Her Make Believe Band

Songwriter Cy Winstanley was born at the very bottom of New Zealand's South Island in the small town of Invercargill. He cut his musical teeth singing, playing guitar and harmonica and, after a passing teenage obsession with guitar rock, discovered country, blues and jazz, eventually meeting fellow New Zealander, bassist Vanessa McGowan. Following the urge to discover his Liverpudlian roots, Cy moved to London in 2004 and, upon their reunion, Cy convinced Vanessa she could sing and Her Make Believe Band was born.

Her Make Believe Band Performing as a 4-piece band, and joined by Sebastian Weiss and Tom Greenhalgh, Her Make Believe Band are renowned for their exciting and assured performances, described as "the best live act we've ever had" by Matt (Showcase 55, London). The full band version of Her Make Believe Band brims with lush guitars, vintage keyboards and stunning vocals.

"In Cy Winstanley they have a potent songwriter with a voice gently reminiscent of Paul Simon, while fellow Kiwi Vanessa McGowan adds beguiling harmonies" Uncut Magazine

"...a masterful blend of Americana fused with Jazz, Soul and Pop... A truly worthwhile addition to anyone's music collection" (4.5 out of 5) www.themusiccritic.co.uk

"A stunning debut album... Winstanley's songs are intelligent and original" Country Music People Magazine

"Beautiful melodies with a fragility that is a joy to behold... a little gem of a release." Crack Magazine UK

"Their songs are as pretty and romantic as the Southern Cross itself. Sweetened by Cy's mellifluous delivery and double bass player Vanessa McGowan's gorgeous harmonies, they sound like love letters between Amy Mann and a slip-sliding Paul Simon."

Event listed by ChristchurchFolkClub

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