Chairperson of the Brain Injury Association in Hawke's Bay and concert organiser Brett Morris said after three great concerts indoors they decided to go for a change of venue which could create a great outdoors experience, so Black Barn was lined up.
He is hopeful the crowds will turn out to enjoy an unforgettable night of great music in the name of helping support the association which needs to raise $225,000 annually to run its expanding service which assists brain-injured people across the Bay community.
Ben and his band have been a leading part of the music scene internationally for many years, and he has been described by Jools Holland as one of the greatest pianists of all time.
He is bringing some fine talent out with him, with acclaimed saxophone player Derek Nash, who has been a member of The Jools Holland Band since 2004, set to join Ben's band for the occasion.
"And we were able to persuade Cousin Leonard to once again cross the Tasman to kick the evening off and no doubt join Ben later in the evening," Brett said.
Cousin Leonard are the multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriting brothers Marty and Tom Williams.
They are flying in from Melbourne for the one-off appearance and are described as a contemporary alt-folk/soul-pop band with a snappy hip-hop undercurrent.
Brett said the concert would be a great way to set the wheels in motion for Brain Injury Awareness Week which kicks off on March 19.
He said it was a critical part of the fundraising programme as the demands on the service had increased.
"We are now seeking to invest heavily in preventative educational programmes in the schools of Hawke's Bay."
He said the association appreciated the support concertgoers gave them in heading for what is going to be a startling concert.
"Have a great evening and remember — feel good about yourself and go gigging for charity."
● Ben Waters and Friends Lifting the Blues, Black Barn, Saturday. Tickets $75. For bookings visit www.blackbarn.com