Fairfax NZ News