A NORTH East band will celebrate the release of their first album next month through local record label eegluu:records. Mamacoca, who have only been together for six months but have already been well-received on the local music scene, will release Secrets with an event at Newcastle’s Pitcher & Piano on July 12. Mamacoca play a fusion of soul, funk and jazz and have been described as a cross between James Brown, Motown and Stevie Wonder. Vocalist and lyricist f’reez cites Marvin Gaye and Prince as influences. The other four members are Edd Carr, 25, on guitar, Adam Sinclair, 21, on drums, James Peacock, 22, on keyboards and Graham Sinclair, 25, on bass. Secrets will be available to download as well as being stocked by a range of local and national record shops, and a special-release version of the CD will be available to purchase on the night. Eegluu:productions was set up in 2004 to nurture young local talent through working with “veterans” of each arts field. The objective is to give young people of the North East the chance of a successful career in the arts industry. F’reez, director of eegluu:productions, says: “eegluu:productions gives people the opportunity to follow their dreams when in reality they need to hold down their jobs to pay the bills. “We are proud to be in a position to invest in North East talent and we are constantly looking for new recruits who either want to develop their skills with our help, or would like to contribute to the next generation of artists in this region. “With successful projects like mamacoca as inspiration, we are giving young talented people in the region hope for a long and prosperous career.” Mamacoca vocalist f’reez and keyboard player James met on tour six years ago as musicians for hip-hop and blues fusion band Martin Fletcher’s Usual Suspects. F’reez met drummer Adam two years ago and the three musicians eventually decided to start a writing project in 2006. By this time, Graham had already been performing regularly with f’reez and Adam for eegluu:productions. When the group were introduced to guitarist Edd early this year, the chemistry between the musicians shone through and mamacoca was born. The band regularly plays live sets at local venues such as Mr Lynch, and also played successful sets on the main stage of Newcastle’s Green Festival this year. The decision for a month-long tour in Europe was followed shortly after the album was completed. F’reez adds: “I’m looking forward to the release event because a live performance from mamacoca is a real party. “A little bird has also informed us that a very special international musician may make an appearance on the night – the icing on the cake!” The release party for Secrets will be held on Thursday, July 12, at 8.30pm at the Pitcher & Piano on Newcastle’s Quayside. Entry is free and the evening will include a live performance from mamacoca. | 
