Keane bassist says Suffolk music scene is 'thriving'

A popular singer- songwriter has mentioned that the music scene in Suffolk is very much active and successful, with many talented artists making significant contributions.

Jesse Quin, a songwriter from Framlingham, is most famous for playing the bass guitar in the alternative rock band, Keane.

When he's not traveling around the world with the band, the 42-year old manages the Old Jet Arts Centre, located externally on the former Bentwaters airbase near Woodbridge.

At the creative center, he interacts with and supports emerging artists from the local area who he thinks have the potential to protect the future of Suffolk's music scene.

"Suffolk is full of life and energy, with many musicians in the region making remarkable achievements," he remarked.

I am happy to see that there is not a selfish attitude towards pursuing a music career in this area.

He said: "The individuals I talk to in Suffolk have a strong love for music. They devote a great deal of time and effort to improving their skills and treating it with great importance."

"When I was younger, this place was completely different and I wanted to leave it as soon as possible. But eventually, I found myself coming back and now I truly adore it."

Jesse was really impressed by a Suffolk band called Esme Emerson, who will be opening for Keane at the O2 Academy Edinburgh on August 1st.

He expressed confidence in their ability to perform well.

We are not doing them a favor; they are actually doing us a favor. They will do an excellent job opening the show.

The show is just one stop on a tour across the UK and Europe, commemorating the 20th anniversary of Keane's first album, Hopes and Fears.

Quin mentioned that the feeling is not one of nostalgia, but rather a sign of moving forward rather than looking back.

This year has been quite fascinating as many individuals have been attending the shows who were big fans of the album when it was first released.

"But recently, the song Somewhere Only We Know has gained popularity on TikTok, which has attracted a fresh audience to our shows."

Achieving this is like a dream come true, but being able to sustain it for a 20-year career is remarkable and we do not take it for granted.